Bourbon Street is rockin' and Miami is bumpin'. The Saints are Superbowl Champs. I was rather indifferent to this game, but nonetheless, it is the Superbowl. Had a great time watching with friends and came away so impressed.

The Saints overcomed great adversity with nearly every pundit picking against them. They overcame an early ten-point defecit, which was the largest comeback in SB history.

I was watching the pre-game specials all day and tears were forming in my eyes. The clips of the ravaged New Orleanes streets were hard to witness. Interviews with citizens still trying to build their homes back was also heart wrenching. The Saints give those people hope and to see them bring home the ultimate prize is something special. I can see the movie rights being lobbied for already.

SIDENOTE: With Superbowl Sunday in the books most of us are dreading heading back to work and school for Monday-not I.

West Virginia University will remain shut down thanks to the snowstorm that shalacked Morgantown over the weekend. Nearly 2 feet of the white stuff later, much of the town is still trying to dig out. Myself, along with the 28,000 other students couldn't be happy for an extra day of drinking   I mean STUDYING (thats for you mom). Actually there is something much larger than drinking, studying and the normal college routine. For it is Big Monday. The No. 2 ranked Villanova Wildcats come to town to do battle with our  No. 6 Mountaineers.

West Virginia is riding high after a 14 point comeback win over St. Johns on Saturday. WVU is now 19-3 and needs a marquee win to secure a spot atop the Big East standings. Pictured to the left is Deniz Kilicli "The Turk" as he is affectionately known in Morgantow. He is just a freshman who can easily pass for a 30 year old man. He hails from Istanbul, Turkey and made his collegiate debut last week in the infamous Pitt game.

The student section of WVU has been under fire for the past few weeks but things really got heated in last Wednesday's game game against the Panthers. Pitt is already our biggest rival and it was shown on Wednesday. In the previous two home games against Ohio State and Louisville the Mountaineer students were heard chanting various vulgarities and obscenities that were picked up by the television mics and heard over national television. I can't deny it, I was in the middle of it.

After a flood of e-mails from the Vice President of the school things were hoped to be calmed down against Pitt. That wasn't the case. At all. After a questionable call by an official at half court items such as T-shirts, bottles and cups rained down onto the court from the student section. A handful of items reached the court, probably seven from my count. This prompted head coach Bob Huggins to grab the PA mic and yell at the fans. This week there has been plenty of local and national backlash from the media about our behavior. While I agree with what they are saying and admit this is a complete embarrasment I can't help but suggest that every incident be reported. WVU's image is already tarnished enough acidemically, but we have had a reputation for being unruly and rowdy.

I'm sure we all have been at sporting events were a person or group of people began to chant cuss words and such. Heck I hear it everytime I watch a college sporting event on ESPN. Throwing stuff on the court? Yeah, I've seen it before too. The UNC-Virginia Tech game had to be stopped to clear debris from the court just last week. I've heard bat day at Yankee Stadium caused fans to throw wrappings and even the bats on the field. But just because we are West Virginia we need to be made an example. It really isn't fair and makes us good seeds (such as myself) recieve the negative stereotypes when in reality it is just a few bad apples. However, just a few bad ones can ruin the fun for everyone.

 I suggest to you sports fans to watch the big basketball game tomorrow at 7 on ESPN, hopefully the classy WVU crowd shows up. I'll be there-classy as ever.

LETS GO MOUNTAINEERS/CONGRATS SAINTS!

photo credits: getty images/espn.com, msnsportsnet.com

This picture look familiar? It should. It is featured on the front page of mlblogs.com. When I logged on this morning I was welcomed with the sight of Bucco. I was shocked, simply because when are the Pirates even merely mentioned? Lastings Milledge was front and center as mlb.com drooled over his fantasy potential. 

Lastings Milledge my friends, this guy is going to be good. I'm not the only one who thinks so. Cory Schwartz of Fantasy 411 on mlb.com had this to say about Pittsburgh's starting left fielder. 

Lastings Milledge is something of a forgotten man after being run out of two organizations, and he was further hampered last season by a broken finger, but he's stolen 28 bases in his last 162 Major League games going back to 2008, along with a .278 average and 17 homers. He seems comfortable in Pittsburgh, especially now that he's been moved to the less stressful defensive assignment in left field, and he's still only 24. Milledge's talent has never been in question, so with a full season of health and calm this could be year he starts converting those skills into big-time fantasy results.

