Favre to Jets?

My moratorium against Favre posts didn't even last a full 24 hours, but I thought this was worth passing along. The Green Bay Press Gazette is reporting trade talks are heating up between the Packers and the Jets, so much so that Favre has cancelled his flight to Green Bay. According to ProFootballTalk.com, the Press Gazette even had the headline "It's Over: Favre Traded to Jets" on their webpage.

This comes after earlier reports today that had the Packers in talks with both the Vikings and the Bears for Favre's services. Yeah, the Packers don't want Favre back in the Green and Gold, but I've always wondering that if we really think he's lost his game, why not dump him on someone else in our division. Sure we don't want Favre to beat the Packers, but if he's no good, what's the problem with trading him?

There has to be something else going on here. You don't fly down to Mississippi to offer him $20 million if there wasn't. Either there is something else going on, or the Packers are that upset about Favre's flip-flopping back in April.

All I know is that I can't wait to see an "It's Over" headline for real.

Update: Favre says the $20 million offer "may be best". If he does take the offer, than I think that proves that this whole thing was drum up by his agent James Cook to get some more cash. I'm not joking, maybe that's whats going on here. Why Favre is going along with it, I wouldn't know, but I still say he doesn't play in the NFL this year.

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Finally, Some Good News This Week

The Cardinals lost tonight to the Braves 9-4! That means the Brewers are still technically the Wild Card front-runners! (Just trying to find something to be happy about right now.)

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If You Can't Say Something Nice...

Well, know we know what Hell looks like. Son of a beesting. I'm not going to get into today's 11-4 loss to the Cubs too much, because if I don't want to write about it, I can't imagine anyone wanting to read about it.

What I will say is that I'm surprised the Brewers didn't go out and get a reliever. I'll also say that this series isn't the end of the world, but we certainly have our work cut out for us now. I also have to add that if you noticed Ned's Nine looked a little different today, get used to it.

I say we just put this series behind us, and try to play good baseball over these last two months. Agree?

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: Kapler was 3 for 4, Prince hit a homer, but I'm giving it to Eric Gagne for throwing at Jim Edmonds' head in the 9th. It had to be done.

(AP Photo/Morry Gash)

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Alright, I've Had Enough For Real.

This has been the worst week in Wisconsin sports ever. Even when we lost the NFC Championship earlier this year, that was only one team. This week we've had the Favre drama coupled with the Brewers tanking in Miller Park against the Cubs. I mean, this has just been awful.

If you care about Favre, apparently the Packers offered him $20 million to stay home, even though his agent James Cook says he could be in Green Bay on Friday (I am refusing to call him James "Bus" Cook. James or Bus. Pick one).

No more Favre stuff until he steps into an NFL camp.

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Worst. Series. Ever.

Baseball is a funny game, isn't it. One week ago I was crowning the Brewers after a four game sweep of St. Louis, in St. Louis. Now, I'm a little less confident, as the Cubs have come into Milwaukee and taken the first three games of the series, with a chance to sweep on Thursday.

Not too much to say about the game, because we all knew it was over after Prince Fielder bobbled the ball from Jason Kendall in the 1st inning. The Cubs are just extremely hot right now, and we are playing with little to no confidence. I don't know what it is about this team, but it seems like when we know we're being watched by a national audience, we falter.

This team needs to wake up, and quickly. Doug Melvin has this team stocked for the long haul, but he has definitely made 2008 the year to go for it. However, it's our NL Central counterparts that are making quite the statement in our home park (Not to mention the Cards just swept the Braves, and are tied with us for the Wild Card again).

This game was just so frustrating. It was one of those games you just gave up on. I turned the radio off in the 7th. I don't think my littlest brother lasted through the 5th inning. I also had one brother who was at the game, and he left early. He never leaves early. It was just that bad. Especially with the park once again halfway filled with Cubs fans, I would have left too.

I don't want to panic though, but like I've said, we've seen how quickly this game can change. The Red Sox just got swept in Fenway to the Angels, and are 3 back of the Rays in the AL East. Does anyone think they are not making the playoffs? No. We're not as bad off as we might think, as we do have two months left. Although we do need to figure some stuff out (namely: how to perform under pressure, and how to beat the Cubs, who are just stacked). Maybe this series forces Doug's hand and he makes a deal before the deadline.

Hopefully we can salvage one tomorrow, and hopefully Brewers fans finally have something to cheer about in this series.

And for those of you wearing Brett Favre Bears jerseys to the game tonight, please die.

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: I refuse to give it to the home run hitting Fielder, because of that mistake in the 1st inning. Parra pitched decent, but the line looks worse because they didn't credit Fielder with the error. Parra had a double and a triple, so we'll give it to him.

(AP Photo/Darren Hauck)

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More Proof Bogut is Better Than Yi

I don't know about you, but I couldn't be more excited for Olympic basketball. It's really the only Olympics sport I'm going to be watching this year, outside of soccer. I'm enjoying following these tune-ups, especially when Bucks (or former Bucks) are involved.

Tonight brought us the much-hyped Austraila vs. China matchup, of which Austrailia won 67-55. Neither Bogut or Yi were actually that impressive, but it was Bogut that performed better of the two. Bogut ended the night with 9 pts, 8 reb, while Yi had four rebounds of his own but went 0 for 3 from the field.

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Wait, They Beat Sabathia AND Sheets?

I'll take the blame for this one. Each of the last three days, I've decided to watch the Brewer game at my neighborhood sports bar. The record in those three games? 0-3. I know that superstitions like this usually go unfounded, but I can't help in some way feel responsible. Or maybe it was because Ben Sheets decided to wear white tonight instead of blue.

I want to panic after a game like this, but I have to remember that it is still just late July, and we have a long way, including 8 more against the Cubs, to go. However, it's tough to see us fall completely flat on our face (i.e. Ryan Braun in left), and lose back-to-back nights when Sabathia and Sheets were on the mound.

I've said from the start I wanted to split this series, and now we're going to have to win with both Parra and Bush to do so. Please redeem yourself, Milwaukee, because I do not want to have to hear "Overrated" chants directed to you once again at Miller Park.

The Brewers lost this one 7-1, and nothing else really interesting of note. I'm trying to stay positive, but for as good as we've looked last week, we've looked even worst the last three days. I hope the Brewers aren't going through the same syndrome they went through at Fenway earlier this year when they all of a sudden didn't think they were good enough. The Brewers are a great team when they are up to it, and clearly they haven't been in the last two games.

Also, please trade for a bullpen arm and get rid of Mota before the Deadline.

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: Mike Cameron, for breaking up the shutout.

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So The Letter Has Been Faxed...

Ah, crap.

Things are definitely starting to get real in the whole Favre scenario. I really never thought he'd actually send the letter of reinstatement, but it seems now Favre has taken that final step. Unless he's traded or released in like the next, six hours, Favre is eventually going to report to Packers camp.

You know Favre, had you not been obsessed with the spotlight back in March, this would have never been an issue and our season would have never been ruined two months before the team actually took the field.

The NFL plans to act on the matter Wednesday, and if all goes according to Favre's plan, he'll be in Green Bay likely on Thursday. That would be a media circus, and the last thing this team needs. Mark Tauscher said the only time they ever think about the Favre saga is when the media brings it up, imagine how much the mess will be on everyone's minds if number four is actually on the field with them.

