Soccer (European Footy) Preview

2016 European Football Preview

            I blinked and the season has arrived! It was a wonderful off-season, as we pretty much had soccer all the way through. We kicked off with the Copa America which was won once again by Chile in a resilient fashion against Argentina, while the European Championships were expanded to 24 teams, which almost benefited the champions Portugal the entire way. They were boxed into a relatively easy group, didn’t play to their very best, and squeaked through the “easier” side of the knockout rounds. Then, after Cristiano Ronaldo went down, showed purpose and ambition against France in the final. It wasn’t the most beautiful football, and it should probably go back to 16 teams, but the greatest story of the tournament was Iceland, and without those 8 extra slots, they are probably back at home, and we have no idea what the Icelandic Clap even is. So I’ll take it. Now we have 3 weeks of Olympic soccer to round out the summer, and I must say that it was nice to have a game on just about every single day during the summer break.

            Barcelona or Real Madrid will most likely beat ______ for the Champions League title, and that’s all that we really need to know. Thanks for reading.

           

I kid. Let’s get started.

English Premier League:

Champions: Manchester United (If he expects it, I expect it, and so here we go.)

Top 4: Manchester City, Tottenham, Chelsea. Arsenal didn’t do enough for me in the transfer market, even though there is still time. While I don’t think City’s squad will be humming by the end, they definitely have enough in their arsenal (ha ha) to push United hard to the finish line. I really like Fernandinho, David Silva and Ilkay Gundogan in the center of the pitch; once they have them all together and fit, City could really be approaching four trophies. Tottenham will quietly win a lot of matches this year, and stay out of the news. Chelsea gets their spirit back, and I don’t think they’re done shopping. Liverpool could make their way into the top 4; Klopp is working his magic, with less than magical players sans Coutinho.

Relegated: Burnley, Hull City, Sunderland. Sorry Moyes. I like the guy, I really do, but his squad sucks. He did not make it better. Burnley will be tough to beat, and I really like the Stefan Defour signing. Hull is strange. Not sure what the deal was with Steve Bruce, but the instability of what they might go through probably gets them back to the Championship. ß God, I hate saying that.

Surprise Package: Everton if they keep Romelu Lukaku. Also, if they are able to pluck Joe Hart off of City, I could see them finishing 7^th. They have a solid foundation, and a manager that I believe will get the best out of these players this season. Ross Barkley could finally take that step up too, and hit the world class level. Sorry Leicester.

Favorite Signing: Paul Pogba – Manchester United. It’s personal.

Spanish La Liga:

Champions: This is so annoying. Only 3 teams can do it, and likely it’ll be between 2. I’m going to go with Barcelona on this again.

Top 4: Atletico, Real Madrid, Valencia. This is assuming Valencia keeps all of their current players. They’re really getting hammered lately by the “bigger clubs”. Sevilla made a lot of changes, Villarreal lost some pretty big talent, and the two Basque clubs will be around, just not playing for the Champions League places. Atletico just gets jacked up competing for this trophy, while Real gets jacked up for the European one. I think it might play into the stripped team’s hands this time around. Their signings have been some of the best around, and they didn’t lose any top players this season. Look out.

Relegation: Alaves, Osasuna, Leganes. Cute stories all, and each club has a bit of history. I still can appreciate that Alaves played Liverpool hard to the end of one of the greatest matches I have ever seen (YouTube it if you have free time). They all pretty much yo-yo between the two divisions, so I thought to play it safe this time around.

Surprise Package: Valencia. Weird to say, considering it was a normal place for them 10 years ago. I just like what they did bringing in Nani and Martin Montoya while not losing much. Andre Gomes got taken by Barcelona for 50 million, but I think that they expected him to leave. Alvaro Medran should be able to lock up that role.

Favorite Signing: Kevin Gameiro – Atletico Madrid. Griezmann didn’t really need help, but they got some for him anyway. If Gameiro can play link up with Saul, Nicolas Gaitan and Griezmann, and put away some goals, Atletico probably gets a trophy this season.

German Bundesliga:

Champions: Bayern Munich. Going back to the high-pressure counter-attacking style sucks for the rest of the league. I feel like that’s Bayern football at its glittering best.

Top 4: Borussia Dortmund, FC Schalke, Bayer Leverkusen. I wanted to pick a surprise this year, because this league always seems to have one, but these 3 really put on the pressure to become top clubs this season. Each one of them made a massive signing that could influence games on the European level. These 3 positions will be very fun to watch.

Relegation: Darmstadt, Hoffenheim. Neither club really did anything to improve since last season, and I feel like they were both lucky to avoid the relegation zone for most of the season. Hoffenheim loses their best player – Kevin Volland – to Bayer Leverkusen. I’ll give 16^th to Ingolstadt, but I think they win against whatever team it is they need to battle to stay up. FC Nuremburg perhaps?

Surprise Package: Well... I have two. I think Bayer Leverkusen could finish 2^nd. I have them 4^th, but if they stay fit, and maybe not push so hard on the European stage, they could challenge for a title depending on Bayern’s expectations of the league. My other pick is FSV Mainz who made it to European football in the final weeks of the season. They let youth play, and they aren’t afraid of the big boys. I could see them 5^th by the end.

Favorite Signing: Ousmane Dembele – Borussia Dortmund. I damn near cried when I heard he signed for the Schwarz und Gelb. I knew of his talent when last season, both Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique (of Bayern Munich and Barcelona lore) watched one of his games for Rennes. Then I watched 10 and fell in love. He had all of Europe at his feet, and decided to sign for this fantastic club. I hope it’s a happy marriage, and I think he becomes the next €100 million player.

Italian Serie A:

Champions: Juventus. So loaded.

Top 4: Anybody. It was an interesting off-season in Italian football. No one really made the signings necessary to chase Juventus (we still have 2 weeks), and some of the good clubs lost guys (i.e. Gonzalo Higuain leaving Napoli for Juventus, Miralem Pjanic leaving Roma for... Juventus). I guess I would say Roma, Inter, and Lazio?

Relegation: Crotone, Empoli, Pescara. Just playing the odds here. Sassuolo and Chievo could be close to it as well.

Surprise Package: Well Inter based on my predictions, but I think it’s because no one else improved enough. They might even finish 2^nd, all things considered. No Champions League football, a couple healthy signings in Ever Banega and Antonio Candreva, and a sturdy defense. Frank De Boer is a nice little manager as well.

Favorite Signing: All of Juventus’ new players. (Pjanic, Higuain, Dani Alves, Marko Pjaca). They had one of the best overhauls in Europe. I don’t think they miss Pogba what so ever, and they should win this league quite easily.

Europe:

Champions League:

Final 8: Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City, Leicester City, PSG.

            Just for fun, I’m going to assume Juventus gets a dirty draw (Bayern, Real, Barca?) and Leicester gets an Olympiakos or an Ajax. Wouldn’t the story be amazing if they could keep the drive alive? They’d have the entire continent pulling for them.

Champion: Barcelona. Andre Gomes was a sneaky good signing, and I think Samuel Umtiti raises his level to that of a Raphael Varane type player. Barcelona could be very good this year.

Europa League Champion: Sevilla. Might as well keep picking them, since they allow me to continue being right.

Players to Watch:

GK: Joe Hart. This has probably been rather demoralizing for him. Let’s see how he bounces back.

GK: Tim Howard. I’m just kidding, but maybe someone, somewhere watches a Colorado Rapids game this year because of him?

