I know this is late, but as a huge Giants fan I thought that I would share this with you.  Believe me, it is worth your time.  I had made this right after they won the WS, but youtube kept deleting the post because I was violating copyright restrictions.  This is similar to the other compilations/highlight reels that ahve been made, but I think this one is the best. Anyways, here it is. Enjoy.

2010 Giants

My honest opinion (not considering who's a starter/reserve player):

Eastern Conference:

G: Dwyane Wade (MIA)

G: Rajon Rondo (BOS)

F: Lebron James (MIA)

F: Al Horford (ATL)

C: Amare Stoudemire (NYK)

G: Derrick Rose (CHI)

G: Paul Pierce (BOS)

F: Chris Bosh (MIA)

F: Carlos Boozer (CHI)

C: Dwight Howard (ORL)

G: Raymond Felton (NYK)

F: Kevin Garnett (BOS)

Replacements: Josh Smith (ATL), Joe Johnson (ATL), Wilson Chandler (NYK), Elton Brand (PHI)

Western Conference:

G: Chris Paul (NOH)

G: Kobe Bryant (LAL)

F: Kevin Durant (OKC)

F: Dirk Nowitzki (DAL)

C: Kevin Love (MIN)

G: Deron Williams (UTH)

G: Russell Westbrook (OKC)

F: Carmelo Anthony (DEN)

F: Blake Griffin (LAC)

C: Pau Gasol (LAL)

F: Manu Ginobili (SAS)

F: Tim Duncan (SAS)

Replacements: Paul Millsap (UTH), Monta Ellis (GSW), Zach Randolph (MEM), Rudy Gay (MEM), Lamar Odom (LAL)

************ I'm a huge Warriors fan and would love to see Monta in it.  Monta deserves to be an all-star, but the west is absolutely loaded with guards.  I've even tried to move around positions to try to make room for Monta but it was tough.  I hope I'm wrong and that Monta makes it, but looking at the guards that the NBA has, it's going to be difficult unless the Warriors go on a huge streak.

The way it looks, the Giants are going to (at best) have virtually the same team as last year, and that's if Uribe signs or an equivalent takes his place.  Don't get me wrong, I loved the group of guys we had but they were definitely not the most talented team (especially offensively) going into the playoffs.  It's hard to imagine that the same group of guys are going to be able to do it again.  In the end, the Giants do need more help with the bat and cannot count on the breaks and timely hitting that they had toward the end of the season and the playoffs.  I cannot tell you how happy I was that the Giants finally won a championship, but we still have the same story this upcoming season; the Giants cannot waste this good of pitching for the next few years.  

The truth is the Giants have a clusterf*** of position players and some bad contracts.  I do like the Huff signing, I felt like that was a no brainer to bring him back.  However, when looking at our outifeld, there are about 5-6 players that can make the roster; Ross, Torres, Rowand, DeRosa, Schierholtz, and possibly Burrell (although doubtful that the Giants will sign him).  Point being, the Giants put themselves in a situation where they have no room financially or structurally to make a big signing, meaning they will end up with the same team at the very best unless they make a trade.  Like I said, I think the Giants still need a prolific bat in the lineup.

Here's a proposal that I think can work out:

Why not take a shot at Grady Sizemore? When healthy, he has always been considered one of the best players in baseball and it sounds like the Indians are trying to shop him.  If we could package any combination of Schierholtz, Pablo, minor leaguer, etc I think the Indians may bite.  When Sizemore is healthy, he is arguably the best center fielder in baseball.  I think it's a risk that the Giants should be willing to take.  Sizemore is going to make around $7mil in 2011, and will have an option in 2012, the same time Rowand's contract will expire along with some others (or close to).  If Sizemore can produce in one season, I'm sure the Giants could give him an extension at a reasonable cost.  If he doesn't work out, oh well it was worth the risk.  Obviously, the Giants shouldn't do this without extensive research about Sizemore's health and the cost to bring him over to San Francisco.  An outfield of Torres, Sizemore, and Ross (L->R) would look really good.  

I haven't done much research on this, but just thinking about if briefly, I really think it can work.  Let me know what you think.