I agree with everything Schwartz mentioned above. When Milledge first came over from Washington I thought we were in for a long, rusty relationship. He had indeed hit his rough patches as a Met and even in Washington he butted heads with those in charge. It looked as if we had traded Nyjer Morgan, one of the nicest guys in the business, for this firecracker.

Within days, Milledge proved us all wrong. Management praised his attitude and worth ethic as he put in the time and effort he never seemed to in previous years. Everytime I saw him last season he had a smile on his face and looked like he belonged. 

Hitting the seen near the beginning of 2006, Milledge was heralded as "the future," a phenom. Whether the hype went to his head is something often discussed but he was never welcomed in New York. As the youngest player in the National League, just a few days into his 21st year, Milledge was never understood by his veteran teammates. Such stars as Cliff Floyd, David Wright and Billy Wagner were reported to have lashed out against their rookie member in the clubhouse. It is safe to say they had a reason. Milledge acted like a kid in a candy score in the Shea Stadium outfield. He celebrated outlandishly, high fived fans and blew up at umpires. Maybe the vets had a point. Milledge definitely had some growing up to do. He got that opportunity in Washington when he was traded to the Nationals. Ironically enough Milledge was swapped for Ryan Church. Now the two pieces of a trade will be united together in ittsburgh as Pirates this year.

In a new setting and a new environment, young Lastings still had to fight to find his niche.

He was welcomed by the younger, more relaxed clubhouse in Nationals Stadium. It was his performance on the field that rolled some eyes. Batting in the third spot Milledge was batting .245 with seven home runs and 32 RBIs. Miniscule numbers for a quality 3rd batter. He suffered through a lingering foot injury suffered while in New York. After the rehab process he showed some life in his bat with an above .300 average to close out the 2008 season. When he was traded near the July 31st trade deadline, Milledge had a hand injury and could not play baseball for the life of him. With a sub-Mendoza Line batting average and nagging metacarpals Milledge came to Pittsburgh amidst the outcrys of Pirates fans who mised their beloved Nyjer Morgan. Like I said before, it was only a matter of days before he put the criticism to rest and strived.

Part of the facts attributing to the resurgence of Lastings was the much younger clubhouse. Stepping in as actually one of the veteran guys at the rip age of 24 was appealing. Also, lets face it, its Pittsburgh. Milledge found a home in the lower part of the batting order and finished the year strong. With our outfield set, he is truly a part of the bright future of the Pirates.

picture credits: mlblogs.com, dailynews.com, postgazette.com, washingtonpost.com       

Since the Grammys were held last Sunday I figured it was only proper to pay homage to the rich history of music in baseball.

Music is synonomous with sport. Any sport. It is played over the speakers in the stadium to pump up the crowd and listened to by the athletes in the locker room to help them focus. It is safe to say music is critical to the production of any sporting event. Games and tailgates would be toned down and downright boring even.

To honor what music has brought to the game of baseball I present the Innagural Grammys of Baseball. A collection of select categories, some personal, that make baseball tunes special.

Best pump up song: Right Now-Van Halen

Resonating through the stands at Milan Puskar Stadium, the home of the Mountaineers, when the team forms its final huddle before the game, this song is not just a football anthem. I have heard it at PNC Park numerous occasions. "Don't wanna wait till tomorrow. Why put it off another day?" lead singer Sammy Hagar sings to begin the song, it definitely builds the anticipation for something special. What is more special than attending a baseball game? While the vocals are powerful it is the special tune of the song that makes this one of the best.

Best Song for a baseball montage:Running Down a Dream- Tom Petty

Quite possibly my favorite time of a Pirates game at PNC Park is the inning break leading into the bottom of the first. A monatge of clips is played, usually coming from the previous game and exciting moments such as a double play, diving catch or monstrous homerun. This song was played at one game I was at a few years ago and I just loved the way it meshed together. The flow of the song is perfect with the "oooo's" and killer guitar solos. The monatge focused mostly on the Pirates defense with Jasck Wilson and Freddy Sanchez turning highlight reel double plays.