CB: Mats Hummels. I think I understand it, but I still need to see it. Does he raise his game to become the best of this generation?

CB: John Stones. He had been progressing to this point anyway, can he become England and City’s best around?

LB: Luke Shaw. If he can get a full season, he might become one of the best in Europe. In the mold of an Ashley Cole.

CM: Ya Ya Toure: Read Joe Hart’s.

CM: James Rodriguez. He’s one of the best around, why can’t he get a game at Madrid?

RM: Arjen Robben. Such a wasted talent; between the injuries and the poor sportsmanship; he could have been one of the greats. Can we get one more year?

CAM: Mario Götze. This whole situation pretty much speaks for itself.

CM’s: Miralem Pjanic and Sami Khedira. Can they put together a Paul Pogba type season for the black and white stripes?

ST: Diego Costa. I’m putting the over/under amount of cards received at 20.

ST: Gabigol. Who gets the next Brazilian great? (I’m saying Inter, because they can play him).

ST: Breel Embolo. Oh my. Could be the world’s next great ST. How in the heck did FC Schalke sign him up?

ST: Morata. I think he’s better than Karim Benzema, if Madrid is to repeat, can the two of them sync on the pitch?

World’s 11

GK: Manuel Neuer

LB: David Alaba

CB: Mats Hummels

CB: Leonardo Bonucci

RB: Philip Lahm (I’m not kidding, they could be sensational. But Barca still beats them)

AM: Neymar. (I need to put him deep, but you get it).

CM: Toni Kroos.

CM: N’golo Kante (I thought his price was cheap).

AM Anthony Martial

ST: Messi

ST: Robert Lewandowski

My 11

GK: David De Gea

LB: Luke Shaw

CB: Mats Hummels

CB: Chris Smalling

RB: Lukasz Piszczek

CM: Paul Pogba

CM: Ivan Rakitic

CM: Luka Modric

LF: Marcus Rashford

10: Wayne Rooney

RF: Pierre Emmerick Aubameyang

Share your own 11’s or your thoughts on the season! So excited that it’s here!

Preview of a Football Preview

Nate’s 9: Preview of a Football Preview

            I pretty much need either football or soccer in my life. So without further ado, here’s a little something for everyone that feels the same way I do.

Nate’s 9: NFL Teams Challenging for a Ring

#9. Minnesota Vikings. Much to my chagrin, Mike Zimmer is building something nice here in Minnesota. Most of the key pieces are already in place: balanced offense, good pass rush, depth in the secondary. Until the final 30 seconds of their playoff game, I thought their special teams were one of the best in the league (And if Blair bounces back from his miss, they still will be). If Teddy Bridgewater becomes a quarterback they can count on for 30+ TD’s and if Mackensie Alexander locks down that 2^nd CB spot sooner rather than later, they could push for a ring this season.

#8. Oakland Raiders. Laugh. Go ahead, I'll wait. I did too. But after looking over all 32 rosters, and figuring out when teams play whom, etc, the Raiders are pushing upward rather quickly. For the first time since I've been allowed to have a legal alcoholic beverage in the United States, the Raiders could make the playoffs. Bruce Irvin was my favorite free agent signing. Sean Smith was right outside my top 5, and Kelechi Osemele was right outside my top 10. With staples Derek Carr, Amari Cooper and Khalil Mack a crucial part of the team too, I might be the first person to predict this team to win their division. It'll be decided in weeks 14, 15, 16 and 17 (at KC, at SD, Indy, at Den).

#7. Kansas City Chiefs. Probably a more realistic shot at the Super Bowl than Oakland this year, but this team can never stay completely healthy, and they have some must have guys if they are going to push for an NFL title. I disliked their draft so I don't think they'll improve off of their 11-5 season last year, but with a healthy Jamaal Charles, Travis Kelce, Tamba Hali and Marcus Peters, they have the talent to match up against the NFL's best on a week-by-week basis.

#6. Green Bay Packers. Aaron Rodgers probably makes this list by himself. But for the last 5 years, they always seem to wilt at the biggest moments. Why will this year be any different? Well, Jordy is back and I think people now realize how important he is to their roster. Everything else is a mis-match when he is at his sparkling best. Randall Cobb can hide in the slot, Davante Adams can run down the sideline, and Richard Rodgers will be covered by linebackers. They need Eddie Lacy to dominate the strong NFC defenses they'll going to face frequently, and if the young secondary make strides, Aaron could be chasing a second ring.

#5. Seattle Seahawks. When I started this process, I thought that this was kind of low. I mean, they have one of the best defenses in the league, a very confident QB that really took off last year, and a receiving core that's turning into a weapon. They had to reload on both lines and at the running back position, and it appears that they've done enough to do so. Plus if we take off our hater glasses, they have one of the best coaches in the league in Pete Carroll. K.J. Wright and Bobby Wagner are two of the league's best LB's, and I think that alone is enough to make the playoffs possibly go through the Northwest again. I think we will know everything when they take a trip on a Sunday night to play Tom Brady up in Foxboro.

#4. Carolina Panthers. Did the window shut on this franchise when Von sacked Cam? No, I don't think so. I will say that the most surprising move of the off-season was when they let big, bad Josh Norman leave for free to the Washington Redskins, but upon further review, I think they got it right. You're going to have to pay Luke. You're going to have to continue paying Cam. You're going to have to pay Star. That's what happens when a team goes 15-1. Chances are it means they are good, and decisions are going to have to be made. It goes without saying that a Super Bowl appearance without a probowl CB means this window stays open for awhile.

#3. Arizona Cardinals. This is probably my favorite roster on this list, but whoo! This is a nasty schedule that sees 5 games against teams that made this list. They have a couple of gaping holes that are going to be filled by... players with questionable characteristics to say the least (Robert Nkemdiche, anyone?) I like the pairing of Calais Campbell and Chandler Jones on the edges, and their hybrid 3-3-5 defense is exciting to watch and tough to beat, when everyone is healthy and on the field. Their offense has just enough depth around to make keying in on any one aspect very difficult to do, and leaves your own defense exposed if you over commit. David Johnson appears to be the real deal in every way (run, pass, block). Carson Palmer still has a little left. Their receiving core is four deep. If 2nd round draft pick Brandon Williams can do anything close to what Patrick Peterson does every week, this really could be our Super Bowl Champion.

#2. New England Patriots. I don't think they're going to be 0-4 when the great "Messiah" comes back from being wrongly condemned by the fans, media, and rest of the NFL. #Sarcasm. They cheated, they got caught, and they'll get on with it. I honestly think they go 3-1, unless JJ Watt and Jadeveon Clowney rattle Jimmy Garappolo a little bit. And that's to my point, because I think Garappolo is a Tony Romo in waiting. Not to say that he'll be the best around, but he can make a lot of throws, has a ton of confidence, and won't screw things up because he'll know how good the players around him are. Then when Tom comes back they have Cleveland. So the ship gets fixed (if it was ever broken), they go on a run, and ride the most ridiculous TE pair I've ever seen of Rob Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett to the AFC Championship game. Keep the balls full of air, okay Tom?

