After months of speculating and smokescreens, the 2019 NFL Draft is finally upon us.
And unlike year’s past, NO ONE knows what the Dolphins plan to do during this weekend’s draft.
What we do know, however, is that the team has a plethora of holes to fill. Miami desperately needs to address; quarterback, offensive line, defensive line, defensive back and safety. Wide receiver and linebacker could also be viewed as positions of need. Nonetheless, Chris Grier and his hired henchman, will look to find elite talent at areas of need.
Here’s a look at what the contributors at Five Reasons Sports believe the Dolphins will do in the first round.
” I judge the NFL Draft based off of who did I fear the University of Miami playing. It’s why Daniel Jones can’t be good as an NFL player. I didn’t even know there was an NFL Draft pick opposing UM at quarterback when they played. And I didn’t know there was an NFL Draft pick opposing UM at quarterback after they played, even though Duke beat the Hurricanes. In that vein, the proposition of UM fraudulently winning the coastal and being smashed by Clemson up front was enough to make me not want UM to win the Coastal. So Clelin Ferrell it is.”
Ethan Skolnick – TRADE DOWN
What will the Dolphins likely do Thursday?
What they did so often under genius Adam Gase.
Punt.
Only this time it will be for the best. Miami isn’t one player, or two players, or even five players away. This is the time to accumulate picks, the way Jimmy Johnson did in 1996 and 1997. Take as many shots as you can. Maybe there’s a Zach Thomas in there somewhere.
So my guess: trade down, probably trade out of the first round.
Ricky J. Marc – Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
“It really seems like the Dolphins, after nearly two decades of post-Marino mediocrity, are prepared to turn over the kind of new leaf that has been at least seven years coming. Miami needs a QB. Say what you will about Marino’s legacy as it concerns winning a Super Bowl, but Miami hasn’t even been within striking distance of serious contention since the franchise’s last great rifleman retired.
Dwayne Haskins has the potential to be the best QB in this draft in what is likely another throwaway season for Miami. He finished in the top five last season in completion rate with 70% and third in the running for the Heisman Trophy. If he pans out under Flores, great—Miami has a quarterback for the future. If he doesn’t, life goes on. I just want to see some talent at the QB again.
Oh, and I’m still waiting for Miami to sign Colin Kaepernick. Clock’s ticking, Mr. Ross.”
Jeremy Tache – Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
“Because Dolphins”
Tito Benach – Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
“The Dolphins go with Wilkins to pair him next to Davon Godchaux and shore up their run defense that hasn’t been a very productive unit in a long time. Adding Wilkins, a powerful and agile 3 technique, would be the first step to fixing the defensive line and open lanes for the linebackers to make more plays at the line of scrimmage.
The tempting option would be to potentially select an edge rusher; Clelin Ferrel and Montez Sweat seem like popular names, but reports have surfaced that Sweat’s medicals have scared teams off and he could slide as a result and Ferrel may even be taken before 13. For that reason, Dolphins take Wilkins and have two young, solid defensive tackles.”
Tony Capobianco – Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
“Lock it in!”
Carlos Jorge – Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
“I believe they will trade back. But if they stay at 13, I think the pick will be Wilkins from Clemson. It’s good place to start a rebuild in the trenches! Defense wins championships “
Josh Houtz – Jeffrey Simmons, DT, Mississippi State
“A lot of uncertainty surrounds the Dolphins and the #13 pick. They could trade down, or up, depending on the talent available when Chris Grier is on the clock. Haskins won’t be available and the odds of Jawaan Taylor or Jonah Williams falling out of the top-10 is slim to none. Yes, there are plenty of defensive line options, but none more talented than Mississippi State’s Jeffrey Simmons. He might not be able to play in 2019, but for a team looking to #tank this upcoming season, a red-shirt like Simmons is the right fit. I bet Brian Flores is licking his chops at the very thought of Simmons in South Beach.”
Who do you think the Dolphins will select in the first-round?
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/draft.jpg5761024Josh Houtzhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgJosh Houtz2019-04-25 06:01:152019-04-25 08:12:44With the 13th pick, the Miami Dolphins select…
With the draft quickly approaching, NFL teams are beginning to finalize their draft boards in anticipation for the big day. After all, teams anxiously await for the draft every year, as it remains the last hurdle before the new NFL season begins. Free Agency will remain the mainstay for adding proven talent for way, way too much money. But good teams are built through the draft and that’s exactly what the new regime is hoping to accomplish.
Miami currently holds six picks in the 2019 draft. Which means unless an elite player falls helplessly into their lap at 13, they’re going to move heaven and hell to trade down. That’s not to say it will work, or that an elite player won’t fall, but the Dolphins are going to be on the move this draft season. And will look to sure up their biggest needs which include [ QB/OL/DL/DB/S ]
Here are 13 potential players the Dolphins could select at #13 in this year’s NFL draft.
Dwayne Haskins, Quarterback, Ohio State
The odds that Dwayne Haskins falls to the Dolphins at #13 have seemingly increased over the last several weeks. And depending on who you ask, Haskins has slowly become the No.3 QB according to respected experts and analysts alike. Personally, I think he has all the traits you look for in a franchise quarterback. And if somehow, someway he’s still available when the Dolphins are on the clock, you run to the podium with the pick. Oh yeah, and for those who don’t recall, Stephen Ross was in attendance for the Wolverines game vs Ohio State this past season. Michigan came into the game with the country’s No.1 ranked defense, before Dwayne Haskins completed 20/31 for 396 yards and 6 touchdowns. For better or for worse, it got Stephen Ross’ attention.
Ed Oliver, Defensive Tackle , Houston
We continue to hear Ed Oliver’s name mocked to the Miami Dolphins, but for what reason I do not know. The versatile defensive lineman from Houston, amassed 54 total tackles in 2018. Dig a little deeper and you will see his 14.5 tackles for loss and 3 sacks. Throughout this draft process, Oliver has been the one player highly regarded by many as the next Aaaron Donald. Now I know what you’re thinking, there’s no way this dude is that good. Maybe not. But to think he’s going to be available for the Dolphins in any scenario, is extremely unlikely. Simply put, Ed Oliver is the Minkah Fitzpatrick pick in this class. His versatility is perfect for what Brian Flores and his coaching staff desire on the defensive line. And if he’s available when Miami is on the clock, the pick could not be any easier.
Jaawan Taylor, Offensive Tackle, Florida
Drafting an offensive lineman with a top-15 draft pick will never be the sexy choice. But once you start to realize how valuable trench play is to the success of an NFL team, it doesn’t look so bad on the surface. After all, the ‘trenches’ is where games are won and loss. And it’s safe to say several games in 2018 were lost due to poor offensive line play. (Cough, Cincinnati, Cough) Nevertheless, after being outbid for Ja’Wuan James during free agency, the Dolphins have an opening at right tackle. Yes, Jesse Davis is a potential in-house replacement, but Taylor is the best of this year’s class. If quarterback is the plan in 2020, building the offensive line is a very wise decision. Especially if the target is left-handed QB Tua Tagovailoa.