1. Andres Torres LF

2. Freddy Sanchez 2B

3. Grady Sizemore CF

4. Buster Posey C

5. Aubrey Huff 1B

6. Cody Ross RF

7. Juan Uribe/Mark DeRosa/Pablo Sandoval SS/3B

8. Juan Uribe/Mark DeRosa/Pablo Sandoval SS/3B

If you all haven't heard, one of our top prospects Brandon Crawford broke his hand is out for another 5-7 weeks.  I've known about this kid since he played baseball at UCLA, and was excited that the Giants drafted him.  Some are considering him to be a future starting shortstop for us at the big league level.  The injury isn't so much a big deal, but I was wondering if anyone has heard any other news about him; most importantly if and when he will be here at the big leagues. 

I saw him play once in college and he looked like a good player, but I haven't heard much about him in the minors.  He is currently ranked 9th in the Giants top prospects list.  Here's a link to his player page:

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?pos=SS&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=543063

Recently, a babbling idiot called into Fitz and Brooks and claimed that the Giants weren't playing hard and that they weren't showing that they wanted to win.  Rod Brooks grilled this caller, and justifiably so since at that time the Giants were 38-30 and were playing some pretty good baseball.  I still feel as though the Giants are playing hard, but yes they are in a slump.

However, out of all the asinine things that the caller said, he did mention one good point; the Giants are a very emotionless team.  Now, wearing your emotions on your sleeves can be a negative thing (look at Carlos Zambrano hahahahah), but a little emotion can help a team.  Amidst all of the fundamental errors (such as Pablo's wonders on the base paths), I would like to see a little more fire from some of our players.  When Pablo made his second base running mistake in 2 nights, you could tell Pat Burrell was pissed off after the final out was made in that inning at second base (he swung his arm and yelled something in frustration).  He then proceeded to hit a solo homerun in the 9th inning.  Regardless of the homerun, it was nice to see some emotion and anger from Burrell. 

When Renteria or Sandoval grounded into yet another double play, I would have loved to have seen one of them just slam their helmet on the ground.  I'm not saying that they should throw a temper tantrum (because that shows weakness), but just a little emotion would be nice to see. 

When it comes down to it, the Giants are in one of their toughest stretch in the season, and we could very well see ourselves out out the race before the all star break.  These 11 games on the road with 2 four game series (when we know the calibur of teams we have to face, the fact that Giants play terribly on the road, and most of the times 4 games for the visiting team are not very rewarding) can absolutely kill us. 

I know it's still early in the season, we're not even halfway through but I am getting pretty worried about this team.  I would like to see what you guys think and how you feel.  Hopefully I'm wrong or you guys can convince me that I'm wrong.

Giants fan posted this on McCovey Chronicles, and most other Giants fans seem to agree:

For the longest time, I could not convince myself that the Rockies were actually good.  They have a solid pitching staff but definitely not one of the tops in the NL, and a bunch of .220 hitters with a lot of power.  To me, that doesn't calculate to a team that is about 18 games over .500.  Outside of Helton and Tulowitzki I can't see any real solid hitters in that Rockies lineup.  Here's the difference though, the Rockies are a team this year that knows how to win from behind and close games.  If you give the Rockies no more than 2 run deficit going into the 8th inning, they are most likely to come back and win that game.  They are a great 8th and 9th inning team, just spectacular.

I keep telling myself how lucky they are.  Just within the last couple of nights, they came back from losing 4-2 in the 8th and came back to win.  Tonight, they were down by 2 with Seth Smith up to the plate in the bottom of the ninth, and with 2 strikes and 2 outs, he gets a walk-off two run single.  In addition, the hit came off of a play that Brandon Phillips would have normally made.  Also, I hate to bring this up but how often are you going to have Ryan Spilborghs hit a walk off grand slam down by 2 in the bottom of the 14th.  The Rockies, despite any early (or late) deficit, know how to win games.  Whether the Rockies are the luckiest team in the NL or not, it doesn't matter.  What does matter is that whatever is happening to them is happening for a reason, and it just indicates that it may be the Rockies season. 

In addition, the Giants can't do the little things like bunt guys over.  Our fundamentals are atrocious, and despite that we still shouldn't lose a home series against the Padres.  Especially in the position that we're in, it is unacceptable.  If it isn't already apparent taht the Giants won't make the playoffs, it will be by next Wednesday after the Rockies leave San Francisco.

This may sound pessimistic, but I realize that this is a rebuilding season and we still have a bright future (more so than any other teams in our division).  It's just dissapointing because they are so close, but yet so far away.  No matter how the Giants end this season, it has been a fun one.