This is not a good situation, at all. Favre has always been a larger than life figure, but this summer that was multiplied at least tenfold. Him coming to Green Bay would basically turn that town upside down, and I'm a little worried the world might end if that happened.

If Favre comes back, and doesn't get traded, I'm still rooting for Rodgers to take the reins. It's his team, it's his time. But ultimately, if Favre is there, there is no way he's not starting week one against the Vikings, and I'm going to be forced to root for a guy I've been backlashing all summer. Or has it come to the point where I will openly root against Favre? I'm just not sure how we got to this point.

Oh wait, yes I am. Favre is a prima donna who only thinks about himself.

Stay away, Brett. Stay away.

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Packers Training Camp Thoughts

I'm so exhausted from the Brewers loss tonight, I nearly forgot that Packers Training Camp has begun. Most of that has to do with the fact I'm trying to ignore the Brett Favre mess.

Maybe a more pressing issue is the fact Ryan Grant remains unsigned. I think Brandon Jackson has the capability to step it up and become a good starter in this league, which lessens my worry a bit. But I also think Ryan Grant is a very good back. However, he has only played in 8 games, and his agent needs to stop making the big power grab and sit down and negotiate a real, fair, contract.

I'm sick of the people who claim Ted Thompson is too "cheap" to just pay Grant the big bucks. As we've seen, Thompson will not let one players' situation become bigger than the team, and he doesn't want to throw a boatload of money at Grant based on half of a year's efforts. I don't blame him, but hope we can work something out soon.

If you're looking for some real solid analysis (I'm talking play by play descriptions, here) from Monday's sessions, I'm going to suggest checking out the JS Online Packers blog. But don't stay there too long!

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If You Sing "Go Cubs Go" One More Time...

Okay, I just wrote a review of the game as I often do, and I tried to stay positive. But I have to get this out somewhere, because I am more pissed off about the Cubs fans I watched the game with then the fact that the Brewers lost.

Seriously, what is it with you people? Why do you all think you are God's gift? Sure, there are Cubs fans I have come to know and like, but when it comes down to it, most of you are obnoxious whiners that feel the need to gloat after every fly ball. What is up with that?

Most of it has to come from insecurity, because you've been losers for a good 100 years, I get that. But what baffles is me how much you've come to like the losing. My friend Shep, Brewers fan, seems to think that if the Cubs won the World Series, about half of you would disappear. Maybe not that much, but isn't the allure of being a Cubs fan the fact that you guys constantly lose? Don't you refer to them as the Loveable Losers yourself?

This is all sparked because I sat and watched Monday's Cubs/Brewers game in a sports bar in La Crosse, Wisconsin. La Crosse is a good five hours away from Chicago, on the border of Minnesota even. Yet, the Cubs fans that live here think it's Cubs territory for some reason. If you are a Cubs fan, are you're watching the game at a bar in La Crosse, there is NO REASON you need to be the loudest, most obnoxious person there. Be respectful of your surroundings. I truly think Cubs fans have no sense of boundaries, because they think the world is one big Cubs Party. Come on, guys.

Maybe it's just the type of fan I am. I've watched a Brewers / Cubs game in Chicago before, and while I did root for my team, I was more than respectful of my surroundings. I think that's just common fan courtesy. To the fan that sat in the bar near me tonight, chanting "Play Go Cubs Go!" after every out, well, I don't know what to say here as I'm trying to keep this blog PG-13. Seriously though, show some respect.

That's really all it comes down to. I just feel like Cubs fans don't think of the consequences, they just do whatever they feel because they are Cubs fans, therefore better than me. Congrats on the win, it was a tough game, but please don't gloat about it like a buffoon after the game. I enjoy the friendly rivalry, it's great for both organizations, but let's try to remember that rivalries are built more on mutual respect towards an opponent than they are hatred of another team.

I kept quiet tonight, random Cubs fan.

But next time I will punch you in the face.

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Cubs Take Game One From Brewers

If you're a baseball fan, you have to admit Monday's game between the Brewers and the Cubs was about as good as it gets. Lead changes, great defense, home runs, poor defense, great duels at the plate, and controversial calls. This was an epic game, but the problem with games like this is the more you invest into a game, the harder it is to lose. I'm a Brewers fan, and this was as bad as it gets.

Things looked rough initially, as the Cubs managed some early runs to find themselves up 2-0 in the 6th inning. The Brewers were looking flat on offense, and couldn't convert their chances when they did get opportunities. For awhile there, Ted Lilly was actually out pitching CC Sabathia, which is downright ludicrous.

Some huge defense plays in the 6th turned the momentum to Milwaukee, and J.J. Hardy and Ryan Braun delivered with back to back home runs. Corey Hart then scored Prince Fielder on an RBI double, but was then thrown out at 3rd.

The lead didn't last long, although the Brewers had their chance to escape a bases loaded one out situation in the 7th without surrounding a run. Derrek Lee grounded into what should have been a sure fire double play, but Weeks decided to throw the ball into the dugout instead of into Prince's glove. Weeks has been playing awful defense as of late, and you have to think the leash is just getting shorter.

Russell Branyan delivered a pinch hit home run in the bottom of 7, but the Cubs ultimately came back in the 9th and scored two runs on Salomon Torres. The Brewers appeared to be in comeback mode in the bottom of the 9th, but Gabe Kapler just couldn't put enough under a long fly ball to left.

So what do we take from the game? Well, it wasn't so much the fact that the Brewers gave the Cubs a recipe on how to beat them as it was the Brewers just didn't play very well. There were a few close calls that could have gone the Brewers way, but it just ultimately wasn't their night. It's tough to lose the first game of this important four game set, especially with Sabathia on the hill, but there is plenty of baseball left.

That being said, it was fun to see the playoff like environment at Miller Park, even though you'd think Brewers fans would be doing a better job of keeping Cubs fans out of Miller Park by now. It seems, however, that no matter which stadium you go to, Wrigley or Miller, there will be a very strong showing from the opposing team.

If there is anything we can take away from the game tonight is that our bullpen just isn't as sharp as the Cubbies, I wouldn't mind seeing another move if we really are "going for it". Also, Weeks needs to figure things out, quickly.

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: Russell Branyan kept the team alive, we'll give it to him.

(AP Photo/Darren Hauck)

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Do Yourself a Favor and See This Movie

I've mentioned recently about a potential backlash towards Will Ferrell, as the guy just wasn't putting out the same quality of stuff we'd grown accustomed to. Blades of Glory and Semi-Pro were far cries from his work in Anchorman and Old School, and even Talledega Nights. But with Step Brothers, Will Ferrell returns to form. And then some.

It's not perfect, but I don't remember laughing this much at a movie in the theatres in a long time. There's gross out humor, random humor, action humor, and subtle humor. If you want to laugh for 90 minutes and feel like you've got your money's worth, this movie will do the trick.

I was misled a bit by the previews, as this turned out to be a very vulgar movie. That being said, it was refreshing to see Will Ferrell in an R rated role, and his chemistry with John C. Reilly was once again a stroke of brillance. These two should be making movies together for years to come.

So that's my recommendation, go see Step Brothers.

Review: Step Brothers is Full of Funny Stuff (CNN.com)
Step Brothers Official Site

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Your New Titletown Is.... Valdosta, Georgia?

For some reason I'm not even surprised by this. Of all the choices for Titletown USA, the "award" goes to a city based on their high school football team program. Awful Announcing thought Boston would win the award, while many of us thought it would only have to go to Green Bay. Even though this was the worst idea ESPN ever had outside of "The Greatest Highlight" the network still banked off the idea. Here's why:

1) The summer months are slow for content. This filled a good five minutes every night.