#1. Pittsburgh Steelers. I think. I keep looking at New England thinking holy... But this Steelers squad is no joke, they get the NFC East (4-0?), the AFC East (3-1?) and 2 games against the Cleveland Browns (2-0). That's 9 wins already. All jokes aside, they are blessed all the way around the field as long as the players stop smoking weed, and the kickers stop tearing their ACL's. Ben has really become one of the best quarterbacks in the game, and he makes weapons out of all his receivers (From Plaxico to Hines, Wallace to Sanders and now the Beast). You all know how I feel about AB and if you don't - ask Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb (The two players I would give away, so Aaron Rodgers could throw to one Antonio Brown). Coupled with a bunch of LB's with a lot to prove and a young, but optimistic secondary, this team is starting to take on the identity of their coach once again. I think that's scary enough to win the damn thing.

9 Exciting Players

#9. Andrew Luck. Maybe the Colts will actually protect the NFL's biggest asset as we get near his prime years. With time, the man can do it all.

#8. Todd Gurley. In 2004, I fell in love with Adrian Peterson. Here comes the new answer to the same old question.

#7. JJ Watt. Always seems to be in the opponent's backfield. And I don't really get excited about line play.

#6. DeAndre Hopkins. Catches everything. Seriously, everything.

#5. Dez Bryant. When healthy, he is exciting. For a number of reasons. 

#4. Patrick Peterson. So dominant, it's crazy. I saw him make Calvin Johnson swear once.

#3. Adrian Peterson. He's been on the wrong team for almost 10 years now, but I just can't get enough. I've never seen another athlete use violence so successfully.

#2. Cam Newton. Really moved into that next level of QB. If he can raise his completion levels to the top group of quarterbacks, he could have a legendary season.

#1. Russell Wilson. I can't stand him, or his dang team. But I can't not watch him either. Simply incredible.

9 Teams that could make the NCAA Playoffs

#9. North Dakota State. You think I'm kidding. I wouldn't put it past them. (Michigan State probably gets the play here, really, but that schedule!)

#8. Ole Miss. I was big on them last year, but they graduated some studs. They kept my 2nd favorite QB in the game around though, and Chad Kelly could be enough to get through the treacherous SEC West. 

#7. LSU. They have a beautiful, and I mean beautiful roster of talent. Except for the QB. Brandon Harris is one of my least favorites around, but with Leonard Fournette, Derrius Guice, and Malachi Dupre, it might not even matter.

#6. Notre Dame. They lost a ton of starters off of a really good team, but Brian Kelly has been a sensational recruiter as of late. I'd almost put him on par with the Les Miles and Nick Saban duopoly of the SEC. It really comes down to which QB he picks, and how well that player leads the team. Signs point to Deshone Kizer, but I'd put my money on Malik Zaire by the end of the season.

#5. Ohio State. We laugh. What team could possibly lose 16 starters, led by the likes of Ezekiel Elliott, Michael Thomas, Joey Bosa and Braxton Miller and still be in consideration of a National Championship. This team. Mike Weber will be Maurice Clarett reincarnated (hopefully without the guns and stuff). Noah Brown might be better than Michael Thomas. Nick Bosa is Joey Bosa's little brother (I think that says it all - Nation's #1 overall recruit). Gareon Conley could be the best CB in the country by the end of the year. I'm sure Urban Meyer believes that things will be just fine.

#4. Alabama. They're usually always either #1 or #2 with me. The only reason, and I mean the ONLY reason that they start at 4 this year, is because of "who is Cooper Bateman"? If their new QB can answer that question by say the 17th of September when they have to go over to Oxford, Mississippi and play the Rebels, then I think they go back to their rightful position near/at the top. If we're still left wondering, and if a brand new group of running backs that don't have the power and speed of Derrick Henry and Kenyon Drake start to crumble, they could crash out of this entire list completely. Calvin Ridley is my favorite player in the country, but even he will have a tough time going on the road to Ole Miss, Tennessee, and LSU and coming out with 3 wins.

#3. Michigan. What's sad is they might be here for awhile. These aren't even Jim Harbaugh's players!!! He returns 14 starters, some of who are very good, and brings in a National Top 5 recruiting class as well to boot. They have 2 of the nation's best defensive players in Jabrill Peppers and Jourdan Lewis, and either one could be a top 15 pick in next year's NFL draft. Harbaugh made magic with Jake Rudock at QB, and got him all the way up to the NFL. They brought in a good transfer in John O'Korn, but Michigan's path to the NCAA Playoff is laid out pretty simply. Win in East Lansing and Columbus, plus the Big Ten Championship game, and they'll probably have the #1 seed going into the CFP matches.

#2. Florida State. I'm having this sense of Deja vu... Freshman QB, star-studded roster, game against Clemson to determine fate... Ah, yes Jameis Winston winning his National Championship back in 2013. And here we are. If Malik Henry (who is amazing) can take over the QB position from Deondre Francois and make it his, and if Dalvin Cook gears up towards winning a Heisman, then the only think that should be stopping Florida State from doing this all over again is...

#1. Clemson. October 29th, 2016, a battle will be forged in a beautiful southern city where two of the greatest teams in the land, led by two of college football's best players went head to head to determine which one of them will be winning a National Championship. Here's the kicker. We all know Deshaun Watson and how he'll be next year's #1 pick. We all know WR Artavis Scott and that he'll probably go in the first round as well. What we don't know is that Florida State and Clemson don't have any other games in which they won't be favored, and so we could very well see two ACC teams (even with 1 sitting out the ACC Championship) getting together again next Jan 9th, 2017 and play with two fully loaded rosters to do battle in a beautiful southern city. 

Hot Celebs '16

Nate’s 9: Best Looking Celebrities

            For reasons that I believe many will understand, this is always one of my favorite blogs to write. It’s evolved quite a bit over the years; from being a basic 20, to that audacious Hot 101, and into its current feature, as a Nate’s 9. I think most people are repeat readers now, which is fantastic and thank you very much, but I will share the terms with those that haven’t become familiar with this blog before we get started.

            Very simple. 3 rules. 1^st rule: Look good. 2^nd rule: Be Relevant. 3^rd rule. 18-40. (Although a Mr. Moore continues to defy the odds of good looks, so I break the rules periodically for him.) If you fit into 2 of the 3 categories, you still miss out (Kim Kardashian, Lindsay Lohan, etc). The blog is split into 3 parts: what I believe to be America’s favorite 9 (those already picked not included), my favorite 9, and something small and meaningless for the ladies (them boys).

            Lots of hard work and extensive research go into this product, and needless to say, I can’t do it alone. I would like to thank those people that work behind the scenes, offering suggestions, checking for clerical errors (like age), and overall adding to the enthusiasm of the project. Your help is not lost on me.

            Finally, a shout out to the missus. While I do take this work very seriously, and leave no stone left unturned, at the end of the day, there’s no one else I’d rather spend my life with, and your support and love is something that I cherish on a daily basis. Thank you, wife!

            So without further ado, let’s get introduced to some of the most beautiful people in the world!

2016’s Choices:

Honorable Mentions: Jessica Alba, Mila Kunis and Emma Roberts. Two ladies that lasted a decade in consideration (and a former America winner in Alba), and an up and coming star. Just lost a little bit of relevancy, but a talented trio in any case.

 

#9 – Pia Wurtzbach. I don’t usually pick a Miss Universe to make this list, only because I think it’s unfair. They’ve been groomed for these types of roles for years, and it’s not hard for them to qualify for the 3 rules, when it’s all they’ve ever known. I will make an exception for this woman; she is funny, beautiful, intelligent and well-spoken. She’ll be the girl that moves directly into Forbes’ magazine’s most influential women as soon as her Miss Universe reign is complete.