Brian Burns, EDGE, Florida State
Every year, there’s a player or two I become enamored with throughout the draft process. This year, that player is Florida State’s Brian Burns. In 2018, Burns combined for 10 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 53 total tackles. He was a pass rushing maven and proved he could play at a multitude of positions on the Seminole’s defensive line. His lanky frame isn’t overly concerning, but Burns could definitely benefit from adding additional mass at the next level. Adding Burns to a Dolphins defense severely lacking a pass rusher would be a very smart move towards creating one of the league’s top defenses.
Montez Sweat, EDGE, Mississippi State
As we have heard from some of the NFL’s biggest draft analysts, Montez Sweat might not be the best player on Mississippi State’s defensive line. In fact, Jeffrey Simmons would likely be a top-5 pick if he were healthy. A recent medical red-flag regarding his heart condition, has some teams rearranging their draft boards. Again, a trade down would be ideal. but I fully expect Sweat to be drafted at the back end of round one, or top of round 2. I believe Sweat will have success in the NFL, despite his concerns.
Christian Wilkins, Defensive Tackle, Clemson
Miami’s new defensive line coach is Marion Hobby, who spent several years with the Clemson Tigers. Hobby has familiarity with many of Clemson’s top draft prospects, including Dexter Lawrence, Clelin Ferrell, and the aforementioned Wilkins. Throughout his collegiate career, Wilkins proved to be a difference maker all over the Tiger’s defensive line. And despite not getting a ton of recognition as one of the draft’s top prospects, it would surprise no one if his name was called before the bottom half of the draft. Miami’s defense could use a player with his versatility and skill-set.
Jonah Williams, Offensive Tackle, Alabama
Much like Taylor, Williams could very well be off the board by the time the Dolphins are on the clock at 13. Nevertheless, he’s a versatile lineman that has played against some of the best pass rushers in college football. His ability to play offensive tackle and offensive guard at an elite level, makes him an intriguing prospect for every team desperate for offensive line help. Williams should make a near flawless transition to the NFL game, and could be a Pro Bowl starter in year one.
Clelin Ferrell, EDGE, Clemson
Ferrell was a dominant run-stopper at Clemson and as 3 Yard’s Per Carry reported earlier this week, has a very good relationship with Dolphins defensive line coach Marion Hobby. Ferrell does all the little things right and as I mentioned in the recent weeks, he reminds me of a younger, faster William Hayes. Hayes, who many remember, was stout vs the run. He also made an impact as a pass rusher. I see Ferrell as a more polished prospect than Charles Harris. I would not be surprised one bit if Ferrell is the pick at 13.
Jeffery Simmons, Defensive Tackle, Mississippi State
Simmons has slowly become my favorite option for the team at 13. Miami is unlikely to compete in 2019, so taking a red-shirt freshman that can fully recover and make an impact when the Dolphins are ready to compete would be in the team’s best interest. Obviously, a trade down would be ideal. But you can’t pass on an opportunity to draft an elite player.. During his 2018 campaign he amassed 63 total tackles, 18 for loss and 2 sacks.
Greedy Williams, Cornerback, LSU
Williams, by most accounts, is considered the top defensive back in this year’s class. And as Alfred Arteaga of 3 Yards Per Carry has mentioned over the last several weeks, he’s a legit possibility for the Dolphins at 13. Williams might be the best press corner in this year’s class, which is a significant need for a team that has Xavien Howard and Bobby McCain as their top defensive backs. That is assuming Flores decides to keep Minkah Fitzpatrick at safety. Nevertheless, drafting Williams would be a great pick for a team looking to transition to a dime defense.
Rashan Gary, EDGE, Michigan
Ask anyone what the Dolphins biggest need is outside of quarterback, and pass rusher should be at the top of that list. Unfortunately for Gary, a recent report of a torn labrum could see him fall mercifully in Thursday’s draft. His boom or bust potential has always made him an intriguing prospect for Miami at 13. And then there’s the obvious Michigan ties, which has to be a positive for the Wolverine’s top booster, Stephen Ross. Gary should still go in round one, but would be a more obvious choice via trade down. Nonetheless, whichever team drafts him, should get a versatile starter for many years to come.
Andre Dillard, Offensive Tackle, Washington State
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LI5Ie9iob3A
In recent weeks, Dillard has sky-rocketed up NFL team’s draft boards. A one time late first-round pick, could find himself drafted within the top-15 of Thursday’s draft. Dillard may be better in pass protection than Taylor, but the difference between the two prospects is minor. If Miami is truly all in on Tua in 2020, they will need a right tackle to protect his blindside. Aside from Taylor and Williams, Dillard is the top tackle in this year’s class. Offensive lineman might not be a sexy pick, but he would make an immediate impact opposite of Laremy Tunsil, for many, many years to come.
Drew Lock, Quarterback, Missouri
Lock is a wildcard and for a team enamored by Josh Allen a year ago, if he falls their could be some interest. After all, Lock is a more accurate and polished passer than Allen. The only significant difference is Allen’s rocket launcher of an arm. Denver seems like an obvious choice for the Missouri quarterback but if he’s available at 13, the Dolphins could be faced with a tough decision. Should they wait until 2020? Or take a quarterback that could be a starter in the NFL for many years to come. Whatever they decide, if a quarterback is their choice, the internal clock will begin ticking for Chris Grier and Brian Flores.
Josh Houtz (@Houtz) cooks in his spare time, when he’s not working on 65 things for Five Reasons Sports Network and Dolphin Maven
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svg00Josh Houtzhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgJosh Houtz2019-04-24 05:50:432019-04-24 07:16:41Thirteen possible players for the Dolphins
With two goals from Bernardo Silva (’54) and second-half substitute Leroy Sané (’66), defending champions Manchester City have defeated crosstown rivals Manchester United 2-0 in yet another edition of the Manchester Derby.
The win moves City temporarily (?) past league leaders Liverpool FC atop the table with three games to play and a sizable goal differential lead.
This is it.
Three Premier League games will decide this season’s Premier League Champion.
Not surprisingly, with the Premier League title still up for grabs, it’s now down to the following clubs:
Manchester City: the defending champion, who became the first Premier League club to finish a campaign with 100 points total in 2017-18, winning the title in dominating fashion; and
Liverpool FC: the upstart contenders dating back to the second half of last season, themselves emulating City’s 2018 start with an unbeaten run of their own behind the dazzling play of Mo Salah, Sadio Mané, and Roberto Firmino.