2) ESPN visited about 20 different cities during their quest. Hello local media coverage!

3) By giving it to a small town, they will always have something to be proud of. The fine folks in Valdosta, Georgia are going to care a lot more about this than anyone in Boston, and even Green Bay for that matter.

Someone needs to challenge ESPN as The Worldwide Leader, though, or we're going to be getting crap like this for years to come.

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Suppan's Implosion Highlights Rocky Weekend

Sort of a roller-coaster weekend, I'd say. After an eight game winning streak, seven of those on the road, the Brewers returned home to Miller Park for a three game set against the Houston Astros. I, along with the majority of Brewers fans, were a little nervous coming into this series as we hoped the team wouldn't look past the last place Astros.

Which, it appears they did.

On Friday night, Manny Parra pitched well for six innings before he ran out of gas in the 7th, as the Brewers lost 3-1. Their comeback magic had run out, and their offense was never really able to get anything going. We'll give our player of the game this night to Mike Cameron, for at least getting the Brewers on the board with an RBI double in the 2nd.

Saturday, the Brewers returned to form, once again relying on the comeback. Bush pitched alright, giving up four runs in five innings. I think he was hurt by the missed start last week, as the platoon between him and McClung continues. More on that shortly. The story though was once again the offense, lead by Ryan Braun's homer and 4 RBI's. Hall once again stayed hot, knocking in the game winning RBI. Ray Durham had a nice start, going 2 for 3 with 3 runs. The bullpen was able to do it's job and the Crew won 6-4. It was a great effort, and the player of the game goes to Ryan Braun.

Sunday's game was a little tougher to take, as the Brewers were pounded by Houston 11-6. The majority of the blame should, and will, fall on Jeff Suppan. The Brewers pitcher gave up 7 runs in the 5th inning. His performance may have awoken some of the "Fire Yost" chants, as Yost decided to keep Suppan even when he clearly didn't have his stuff.

The biggest problem facing this team right now, I think, has to be the situation regarding Jeff Suppan. He's our 6th best starting pitcher right now, yet he's got a guaranteed spot in the rotation. Actually, I'd put him at 7th best, I'd be more comfortable with Carlos Villanueva out there right now, for sure. Are we sure we can't just stash him on the DL again and keep Bush and McClung in the rotation?

The BushClung platoon will not last, as McClung struggled today in his return to the bullpen, and Bush struggled in his start Saturday. Yost has to pick one of those guys and stick with him. Platooning pitchers may seem like a good idea, and it was worth the effort, but it's just too much of an inconvenience for the pitcher's routine.

Of course, the problem is that realistically, McClung and Bush are both better than Suppan. However, because of his lofty contract, Suppan is almost guaranteed a spot in the rotation. Sure, he may figure his stuff out later in the season, but right now he is not doing much to help us win games.

My buddy Shep says "Suppan should retire from baseball and focus on his restaurant full-time". My brother, reader b2, says the Suppan signing was the wrong person at the wrong time in terms of what they'll contribute on the field, but also acknowledges it sort of jump-started the Brewers desire to actually spend money in an effort to win.

Jeff Suppan made Randy Wolf look incredible today. Sidenote, why in the hell did Houston trade for him? Since when is a last place team in the NL Central buyers at the trade deadline? Either way, I'd take Wolf over Suppan right now.

Thankfully, he'll miss the Cubs series, as we're throwing CC, Sheeter, Parra, and Bush. It's going to be one hell of a series, and currently the Brewers sit one game back. We'll need to go 3-1 to get back on top of the division, which I think is very attainable. The rotation was set up for us to win the first two games, so hopefully our aces can deliver.

The player of the game in Sunday's contest is another nod to Ryan Braun.

(AP Photo/Morry Gash)

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Why is this Happening?

I'm not going to comment much on this today, just thought I'd pass it along.

Favre plans to report to Packers.

Just as the Brewers lift me up, Favre knows how to tear me right back down.

(I still say Favre is not playing this year. Anywhere.)

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Best. Series. Ever.

Take your time, Ryan. Walk all the way to 1st if you have to. Show this league what the '08 Brewers are about. You've earned it.

Call it cocky. Call it arrogant. Call it unsportsmanlike. But Ryan Braun's slow walk after his 9th inning home run put the Brewers in front of St. Louis 4-3 was justified after the statement Milwaukee made in this series. Neck and neck with the Cardinals in the Wild Card race, the Brewers stormed into New Busch and took four from the Cardinals, for their first sweep in the Gateway city since 1999. It was the Brewers 8th straight win, with seven of those coming on the road.

I don't even know what to say at this point, really. This is definitely some uncharted territory, at least as the last 16 years are concerned. The Brewers are still one game back of the Cubs, but are 16 games over .500 for the first time since 1992 (a year they would have made the playoffs if there was a Wild Card race).

The thing about tonight was I had no doubt we were going to win, even when we were once again trailing in the 9th inning. When Powell kicked things off to Uecker in the 7th inning he said, "And now here's Bob Uecker to call the rest of this Brewers' comeback", I didn't doubt him one bit. That's how good this team is playing right now, and the cities of Chicago and St. Louis have to be concerned about this potential NL powerhouse.

This is by far the biggest series victory I can ever remember as a Brewers fan. A four game sweep in St. Louis when we're locked up in the Wild Card and NL Central race? What's been bigger than that? The joy of winning this series has not only completely erased the pain of the Brewers getting swept in Boston this year, but also the no-hitter Justin Verlander threw against us last year.

I only hope we can keep this momentum up against the Astros this weekend, because there is an even bigger series for this team next week. Four against the Cubs in Miller Park.

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: Ryan Braun

(AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

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We'll Do The MLS All-Star Game Live Blog Next Year, Promise

Running a live blog during All-Star games as quickly become a tradition for us here at The Bucky Channel. However, we missed out Thursday night and failed to do a live blog of the MLS All-Star game. We know there are a few of you out there that like soccer, so it wasn't number that was deterring us. It was more so the fact that I don't have cable right now. By the way, when I look back on these two months I lived with out cable, I will never quite understand how I did it.

For those of you that did watch, I understand you saw a pretty good game. The MLS All-Stars beat England's West Ham United by a score of 3-2 at BMO field in Toronto. For those of you that don't know, the MLS used to do the traditional "East vs. West" format for all-star games, but as switched to forming an all-star team and taking on a European club. I like this format, and the MLS is now 5-0 in such contests.

You would hope the MLS never loses these things because of the fact it is the entire league taking on one team. Also, the fact that the MLS plays a summer schedule while most of the world doesn't start until the fall should almost guarantee these guys victory every year. These MLS guys are in mid-season form, while the All-Star game serves as a preseason tune-up for the European club.

If you're interested, you can read the recap of the game at MLSnet.com. If you're not, you can still watch this video of Rob Stone with Toronto FC's mascot, "Bitchie the Hawk" (courtesy Awful Announcing).

(Photo courtesy Getty Images)

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Just Because You "Own" Stock, Doesn't Mean You Deserve a Say

I'm really not sure what angle I can attack the ongoing of the shareholders meeting that hasn't already been exhausted by ESPN. Yeah, Ted Thompson, Mark Murphy, and Mike McCarthy were there and yes, fans had the chance to voice their opinion. But other than that, no progress was made on the Favre situation and for the most part, nothing "happened".