#8 – Kate Mara. She’s not really for me, but she’s really taken her game to another level. The Esquire photo shoot left people wanting for more, and her appearances in The Martian and Fantastic Four put her in the front of the news pages. Another 12 months as good as these and she could be at the top of her own House of Cards.

#7 – Emilia Clarke. Khalessi. That should be enough.

#6 – Beyonce. Kind of getting close to the end of her powers, but it’s been a great run. Relevance since the early 2000’s. Top of my list back in 2002 (when it wasn’t really a list, but only a conversation among friends), and she’s done a great job considering her relationship and becoming a mother. A true dynastic power in the world of beauty.

#5 - Alexandra Daddario. Probably should’ve made the Nate’s 9, but America loves her more. Really had quite the year, for someone that could be considered a rookie to this list. Percy Jackson films raised her to the higher levels, but San Andreas and the potential of Baywatch could have her gunning for the top. A classic beauty.

#4 - Emily Ratajkowski. I think this is low for her, but America won’t let me take her higher. She’s cute; always snapping photos in this age of photo relevancy, has a bit of talent as well, and looks to be growing into the spokesperson role as well. She’s like a laid-back Chrissy Teigen, which I believe is a compliment. Could challenge Daddario for next year’s title.

#3 - Margot Robbie. Simply stunning. At times I believe she should be on my list, but I don’t want to take her away from America’s vote. At least not yet.

#2 – Hannah Davis. Derek Jeter is just winning at life. I think she’s the most talented player on this list, as she can come away with beauty from multiple disciplines. Sports Illustrated has already proven the swimsuit genre, Victoria Secret and American Eagle from the world of modeling. If she gets into film, America might have a bone to pick with the Yankees #2.

#1 – Taylor Swift. This is hard for me, because I want to keep knocking her down. She’s just a country star. Then she diversifies into pop music. She’s too skinny. Gains hips like 12 months later. Just a cute little blonde, with cute little lyrics. Evolves to pull off multiple looks, hairstyles while also writing music that came straight from the diary. (It’s hard to share the most intimate details of one’s life, and she does it without fear and shame). I finally think I have it when I criticized her for being “made from the cultural machine”, and then Kanye does a Kanye thing, and makes her look even more impressive. My apology is in this ranking.

Nate’s 9

Honorable Mentions: Fun story these. Jasmine Sanders and Lauren Hanley were relative unknowns when I started the process for this year’s list, and then Chris Brown and Johnny Manziel happened. Sanders is the girl Brown snagged for awhile after Rihanna got knocked around, and Hanley is the girl who could keep up with Johnny’s partying (although maybe not anymore). Treats, the both of them.

#9 – Zendaya Coleman. I still remember watching DWTS for the first time, when my eye was turned. She was gorgeous. She could dance. She was confident. Alas, she was also only 17 (A few co-workers enjoyed mentioning that, when I told them about this new beauty). I resigned her to the minor leagues, but always assuming it would just be a matter of time (and success) before she got reconsidered. Here we are, my Rookie of the Year. I run into her from time to time on the Disney channel when my boys are flipping through, and I’m very familiar with the song that she put together with Chris Brown (Please tell me how this guy continues to do it!) that got Zendaya into the mainstream. Lots of time left for Ms. Coleman to chase the top of this list.

#8 – Victoria Justice. I just want to give a small shout-out to Disney and Nickelodeon for generating about 30% of the options during the preliminary rounds of this list. They sure do know what sells, and they understand that it starts earlier than it probably should. I think the reason that these ladies (Justice included) do so well in the eyes of the public is that while they might not be as pretty as the SI Models or Victoria Secret Angels that usually adorn this list, they have a sense of everyday about them that we all can relate to. I don’t think Justice ever gets to the level of wearing an “Angel’s wings”, but she’s certainly as beautiful and successful as those that do.

#7 – Erin Heatherton. Speaking of angels... There are probably more beautiful ones. There are probably a few that resonate with the public a little better. There are those that are well-spoken, and do public events, and get their own underwear named after them. But give me Heatherton over them any day. She listens to rap music, appears in great television programming such as “The League”, and is experienced in all genres of modeling. I also want to mention the Jewish heritage, but I think this is a place where I don’t make any jokes. Let’s just leave it at my favorite angel.

#6 – Emma Watson. Always hanging around. She’s like the St. Louis Cardinals of hot celebrities. You’re not sure how they continue to do well; you’re not sure why everyone likes them as their second favorite team. They don’t do anything flashy, they’re not over-the-top exciting, and they’re not major news players. But imagining a playoffs (or in this case: 9) without them is unfathomable, and you just couldn’t stand it otherwise. You’re just comforted in knowing that they’re always going to be there.

#5 – Keira Knightley. The lowest I’ve had her since the inaugural list back in 2003. No fault to Keira, she’s a mom now. I’m also a dad, so I can relate (Usually, I had these beauties done by the end of May). If you’re truly and deeply committed to raising your children, then you just don’t have the time you did in the life before them. She cranked out movies like Santa’s little workshop cranks out gifts, and she rocked some Chanel advertising and just really put herself out there. She said she desired a more private lifestyle since her family began, and it’s what she’s done. Another delightful little trait among many and that’s why she’ll always be relevant to my expectations.

#4 – Scarlett Johansson. From the very first time I saw Lost in Translation, I knew there was something special here. Even beyond the curves that we’re all familiar with, I believe that stardom was always something that Scar Jo was destined for. Even in years of relative obscurity, she’s still mentioned by many as one of the best looking girls around. Time has done nothing to harm her beauty, and we all might agree it’s even made her more so.  

#3 – Ariana Grande. I had a feeling that once I realized the talents of Ari, she was destined to reach the top of this list. She’s got the voice of a Whitney, the musical motivation that Michael Jackson was blessed with, and the beauty of a Jennifer Lopez. She’s hilarious on social media, doesn’t take herself too seriously, and knows what the pulse is on what America (maybe even the world) needs. Her appearance on SNL last season was my favorite of the year; Chloe will never be beat. There’s a really talented generation of people coming through, so the top spot will be daunting, but if she can do Christina Aguilera singing “The Wheels on the Bus”, she can play with the big girls.

#2 – Kate Upton. Breaks my heart, really. It’s kind of like going 73-9, crushing enemies out of the way like Knightley and Johansson, and then holding onto the top spot just long enough for a former Nate’s 9 rival to take it away. Wait, that’s been done before? She’s still the Steph Curry in the world of modeling for me, and I see no reason why things can’t be restored next year, but this year, the new #1 had a campaign for the ages. Hottest #2 ever, though.

#1 – Selena Gomez. I won’t be so bold as to say I saw this day coming from the TV Studio of Barney and Friends, but Selena has always been a threat, and this year it’s well deserved. The album was top notch, her life choices were smart and rewarding (essentially no Beebs), and that transition from youth to adult star was as seamless as any that I’ve ever seen. No one mentions the Disney anymore, but she’s kept it cleaner than her rivals, and it’s that class that I believe catapults her into my top spot for the first time and likely long reign in this position.

Ladies Dreams:

#9 – Mats Hummels. My favorite Dortmund player leaves for Bayern again. Munich just got a little prettier this time around.

#8 – Chris Pine. I always use to think it was Tom Hardy between these rivals. Guess I was wrong.

 

#7 – Enrique Iglesias. It’s ridiculous. Has anyone ever aged better?  