Liverpool have three Premier League matches remaining: Huddersfield (20th), Newcastle (13th), and Wolves (7th). Huddersfield have already been relegated.
In between those matches, they have two Champions League semifinal matches with European powerhouse FC Barcelona.
After finishing as runners-up to Real Madrid in last season’s UEFA Champions League campaign, Liverpool will be faced with the decision of prioritizing which matches to field a full team for stamina purposes.
This will surely tax Liverpool’s reserves. The Reds last won the Champions League in 2004-05.
Like Liverpool, City also have three matches left: Leicester City (10th), Burnley (15th), and Brighton & Hove Albion (17th). Brighton, just three points clear of relegation (34 points), will fight to ensure that they don’t trade places with Cardiff City (31 points) between now and mid-May.
With just three matches left (and nine points up for grabs), anything is possible.
Leicester will be fighting with Wolves for 7th, so none of these fixtures should be treated as easy wins for City.
City also have an FA Cup Final vs. Watford to concern themselves with, but that won’t be a worry until after the Premier League champion has been decided.
Because of tonight’s victory over United, City can become back-to-back Premier League champions by winning out, becoming the first club to repeat since United did it in 2008-09.
However, should Liverpool win out and City drop points with a draw or loss, the lead will remain firmly with the Reds, effectively crowning them champions for the first time since 1990-91, when they won the English Football League.
UPDATE: Here is how the Premier League will be decided this coming weekend.
The final breakdown for the Premier League’s last day, as it concerns Manchester City and Liverpool.
So who will be crowned champion? Stay tuned to NBC Sports—it’s setting up to be a wild finish this season.
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Born in Brooklyn and raised in Boca Raton, Ricky J. Marc is an alumnus of the Obama White House and Cornell Paris Institute, a former Florida Senate Legislative Aide, and a graduate of St. Thomas University with a Master of Science in Sports Administration, where he is also currently completing his Juris Doctor degree.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/D48pNiAWkAAitdf-1.jpeg7521200Ricky J. Marc, J.D., M.S.https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgRicky J. Marc, J.D., M.S.2019-04-24 05:17:372019-05-08 07:47:13Manchester City vs. Liverpool: The Final Countdown
If you stay up for West Coast playoff games, you’re being treated — and I use that term loosely — to the Kevin Durant Revenge Tour.
Following the largest single-game collapse in playoff history, Durant has led the Golden State Warriors to back-to-back double digit wins. He went for an efficient 38-4-7 in Game 3, then followed that up with 33-7-6 in Game 4.
Noticeably missing from those wins was DeMarcus Cousins. The former All-Star is likely done for the postseason after tearing his quad. It’s a disappointing end to a season that was trending upwards. Cousins took a (financial) gamble on himself by accepting the mid-level exception in hopes of setting himself up for a big payday this summer. The injury obviously compromises that goal.
Enter the Miami Heat.
Well, maybe.
As of now, the Heat aren’t expected to have cap space. That could change, depending on what Hassan Whiteside and Goran Dragic decide to do with their player options. If both players opt out, the Heat could have roughly $15 million in cap space to play with. It’s not quite enough to get in the room for superstars like Kevin Durant or Kyrie Irving, but that could put them in the room for guys that fall a couple of tiers below that level.
It’s hard to envision anyone throwing a long-term, high-dollar deal at Cousins at this point. He’s suffered a torn Achilles and a torn quad in consecutive seasons. Hitching your wagon to Cousins without proof that he’ll be a high level player — or that he can hold up — would essentially be malpractice.
A one-year flier, however, is an interesting scenario to think about. If the price range falls between $5-8 million (mid-level exception range), the Heat could be an intriguing option for Cousins. If the Heat have any edge right now, it’s the reputation of getting reclamation projects paid.
WHY IT MAKES SENSE
Quick — who is Miami’s best scorer?
Did you answer Dion Waiters, the bulky guard with the quick first step and even quicker trigger?
Is it Goran Dragic, equipped with his Iron Shoulder and fancy footwork?
How about Josh Richardson, the Heat’s leading scorer with a budding pull-up game?
Regardless of who you chose, did you feel good about your answer? I would imagine the answer is no.
This is where the flier begins to make sense. For a team that lacks a reliable go-to option, Cousins could possibly provide that. As a glorified 4th option, Cousins averaged 16.2 points in a little under 26 minutes a night this season.
Much like the year before, Cousins flashed the ability to dictate games from the mid-post and in. He’s able to devastate weaker defenders with his brute strength on the low block. If he doesn’t put defenders underneath the hoop, he has an array of fakes and impressive footwork at his disposal to get to his spots.
What makes him more dangerous is his passing ability. The Warriors liked to station him at the elbow — and sometimes here — to get into their post split action. Cousins was able to showcase the nice touch he has on bounce passes and lobs.
If Cousins simply returns to the form he showed this season, he’d be Miami’s most dynamic scorer and, at worst, their third best passer. It’s easy to envision him drawing help on the low block, then kicking it out to either Josh Richardson or Justise Winslow for them to attack a scrambling defense. For a Heat team that struggled to score, they need someone that can force defenses to rotate on a whim. Cousins can be that guy.
A lineup of Winslow,Waiters, Richardson, Bam Adebayo, and Cousins would feature five players that can pass and attack bent defenses. You would have to bank on Cousins regaining form as a shooter (27.4 percent on 3.2 attempts last year), but I’d argue that giving him more interior touches would allow him to establish a rhythm easier. Cousins wouldn’t make the Heat a top-ten offense on his own, but pushing the Heat towards the middle of the pack would be a massive win.
WHY IT DOESN’T MAKE SENSE
For a lot of folks, I imagine what Cousins could bring to the offense would outweigh any concerns they may have about his impact on the other end of the floor. I can’t pretend to be that guy.
Cousins was mostly fine as an interior defender. Via Synergy, opponents scored 0.541 points per post-up possession against Cousins, a mark that placed him in the 98th percentile. Opponents shot a shade over 45.1 percent at the basket (non-post ups) against Cousins, a stat that also comes courtesy of Synergy.
But this is when I remind you that Cousins spent 457 of his 771 minutes (nearly 60 percent) with Draymond Green and Klay Thompson on the floor with him. The Warriors had a 104.3 defensive rating in those minutes; that number ballooned to 115.4 with those two off the floor.
It’s much easier for big men to protect the rim when driving opportunities are limited, and the lanes are cramped when they get there. Still, Cousins is insanely strong and has quick hands in his own right. He’s averaged at least 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks in seven of his nine seasons.