I really feel bad for the fans that went to the shareholders' meeting thinking that they would be able to change the minds of those running the show. It seems to me there are a large group of shareholders who think just because they quote unquote own the team, they should have a say in the day to day operations of the franchise.

Wrong.

From Packers.com:

Shares of stock include voting rights, but the redemption price is minimal, no dividends are ever paid, the stock cannot appreciate in value - though private sales often exceed the face value of the stock, and stock ownership brings no
season ticket privileges. No shareholder may own over 200,000 shares, a safeguard to ensure that no individual can assume control of the club.

Basically that means you have a framed piece of paper and a good story to tell your friends, but nothing else.

What do you get, however, is the right to attend the Packers shareholders meeting, and have the chance to at least talk to the Packers big wigs. It's great that the three of them made themselves accessible to fans, who seemed to be largely in support of the current decisions of the club.

So if you went today, I hope you got the chance to meet the guys and voice your opinion, but I also hope you didn't think, one way or another, that you were going to make a difference.

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Anyone Still Doubt the CC Trade?

I'm a little late on this (read: way late), but how awesome was Sabathia last night? When is the last time anyone went three straight complete games for the Brewers, much less for anyone else in the league? Unbelieveable.

Sorry we went without the recap for last night, but as you can imagine, CC Sabathia is our player of the game in the Brewers 3-0 victory over the Cardinals.

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For Some Reason I Love This Commerical

The beauty of having your own blog is that sometimes you can post things for really no reason, and nobody cares. This new NFL/Reebok commercial is an example of that:



Even though there is no Packer presence, it's still an awesome commercial. The shot of Eli and the Giants is my personal favorite. Also, I love that kind of indie music, this commercial featured "Train Song" by Vashti Bunyan.

Consider this your "Winks Song of the Week".

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Let Me Reiterate: Favre Will NOT Play Anywhere This Year

I think last week at this time we were all pretty sick of the Brett Favre situation. The "Will he or Won't he?" dance that Favre has been playing since 2003 as decided to continue itself into his retirement. But as the days get closer to training camp for the '08 season, the situation just will not die. I've never seen a story get attacked from so many angles like this one has.

What's interesting about this week is that it's no longer an issue for the Green Bay Packers. Now, the Favre media tornado has swept other teams in the league into it's grasp. First, it swept up the Minnesota Vikings, as the team may have allegedly been tampering with Favre. Not only that, but Favre called the Vikings on a Packers issued cell phone, which could be a salary cap violation! How much deeper into this story can we get, really? Who else can we get to comment on the situation? How about Sara White, widow of Reggie? (oh wait, that happened already...)

It seems there may be light at the end of the tunnel, however, as Roger Goodell as told the Packers to resolve the situation, and quickly. As a result, the Packers have been looking for trade partners, and the "front-runner" seems to be the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Sam Farmer of the L.A. Times seems to think he could be a Buccaneer by the end of the week.

The other option, besides a trade, is that Favre doesn't play at all. That's the option I'm going with. First, if the Packers do try to trade one of the most iconic figures of any franchise, ever, the price is going to be pretty high. When Montana was traded to the Chiefs, they gave up a 3rd rounder, and that's not going to cut it. Jason Taylor just fetched a 2nd and 6th round pick from the Redskins, and I don't know if that would even be enough for Ted Thompson and the gang (I've heard a few Packers fans refer to Thompson, McCarthy, and Murphy as "The Three Stooges". To me, that's a prime example of falling into the stereotype other fans have of us Packer fans).

More than the fact that I don't think the Packers will trade him is that I truly believe Favre will once again go back on his position. I think he loves the idea of playing again, but once that is a possibility, he will go back on his decision just like he did in April. I can see Favre "confirming" his retirement after a trade happens more than I can see him actually reporting to training camp.

Sure, it's been a whirlwind summer following the Favre drama. Some people even got their 15 minutes of fame out of the whole mess. But let's be realistic. The Packers have moved on. They are going to be asking a lot for Favre's services. Favre has a history of backtracking on his decision. Favre is unlikely to be willing to learn a completely new offense with a completely new team.

I still say the only time you see a Favre number four jersey on any field this season is when his jersey is retired by the Packers on Monday Night Football. But that's it.

And then we can finally put this thing to rest.

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I'm Busy Today, So Let's Go With a WNBA Fight Video

Because you wanted to see this again anyway, right?

(Thanks again to Awful Announcing)

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Second Verse, Same as the First

Consider me speechless.

The first glance I was able to get at this game was when I entered the room with the Brewers down 2-0. I thought to myself what a coincedence that was, because the first glance I had of the game Monday night also saw the Brewers down 2-0.

Little did I know the Brewers would comeback to win Tuesday night almost exactly how they came back to win on Monday.

Tonight was a bit different, as the Crew fell down 3-0 before they were able to score any runs. Jeff Suppan didn't pitch any better than Seth McClung, and if we weren't paying Soup the big bucks there's no doubt he'd be the odd man out in this rotation (at least right now).

It took the Brewers 7 innings to finally put a run on the board, and they kept chipping away to make it 3-3 heading into the 9th inning.

If things looked a little familiar at this point, imagined how they looked to Bill Hall.

Hall, the hero Monday after a 10th inning home run, basically repeated his performance with a 9th inning shot that eventually won the game. It may only be two games, but Bill Hall may have put an end to the 3rd base platoon.

Because it wasn't just two games. It was two games against a division rival, an NL Central contender. It was two games in their place. And it was two games that may have gotten us a little closer to the first-place Cubs.

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: Bill Hall

(AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

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Brewers Make A Few Interesting Moves

The Brewers had a very, very productive Tuesday, at least in the view of the front office. The obvious made they made today was bring Jeff Suppan off the disabled list, but I was surprised to see Mitch Stetter be the one to go. He's been optioned to Triple-A Nashville, but I really thought Mota might have been DFA'd. It appears his efforts in the sixth inning on Monday night may have bought him some time. About two weeks ago, I thought he was going to be released for sure, but maybe things are turning around for him with the new glove.

In a less obvious move, the Brewers turned out to be the team that bit on the letter Jay Gibbons wrote to every team but Baltimore, looking for a second chance. Gibbons, you may recall, was one of the guys listed in the Mitchell Report, and afterwards Gibbons admitted to using HGH. So he's in the minor league system, and may or may not be a September call-up. I like the fact Melvin gives guys second chances, and he did so again here.

The Brewers weren't done there, however. They also announced the signing of Steve Braun, the little brother of Ryan Braun. Steve went undrafted out of Maryland, and will report to the Brewers Rookie League affiliate in Helena.

Keep making those moves, Dougie!

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Late Inning Heroics Help Brewers Edge Cardinals

The Brewers came into the series against the Cardinals with a 55-43 record. Last year at this time, the Brewers were also 55-43. I don't think anyone will disagree with me though when I saw this year's season is nothing like last year's.

This year the Brewers are "going for it", as Doug Melvin says. That's alot different than what they did in last in getting off to a hot start and then hoping for the best. But if the Brewers are going to come anywhere near their first playoff appearance in 26 years, they need to take care of business in the NL Central, especially against the teams they are currently looking up at.

They did that Monday night.

Under the national spotlight, the Brewers knocked off the Cardinals 6-3 in 10 innings. The Brewers were down 2-0 until a 3 run shot from Rickie Weeks, who may or may not have been motivated by the recent trade for Ray Durham (who grounded into a fielder's choice in a pinch hit appearance, for those of you wondering).