#6 – Shemar Moore. He’s never not made it.  

#5 – Dave Franco. Rookie of the Year. I think he breaks out in Hollywood too. 

#4 – Zac Efron. The other half. It’s too bad Adam Devine isn’t good looking and it could be a friendly trio for you all.

#3 – Chris Hemsworth. Those arms are good enough to make this list every year.

#2 – Cristiano Ronaldo. While my #1 fell out of the list completely, this guy just keeps on chucking off shirts and staying relevant. Can’t be mad at him.

#1 – Liam Hemsworth. Correcting another wrong. Took him off the list last year, but this kid has some chops. I think I was mad about Miley, but now it’s nothing but respect.

Last Songs to Listen to

I almost love music as much as sports. Almost. I haven't written in a while, and I'm not sure if it's because I'm sports'd out, or if that's what happens when - kids. While I was listening to my headphones the other day, I got inspired by the potential of this list. The two reasons are simple: 1. Because what person gets to listen to nine truly wonderful songs before passing on, and 2. Our hearing goes, so we're probably not going to enjoy them anyway. So I can create the list now, listen to it, and call it a day. It wasn't an easy blog to write (About 30 songs made it to final cuts) but, I couldn't leave any of these off. Each song made the list for different reasons; some for inspirational moments, others for the pure gift of music, and I would like to share them with you.

#9. The A Team - I thought Ed Sheeran was a Justin Timberlake copy cat when I heard his music for the first time. Not to say I didn't enjoy his music, but I thought it had already been done before. Cue moment when I purchased his prior album to X, + (sorry that's really what they're called). But + is wonderful, a real songwriter's masterpiece. And my favorite song on that album is the melancholy "The A Team". Real, beautiful, and lyrically very strong. Now I see why he's world renowned, he's one of my favorite artists, and this is easily the one I would take to my death bed (hospital room, vacation spot, airplane ride, whatever it might be).

#8. Always be my Baby - Mariah Carey's been a polarizing figure for a number of years, but once upon a time, most teenage boys were on her side, myself included. This music video I could watch over and over again,(to be that tire swing) and it's probably the only female version of a song I would be willing to do at Karaoke.  But my favorite part of the song, and the reason why it gets one final listen, is that lyrically it kinds of sounds like something a stalker might say - "No way, you're ever going to shake me, ooh Darling, cause you'll always be my baby." Imagine getting that sung to you from outside your bedroom window. Creepy!

#7. Hey Brother - Tim Bergling (Avicii) is my hero. I'm not sure any other artist has been able to take over the "anthem" style music and make it mainstream as seamless as he has. Most of his songs are great, but this song is part club thumper, part pop chart, and a dash of lift-me-up tempo. 3 of his songs made my preliminary list, which is impressive considering that other players with those numbers included: The Beatles and Pink Floyd.

#6. Seven Nations Army - The White Stripes make it to the football fields. Forever and ever this song will be intertwined with Penn State football after every first down and other significant play. Similar to Zombie Nation with about 1/2 of college sports. But this song was engineered at a much higher level. The chorus with the drums and symbols, and that riff! People will hum that riff for the rest of my days, I'm sure of it.

#5. When the Levee Breaks - I thought "Stairway to Heaven" and "Kashmir" were the greatest Led Zeppelin songs of all-time, and wasn't anything going to change that. Until I heard the intro of Levee. Sometimes I feel it was personally written for me. I love those soulful guitar sounds, especially with that down south feel to the lyrics. If I'm just going to be sitting on my rocking chair on the front porch drinking a little bit of that sweet lemonade with a sprinkle of vodka in it, well I could do a lot worse than having this song blaring from my headphones. Crying won't help me, praying will do me no good.

#4. Stay With Me - I have a cute little story I want to share. Once upon a time, I was sitting in my bedroom watching Saturday Night Live and the host of that's night show was a favorite of mine: Louis C.K. He's painstakingly hilarious, and he was on a roll that night. Then all of a sudden, something name Sam Smith was about to sing. I was like, "What the Fuck is a Sam Smith?" Even Louis was probably thinking, "yikes." I must say, I usually unearth the new greats, long before they hit the mainstream market (Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, Bruno Mars, etc). Nobody makes it to the SNL stage before they go through the difficult markets in the sounds of music. It's Rihanna, or Carrie Underwood, or Adele, and the aforementioned Bruno Mars. Then, this. I bought his album the very next day.

#3. M.A.A.D. City - Rap is where my heart is. While only 1 song makes the final songs that I want to hear in this lifetime, I truly enjoy It more than any other style of music. It has heart, passion, power. But for all of those gifts, the songs really haven't affected my life to the point where I need to hear them one last time. Except for this one. It's pretty much combined the greatest sounds of hip-hop from the new generation of stars, and matched it up with the sounds that I grew up with in the 1990's. A lot of nostalgia, and a little bit of marketing power turned this song into a bullet train for me. The lyrics are great, the engineering superb, he tells a story that probably rings true in south central Los Angeles, and he does it with his own style and grace. I could hear it once more in my final days.

https://YouTube/w1kGMxHWbFE

#2. Miracles - Another surprise similar to Sam Smith's vocal gifts, but this time in a  different way. I've always liked Jefferson Airplane… but more for their sounds like "Somebody to Love" and "White Rabbit". It's vintage 1960's and 70's, and really clues me in as to what that generation enjoyed and how they grooved. Those were really the only songs I listened to from them, for the longest time, and I really stumbled into Jefferson Starship. It felt soft, more contemporary even, which I like, but isn't really a style of music that I believed would generate one of my favorite songs of all-time. I just sort of previewed all of their greatest hits on Itunes, thinking this will be quick, maybe I'll find a goodie since I have the money to spend. And I found Miracles. Miracles is the love song that defines the love I have for my wife and by which all other love songs are measured. And then some. The odds of us coming together already was slim as neither of us were really destined to go to North Hennepin. A long line of "Miracles" really pushed our stars together. Anyway, this is 7 minutes of heaven. A little sexual, certainly, but if we can't be true to ourselves… The only reason it's not the last song I'd wish to listen to is because I'm an optimistic child at heart.

#1. High Hopes - Which is exactly what this song is about. Since I dove into the world that is Pink Floyd, I've found many wonderful gems that could've made this list, or any musical list for that matter. While I feel like that intro solo in Levee was made specifically for my ears, it's these lyrics, this sound, the band and the generation that came together to create a song as beautiful as this one. I'm in love with the 60's (I feel it's one of the world's best generations or at least the most influential. They dealt with a lot of BS during these turbulent times), and I love how England grew from the post-World War reconstruction to the global and respectable power that came from their love for music and all their brilliant bands that came from this generation of youth. In any case, it's as sweet as it is simple. A song about our youth and how quickly we wanted to become adults, only to realize that our best years were when we were young. With the greatest 2 minute guitar solo at the end. Play me away, Gilmour.

Manchester United Summer Wish List

Manchester United wish list for Jose Mourinho

            So there are things that I love about Jose coming to Manchester United. First, I expect to be challenging for titles, possibly as soon as next season. His style may not always be pretty, but I’ve dealt with unentertaining football for about 36 months now.  Along with that, a team that almost always finished 1^st, 2^nd, or 3^rd. This United team has finished 7^th, 4^th, and 5^th. I’m not mad; I just think Jose will fix this issue. Second, everything will be entertaining on the sidelines. Ferguson was successful, but he wasn’t the greatest sound bite, and he never ran from end to end celebrating a goal. Moyes never moved and LVG flopped. Now, United has a man whose theater is almost as good as the stuff on the field.