For the longest time, I could not convince myself that the Rockies were actually good.  They have a solid pitching staff but definitely not one of the tops in the NL, and a bunch of .220 hitters with a lot of power.  To me, that doesn't calculate to a team that is about 18 games over .500.  Outside of Helton and Tulowitzki I can't see any real solid hitters in that Rockies lineup.  Here's the difference though, the Rockies are a team this year that knows how to win from behind and close games.  If you give the Rockies no more than 2 run deficit going into the 8th inning, they are most likely to come back and win that game.  They are a great 8th and 9th inning team, just spectacular.

I keep telling myself how lucky they are.  Just within the last couple of nights, they came back from losing 4-2 in the 8th and came back to win.  Tonight, they were down by 2 with Seth Smith up to the plate in the bottom of the ninth, and with 2 strikes and 2 outs, he gets a walk-off two run single.  In addition, the hit came off of a play that Brandon Phillips would have normally made.  Also, I hate to bring this up but how often are you going to have Ryan Spilborghs hit a walk off grand slam down by 2 in the bottom of the 14th.  The Rockies, despite any early (or late) deficit, know how to win games.  Whether the Rockies are the luckiest team in the NL or not, it doesn't matter.  What does matter is that whatever is happening to them is happening for a reason, and it just indicates that it may be the Rockies season. 

In addition, the Giants can't do the little things like bunt guys over.  Our fundamentals are atrocious, and despite that we still shouldn't lose a home series against the Padres.  Especially in the position that we're in, it is unacceptable.  If it isn't already apparent taht the Giants won't make the playoffs, it will be by next Wednesday after the Rockies leave San Francisco.

This may sound pessimistic, but I realize that this is a rebuilding season and we still have a bright future (more so than any other teams in our division).  It's just dissapointing because they are so close, but yet so far away.  No matter how the Giants end this season, it has been a fun one.

I know what I'm about to write is going to get some mixed responses, so view this video before or after reading this post:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUqjvt0oKvw

I was a huge fan of Jamal Crawford ever since he started playing for the Bulls.  The kid has got some mad abilities and skills, so I was ecstatic when I heard the Warriors traded for him.  there is no one smoother with the basketball in the NBA.  Say what you want about Crawford's inability to play defense and lack of rebounding for a guard, but I still feel as though we could have used him.  It's not everyday where you can find someone who can score 50 points on any given night.  He was asked to play point guard which isn't a natural position for him, and he did everything that was asked of him.  When we traded for him, what did you expect?  A 20+ ppg scorer who shoots about 42% from the field with around 5 apg?  That's exactly what we got, and he provided those numbers for us (in addition to playing the pg potision which isn't something he wasn't accustomed to).  I'd rather have Crawford than Stephen Jackson, Corey Maggette, or many of our other guards. 

Given the right players around Crawford, he is an asset to any team, period.  Unfortunately, being as stubborn as Don Nelson is, he decided that Crawford wasn't right for this team, and he made it clear to Crawford (which I don't think ws the right way of handling it).  Okay so maybe Nelson is right, given the players we currently have, there is no way that Crawford will work out but I will say this: Stephen Curry will not be an impact pg in his rookie year, Monta Ellis will NEVER be a good pg, and unless you wan't CJ Watson being our starting pg, Stephen Jackson may have to play pg for much of his 40 somewhat minutes that he plays.  In my opinion, Crawford did fine at pg.  not great, but better than anyone else can do.  Now I understand, his contract is kind of an issue; however, I feel that Nelson didn't even give Crawford a chance or any consideration.  If we made the right moves this offseason, we would have been better off keeping Crawford.  Having Crawford and Ellis at 1 and 2 repectively is not dynamic, but from an offensive standpoint one of the best in the league.  And for god sakes, we could have dealt Stephen Jackson or Corey Maggette for at the very least, Speedy Claxton and Acie Law. 

Who knows, maybe Nelson may have everything figured out, but the way he handled the situation was poor.  Just play Crawford out for the rest of the season, then if you want to, trade him.  But don't tell the man that he should opt out or they will trade him with more than 20 games left to go in the season.  By doing that, it puts their relationship at unease because even if they personally are fine with each other (which I doubt), the media and fans will automatically feel that they arn't on the greatest terms.  The worst part is, when Crawford comes into town in that red and black Hawks uniform next year, he will probably undeservedly get booed.  And I feel it would be all Don Nelson's fault.

If I could have handled the offseason:  I would have traded away either Jackson or Maggette

Biedrins/Turiaf

Randolph/Wright

Jackson or Maggette (preferably Jackson)/ Azubuike

Ellis/Morrow

Crawford/Curry (not given ofcourse)/Watson

And the rest, you can go from there....................