With the 3-2 lead, and McClung out of the game, the Brewers were left to depend on their bullpen to get them to the finish line. I had thought I'd previously read that Yost wasn't going to use Mota or Gagne in close situations, but maybe that was just speculation. Either way, that's what happened tonight, as Mota (new glove!) and Gagne pitched the 6th and 7th, and actually threw quite well. Riske pitched a good 8th, and Torres should have got out of the 9th except Rickie Weeks did his best Dan Uggla at the All-Star Game impression and the Cardinals were able to bring a run home in the bottom of the 9th.

The Brewers had backed themselves into a corner, but Bill Hall brought them out of it. Hall suddenly remembered how to hit of righties, going 3 for 5 Monday night, including a solo shot in the 1oth. Weeks and Hardy added an RBI each, and then Torres came back out to earn his 5th win of the season.

The win puts the Crew back in front in the wild card race. Now we just have to wait for the Cubs to lose, and to see who gets sent down to make room for Suppan (DFA Mota?)

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: Bill Hall

(AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

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Maybe This Thing Is Over

Could it be that after all the back-and-forth, all the "he said, she said", and all the charges of tampering, that this Brett Favre saga is coming to an end. We're not so sure that it is, because that'd be too good to be true. But the guys at Pro Football Talk seem to think otherwise.

Sure, they information comes from an "unconfirmed tip", but if there is any chances of this thing being over, we're jumped all over it. The tip says Favre is abandoning his attempt to return to the NFL. Apparently, the Packers gave Favre a list of three teams they would try to trade him to (presumably Saturday night at the Hall of Fame banquet?), and he declined all three.

Personally, I don't think this thing is anywhere close to over, even with training camp less than one week away. The slighest Rodgers mistake or injury will bring any such Favre talk back to the forefront, should it even ever go away.

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For Some Reason I Like Posting This Stuff

This one comes from a web developer in the Twin Cities (who is actually a Packer fan).


For claiming I wouldn't talk about Favre until he suited up again, this site sure has been Favre heavy lately...

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Favre to be Honored by Augusta....I think...

Loyal Bucky Channel reader Nick sent me a link on Brett Favre night for the Augusta GreenJackets, a minor league affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.

It's a worth while read and quite funny.

Brett Favre night will consist of the first 100 in attendance receiving flip-flops, the number "4" being retired and then unretired, seat upgrades for Favre jersey wearers, anyone wearing a cheesehead gets a free brat, and "Lambeau Leap" and "Strahan Sack" contests.

Not sure what Augusta has against Favre, but you have to admit this is pretty funny.

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Brewers Love a Good Platoon

For being a potential World Series contender, the Brewers sure are relying heavily on the platoon. Maybe it's a good thing, we're getting the maximum amount of production at each position every day, but I've always figured that if you were going to start for a contender, you were good enough to be an everyday starter. Guess that's not the case this year.

Of course, we all know about the Bill Hall / Russell Branyan platoon, which has worked out better than imagined. Branyan went on a bit of a home run tear a few weeks ago, while Bill still loves a good 0-2 pitch high in the zone. Branyan has been playing less of late, but should see a good amount of time in the upcoming St. Louis series.

The Brewers are also going to be attempting something I've never seen done before, which is platoon their pitchers. Yost says he'll start McClung when on the road, and Bush when at home, because that's what the numbers dictate. I think this strategy is at least worth a shot, but don't feel it should be one we depend on down the stretch. McClung and Bush are going to have a hard time getting into a rhythm as they shuttle in between the starting five and the bullpen. If anything, I think you give the 5 spot to Bush right now, with the way he's been pitching. We'll see how McClung's start goes on Monday.

It also seems like the Brewers are about to get set with another platoon with the acquisition of Ray Durham. Yost says Durham will play a couple of days a week, which is basically slang for platoon. I'd imagine the platoon won't be anything like lefty/righty or home/road, but more like when Weeks is playing well/when Weeks is sucking.

What do all these platoons mean? Nothing really, besides the fact that the Brewers are doing whatever they can to put the best nine out on the field every night. It either means that we're so talented that we can't limit our starters to just nine guys every night, or it means that we are getting by with mediocrity at some of our key positions.

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Crew Completes Season Sweep of Giants

Coming into the season, I was sure of the fact the San Francisco Giants were the worst team in baseball. Turns out there are actually teams that are playing at a lower level (Padres, Nationals, and Mariners), but I wasn't too far off in my assumption. That's why when the Brewers opened their home season against the Giants earlier this year, I was expecting nothing short of a sweep. Sweep the Giants they did, and I was expecting the same reason here.

The Brewers pulled through, going 6-0 versus the Giants on the season.

The Brewers needed to stay hot especially because of our counterparts in the NL Central. It was great news to see the Cubs drop 2 of 3 to Houston, but St. Louis keeps on winning, and despite how many people think we'll make the playoffs we're still 3rd in our own division (This is a good time to mention how frustration it is that the NL West crown is currently being shared by the D'Backs and the Dodgers, both with a 48-50 record).

It was Manny Parra on the bump today for the Brewers, and he pitched 7 2/3, giving up two runs and striking out nine. Earlier this year I critized Bill Schroeder for calling Manny Parra "a future ace", but that's exactly how he's been throwing as of late. Not too mention the man had a nice RBI single today, too.

Where Parra excelled on the mound, Ryan Braun excelled at the plate. Braun went 2-5 with a home run, and bringing home 5 runners, which ties a career high. Corey Hart also homered, as the Brewers improved to 55-43 on the season.

Lastly, a fun fact I did not realize. This was the Brewers first three game road series sweep in four years.

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: This was probably one of the closest battles for the award all season, but the RBI single tilts it in the favor of Manny Parra.

(AP Photo/Dino Vournas)

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Let's Welcome "The Sugarman"

I am one of those people who believe everything they read on Wikipedia, and according to the site, Ray Durham's nickname is "The Sugarman". I'm still not sure why that is the case, but what I am sure of is that former San Francisco Giant Ray Durham will soon be wearing the uniform of the Milwaukee Brewers.

Here's my nickname for him: Tony Graffanino.

Or how about Junior Spivey?

My point is that this just seems like a deal we'd make a few years ago, sort of a David Bell-like move. I haven't followed the career of Ray Durham too closely in my life, but what I do know is that there were two consecutive years I drafted him in fantasy, and there were two consecutive years when I cut him in fantasy. As far as blockbuster deals go, this is not one of them.

This is more like a "Well, why the hell not?" type of move. Ned and Doug have been saying that they want to put together the best 25 man roster possible. Well, Ray Durham is probably better than Joe Dillon. Therefore, the Brewers acquired Ray Durham. If you're trying to make the playoffs for the first time in 26 years, you might as well assemble the best team you possibly can. (I feel bad for Joey D though, he'll be in the clubhouse knowing he's about to get sent down).

When thinking about it, Durham is probably a better option to fill in for Weeks when he struggles than either Dillon or Craig Counsell.

To get Durham, the Brewers gave up outfielder Darren Ford of Class A Brevard County and left-handed pitcher Steve Hammond of the Class AAA Nashville Sounds. Again, why the hell not?

If it seems like I'm a little undecided on this move, I should tell you, that I'm not.

Anytime you trade for a guy named "The Sugarman", I'm all for it.