            For the negative, there is much. He’s never been interested in playing the young kids, and if you look at his track record at Chelsea this last time around, he really missed out on top talent (De Bruyne, Lukaku). He didn’t care for it much at Inter either, and brought in Wesley Sneijder, Maicon and Samuel Eto’o among others. Now, United is on a fast track toward another group of successful youngsters. Anthony Martial scored massive goals all season, he should be France’s first choice striker for the next 10 years (If Griezmann and Coman play wide). Marcus Rashford probably saved the season with a few of his goals (Arsenal comes to mind). Jesse Lingard won us the F.A. Cup. Luke Shaw will be great (and Mourinho turned down a chance to bid before). I think that the short-term looks prosperous, but if these kids plus a few others that I think would be great for United get benched for expensive, premium talent, then I think we might just be skidding tires on a mud track. It’ll be an interesting 3 years.

            I know Jose has the 3 player rule pretty much set in stone, and he’s done it wherever he’s gone. That said, this is a Nate’s 9 and so I came up with a prettier and lengthier list that I could hopefully see putting on the red of Manchester United in the near future. 

Note: It appears Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a real thing now, so he won’t be included in this list. I’m not sure if he would anyway, because with the correct right-sided midfield, United will be on the fast track toward the world’s best youth in a matter of time.  I’m not sure what Zlatan’s arrival would mean for the teenagers.

Note 2: I know United have been linked with Neymar for quite some time, but I don’t like it for 2 reasons. 1^st: Why would anyone ever leave Barcelona willingly? I get the Alexis Sanchez and Pedro thing, because they got stuck behind younger and better Neymar and Messi. But who’s keeping Neymar out of the squad? 2^nd: Martial plays on the left. Martial is our Neymar and he won’t cost 144 million Euros. He’s only going to cost 80. (Up front fee was 37 million Euros, but when League appearance and National Team appearance fees are met, it would take his total up to 80).

Note 3: Sell Marouane Felliani, Marcos Rojo, Ashley Young, Sergio Romero, and James Wilson. Think about moving Juan Mata. Loan Memphis Depay back to PSV to see what he’s really about. Release Michael Carrick. This should free up some of the wages due for next season.

#9. Youri Tielemans CM. If Mourinho decides to go for youth in the starting 11, and that’s a big question, I think Tielemans is the easy long-term answer for Michael Carrick. The role of the holding midfielder is changing; no longer are players asked to intercept the ball and keep it short and simple until the shape changes into an attacking preference. I think the new holder is like Ivan Rakitic; they can come through the middle, hit a shot from long-range, and run for the full 90. Carrick hasn’t run in 90 games. That said, he was an asset to the old style, and he will be missed. Enter Youri. A supreme Belgian talent and I think he could step into the United starting 11 from day one. Think Cesc Fabregas with a little more pace, and he can crack a shot from distance as well (Made Dortmund look a little silly 2 years prior). Jose can plug him in alongside Schneiderlin and let them harass attacking midfielders for the duration of next season.

#8. Reece Oxford. CB/CDM He was destined to be a star one day, and seemingly disappeared the next. Well it was tough for West Ham. About halfway through the season, a realization came that they were good enough to contend for Europe and so everyone on the fringes of the first-team squad lost a lot of their playing time, because Slaven Bilic didn’t want to mess with a working unit (Not that I blame him). But Reece could be a long-term answer next to Chris Smalling at CB. Long and strong, he fits the mold of a new age Sol Campbell. He shouldn’t get beaten very often for pace, and he can get up in the air as good as most of them. Just ask Arsenal.

#7. Romelu Lukaku. ST This one is funny for me, because Big Rom and Jose have been potentially heading towards a reunion for about 12 months now. I wouldn’t have imagined it three years ago. Jose looked like he was about ready to punch Romelu in the face when they came on the U.S. tour together at Chelsea. He looked out of sorts, and even missed a penalty in a Super cup match against Bayern. And then he was gone to Everton. Where he burst onto the scene as a large superstar and really hasn’t stopped projecting that way since he left London. He scored 18 goals this season, with a really underachieving Everton side. He recently mentioned that he wants to play Champions League football in the future; while Manchester United misses out now, an addition of Lukaku’s talents to a front 3 of himself, Martial and Rashford could have United thinking title as well as Champions League football in the near future.

#6. Antoine Griezmann. ST Most friends of mine know that I am enthralled by this man’s talents. Not to often do I get excited about the potential stars of the world, but I’ve been screaming this man’s name since he came on the scene with Real Sociedad a few seasons ago. He can play on either side of the field, can send in a nice cross or take on opposing fullbacks 1v1, and as of recently, he can also play through the middle. For a United team that struggled to come up with creativity at times over the last season, Griezmann cries out as the answer. The only problem here is he extended his contract and put in a minimum release clause of 65 million Euros. The answer to that problem? I’d still pay that price.

#5. Riyad Mahrez. RM The reigning EPL player of the season. And I love... I mean really LOVE the fact that Leicester City is the current Premier League champion, but when it really comes down to it, the only player that I believe holds value across Europe for all clubs, is this man. Jamie Vardy’s story is beautiful, but will probably come to an end soon. Robert Huth and Wes Morgan are crafty veterans and good locker room guys, but not much more. Everyone else played their role, and did it well, but they had luck on their side too. (Kante is relentless, but I’ll be curious to see if he can play across multiple competitions). No massive injuries for anyone in the starting eleven and they always seemed to catch their opponents at opportune times (i.e. City, Chelsea, West Ham...). Yet, I would sign Mahrez for United in a second. He is very capable on the right side of midfield, which I think is United’s biggest weakness heading into next year. He is a good crosser of the ball, but more importantly, can score from just about anywhere. If United didn’t get it inside the 20 last yards, they struggled. Mightily. Mahrez would make a difference.

#4. Raphael Varane. CB The other weakness in the United squad. While I can appreciate the efforts of Daley Blind (he is one of my favorite players in the team, and in the world for that matter), his biggest asset to a team is probably not playing at CB for them. He should be holding things down right behind a midfield #6, or on the left side offering service and overlapping runs. Well, when the options behind him are Marcos Rojo, Phil Jones (who I still think deserves one final opportunity) and Paddy McNair, he’s going to be played out of position. Enter Varane. He’s worked with Mourinho before, and probably played his best football under him. This is one of very times that Mourinho splurged the cash on a young, up-and-coming player (Kurt Zouma). Varane could also step into this United team instantly, and provide the Nemanja Vidic to Smalling’s Rio Ferdinand. Of the 9, I think this is the most realistic signing, and my feelings wouldn’t be hurt if he finally made the move to England.

#3. John Stones. CB It might be laughable, but I think Stones could be one of England’s greatest CB’s. He’s pretty much got everything that I look for in a central defender, plus he has the makeup of it as well. He has a very short memory when things go wrong (watch the United-Everton match earlier this year), and doesn’t get too elated when things are going well (Except for that PK chip, which was brilliant). He is almost like a midfielder on the ball, and doesn’t make poor decisions when playing it out from the back (similar to Gerard Pique, who also rated this highly as a youngster). He can handle bigger strikers, quicker forwards, in-and-out strikers and even forwards that drop deep (watch his work against Pedro earlier this year). So essentially every attacker in English football. The price is high, but I think instead of being afraid of those expectations, he has the type of personality that would want to exceed them. I imagine a move to Manchester would make him a future captain, not only for my favorite club, but possibly for his country down the road.