I think this is a whole lot better than having a logjam at the 2 and 3 without a solid pg because although I love Stephen Curry it's going to take him some time to develop.

This upcoming 10 game road trip is going to be interesting.  Given the Giants track record for road games this season, I am very nervous about how they will do.  At the same time, I have a hint of confidence thinking that maybe they can go as good as 7-3.  I have all sorts of mixed feelings because I keep telling myself, they can't play any worse on the road.  When it's all said and done, we will all just have to wait and see but it's always fun to ponder about what may happen.  Here are some intangibles that I have thought about for the upcoming road trip:

1. The Giants in recent history never seem to play well in New York against the Mets.  Good news is, Shea Stadium no longer exists and maybe a new Citi Field and a struggling Mets team can help up win or atleast split the 4 game series.  Shea Stadium was a hell hole for the Giants.  I still remember Dusty not pinch hitting for Mark Gardner with the bases jacked, and the Benny Agbayani walk-off homerun.

2.  Cincinatti scares me the most.  Cincinatti scared me when they came into AT&T before they took 2 out of 3 from us because they were playing so poorly post All-Star break, I had a feeling they were going to break out.  It happened to be against us unfortunately.  The Reds ballpark is pretty live, so our pitching needs to be aware of giving up the long balls.

3.  Coors Field........ Another horrible place for the Giants to play, especially when we are fighting the Rockies for the Wildcard spot.  We do atleast have 6 more games at home against them, but these games are crucial. 

I'm really pulling for these Giants, just like everyone else.... It's going to be interesting.  How do you gus feel about the roadtrip?  What will be there record?

I'm thinking 6-4, hoping for atleast 7-3:

@NY 3-1

@CIN 1-2

@COL 2-2

Total 6-4

As of tonight, both the Giants and the Rockies are 60-49.  However, as a lifetime Giants fan it is really hard for me to say that they are making the postseason this year.  I hope to god that I'm wrong, and I hope you guys can argue against me to make me feel better, but I just can't see them making it.  Here's why:

Games such as tonight show how unclutch this team is.  You cannot walk 3 batters in a row, you cannot make 5 errors, but most importantly, give up a two run lead at home playing against the freakin Cincinnati Reds.  All I know is, the Rockies, Dodgers, Phillies, Cards, and Cubs (well maybe not the Cubs haha) will not give up a lead at home to an struggling team like Cincy.  This is a series that you have to go in playing for a sweep (especially with the Dodgers coming into town next).  Just an ugly game. 

In addition, the Giants have 5 more road games than the Rockies, and you know how poorly the Giants play on the road.  The four games in Coors field coming up could honestly be the season for the Giants if they don't play well, even though i know the Giants have a few left against them at home also.  But yes, those 5 less home games that the Rockies have played is the largest thing that stands out in my mind.  If the Giants don't go on a 10 out of 11 or 10 out of 12 tear at some point, the Rockies will end up with a better record than the Giants by the time the season is over.  We are usually not accustomed to seeing the Giants going on hot streaks like that.  I actually think that there is a better chance of the Dodgers completely collapsing than having the Giants reel off 10 out of 12 games before the season is done.

Sorry for the pessimism, but I just don't see playoffs this season which is unfortunate because I love the makeup of the team this season.  Like I said, I hope I'm wrong because if we make the playoffs, we have the chance (with our pitching) to go pretty far.  Nobody wants to face our pitching staff in the first round.

Hey guys, I feel like today was a great start for our push to vote Pablo "Panda" Sandoval in for that final spot.  However, we still have until Thursday.  If we can all put up the same effort that we put in today, I have a good feeling about Sandoval.

After today, I feel like Panda is right up there from reading the comments here on McCovey's Chronicles.  In addition, major props to the person who posted on Lone Star Ball (Texas Rangers) to vote for Sandoval while we try to push Ian Kinsler in to help them out.  I read the comments from the Rangers website and it seems like they are just as dedicated to vote in Kinsler as we are with Sandoval.  I feel like if both fan bases do their part, we will get this done. 

Bottom Line: Let's keep this up, do not diminish your efforts before Thursday.  Pablo and Kinsler, but more inmportantly Pablo for that final spot!!!!

I never would have thought at the beginning of the year that we may have 5 Giants in the All-Star Game.  But let's take a look at these guys who should/could make the team:

Tim Lincecum- He is definitely a lock.  With 3 complete games in his last 4 starts, leading the MLB in strikeouts, and second in the NL in ERA, not to mention a 8-2 record, many would think that he's Charlie Manuel's favorite to start the game.