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Fielder Pushes Crew Past Giants

As I stated after Friday's game, the Brewers offense looks like they took full advantage of the four days of rest, coming back refreshed and determined for a playoff push. The same holds true after Saturday's 8-5 win over the Giants.

It was the Prince Fielder home run into McCovey Cove that stole the show, but it was the entire offense that came alive on Saturday. Ryan Braun led the Brewers with three hits, Fielder and Hart each added two, and every starter including Ben Sheets was able to put the ball in play. That is, for of course, Bill Hall. The Brewers used smallball, the longball, and were the benefactors of a few throwing errors as they came from behind to beat the Giants for the 5th time in 5 tries this season.

Ben Sheets took the hill for the Brewers, but didn't bring the ace-caliber stuff he's been throwing the past few outings. Sheets left after five innings, giving up two earned runs (four total), and striking out three. He was aided not only by his well-rested offense, but also a well rested bullpen. Carlos Villanueva earned his 4th win of the year, David Riske his 10th hold, and Salomon Torres his 16th save.

On the trade front, it looked like the Brewers bullpen was in line for the addition of Huston Street, and I've read that some outlets even reported it as a done deal. However, that is not the case, as the Brewers seem to be taking advantage of playing in San Francisco. Haudricourt is reporting that the Brewers are likely to be trading for lefty Jack Taschner or 2B/0F Ray Durham, in a deal that could be finalized tomorrow. The Brewers would be giving up Darren Ford of Brevard County.

More on that if/when it happens.

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: Prince Fielder

(AP Photo/George Nikitin)

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Brewers Moving to Huston Street?

The Brewers have already gone big with the Sabathia trade, but why stop there? According to the most powerful name in Brewers news, Tom Haudricourt, the Brewers are looking at acquiring Huston Street. Melvin's top assistant, Dick Groch, is in Yankee Stadium this weekend to watch the A's take on the Yankees, and he is presumably looking at Street.

Street, 24, is 2-3 this season with a 4.07 over 38 games. He's saved 17 out of his 21 chances. If we made this move, Street would more than likely slide into the closer's role, while Salomon Torres would slide back to 8th inning duties. What's the better option right now Gagne/Torres or Torres/Street?

It's no secret the Brewers are looking at a bullpen arm, and even though there have been reports about Giants lefty Jack Taschner, Prince made him look stupid last night. That, and if the Brewers are going to make a move, we've seen that they're going all in, not settling for a guy like Taschner.

I guess I don't really see this move happening, but I would have never imagined CC Sabathia in a Brewers jersey at the beginning of the year, either.

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Sabathia Rolls Again

I've always loved Christmas. While my admiration of the holiday is now centered around the time spent with family and friends, it used to be that I loved it for one reason and one reason only. As any kid under the age of twelve will tell you, Christmas is good because of the presents.

There was nothing like getting that new toy, the one you've been waiting for all year. You rip it out of the box and play with it almost to the point of abuse. You play with it so much, it eventually starts to show signs of wear and tear. Nex thing you know, it's being sold for a couple of bucks at your neighborhood garage sale, already damaged for the next person.

Is that what the Brewers are doing with CC Sabathia?

We've only had the guy for three starts, yet he's pitched 24 innings, two of those being complete games. The gem he threw last Sunday was one thing, but how often do you need to leave your starting pitcher in the game when you are already up 9-1?

Maybe I'm just being nitpicky, but I don't want the Brewers to over extended Sabathia to the point where, if we do make the playoffs, he struggles like he did with the Indians in the '07 postseason.

However, I understand what it's like to play with a new toy, and I don't want to be the one to take that priviledge away from Doug Melvin and Ned Yost.

As mentioned, Sabathia went 9 innings in the Brewers 9-1 victory over the Giants Friday night. He allowed just one run off four hits, and struck out ten batters. If that wasn't enough, he also hit a double and scored a run.

Sabathia was aided on two different fronts Friday night. One, they were playing the Giants. They're awful. But two, the offense looked refreshed and ready to go after the four day break. Prince Fielder and Mike Cameron each hit a 3 run home run, while Hardy and Weeks took care of bringing the rest of the baserunners home.

But the story of the night was once again CC Sabathia, who continues to live up to his expectations, and then some. His next two starts are stragetically against the Cardinals and the Cubs.

Two more excellent chances to show off our new toy.

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: CC Sabathia

(AP Photo/Ben Margot)

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24 TV Trailer Released

For those of you that still come here for TV news, you're in luck! Here's the trailer for the two-hour TV movie of "24", set to air this November.



Seems to me they've pretty much given everything away. Still, this better be good, because as we all know, season 6 was brutal.

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Bucks Sign Tyronn Lue, Malik Allen

John Hammond has confirmed that the Bucks are nearing an agreement with 31 year old point guard Tyronn Lue. Like many NBA players, Lue is somewhat of the journeyman status, previously playing with Atlanta, Orlando, Dallas, Houston, Washington, and the Lakers.

According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, both the Bucks and the Suns were vying for Lue's services. It appears the Bucks were able to offer a $2 million to $2.5 million one-year contract. The Suns were only offering the veteran minimum, $1.26 million.

Speculation has Lue and Sessions competing for the backup position to Mo Williams, but something tells me Mo could be on his way out. Personally, I want Sessions to be the starting point guard on this team, as I loved the skill and potential he showed earlier this spring. Even though Richard Jefferson mentioned playing with Mo in his press conference, I think his days as a Buck are numbered.

Update: Thanks to a tip from reader b2, we've also learned the Bucks have signed forward Malik Allen. These guys may not be household names, but they could be key additions to an already improving Milwaukee Bucks squad.

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How About Another Favre Post!

The problem with taking one day off from the blog these days is how much news about Brett Favre we missed! This story is being covered from all angles, and it's a little much considering all we're talking about are the indecisive feelings of an NFL quarterback. None the less, let's see where this story has taken us in the last two days.

The most interesting story of the day may have been the fact that the Packers are considering filing tampering charges against the Minnesota Vikings. Apparently, Favre has been in contact with Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell. Bevell, of course, is a former QB coach of the Packers, as well as a former star for the Wisconsin Badgers. Lori Nickel from the Wisconsin Journal Sentinel looks at just how sticky of a situation this could turn into.

Meanwhile, other suitors for Favre may already be emerging, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Both Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers were at the taping of the ESPYs last night, and Justin Timberlake had a little fun with them.

The most important part of the whole drama may be that, for now at least, Brett Favre will remain in a Packers uniform on the cover of Madden 09.

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MLB All-Star Game Live Blog

This is our Live Blog from the MLB All-Star game. Read over if it you'd like, but know we stayed with the game for the entire 5 1/2 hours. I thought about going 8 hours, to beat the Simmons record, but that game was exhausting.

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Favre on Van Susteren

With thanks to Awful Announcing last night, here is the entire Favre interview from Monday.

There's a part two tonight, and apparently, Brett goes after Ted Thompson.

Kill me now.

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Hamilton the Real Winner in Home Run Derby

With the crowd at Yankee Stadium, chanting "Ham-il-ton, Ham-il-ton!", Rangers slugger Josh Hamilton belted 28 home runs in the first round of the Home Run Derby. The mark was the highest total ever for a single round, and propelled him easily to the finals. Even though his 3 home runs put him short of Justin Morneau's final round of 5, this derby will be remembered for one man and one man only, Josh Hamilton.