#2. Jose Maria Gimenez. For as much as I gushed about Stones, this is the CB that I would rather have. I can’t explain why, and I don’t even know the right language to communicate how I feel about his game. All I know is that there comes a time when one watches sports, and you just know. It might have been LeBron James on the high school courts for you. It could have been seeing Mike Trout running the base paths for the first time. Or maybe watching Tom Brady run the clock down against the St. Louis Rams in the Super Bowl. It’s as if these players just make you appreciate the sport that you’re watching, but can get you to evolve as a fan as well. I’ve felt this way about 4 soccer players prior to watching Gimenez (my first defender, no less). Zinedine Zidane was the first (slowed the game down for me). Wayne Rooney was the second (a kid can do it). Michael Ballack was my third (this is a game of intellect). And Arjen Robben most recently (He can cut inside every single time, and not be stopped). Now, J.M. Gimenez is my 5^th. When and if he reaches his potential (which I think could happen under Jose, because difficult but talismanic personalities are his bread and butter), he might be the Beckenbauer of our generation. The player that makes defending an art. In the few times that I’ve had an opportunity to watch him, he’s been as dominant as the greatest of our time. Luis Suarez wanted to bite his head off. Karim Benzema wanted to be substituted. It would be to United’s advantage to get a hold of this guy, before he shuts them down to lift future European trophies.

#1. Paul Pogba CDM To right Alex’s only wrong. Come home, Paul.

Poems From the Past

Nate’s 9: Journal Pieces (Before blogs existed)

            So I’m rolling through my old notebook and realize, “Hey, this guy’s not such a bad writer. While I don’t think there are enough interesting logs to share with the viewing public in an actual blog, here are two of my personal favorites (one, written in 2003, the other in 2005). 2003 goes first.

F Losing

Stay away from me you curse,

You dark cloud; an unknown foreigner in my country.

I don’t want to know you, why do you follow me like a shadow, a silent assassin.

You’re ready to take my life away.

You smell like rotten fish, no, worse, there is no description so low.

What are you here for?

Please find another home, make it a permanent residence; A place you are welcome.

I see you and hear you, but for others, you have no sight. You have no sound.

You are ugly.

You shriek like a witch; one from the west.

You cause me to run, away from myself.

I hate myself when you’re around, yes hate!

I become your disease, I am who you are.

And who are you?

What do you do?

You change my demeanor; therefore you control me.

You get inside me.

You laugh at me and hurt my feelings.

I have self-doubt, a gift given by you.

Why are you sharing with me when I only want you selfish?

You close and lock doors; I simply want them open.

Yet, I acknowledge you; yes I know you are there.

I taste your stink, and feel your skin; repulsive.

I want a way out from here, but now you surround me.

Go! Leave! But here you stay.

So fine! Tell me your name, and just let me be.

Losing, you say. My name is Losing.

Beauty in the Eye of this Beholder

You are my best friend, my favorite companion.

I’m rid of my deepest fears with you closer to me.

No wine tastes better; no flower smells sweeter, than they do with you.

Black and white now has color,

Even silence has never sounded so good.

We hold hands as if we are lovers,

We dance as if we are partners.

You complete me as though I was incomplete before I met you,

Wonderful, becomes my middle name.

I need not come halfway, for you are with me from the start.

I give you all my control; I am led blindly by your scent.

Smiles are a part of my life, sadness no longer exists.

Time does not interrupt us.

It’s as if we have all the time in the world together.

I think it is love, no, wait!

I love you, I really do,

But love almost seems too cheap for you.

I would give you something more, but I’d have to keep giving.

For you have given me everything of you.

Jewels would not do you justice, or dollar signs of any amount.

I would just like to ask, what have I done to deserve you?

I work ever harder to keep you in my life,

I would sacrifice much, just to be your brother.

I don’t ask you to love me back, only to stay in my life forever.

For WINNING keeps my soul alive

You are Beauty in the Eye of this Beholder.

Baseball Storylines 2016

Nate’s 9: Baseball Stories of 2016

I think most everyone knows that when it comes to sports, I love each and every one of them. That is, all sports except baseball. I like baseball. I enjoy a game at the ball park. I will watch the World Series’ 7th game in the 9th inning if the scores are close. Joking aside, I really miss baseball in the way that I watched it in my youth. I was hardcore. I collected numerous baseball cards. I poured over statistics. I tried to GM every team, and decipher the next big dynasty. My friend and I would create power teams and play are very own versions of strat’o’matic baseball, and generally the stats were pretty close to what the major league players did (sans the game when Kirby Puckett hit 4 HR’s). While I haven’t come all the way back, I am excited for this season as it seems about 15 teams have a shot at a World Series title. So without further ado (because I haven’t finished a blog in about 10 weeks which is ridiculous), I share my thoughts, hopes, and predictions for the 2016 baseball season.

#9. The San Francisco Giants continues baseball’s most beautiful trend, and pull in another championship in an odd numbered year. It doesn’t seem to be as far fetched as some may think. They weren’t very good last year, and I think they were out of the race with a few weeks to go. They suffered a lot of pitching injuries, and really only got good performances out of Madison Bumgarner, which is great, but which also happens only once every five days. This year they get Matt Cain back, who I love, and also signed Johnny Cueto and Jeff Samardzija which with Jake Peavy and Mads, will give the Giants one of the best rotations on paper. Their lineup is average at best, but with my favorite off-season signing of all (Denard Span) leading off for this team, Brandon Belt and Buster Posey should get more opportunities to knock in some runs than when they had Angel Pagan at the top of the order. I see a three horse race in the NL west, but I’m picking the Giants to come through again.

#8. Joey Votto Sweepstakes. I’ve asked a few baseball experts if they see another Troy Tulowitzki in their future, and the one person that got mentioned to me was Joey Votto. Now, I think that’s crazy, because when I was heavy into the baseball love, he was one of the best players around. Evidently he still is, but the Cincinnati Reds have become one of the worst teams in all of baseball, so he doesn’t have much help. Outside of Homer Bailey, I can’t name one player in their starting rotation, and I had a hard time recalling any player after Votto in their lineup. It sounds like both the Astros and Blue Jays have the farm possibilities to make a deal happen, plus both teams are pushing towards a World Series appearance without an everyday first baseman. Could this be the trade that would get either one of them over the top?

#7. NY Mets Rotation. This is a new one to me, because prior to last season I didn’t know any of these guys existed outside of Matt Harvey and Bartolo Colon. I had finished my last season of fantasy baseball with Zack Wheeler, but he was more of a prospect at the time. Now I hear he might be the missing link in the arms race to the top of baseball for the Mets. I now understand that this is the best rotation in baseball, and possibly the best since the Red Sox back in the last decade. I know Harvey is the monster of the rotation, and some of his stuff is preposterous. I’ve heard that Jacob DeGrom is getting close to that level, and could be the ace on about 90% of teams in baseball. Then someone stated that Noah Syndergaard is the best 3rd starter in all of baseball. Finally, it’s been mentioned to me that Steven Matz could be National League rookie of the year. Uh... get the pitching coach a raise! This is the type of staff that could get me excited about baseball again.