Matt Cain- Cain should be another lock.  He leads the NL in wins with 9, and has a stellar 2.57 ERA, and has definitely opened eyes around the league.  Statistically, he may the third best pitcher in the NL (very close to Dan Haren for second, if not second).

Brian Wilson- As much as Wilson has been a headache at times, he should be an allstar this year considering that he is second in the NL in saves right behind Heath Bell of San Diego.  Yes, I know what you guys are saying:  "from watching the Giants every game, he blows to many saves to be an All Star".  True, but from the outside baseball world, Brian Wilson is considered an elite closer.

Bengie Molina- Definitely should make the allstar team.  If he doesn't, its highway robbery.  Yes, his average has dipped down a little bit, but statistically he may arguably be the best catcher in the NL.  Most of the good catchers play in the AL.  Molina is first among NL catchers in HR's and RBI's.

Pablo Sandoval- Imagine if Pablo didn't get off to a slow start this year.  With that being said, he has still put together a great first half of the season.  Second in the NL in batting average (barely behind Wright), he has 11 HR's and 39 RBI's, he definitely has a good case.  The only problem is, looking at the rest of the NL's third basemen such as Mark Reynolds, Ryan Zimmerman, and Casey Blake, it would be very difficult to make the team.  But he definitely is considered.

Point is: Do I think all 5 of these players are going to make the allstar team?  Probably not, actually most likely not.  But maybe 4 of these guys and atleast 3 should make it.  Who would have though right??

Whether you guys (or Don Nelson) like it or not, Jamal Crawford is going to be a Warrior next year.  Here's why, Jamal is not going to opt out of his contract.  There is no way he's walking away from 2 years at about 20 million dollars, NO WAY.  If he does opt out, there is no way he's even going to sniff that kind of money elsewhere.  If he does, he's an idiot and as we know Jamal seems like he has a pretty good head on his shoulders. 

So, Jamal doesn't opt out.  Now what?  The Warriors can try to trade him.  Yes, but what team is going to want him (especially his contract).  What can we get back in return?  I can't see us getting back anything in return other than maybe a second round draft pick and a disposable player like a Ricky Davis (just a random example).  I don't think the Warriors are going to pull the trigger on something like that, because let's face it Jamal Crawford can play;  he is a very talented kid.  We a re not going to trade him for absolutely nothing.  So that means we're stuck with him.  If Larry Riley can pull something good off I'd be happy, but I can't see that happening. 

Okay, this is stemming off of the last post and some people suggested maybe trading the first round pick.  I think there is no better time than now to do so.  Any other year, I wouldn't want to give up a 7th pick, however, consider these circumstances:

1. This years draft class isn't as good as the past few years.  There is no one out there that I really think will impact us, and if he does it wont be immediate.

2. After Blake Griffith, there are mediocre big men and the better players are guards.  The last thing we need is another guard (especially if we really are having Monta play point for us, which I still am skeptical about). 

3.  The number 7 pick will be attractive to many teams around the league.  Even if we have to package one of our young guards (Randolph, Morrow, and Ellis being untouchable), it may still be worth it and we may be able to land a star or impact player.

4.  Even if we do trade our first round pick and maybe another player to go along with it, we'll still be deep.

5. Also, it seems as though in the past, our second round picks have been more rewarding than our first round picks anyways haha.

I don't know about you guys, but the way Jamal Crawford conducts himself and acts speaks truly of his character.  Let's face it, the Warriors organization hasn't really treated this guy very well since he has been here.  He probably feels underappreciated (which may too some extent may be justified), and if talks about Nelson and him are true, he should be very upset and fed up by now.  Yet, Jamal goes out, and tries to do what is asked of him.  He makes no excuses, and honestly just plays.  Think about how upset you'd be if your head coach comes up to you and asks you to opt out or you'll be traded.  I'd bolt the team right away.  This doesn't even matter about his actual performance (which I don't even think is that bad) and I don't want to hear comments saying "we don't need a nice guy, but we need someone that can play."  Well first off, this guy can play, but I think Neliie is preventing Crawford of playing to his full capabilities.  Let's not forget how well the Knicks were doing the first few weeks under the D'Antoni system and Crawford was averging 20+ points shooting a great percentage.  Second, as far as the attitude goes, that is very important and this will lead me into the next topic of discussion, Monta Ellis.