Ryan Braun made it to the 2nd round, after hitting 7 in the first round. He seemed nervous at first, but calmed down enough to advance. He hit 7 more in the 2nd round, but ultimately fell short. It was a good effort by Braun, he represented the Brewers well.

It was a good warm-up to a highly anticipated All-Star game on Tuesday night.

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Favre Didn't Come Off Too Well Tonight

I'm not going to comment too much on the Favre interview with Greta Van Susteren (who knew?), but I thought Favre really came off as childish. Especially during the part where he backtracked on what he said in his press conference about being pushed out, and when he criticized the Packers for telling him to come and backup Rodgers. On a side, I thought it was hilarious she spurned ESPN for Fox News, after ESPN has devoted it's summer to Favre. Other than that, watching this interview was kind of disturbing.

Favre made a mistake by retiring, and he admits that by saying he was "guilty of retiring early". He also says, "(The Packers) moving on does not bother me. It doesn't. I totally understand that. By me retiring March 3rd I knew that could possibly happen. All I was saying is you know I'm thinking about playing again. The 'itch' has been used. That is the word that has been used if you want to say itch, or the fire is coming back, or whatever. If I'm going to play it's going to be 100% commitment.... And so if you move on, you tell me one thing, don't come back and tell the public,... just say it. 'You know, we've moved on and we'll work with Brett on whatever it is.' Don't make up a lot of stuff or give half of the truth."

Call it a poker game if you want, but if that's the case, the Packers need to keep calling Favre's bluff until he gets tired of the spotlight.

Like that will ever happen...

(We'll try to get video posted to this story as soon as possible)

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Home Run Derby LIVE BLOG (sigh... and Favre talk)

We're ready for another live blog, as tonight's Home Run Derby blog is a warm up for the All-Star game tomorrow (and Favre's on FOX News tonight, we'll talk about that too). There will be a brief intermission during the festivites, but it won't be long and will be worth sticking around!

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Sheets to Start All-Star Game

The Brewers now have officially as many starters in the All-Star game as the Cubs do, and I, for one, am very pleased about that. Ben Sheets has been named the starting pitcher for the National League, while Cliff Lee will get the honor for the American League. This is Sheets fourth All-Star game. In his career, he has pitched 2 1/3 scoreless innings for the Senior Circuit.

Sheets has gone 10-3 this season with a 2.85 ERA. He has 108 strikeouts and 28 walks in 123 innings. Despite a losing effort, Sheets struck out 11 batters against the Rockies on Wednesday. Colorado manager Clint Hurdle is the manager of the NL All-Star team.

Clint Hurdle talked to the Journal Sentinel's Tom Haudricourt about Ben Sheets: "I like everything about him. He's blue collar; he brings his lunch pail to work every day. I thought it would be an opportunity that he'd embrace. He has a lot of energy, a lot of passion. He's a perfect match for me."

Obviously Sheets is deserving of the award, but it was really between he and Carlos Zambrano as to who would start the game. Other candidates included Edinson Volquez and Tim Lincecum, but they both started over the weekend and may not even play on Tuesday.

In other All-Star news, Ryan Braun is slated to bat 7th in the NL's lineup. Here are the lineups, per Haudricourt.

National League

SS Hanley Ramirez, Fla
2B Chase Utley, Phil
1B Lance Berkman, Hou
DH Albert Pujols, Stl
3B Chipper Jones, Atl
RF Matt Holliday, Col
LF Ryan Braun, Mil
CF Kosuke Fukudome, Chi
C Geovany Soto, Chi
RHP Ben Sheets, Mil

American League

RF Ichiro Suzuki, Sea
SS Derek Jeter, NY
CF Josh Hamilton, Tex
3B Alex Rodriguez, NY
LF Manny Ramirez, Bos
DH Milton Bradley, Tex
1B Kevin Youkilis, Bos
C Joe Mauer, Min
2B Dustin Pedroia, Bos
LHP Cliff Lee, Cle

A quick plug from us, Bear and I will be doing live blogs for both the Home Run Derby (Tonight, 7pm), and the All-Star Game tomorrow (to start approx. 630pm). Live blogs are our favorite things to do, and with the CoverItLive software we've been using, they've been a great success. We hope you'll at least stop by tomorrow and join us. And when you do, be sure to give us a click on our advertising. Oh, wait...

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I Hate to Admit It, But I Agree With Stephen A. Smith

Maybe not word for word, but Stephen A.'s comments about the recent Favre situation, and the coverage of it, actually make sense.

(h/t Awful Announcing)

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One-Man Show from Sabathia Leads Brewers

First off, I still can't believe CC Sabathia is a Brewer. Every time I see him in that uniform, I get giddy. And you have to think, if there was anyone that still thought this trade wasn't in the best interest of the Brewers, perhaps they changed their mind just a little bit today.

This game was all Sabathia, and was exactly what the Brewers were looking for when they sent four prospects to Cleveland for him. What they were looking for, and more. Sabathia threw a complete game, striking out 9 batters along the way. And if picking up the win to go 2-0 in his first week as a Brewer wasn't enough to extend his honeymoon, he also hit a home run.

Things didn't look especially great in the beginning, as the Brewers found themselves down to the Reds 2-0 until the 3rd inning, when Sabathia hit the shot out to right. A Kapler double brought Hardy home in the 6th, and then a Craig Counsell sacrifice fly in the bottom of the 9th brought Bill Hall home from 3rd, and the Brewers won the game 3-2.

“CC brought the excitement, struck out the side in the ninth inning,” Hall said. “We wanted to go out and give him a win in the ninth inning. So we had the excitement, we had the momentum. It’s a great way to end the first half and, hopefully, it continues on Friday.”

Friday is scheduled to be Sabathia's 3rd start in a Milwaukee uniform.

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: CC Sabathia

(AP Phot0/Morry Gash)

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Volquez Dominates Brewers

For the first time this season, I (finally) had the chance to make it out to Miller Park for a Brewers game. Last year the Crew won a majority of the games I attended, and I figured they'd rebound from a Friday loss, so I was feeling pretty good about the chances of a Brewers victory.

Instead, they looked awful.

The only two Brewers I walked away impressed with last night were Seth McClung and Prince Fielder. McClung, because he really just made one bad pitch (a 3 run shot to Adam Dunn) in his 6 1/3 innings of work. He also finished the game with 7 strikeouts. Fielder got the home run, but left me disappointed in the 5th inning when he couldn't convert with 2 outs and the bases loaded.

Besides those two guys, only Braun and Counsell were able to hit themselves on base.

As good as McClung was though, the Reds' Edinson Volquez was that much better. He struck out 10 in 7 innings of work, with his only mistake being the Fielder home run. He'll likely be the starter for the NL this Tuesday.

After the game Yost said he was pleased with Gagne's stuff, but giving up four runs and four hits, including back to back shots by Edwin Encarnacion and Dunn, isn't very impressive in my book. He looked downright awful, even worse than Mota who came in after him. Our bullpen may be revamped from last year, but the only difference is that this year's bullpen is more expensive.

Is Scott Linebrink still available?

Other highlights of the game for me included the appearance of Uno, this year's Best in Show from the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. I think the event is ridiculous, but it was neat to see a dog throw out the first pitch. I regret I didn't take the opportunity to get a picture with him though.

One thing that did surprise me that I saw more Cubs fans than Reds fans at the game. There were actually more people wear Cubs gear than there were people supporting a team that was actually playing. I just don't get that.