#6. Baltimore’s Bats. I sat down earlier this year to watch a little Pirates spring training baseball and enjoy what has become my favorite lineup to watch in all of the majors. As I’m going through the order, I recognize Andrew McCutcheon, Starling Marte, Gregory Polanco... but where the heck is Pedro Alvarez? My free-swinging, bomb blasting, 3rd baseman? David Freese is on the roster? I jumped onto Google, and I’m told that Pedro will now be swinging for the fences at Camden Yards a few miles down the road. Along with Chris Davis, Manny Machado, Matt Wieters, Adam Jones, Jonathan Schoop and JJ Hardy? So literally seven guys that can swing for the fences at any given time? Then I heard that the Orioles also signed strikeout king Mark Trumbo, who’s been known to a blast a ball as well. Pretty sure this lineup could push toward some record breaking numbers.

#5. The Arizona Diamondbacks are pushing the Dodgers and Giants to break the Californian duopoly. I’ve kind of ignored the Diamondbacks for the last couple of years as they don’t have any players that I enjoy watching outside of MVP candidate Paul Goldschmidt, and they never make it onto Sunday night baseball (which I will turn too when it’s a good matchup and nothing else is on). So imagine my surprise when this extraneous MLB franchise went out and traded for the Braves’ Shelby Miller and signed Zack Greinke as a free agent. Boom, ace and another potentially 15 win starter in a matter of a couple of weeks. Now there are the expectations that the Diamondbacks could soak up one of the two wild-card spots. I read up on the rest of this team, and it appears they have some pretty talented role players as well. AJ Pollock is becoming one of the best outfielders in all of baseball.  Jake Lamb is a solid corner guy. Patrick Corbin is a decent 3rd starter. While I don’t expect the Diamondbacks to challenge for a world series title this fall, I due believe that I will spend a couple of my Sunday nights enjoying how good of a team these Diamondbacks could become.

#4. Pittsburgh Pirates Outfield. During my most impressionable years as a baseball fan (13-30), the Pirates were always one of baseball’s worst teams. To the point where when I told people that I also like the Pirates as much as the Twins, they would respond with the one word question, “why?” It’s a good baseball town with a bit of history, and I always just figured that they would turn things around with good drafting and a solid fan base. Well, for the longest time, neither thing happened. When my closest friends and I took a trip to Pittsburgh back in 2009, I read somewhere that the Pirates were dead last in baseball’s attendance, even though they had just built this exquisite, breathtaking stadium right along the river in the heart of downtown. It made me sad. Then, one day. I heard a rumor that these kids were coming up through the ranks and it would make Pirates fans proud again. Guys like Gregory Polanco, Andrew McCutcheon and Starling Marte. The odds that all three of them would be starters on the same team someday and be productive was minimal at best, and I didn’t get my hopes up. Now, they’ve all arrived, McCutcheon has become an annual MVP contender, and they are the reason the Pirates could finally make it to the World Series for the first time since I’ve come out of the womb.

#3. Baseball’s most brilliant and exciting player: Mike Trout, Bryce Harper or Felix Hernandez? I polled a number of my fellow baseball following friends, and one of the things that had me curious was, who is the most exciting player to watch. For all intents and purposes, no one mentioned some great players like Clayton Kershaw or Miguel Cabrera, but when presented in this format, I’m led to acquiesce to their opinions. Exciting is different from best, and each one of these players provide baseball fans with a glimpse of the incomparable when discussing which players are the best to see at the park. I like Mike Trout for reasons that even the casual fan can enjoy. He’s fearless, plays great centerfield defense, wields a beautiful bat, and is a threat to score every time he comes to the plate. He can do it with speed, power, precision or instincts, and I don’t think I’ve ever seen quite the complete player like that in my lifetime (Maybe Barry Bonds, perhaps Rickey Henderson). They’ve tried to surround him with solid bats, but as so far, it hasn’t really worked out (Josh Hamilton was a bust; Albert Pujols hasn’t been the same in LA). Regardless of that, there’s no reason not to enjoy his athletic gifts...Bryce Harper has been destined for this stage since he was in junior high. I still have the cover to his first Sports Illustrated appearance and the stories about how far his home runs travel still stick with me even to this day. My favorite part of his game, and the reason why I rank him up there with the NFL and European football greats that I more readily acknowledge is because of how hard he plays the game. He hustles all out on every at bat, and I even love watching him in the field even though he doesn’t have the skills of a Mike Trout or Torii Hunter. He’s got great strength on his swing, and it looks like he really understands what each at bat takes, and how he can get on base. I really like Paul Goldschmidt and McCutcheon, and maybe they’re better MVP candidates, but there’s no National League player I’d rather go watch than this guy... King Felix Hernandez had a terrible season by his standards last year. I think the norm for him has become around 8-10 K’s a start and a season ERA around the mid 2’s. Last year, his ERA was 3.53 and he didn’t even get to 200 strikeouts. The numbers he did have though are still great for most pitchers in baseball, and any team would be lucky to have him. He shows intense passion, and doesn’t let the bad outings get to him. He’s been supported by one of the worst lineups in baseball over the past 5 years, but his excellence gives the Mariners a chance to win every time he goes to the mound. Anybody that can almost average a K an inning is a guy I can get behind, and a good reason to buy a ticket to Target Field in the middle of September this year when it’s probably barely reaching 40 degrees at games’ end.

#2. My American League World Series contender is the Cleveland Indians. Until I actually sat down and researched a little baseball, I wouldn’t have put the Indians on my radar at all. I liked the Blue Jays, Royals, Rangers, Astros and Yankees all a little bit more. Looking a little closer to the matter, one can see that the Indians really have all the essentials to win a world series this year. Their rotation could be one of the best in baseball, and it starts with Corey Kluber. I got to see him pitch last year, and he’s lights out and knows it. I didn’t see him smile once at the game, but he’s obviously not bothered by the excitement of dominating pitching contests. Danny Salazar has reached the heights that I was told he would reach when I drafted him in fantasy back in 2014. Trevor Bauer I know from Baseball Prospectus fame and Carlos Carrasco is still pitching well. Yet, it’s the lineup that has me believing this could be the Indians year (which is depressing considering the Tigers have a pair of WS appearances, the Royals have a win, plus another appearance, and the White Sox are improving quicker than the Twins). They signed Mike Napoli and Rajai Davis to infuse some power and speed into the lineup, and if Michael Brantley comes back as good as he was when he single handedly destroyed the Twins in the game that I went to, this team could push towards the 90-95 win total and a playoff appearance.

#1. My National League World Series contender is the Chicago Cubs. Theo Epstein joined the Cubs brass and I shrugged. They convinced Joe Maddon to come and manage and I raised an eyebrow. They introduced a wealth of major league talent through their farm system and I said, “Okay Mark Prior and Kerry Wood”. I’d heard this story before. Steve Bartman wrote the final chapter, and I shut the book. Now it appears that they’ve written the sequel. MLB network loves them. Sports Illustrated loves them. TSN loves them. I put this roster under the microscope and now I love them too. How can you not? Anthony Rizzo could be an MVP soon. Kris Bryant could be a transcending talent. Javier Baez reminds me of Dean Palmer in the mid 90’s. Jorge Soler has the potential to be the best 8th hitter in all of baseball. Addison Russell is as exciting as them come. And now... they add Jason Heyward and Ben Zobrist?! If the Chicago Cubs can’t win their first major league title in 108 years, well, they’ll likely have another shot to do it with this young talent in 109.