But if you’re looking for the Heat to return to the playoffs and make legitimate noise, you have to think about who can be effective in a playoff setting. Cousins’ inability to defend in space leaves him susceptible to high pick-and-roll attacks. He isn’t nimble enough to hang with guards on switches, nor does he recover out to stretch bigs in a timely manner. With the torn quad, it’s possible he looks even worse on that end next year.
What would that look like in a series against, say, the Boston Celtics if they retain Kyrie Irving and Al Horford?
The Heat have a host of fine defenders; the Winslow-Richardson-Adebayo trio is incredibly rangy. But it may be pretty difficult to cover for him enough to make his offensive talents worth it.
Even that portion of the fit is questionable, depending on what your view of #TheKids are. If you feel like Adebayo could have a trajectory similar to Toronto’s Pascal Siakam, or if there’s another level for Winslow to reach, prioritizing (cheaper) spacers so they can soak up more on-ball reps may be a better long-term play.
Nekias Duncan (@NekiasNBA) of Miami Heat Beat is currently taking a flier on Game of Thrones.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/podcast-square-mhb.png10001000Nekias Duncanhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgNekias Duncan2019-04-23 15:53:572019-04-23 15:53:57Should the Heat Take a Flier on DeMarcus Cousins?
This is my last and final attempt at a Mock for this Draft Season and, after some uncertainty as to what some teams were thinking the top of this draft has become a little muddled. Once you get past the top two picks there are many ways you can go with each team/draft slot. As for your Miami Dolphins, it’s a certainty that they prefer to trade down and take one of Greedy Williams or Deandre Baker (that is my educated guess), but for the purposes of this Mock Draft, the Dolphins get a versatile, front line player.
1. CARDINALS – Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
No change here. Newly minted Cardinals Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury famously “called his shot” in October of 2018, as he said he would take Kyler Murray with the 1st overall pick if he could. Well, now he does. Josh Rosen ends up traded for 30 cents on the dollar to somebody that had a high grade on him in 2018.
2. 49ERS – Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Just a reminder that I was told that little brother Nick was better than big brother, pro bowler Joey. I was told this during Nick’s Freshman year at St. Thomas Aquinas.it shows on film. Nick Bosa is the best player in this draft, and one of the best Defensive End prospects in years.
3. JETS – Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
I have struggled with this one due to Josh Allen being such a good fit, but Quinnen Williams has solidified his draft stock in recent weeks, as a can’t miss interior Defensive Line prospect. Couple him with standout Leonard Williams, and you begin to have something on Defense.
4. RAIDERS – Josh Allen, EDGE, Kentucky
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqWH6dOWTLw
John Gruden, and Mike Mayock famously “sent home” their entire Scouting staff this past week, and if the board shakes out like I have it here, they won’t need them to make this pick. Josh Allen gets comparisons to Demarcus Ware, and this writer, sees it. Raiders get a replacement for Khalil Mack at #4.
5. BUCCANEERS – Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
No change here, The writing is on the wall for Gerald McCoy, and he could be on the way out of Tampa Bay. A Trade of McCoy can save the Bucs some valuable cap space for Bruce Arians squad. Releasing him outright is not far fetched either. Best case scenario for McCoy fans is that you plug in a Ed Oliver to pay alongside McCoy in what could be one of the better DT tandems in the league. The more likely scenario is that Ed Oliver will replace McCoy, as the athletically Freakish Oliver has drawn some comparisons to All World DT Aaron Donald.
6. GIANTS – Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
Ok, you have seen the rumors of Daniel Jones being the pick here, but I don’t buy it. First of all, Haskins is clearly the better prospect, and taking Jones at #6 is the reach of all reaches. Passing on Haskins at this pick can prove to be fatal for your hopes of landing him later, even in a trade up (possibly with Miami?). Makes too much sense to just take Haskins here, and I am sticking to my guns on this one, Haskins to New York.
7. JAGUARS – T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
I initially had the Jaguars benefitting from Quinnen Williams dropping to them in my first Mock draft, but in this one, he is not available. You just spent in excess of $22 million a year for a shiny new quarterback in Nick Foles and the Jaguars seem pretty devoid of skill talent, to compliment him. T.J. Hockenson along with Hakeem Butler are my best offensive players available at this point, and seeing as Butler is dropping on some boards, the Jags step up and get a guy that NFL Network’s own Bucky Brooks says is a “Gold Jacket Candidate”.
8. LIONS – Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan
No change here, it’s too good a fit. Ziggy Ansah is a Free Agent and is likely not to return to Matt Patricia’s defense. Rashan Gary is a Michigan product that is exactly the type of versatile Defensive lineman that a Patricia defense craves. Some would say that this is a reach taking Gary this high, but the team, need, and player are too perfect a fit.
9. BILLS – Devin White, LB, LSU
No change once again. This is a no brainer at this point. Buffalo has some talent on Defense, but are devoid of a volume tackler in the linebacker unit. Drafting Devin White would also be a big boost for 2018 Draftee Tremaine Edmunds, who was playing somewhat out of position most of his rookie year. Devin White could be the best of a very strong Linebacker class. The Bills can use one. They get one at #9.
10. BRONCOS – Devin Bush, LB, Michigan
For as long as we remember, Drew Lock has been tied to the Broncos here by one insider or another. It never works that way, this far down in the draft. They are not taking him folks. So what else makes sense? Nick Chubb and Von Miller make a lot of sense. What makes sense is to get a guy in between those two stars to anchor this defense. Devin Bush is that guy. Sideline to sideline, playmaker as a “fill/spill” linebacker. Fearless, relentless, and would be the best linebacker in this draft if Devin White wasn’t so good. The one/two punch at LB in this year’s draft is as good or better than any in the last two years.
11. BENGALS – Christian Wilkins, DL, Clemson
This has been a fluid spot, and your guess is as good as mine. So I am just going to go BPA (Best Player Available) for them here. Carlos Dunlap, Geno Atkins, Carl Lawson, Jordan Willis, and now Christian Wilkins makes for a very strong Defensive Line. It is conceivable that Wilkins can play in every technique, and in every position along the defensive line. That is a good thing to have. In a division where you have to contend with Big Ben, Baker Mayfield, and Lamar Jackson, a strong pass rush is the quickest path toward contention. Wilkins is a no brainer if the board shakes out this way.
12. PACKERS – Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzQ2IdJK22A
No change here, the Pack get very lucky to have Taylor drop to them . The best Offensive Tackle in the draft. David Bakhtiari returns as one of the best LT’s in football to protect Aaron Rodgers’ blindside, but Bryan Bulaga has not been reliable at RT as of late, due to injury and some ineffectiveness. The window to win in Green Bay is now, and Taylor is the most NFL ready Tackle available. He starts at RT for the Packers from day 1.