Monta Ellis just seems completely disinterested in the team.  I posted a few weeks ago how he left the game early because from what it looked like he was upset that he got taken out of the game.  Now, the next day we learned that his ankle was still hurting him so I lt it slide.  But once reports came out that he admitted that he wasn't hurt at all, I thought back to that Oklahoma City game at home where he showed absolutely no interest in the team.  Monta Ellis has been doing this for some time, as I have been to many games lately.  When the Warriors go on a huge run, everyone on the team will get up and give high fives, but one guy is always sitting on the bench, Monta Ellis.  Now, I love this guy and I don't know what's going on in his personal life but if this is the attitude that Monta is going to have (unless there is something going on with his mother, etc.) then I don't want him on the team.  Plain and simple.  I dont' know if his ego went up or what, but he is definitely not the same Monta Ellis from last season for whatever reason.

I was at the game against OKC and witnessed first hand from what I thought was bad attitude from Monta Ellis.

Now, I don't know how serious this is, so i'm not going to jump to any conclusions but here is what happened:

At around 6 minutes left in the 4th quarter, Don Nelson sent C.J. Watson to the scorer's table.  As soon as C.J. entered the floor and pointed at Monta, Monta swung his body in disgust that he was being taken out.  The following 2 timeouts that followed, Monta remianed at the end of the bench by him self while everyone was in the huddle.  In addition, every nice play that the Warriors had, Monta showed no interest.  During these timeouts a couple people on the staff would come up and talk to him and pat him on the back while Monta shook his head.  With about 3-4 mintues left, Monta walked off the bench and into the locker room. 

Now, Monta may have a minor injury that we don't know about because he was on the bicycle during the second quarter in the tunnel.  However, even if he was ailing with something, you'd think he'd stay on the bench and watch the team win and see Nelson get is 1300th win.  What do you guys feel about this?

Since Jamal Crawford has come to Oakland, many people have hated on him.  At the beggining I told you guys to give him some time in the system.  Obviously he played well tonight, but he has been playing well for the past few weeks.  The thing about Jamal is that he is a scorer, but he is asked to play point guard.  Naturally, he has been playing unselfish and is trying to create for other players.  I just don't think it is fair when sometimes he'll have like 2 points in the 3rd quarter, and he's only taken 5 or 6 shots while Jackson and Monta have taken 1close to 20 shots.  I am a big fan of Crawford, and have been since his Michigan days to his days in Chicago and New York.  If he opts out, so be it but I wish that he would stay in Oakland because he would definitely be an asset to this team in the future.

As for his defense, he isn't very good but he is making progress.  You can see that he is trying and is constantly looking at the bench to Sidney Moncrief and Keith Smart for defensive tips throughout the game.  I still don't think Jamal has reached his peak yet on this team, but given the time he will.

Also, another thing is its hard to play starting point guard when you don't have a consistent group of healthy guys.  When Carwford first came, Jackson and Monta was hurt.  Jackson came back, Wright, and Belinelli got hurt.  Now Biedrins and Azubuike.  Maggette has been hurt too.  Along the way, I'm probably missing others guys as well. 

My point is, I hope Crawford stays and I hope that I maybe changed all you Crawford hater's opinions about him.  He is probably the most talented player on the team.  If not whatever, let me know what you guys think.

So I just read this report on ESPN saying that Ray Durham may retire if he does not receive and offers from any ball clubs

Here's the link:

Click Here

Now I know what you guys are thinking.... But, why not sign Ray Durham at a minimum contract.  I know he wasn't the greatest hitter, and yes he was a bit streaky at times but he always put forth a solid at bat.  Now, I've always been a fan of letting young guys play, but I don't think neither Burriss, Frandsen, or Velez are Major League ready.  And say we did start one of those three players, and it didn't necessarily work out, then we could always have Durham as insurance.  Out of all the so called "old guys" we have had throughout the years such as the Moises Alous and Ryan Kleskos of the world, Ray Durham was one of my favorites and the most productive. 

I'd say the biggest question mark we have out of all positions is maybe 2nd and 1st.  By signing Durham, I think we have a good enough group of players to complement Durham.  Think about this for a second, and don't be so quick to shoot this down. 

Then again, we could just sign somebody better and this post can completely be disregarded, but knowing Sabean we won't sign anyone for any kind of money.  So why not pay little for Durham??

I hate to talk about this subject, but I am very concerned as to how Baron Davis will be recieved by the Warriors fans when he returns to Oakland.  I'm worried that the fans will boo him (I'm actually sure that some will), when he deserves a standing ovation, Hands Down!