I understand why you might wear a different jersey than one of the teams that are playing to a game. For instance, last year when I went to the Indians/Angels series at Miller Park, I wore my Prince Fielder jersey. Also, If I were to take a trip somewhere, and knew I was going to a baseball game, I might bring along a Brewers shirt.

But if I were going to a Cubs/Mets game or something, no way I would wear a Brewers jersey. I just don't see the point in it, but that's just me.

Other than that, Brewers games are always fun, and it was good to be back at Miller Park. Wish I would have stuck around for Sunday's game though, as CC just went yard (although they are trailing 2-1 right now).

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: Seth McClung

(AP Photos/Morry Gash)

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Thompson and Packers Make the Right Move

On Saturday, Packers GM Ted Thompson announced that the Packers will not grant Brett Favre his outright release. Instead if he is reinstated he would likely come in a backup role, though it is likely that Favre would not accept a role as the backup to newly anointed QB Aaron Rodgers. When asked if Favre would remain on the Packers as a coach or a backup, Thompson responded by saying "not a coach".

Thompson went on to say that Favre wouldn't necessarily be a back but rather an active member of the Green Bay Packers. But Thompson once again affirmed that Favre will not be released and acknowledged that the whole situation has put a mental strain on the organization and those involved.

I applaud what Thompson and the Packers have done here. Brett Favre is signed for 3 more years and granting him his release does nothing for the Packers and could hurt them in another way if he goes to a contender and helps them win. By keeping him, they can test his market value and get some return on him if he leaves or keep him in the uniform he should be in. It's a business decision. Letting him go for nothing to go to a competitor is just bad business. A lot of people let their fandom and admiration for Favre blind them to the fact that what he is doing is hurting the Packers.

Favre has gone on 5 years, as Winks stated yesterday, with this when am I gonna quit charade. All along the organization is painted as the bad guys when really they are just doing their best be winners. The Packers prepared for that as any good team would by drafting an "heir" to Favre's throne. Then Favre complains about it saying he feels like the Packers are pushing out the door. Then every season he says he might be done, or he might not and doesn't give an answer until late in the summer. That hurts the Packers in terms of preparing for the next season. Now this year he retires, and the Packers get ready to move on. Then the Letterman thing happens, then in March he tells McCarthy and Thompson he wants to come back. The Packers are ready to give him another shot but then calls back to change his mind.

That right there is when the Packers turned the corner to start a new era. Now Favre wants back, asks for his release and not to be traded so he can go to the team of his choice. Now we are at a crossroads.

1)If the Packers start Favre and win the Super Bowl this year everything is fine, but next year Rodgers walks, Favre retires for good and now we have a third string QB as a starter next year in Brohm, and definitely not as ready as Rodgers would be.

2)Favre could also start and look his age, struggle, then you are truly left with a mess. Rodgers would be disgruntled and walks and you wasted an entire year possibly the future with a great supporting cast and nothing to show for it.

3)The Packers could start Rodgers, leave Favre as a backup and if Rodgers struggles you'll have Favre there to take over the reins, then groom Brohm as the future and let Rodgers walk at the end of the season. If Rodgers succeeds and the Packers go deep in the playoffs or wins the super bowl then you know that Rodgers is ready and Favre is expendable.

4)Trade or release Favre, Rodgers could struggle or succeed, some Packer fans would be irate at Thompson for not starting Favre regardless. You have a split fanbase, possibly a bad team or a good team but Favre on a contender and possibly an enemy come playoff time. This situation is a mess.

5)Favre stays retired, the Packers see what Rodgers has to offer, good or bad you actually know and the organization as a whole can move on to make the necessary adjustments.

To me option 5 makes for the safest option both short term and long term, but again if Favre would have just stayed away from the beginning it would have been the best. My only issue with any Packer fans getting mad is to blame all of this on Ted Thompson. He has been phenomenal in my opinion in putting this team in position to win. He has completely upgraded our defense with savvy picks and the signing of Woodson. On the offense he revamped the offensive line surrounded the quarterback with a great core of receivers and brought in an RB in Grant who looks like he could be the real deal. Not to mention pulling the trigger on hiring a young offensive minded coach in McCarthy. Thompson putting his foot down in this situation only further proves his alliance to winning.

If Thompson gives into Favre it shows that Favre is bigger than the team, and anyone on it, and as great as he is and was for the Packers one person can't be bigger than the team, they just can't be. As a fan of the Packers you have to realize that. If you don't see it that way then in my opinion you are a Favre fan first and a Packer fan second. And if you were a Packer fan before Favre then I just don't get it. It would be one thing if the management would run the team into the ground, but Thompson has done exactly the opposite. My opinion is that I am a Packer fan, and then a Favre fan, and since what Favre has done over the last few months has really hurt the team, it puts me in a position that instantly squares me against Favre.

As much as it hurts to say, I just want Favre to go away. Take a note from Barry Sanders. I have moved on and want to see what Rodgers has to offer. The question "Who gives the Packers the best chance to win right now?" is a ridiculous one because there is no way of knowing that. We could be sitting on gold with Rodgers or he could be awful. Favre could come back and do what he did last year and look great or he could show his age be cost the Packers much more. I want to see what Rodgers can do. I think he's ready, and apparently so does Packers management, and I'm sorry but those who disagree with Thompson, that's why you don't work in a football front office. Thompson has made 90% of the right decisions so far, and I'll trust him on this one.

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Errors Cost Brewers Against Reds

Milwaukee had plenty of chances against the Reds on Friday night, but ultimately they gave this one away. The Brewers had three errors in the contest, as well as a wild pitch from Salomon Torres that brought home the winning run for Cincinnati. On a night in which the Cubs and Cardinals both won, the Brewers lost the game 6-5.

Manny Parra didn't have a terrible outing, going 6 1/3 innings, allowing 3 earned. The Brewers scored 4 in the 6th, only to be answered with 3 from the Reds in the 7th. The wild pitch scored the run in the 8th, and the Brewers were unable to score any runs after that.

Ryan Braun, preparing for Monday's Home Run Derby, hit his 23rd home run of the season.

Box Score.

TBC's Player of the Game: Ryan Braun

(AP Photo/Darren Hauck)

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Sorry Brett, We're Not Interested

Congratulations, Brett Favre. You've somehow put me in the position where I'm "against you". Even though you've given me 16 years of joy, the way you've acted the last four months has been enough to supersede the good times. We've allowed you to waver back and forth for five seasons now, and were sad to see you exit when you retired this March. As is the case when every relationship ends, we were forced to move on.

It's time for you to do the same.

I don't have too much else to say about the situation, except that I am 100% behind Aaron Rodgers starting for the Packers this season. This Favre situation has gotten too far out of hand, so much to the point that our season may be in jeopardy with or without Favre on the roster. If reports of a locker room divided are true, the affects of Favre's most recent indecision could be felt for a long time.

When it comes down to it, I don't think Favre will actually ever play another down in the NFL, I just don't. At this point though, it may just be wishful thinking. It's one thing to see him in a photoshopped Vikings jersey, but could you imagine him actually taking the field as the member of a team outside of Green Bay. Favre in a Bucs uni? Ravens? Redskins? Really, Favre?

Sadly for Packers fans, playing for another team may be how Favre decides to move on from this relationship. Eventually, that could be something we'll have to accept.

Just quit trying to make the Packers look like the bad guy.

(Great article from the Journal by Tom Silverstein about why Favre won't be in a Packers uniform ever again.)

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