13. DOLPHINS – Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
I wrote this about a month ago: “For a team with many needs, why would they ad a player to a position group that is already pretty good? Precisely. Might as well start becoming “elite” at something. I’m a big fan of Reshad Jones, but I realize he is not for long for the Miami Dolphins and the real core of the secondary is All Pro CB Xavien Howard and now 2nd year standout, the versatile Minkah Fitzpatrick. Let’s face it, the Fins are under-manned to play the coverages and defenses that Head Coach Brian Flores wants to play. Greedy Williams reminds me of Antonio Cromartie or Aqib Talib. A perfect compliment to Xavien Howard as a boundary corner. Greedy is also very good in Man coverage, the style of coverage that Flores gravitates toward. Greedy, Xavien, Minkah is a head start on rebuilding this defense.”
It still stands today. Cold take me if you want, but the Patriots are notorious for a bent toward man coverage (1st in Man Coverage % last year, 2nd the year before) and the Dolphins just added their Defensive Coordinator as the new Head Coach. It’s not brain surgery to think that Brian Flores / Chris Grier will look at the best Man Coverage corner in the draft, see him alongside Xavien Howard, Minkah Fitzpatrick and think that they this is the fastest way back to relevance. A great secondary is a good thing to have. The Dolphins get almost 100% of the way there with one pick. Greedy Williams at #13, or maybe in a trade down? Anyway, Greedy Williams is the pick.
To quote a movie hero of mine Gordon Gekko, “Greed for lack of a better word, is Good. Greed is right. Greed works. Greed clarifies, cuts through, and captures the essence of the evolutionary spirit. Greed, in all of its forms, greed for life, for money, for love, for building a strong, imposing secondary in the NFL has marked the upward surge of mankind.” (I took severe liberties with that quote.) Anyway, time to get Greedy.
Alfredo Arteaga (@UptownReport) is one of the three hosts of Three Yards Per Carry, which posts once per week during the offseason and twice during the season.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/podcast-square-3ypc-1.png7621000Alfredo Arteagahttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlfredo Arteaga2019-04-23 08:45:402019-04-23 09:05:35Final 2019 NFL/Dolphins Mock Draft: Greed is Good
F&%k A Movie Theater is your weekly to bi-weekly to probably once a month guide to the best movies you can watch through streaming services. So skip the traffic, the crowds, the $472 popcorn and soda, the screaming babies, and the fart-filled seats of the movie theater, stay home, and stream some shit in the comfort of your own home. This week F&%k A Movie Theater reviews Screwball.
The latest Racontur documentary Screwball proves that Billy Corben is the best documentarian, because fuck Ken Burns. No filmmaker is as good at capturing the complete and colossal fuckery that is South Florida’s underbelly quite like Corben does. He did it with Cocaine Cowboys, Cocaine Cowboys Reloaded, and Square Grouper. And now he’s gone and done it again.
Screwball, which you can now stream on iTunes and Amazon, is Corben’s latest foray into the cartoonish weirdness that is South Florida, and further proof that when anything shady happens anywhere in the world, there is always and inevitably a connection to the Sunshine State. And Corben is so masterful at telling these stories, we kind of forgive him for that whole “Because Florida” schtick he always does on every….single…tweet…he…. sends… out….. WE GET IT, BILLY. JESUS.
Seriously though, Screwball is more than what you think it is. Yes, it’s about Miami’s own, former Yankees slugger, and current Boring Dad on Instagram, Alex Rodriguez. Yes, it’s about steroids in baseball (zzzzzzzzz). Yes, it’s about Miami. But it’s way more than that. Because the story that unravels the entire thing is bananas. Because, Florida (DAMN YOU, BILLY CORBENNNN).
Screwball centers around the 2013 performing enhancing drug scandal that gave Major League Baseball and everyone involved a proverbial nipple twist, got Big League stars like A-Rod, Manny Ramirez, and Ryan Braun busted for juicing their shit up, and got everyone to go, holy shitcheese Jose Canseco was right!
In a nutshell, the story goes thusly: Anthony Bosch, a Florida Man who got his medical degree in Belize because, fuck it, opened up a health clinic to rejuvenate older folks who wanted to take better selfies, and discovered a way to mix together a PED regimen so that it was barely noticeable during a piss test, if at all. Naturally, this eventually led Bosch to having old people who wanted to fuck like teenagers as clients, to Big League ballplayers who wanted to get an edge. Bosch also apparently gave these PEDs to high school athletes through parents permission because we live in a world where literally everything is terrible.
Add some shady Goodfellas type dudes, a pinch of conmen and criminals, and a dash of a dopey guy who threatens to blow the whole thing up, and you have yourself a helluva story. Throw a weirdo like A-Rod into the mix, and possibly, maybe, kinda, allegedly, could be, MLB doing some shady illegal shit of their own, and NOW you’ve got yourself a barnburner.
Just look at that trailer.
The first thing that pops into your head when you watch that trailer is, wow steroids are kinda fucking cool I think I wanna start taking some where is this Bosch character now anyone have his @? And the second, and probably more importantly, those kid actors!
That’s because the best part of Screwball is how Corben decides to tell the story by using some talented kids. Taking a page out of Comedy Central’s Drunk History, where actors reenact scenes by lip-synching off-camera narrators, Screwball uses child actors to play all the characters as the real life-people retell their story. Blake McCall, the kid that plays A-Rod, really captures A-Rod’s odd plastic image-obsessed nature, and absolutely NAILS his swing (also, Ian Mackles deserves an Oscar for portraying my former Miami New Times boss Tim Elfrink so masterfully. The kid is the next Daniel Day-Lewis. I’m not even kidding. So great. Ok, I made this about me. Sorry. ONWARD…).
Bottom line, if you haven’t watched Screwball, then do it. Especially if you’re into sports and especially if you live here in South Florida, where we have some kooky-ass characters living among us. ESPECIALLY IN POLITICS.
It’s funny, irreverent, and smartly done. And it’s another notch in Corben’s utility belt of awesome story-telling. Truly, Screwball represents yet another side to just how dysfunctional a place paradise is, and Corben masterfully builds an entire movie around a slightly subversive central idea about some guys who wanted to get rich quick, and a couple of guys who wanted to hit baseballs good, and how it all went to shit because people are stupid.
Screwball gets 4 out of 5 F&%ks Greenwhich Entertainment, a documentary directed by Billy Corben. Running time 105 minutes. Available on iTunes, Amazon, FandangoNow, and Vudu.