Even when Jrich returned last year, I felt like the fans could have shown him more love.  The video was nice, and we did give him a standing O, but it was very short lived. 

Baron did so much for this franchise in the short time that he was here.  On and off the court, he had passion for what he did.

I was one of many  who was pissed at Baron when he first opted out, that is, until many of us found out that it was actually a rift between Mullin and Rowell that caused Baron to opt out.  What would you have done if you were Baron?  I mean, after all Mullin promised him an extension and it seemed like it was going to go through until Rowell nixed it.  Makes me sick to my stomach.  It was no coincidence that Baron opted out at the last minute, he was probably like "wtf?" 

I am, and have always been a hug fan of Jamal Crawford since his days in Michigan, but he is not a true point guard, and neither is Monta.  And I know people give Crawford heat, but he's going to be alright, have faith in him.  However, it does show that we really do lack a playmaker and a guy who has that competitive fire that Baron brought us almost every night. 

Baron deserves nothing but love when he returns to Oakland, and I really do hope that the Warriors make a video for him as well.

I know it may seem like Jamal Crawford hasn't been a part of many good Warrior wins this season, and there are a lot of people who think that they play better without him, but consider these factors:

1. Crawford comes in and he is expected to immediately become our starting point guard?!  He has never been a starting point guard on a consistent basis, if ever.  A new offense at the point guard position isn't that easy.

2. He seemed like he was trying to find himself in the offense, and was reluctant on when to take shots.  He was trying to be a facilitator at first, and was doing the right thing by trying to pass the ball more.  He was never able to get into a rhythm offensively when scoring, other than that Charlotte game when he was all they had.

3. Crawford wants to win, but I'm not sure whether he knows exactly how to yet.  He just hasn't been around winners, but I think that can change.  In Chicago, he never was on a great team since it was during the Bulls rebuilding era after MJ's Bulls.  In New York, you can't expect anyone to succeeed in that situation for the past few years.  I mean the Knicks may have been the most dispicable franchise in the past five years. 

4. If you haven't been following Crawford throughout the years, he has had his share of game winning shots.  He is pretty clutch.

5. As far as individual talent, he may be the most talented guy on the floor whenever the Warriors play.  But like I said before, I think he's taking this adjustment one step at a time and not trying to do too much, just trying to be a facilitator.

Give Jamal some time, it takes everyone some time to adjust.  When Stephen Jackson and Al Harrington first arrived, it took them a while.  We didn't win our first few games.  And we couldn't be more depleted health wise than we were.  Stay positive for Jamal.

I've always believed that the Giants are a team that should spend close to 150 million dollars a year, but it seems like they never do.  If they do, it has been for washed up guys like the Moises Alou's of the world (no offense Moises, literally... get it get it?). 

Here's what I feel about the Giants offseason:

1.  I thought it was important that the Giants signed two relievers.  They arn't the greatest, but I feel that it will help us immensly.  For how good of a season Brain Wilson had last year, I am skeptical if he can come back with the same production.  I don't doubt him too much, but if anything does go wrong or he stumbles out of the game, Affeldt can always close.  But I think Wilson will be alright. 

2.  The Randy Johnson signing was great!! What can be better, we have nothing to lose with this signing.  What?  Only 1 year, and 8 million?  It's not like the Giants are asking him to be the number one or two starter.  With Lincecum, Cain, Johnson, Zito, Sanchez (or Lowry), we may hav eth best rotation in baseball. 

3.  As far as the offense, I really feel that the Giants should either:

a) Sign Pat Burrell

b) Trade for a position player.  Why not Adrian Gonzalez for Jonathan Sanchez and maybe another minor leaguer.  Now I usually dont like the idea of trading away young guys, but this may be worth it.  It all of course depends on how Noah Lowry is doing.

If our offense stays the same as it is now, I think the best lineup would be:

1. RF Randy Winn

2. 2B Emmanuel Burriss

3. 3B Pablo Sandoval

4. CF Aaron Rowand

5. C Bengie Molina

6. SS Edgar Renteria

7. LF Fred Lewis

8. 1B Travis Ishikawa

Now I know that this isn't the greatest offensive team, but I think it has the capability of producing enough runs for our starters.  Also, in a year or two we have Angel Villalona and Buster Posey coming up.

If the Giants keep the lineup as is, and with their pitching, I predict them to go

91-71 and win the NL West

And I always believe, once you make the playoffs it's all fair game because if you have 2-3 solid starters that's what it's all about.