Chris Joseph (@ByChrisJoseph) is a host of Ballscast, and has written for Deadspin, Miami New Times, CBS Sports, and several other outlets.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/screwball.jpg6421152Chris Josephhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgChris Joseph2019-04-22 16:25:142019-04-22 22:02:52Screwball Proves Billy Corben is the Best Documentarian, Because Florida
And now that the big day has finally come, we begin to look back and remember all of the ups and downs from this year’s draft season. More specifically, mock drafts.
In the weeks leading up to the draft, hundreds upon hundreds of mock drafts are released. Some ‘experts’ release as many as ten mock drafts. The reason for this is simple:
A) No matter how foolish or inaccurate they may be, fans love mock drafts.
B) This allows them to cover every possible scenario, making it more likely they ‘hit’ on a pick.
C) Many sites expect their writers to release weekly or bi-weekly mock drafts. If you write, they will come.
D) All of the above
So as we wait anxiously for the 2019 NFL draft to arrive, let’s take a look at some recent mock drafts and who the ‘experts’ have the Dolphins selecting.
“Mock Drafts are like buttholes, everyone has one and most of them stink” – Thomas Jefferson
To begin, let’s take a look at some of the recent mock drafts on NFL.com
NFL.com
The first is from Chad Reuter.
Here, you can find his entire 2019 7-round mock draft. It’s quite interesting to say the least. In his most recent mock, Reuter has the Dolphins selecting Ohio State QB, Dwayne Haskins.
Now this isn’t the problem. The problem, however, is that he predicts a draft-day trade between two teams that despise one another. In no world, would the Dolphins and Bills make a trade that benefits both teams. No chance.
Next, we have a mock draft from one of the most well respected analysts in the game, Daniel Jeremiah.
In his latest mock draft, Jeremiah has the Dolphins selecting uber-talented pass rusher Rashan Gary. No, he may not have lived up to his full potential in college, but Stephen Ross loves Michigan and Rashan Gary would fill an immediate need on Miami’s defensive line.
Like Jeremiah, Charles Davis is one of the better draft analysts in the industry. Here, he too addresses the Dolphins need for a defensive end, selecting the heavy-handed Clelin Ferrell.
Peter Schrager of Good Morning Football has Miami selecting another Clemson defensive lineman.
Some other notable NFL.com mock drafts.
Charley Casserly – Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
Bucky Brooks – Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
Lance Zierlein – Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
Adam Rank – Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
CBS Sports
Now that we got a pretty good idea of what the writers over at NFL.com would do at Pick 13, it’s time to take a look at what CBS Sports has to offer.
The first mock draft is from Ryan Wilson, who believes Dwayne Haskins will fall mercifully into the Dolphins lap at 13. As you can see, this has become a popular pick among the ‘experts’ but remains unlikely. However, if Haskins is available when the Dolphins are on the clock, Chris Grier and Co. should sprint to the podium.
We know how important the quarterback position can be, but who’s going to protect the Dolphins QB of the future? Will Brinson believes Alabama’s Jonah Williams would be the perfect fit on their less-than-stellar offensive line.
Chris Trapasso also has the Dolphins solidifying the offensive line, selecting Washington State’s Andre Dillard. Dillard is slowly climbing up draft boards and could find himself drafted in the top-15.
R.J White has the Dolphins trading down with Houston and selecting quite possibly the best defensive player in this class, Jeffrey Simmons. As we all know by now, Simmons tore his ACL and will miss the entire 2019 season. It is no secret that Miami will struggle to compete this upcoming season, so why not bring in an elite player that will be ready to make an impact in 2020?
Other notable CBS Sports mock drafts
Jared Dubin – Jonah Williams, OL, Alabama
Pete Prisco – Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
What we learned
In the end, mock drafts are a waste of time because no one knows exactly how the board will fall. Furthermore, each team has differing opinions on prospects. So although one player might be considered a late-round pick by many, another team might view them completely different. So yes, mock drafts are a waste of time. But until we stop caring or giving them the time of day, mock drafts will continue to consume a large part of the draft process.
Josh Houtz (@Houtz) is currently working on a mock draft of Five Reasons Sports contributors. It is also a waste of time.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/oprah.jpg534923Josh Houtzhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgJosh Houtz2019-04-22 07:46:482019-04-22 11:47:21You get a mock draft! You get a mock draft!
Throughout the history of the National Basketball Association (NBA), a combination of market demand and well-timed business investment has resulted in the addition of twenty-three expansion franchises, planting roots in various cities throughout the country.
With the league’s meteoric growth in recent times and potential for further explosion in value, now’s as good a time as any for the league to take advantage of prior wrongs and economic opportunities.
It’s time for the NBA to expand one final time, with three contenders for two final spots:
Seattle: a city with nearly a half-century’s worth of professional basketball history, centered around a Sonics franchise that has controversially remained dormant since 2008.
With the league’s final expansion to 32 teams, the need for balance will inevitably be required, so we will explore a series of initiatives in order to ensure conference realignment and competitive balance.
But first, Part I.
—
15 June2014: Imagine, for a moment, that you’ve been whisked back to a warm summer evening in San Antonio, Texas. To be more exact, let’s say it’s mid-June, the fifteenth day.
You find yourself in a cathedral of athletic exploits, known to the locals as the AT&T Center.
All the lights are zeroed in on a rather conspicuously-delineated court, and ten of the world’s greatest athletes are engaged in the highest level of competition.
You look at your phone and realize that you’ve moved back five years into the past, which means that you’re at Game 5 of the 2014 NBA Finals between the visiting Miami HEAT and the San Antonio Spurs.
As usual, LeBron James is playing like a man possessed, scoring seventeen points to close a 29-22 first quarter, his HEAT with the advantage.
But as has been the case throughout this particular series, the Spurs are playing at an otherworldly level of basketball that, unfortunately for LeBron, the HEAT are unable to withstand for the third straight game.
For the final time, a herculean 31-point, 10-rebound, 5-assist LeBron James performance would go to waste as the Spurs would run away to a dynasty-breaking 104-87 victory, clinching their fifth championship and ending LeBron’s Miami HEAT career in the process.
If you’ve been following the Five Reasons Sports Network, you probably already know this story. To quote Ethan Skolnick’s former radio segment, here’s the thing—unlike most franchises, fans of both the HEAT and Spurs have the unique privilege of following two of the NBA’s more stable franchises.
It’s true—the world-class reputation of the Miami HEAT and San Antonio Spurs has spanned decades now. Pat Riley and Gregg Popovich are among the Jerry Wests of the basketball world in terms of general reverence.
If you’re reading this as a HEAT fan, you should count yourself lucky: even after recent failed roster transactions—this season included—the HEAT have failed to qualify for the postseason only six times in the last 25 years.
The Miami HEAT’s franchise history during the Pat Riley Era, courtesy of Basketball Reference.
Stop me if you’ve heard this story before. Shaq. Dwyane. LeBron. Miami, like few teams like it, has almost always taken advantage of the opportunity to translate transcendent talents into championships.
We know know this after having witnessed them unceremoniously jettison talents like D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets, Julius Randle to the New Orleans Pelicans, Brook Lopez to the Milwaukee Bucks, and, to a lesser extent, Ivica Zubac to the Los Angeles Clippers. Imagine them on this current Lakers roster.
Not even LeBron’s arrival could prevent yet another lottery season for the Lakers, their sixth since 2013. Magic Johnson, arguably the greatest Laker of all time, abruptly stepped down from his post as President of Basketball Operations on the day of Dwayne Wade’s last home game, citing a desire to “tweet more,” among other things.
But that’s another story.
As the league grew in size and popularity behind legendary talents like Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, Bill Russell, Oscar Robertson, and Bob Pettit throughout the 1950s and 60s, many more markets throughout the United States became more viable to host a professional basketball team.
1966-1980: many of the franchises we now know (or knew, in the Sonics’ case) as the Clippers, Trail Blazers, Jazz, Spurs, Nuggets, Nets, Pacers, and Mavericks were either born or merged into the league from the now-defunct ABA.
1981-2008: the Hornets, HEAT, Magic, Timberwolves, Raptors, Grizzlies, Pelicans, and Thunder were born.
As the league swelled, franchise expansion naturally slowed from the nine franchises born in the first 14 years to the eight that rose up in the latter 27.
Upon expansion and further league development, teams like the Celtics, 76ers, Bulls, Knicks, and even the Rockets have all had their ups and downs throughout their respective histories.
But while there were high and low points, the only major changes that happened to these franchises in modern times were either in the front office, the team’s roster, or the venue in which they played their home games.
During the length of the contract, the NBA is reportedly set to be paid $24 billion, averaging $2.6 billion a year. The deal is worth far more than the one that was reached in 2007, which was worth around $930 million each year.
This means a significant investment in television revenue and exposure for the league and its players, especially with the growth of social media, streaming content, and the league’s embrace of modern pop culture and social issues, as evidenced by Commissioner Adam Silver’s swift handling of the Donald Sterling controversy.
With the opportunity for business now growing, this means that expansion is now back on the table as a viable option for the league for the first time since 2003, when the Charlotte Bobcats (now the Hornets) were born.
At the end of the 1956-57 regular season, the NBA only had 8 teams and 72 regular season games. Only two of those “Original 8” franchises—Boston and New York—are still in their original cities. The Syracuse Nationals are now the Philadelphia 76ers (1963); the Philadelphia Warriors now play in San Francisco/Oakland (1962), California as the Golden State Warriors; the St. Louis Hawks have since moved to Atlanta (1968); the Lakers are now based in Los Angeles (1960); the Pistons are now based in Detroit (1957); and the Rochester Royals have since moved to Cincinnati (1957), Kansas City (1975), then Sacramento to become the Sacramento Kings in 1985.
When you consider that there were only eight teams in the NBA by the time it was fully functional in in 1956 compared to today’s league of 30 teams, it’s easy to draw the conclusion that controlled expansion in the league (with a set cap) can actually be a good thing.
Enter Seattle: home of one of the 15 largest media and television markets in the country, where the Sonics played NBA basketball in front of a rabid fanbase for four decades.
The same Sonics that, when founded on 20 December 1966, became the first professional sports team in Washington state, well before the NFL’s Seahawks, MLB’s Mariners, and Sounders of MLS.
The same franchise that showcased NBA legends like Spencer Haywood, Lenny Wilkens, Shawn Kemp, Gary Payton, Ray Allen, and even a teenaged Kevin Durant (for one season), before being unceremoniously dissolved and taken away.
More on that later.
So here’s the million-dollar question: what if we brought back the Seattle Supersonics to the NBA?
Can it happen? Should it happen? Will it happen?
Stay tuned for Part II: We’re going to play the long game with this one.
—
Born in Brooklyn and raised in Boca Raton, Ricky J. Marc is an alumnus of the Obama White House and Cornell Paris Institute, a former Florida Senate Legislative Aide, and a graduate of St. Thomas University with a Master of Science in Sports Administration, where he is also currently completing his Juris Doctor degree.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/PI-NBA-Gary-Payton-061014.jpg9001600Ricky J. Marc, J.D., M.S.https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgRicky J. Marc, J.D., M.S.2019-04-22 05:31:532019-04-22 05:31:53An Emerald NBA Expansion: Part I
The final home game, road game and press conference. The cleaning out of the locker, all complete. Even the day he spent taking photos with Miami Heat employees, something you never see stars do, has came and went.
Yeah, it probably hasn’t sunk in fully with Heat fans yet, but Life After Wade (do we label that L.A.W? hopefully not Murphy’s) is now a reality.
The inevitable search for “the next Dwyane Wade” is what comes next and that isn’t going to be an easy find. Truthfully, no Heat player should ever be expected to meet or exceed the career accomplishments of Wade. Yes, he is as good as it will ever get. And that’s perfectly a perfectly beautiful bar to be set.
However, as last season unfolded, it was Dwyane’s son, Zaire Wade, found closer to the team than ever. Fans couldn’t help but contemplate the allure of seeing the literal next Wade become the next member of the Heat in the future.
How cool would it be if Zaire Wade got drafted by the Heat too?
Zaire Wade is getting closer to choosing where he will play college basketball, with some scouts predicting him a one and done prospect, heading for the NBA draft by 2022 or 2023. Don’t get me wrong, I love the YouTube clips and fun discussion but, in fairness, the kid has a ton of basketball left to play and much to prove. He deserves the time and opportunity to come into his own, as a basketball player and young man. We should largely let that process take shape before we start doing anything resembling serious analysis of his game in any way. Much less putting the type of pressure that comes with being “the next Wade”.
With the success of other sons-of-former-players highly prevalent in the league today, it is hard to ignore what appears to be some innate qualities that former players pass on to their children. It makes sense, when a young athlete has the stuff you can’t teach in his flesh and bones, plus the benefit of being taught the teachable things from dad, the NBA professional.
On February 17, Beijing time, in today's All-Star Game training, James Harden personally taught Wade's son Zaire basketball technology, while Wade and LeBron James also exchanged and studied. pic.twitter.com/qMG2NMNHOi
“Definitely like a sponge, he is going to get all the info from his dad in how to take his moves and how to get better — so, I think that’s great.” Heat guard Goran Dragic told Five Reasons Sports recently in Brooklyn. “Probably he wants to have his own game but at the same time he wants to surpass his dad. And that’s going to be a tough thing to do. But why not? Who knows?”