Thought this would be kind of fun to think about.........

Been a huge Warriors fan my entire life, and realized just about a year ago how much of a homer announcer Bob Fitzgerald and Jim Barnett are.  Don't get me wrong, I love those guys, but if I were a fan of a different team watching a Warriors telecast, I would be so annoyed.

Off the top of my head, I can name other announcers since I have League Pass and watch many games.  Here are some team commentators that come to my mind that annoy me to the fullest.

In no particular order:

Mike Barrett, Mike Rice (Portland Trailblazers)- These guys kill me because everything is a foul to Portland for Mike Rice, and Barrett gets way overly excited when the blazers make a free throw.  These guys kill me.  I remember when the Warriors played Portland in Portland last year, every time the Warriors had the ball Rice would say that they traveled.  "The Warriors and especially Baron Davis travel on every possession"

Ralph Lawler, Mike Smith (Los Angeles Clippers)- I think these guys are huge homers, but I actually like them.  They arn't very annoying, and I guess I do have some sympathy for two guys that have watched losing basketball for the past decade.  Lawler's infamous "BINGO!!!" and "OH ME OH MY!!!" are classic.

Drew Goodman, Scott Hastings (Denver Nuggets)- These guys are terrible as well.  Scott Hastings has that deep unintelligent voice, and constantly stutters while he complains about every call.  The play by play announcer Goodman isn't as bad, but has his moments as well.

Mike Gorman, Tommy Heinsohn (Boston Celtics)- We all know about Tommy's many tirades throughout the years.  In addition to his tirades, I cant stand the "Tommy Point" for great plays made by Boston players, and "I Love Walter" when Walter McCarty was playing for them.  Heinsohn may the be the most biased, but I do get some comic relief since it is so outrages.

Bob Fitzgerald, Jim Barnett (Golden State Warriors)- We abviously know about Fitz and Barnett.

Neil Funk, Stacey King (Chicago Bulls)- Debating between these guys and the Laker's announcers, I had to pick the Bulls.  Stu Lance atleast acknowledges the opposition a lot.  Stacey King is just as biased as any of these color guys.

NOW IT'S YOUR GUYS' TURN TO DECIDE FOR YOURSELF.

As a lifelong Warriors fan, I must say I had mixed feelings when hearing that Jrich was headed back to the west coast and playing for YOUR Phoenix Suns.

I'm happy for Jrich that he gets to play for a contender, but dissapointed because Warrior fans have to face him 4 times a year. 

BUT YOU GUYS WILL LOVE JRICH....... He plays with so much heart night in and night out.  There's nothing bad that I can say about him.  Although Baron gained the glory in Golden State due to his performance in the playoffs, Jrich was THE HEART AND SOUL of the team.  When he got traded on draft day for Brandan Wright, I felt like I got punched in the stomach because he was a fan favorite. 

With Stoudemire, Shaq, and Nash I can see the Suns going places this season. 

Jason will be come a fan favorite in Phoenix because all he does is work, work, work........

I was at the Warriors practice facility frequently during one summer, and Jrich was there every single day working on his game. 

Man I still miss him..... but good luck to all Suns fans

When you dissect the Warriors this season, it's pretty evident what they need to improve on:

1. DEFENSE- I'm not expecting great defense but better defense than what we have seen.  So far it has been terrible.  After watching David Lee roll off of the pick like 100 times last week and get dunks killed me.  At least knock him down a couple times and send a message.  It really all comes down to effort.  For example, quick C.J. Watson let Quinn on Miami get passed him with ease.  I mean, come on! Although I have always loved Crawford, he can do better on defense as well.  We're just being lazy with the exception of Ronny Turiaf and some of the other bigs.

2. SHOT SELECTION- I'm tired of seeing Corey Maggette get the ball from just inside the 3 point line (or even the behind the three point line), completely isolated with a clear lane to the basket, and he ends up taking a jump shot with a hand in his face.  I'm sick of seeing Jackson dribble the ball for the majority of the shot clock and having him end up taking a contested fadeaway jump shot.  When we move the ball around, we score easier than any othr team in the NBA. 

3. REBOUNDING- We have been alright, but there have been missed ooportunities that have hurt us.  The guards need to help the bigs get rebounds, plain and simple.

It's not rocket science, I don't know what Don Nelson is telling these guys before every game.  Get it done, and we will win games.  To have this much talent with only 1 5-13 record is pitiful.