Watching Zaire Wade attend All Star Weekend by his father’s side in Charlotte, to celebrating with Heat players on the bench as the season ended, punctuated by the father-son Heat jersey exchange on Miami’s home floor – the links between the Heat and The Wade’s are undeniable. It just feels right.
Zaire Wade blossoming into a star player and following in his father’s footsteps to lead the Heat in the future sounds like only a story book narrative someone from Dwyane’s lineage could provide.
But how does Dwyane and Zaire’s game compare? Zaire stands 6’2’ 175 lbs and projects as a full time point guard in the future, which is a bit different than the tweener questions that surrounded the NBA draft prospect version of DWade. However, Zaire also has another distinctive quality that sets him apart from his father.
“Zaire is a lefty, so he has a way different game right now.” Dragic added.
Different in look and feel, but similar in the ways that allowed his father to play point guard during is rookie season in 2003-04 and carry heavy ball handling responsibilities throughout this entire career.
“On the court they both have very good vision.” Josh Richardson told Five Reasons Sports. “That’s like the first thing I ever saw about “Z” He can pass, he sees a lot of things. That’s probably a huge similarity point.”
But more than any specific basketball related trait, the thing that people see from Zaire that flashes Flash the most is that which can’t be quantified in stats or game film.
“Just their charisma and passion for the game. That’s something that’s obvious.” Heat point guard Justise Winslow told Five Reasons. “Their unselfishness, I’ve seen Zaire play. He’s a great passer and DWade is an underrated playmaker and passer in this league. That’s something that goes unnoticed. I see the charisma and the passion in Zaire’s eyes Just watching his dad, watching him play, he has that “it” factor for sure.”
“It” factor.
Nobody has had that more in Miami than Dwyane Wade.
But if anybody has the perfect combination of Wade DNA and acclaimed “Heat DNA”, it is the kid who grew up being held by Pat Riley in pressers and spending summers with the Banana Boat crew.
We once told Dwyane that we will always leave a key under the mat for him anytime he wants to come home. Thankfully he came home and made his exit as grand as his entrance.
As for Zaire, we made you a copy of that same key. Your dad can show you where it’s placed underneath the mat.
We sure do hope you find your way home. How cool would that be?
"With the __ pick of the 20__ NBA Draft, the Miami Heat select, Zaire Wade"
It didn’t take long for the position players to return to the mound this season.
Saturday took a turn for the absurd when Oakland Athletics designated hitter Kendrys Morales toed the rubber against the Toronto Blue Jays. He made it out of the ninth inning with a run in a 10-1 loss. Ironically last season was his first pitching appearance as a Blue Jay against the A’s.
Baltimore Orioles first baseman Chris Davis also made it on the mound in the last inning of the second game of a doubleheader against the Minnesota Twins and gave up a home run to a former teammate. That makes it two Orioles that sent out a position player on the mound this season.
Across the league, seven have made appearances in the first four weeks, starting with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks sending backup catchers to the mound in the same game. Usually teams send position players on the mound in blowouts or extra inning games in a way to save bullpen arms.
There were times during batting practice where Marlins second baseman Starlin Castro would practice his pitching with third/first baseman Martin Prado catching. Miami manager Don Mattingly said that if that scenario were to come up, he would send whoever is available on the bench.
“You’re not using that guy to win,” Mattingly said.
Cut4 does a great job chronicling the trend on Twitter in a funny fashion. 2018 was a record year for position players on the mound and it looks like 2019 is going to see an uptick.
Last year, I spoke with a few infielders across the National League who found themselves making their first appearances on the mound.
“Being a utility guy, that’s part of the job,” said Atlanta Braves infielder Charlie Culberson, who also mentioned that his pitching appearance was both fun and nerve racking. “I always pictured myself getting an inning.”
WAIT … WHAT?
Utilityman Charlie Culberson comes in for his first career pitching appearance … and immediately hits 9️⃣1️⃣mph on the gun.
Culberson came in almost like he was auditioning to be a member of the pitching staff by throwing some gas from the get go. He hinted that this might only not be a fluke but also something to prepare for in the spring.
“I think if it’s gonna be more of a thing then they might get position players to work on it a little bit more. That way is it’s not as much of a joke to throw a position player out there lobbing balls across the plate. For me, I wanted to go out there and at least try, so I’m not gonna go out there and try to embarrass myself. I’m gonna go out there and try to somewhat do my best and make it not seem so bad because I’m a position player.”
Culberson also said that, “Teams have figured out how to use a bullpen.” The point of sending an infielder like Culberson to the mound in a blowout or an extra inning game is to save an important bullpen arm and not burn an inning in a lost cause. In an extra-inning game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies, former Marlin Kiké Hernandez was sent to the mound in the bottom of the 16th and ended the game by giving up a walk-off home run. But at least he was entertaining in the process.
Marlins catcher Jorge Alfaro was a rookie in Philadelphia last year catching a fellow rookie making his first pitching appearance, only it was infielder Scott Kingery. It was in the tail end of a disastrous loss to the New York Mets.
“For guys who never pitched, it was kind of like throwing BP speeds,” Kingery said. “Hitters can really kind of tee off on it. So I was trying to throw under the hitter’s speed. To be honest it kind of came out slower than I thought it was going to be. I wasn’t trying to throw it that slow.”
Jose Ramirez is one of the best hitters in baseball. Brandon Dixon is a position player pitching.
Cincinnati Reds rookie Brandon Dixon had the most memorable appearance on the mound when he struck out American League MVP candidate Jose Ramirez of the Cleveland Indians. Dixon threw a hybrid of a changeup, curveball and softball pitch and Ramirez lost his bat during the swinging third strike.
“I was just throwing soft,” Dixon said, “as soft as I could up there and hoping to get strikes and I got three in a row. I was pretty shocked. I definitely didn’t go into that thinking I was going to strike him out.”
The results of throwing in a player who throws but never pitches on the mound has a mix bag in terms of results. Rarely does it result in a strikeout. Best case scenario are ground outs while worst case is a barrage of homers.
“It’s tough because you know it’s not going to be anything you can’t hit,” Kingery said, “and you get super excited when you see it coming slow and you try to do too much and you end up popping it up or grounding out.”
The Marlins pitching has been solid enough that something like this may not happen at all this season. We were close a week ago when they played 15 innings with the Phillies. The Marlins had Chen available to put an end to that game but maybe it would’ve been better to see Castro actually try those warmup pitches out. Only time will tell.
Tony Capobianco is also familiar with dual roles, as a photographer and writer for Five Reasons Sports and Dolphin Maven
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/DSC_0910-e1555832749873.jpg17502401Tony Capobiancohttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgTony Capobianco2019-04-19 11:59:382019-04-22 07:49:01Position player pitching continues for a second season
Premier League