Best Soundtrack from a Baseball Movie: Angels in the Outfield

I get chills everytime I see this heartwarming adventure and a lot of it comes from the score. The orchestral sound is great coming from harps, violins, cellos and such. It makes me happy and I agree with little J.P.'s famous catchphrase "It can happen"-the music helps make this movie happen that is for sure. Even though it is excellent on its own.

Best Song from a baseball movie: Hardball- Lil Bow Wow, Sammie, Lil Wayne

While hip-hop is a controversial genre, I still enjoy it. For those of you who are iffy out there, I can assure you this song is clean as a whistle. It is a great hook and shows that these young kids are enjoying playing the game of baseball, a rarity in the inner city these days. The baseball references are very clever as well. My favorite happens to be from Lil Wayne: "Pitch on the block like Nolan Ryan." Lil Bow Wow's part is also ingenious. "We need back to back hits, they call me little Sammy Sosa." and "Understand I'm like Griffey I hit 'em to the wall." I guess you can say this song is a guilty pleasure of mine. I have it on a CD in my car and my buddies make fun of me everytime it comes on.

Best batter walkup song: Jumpin' Jack Flash- Jack Wilson

For a good eight years Jack Wilson was known for his quick wits, long range and flashy gameplay from the shortstop position. And for everyone of those eight years one song described him to a T- Jumpin' Jack Flash by the Rolling Stones. Maybe it was the way PA announcer Tim DeBacco said it and timed it to the intro but whenver you heard it, you knew Jack was coming to the plate. It was a nice long intro too without any vocals, it really did signify who was coming to the plate as Jack was a symbol of Pittsburgh baseball for the past decade. I did enjoy Derek Jeter's "Empire State of Mind"-Jay-Z diddy last season but this decision was solely based on my bias.

My personal walkup song (if I was a ballplayer):You Can Call Me Al- Paul Simon

I'm a big fan of the walkup songs. I think it is a great idea that has been around for a while. Some people do not like it but like I said before it really does signify a player and it keeps the fans attentive. Any time I hear I song I like, I attempt to put a PA announcer spin on it and announce as if I am stepping to the plate. "LEADING OFF AND PLAYING IN CENTERFIELD NUMBER 15 MATTTTTHEW PEEEEASLEE" Yes I am a centerfielder and yes my number is 15-roll with it. Anywho, You Can Call Me Al is a personal favorite of mine. I like the tune, but honestly I do not understand the lyrics at all. I like the trumpet and hear it alot at college basketball games. It rolls perfectly and as a 20 second instrumental intro, which would not allow for any of the confusing lyrics to be heard. It is perfect, now I just have to hone my baseball skills and make the majors!

Best Closer intro song: Enter Sandman-Mariano Rivera 

Quite possibly the best closing pitcher in baseball history has the most intimidating tune to run out too. Let's face it a closer has to be intimidating-it his is job and really the main role. He wants to get out there, mow down the batters preferably in 1-2-3 fashion, high five teammates then get the heck out of there. Rivera does just that and Enter Sandman is the perfect song and perfect nickname for someone as nerve-wracking to the opposition as him. Trevor Hoffman's "Hell's Bells" come as a close second.

Best 7th inning stretch song: Thank God I'm a Country Boy-John Denver 

Call me a homer once again again, but I always give love to my boy John Denver. Played in Baltimore after Take Me Out to the Ballgame, this classic country song is a great tradition. Its a fun song to sing along with and clap to. I may catch some heat from this from Red Sox fans (Sweet Caroline) Rangers fans (Deep in the Heart of Texas) and Cardinals fans (Budweiser Jingle). I have been to all three of these parks and really enjoy hearing a catchy, traditional tune after Take Me Out to the Ballgame. Its something I think should be started in Pittsburgh. Maybe with the Pennsylvania Polka or Renegade by Styx (Pittsburgh's famous football song).

Best song played during pre-game introductions: Swingtown-Steve Miller Band

I owe my good buddy Andrew Rush kudos for this song. The notorious Yankee fan is the mastermind behind this song. A few years ago he played this song while he spouted off the starting lineup for the Yanks. He had everything timed perfectly to the music and has an excellent announcers voice. I highly suggest that any team from any level of organized baseball play this song when announcing their starting lineups. It is simply perfectly an simply irresistable.

Best Team related song: A New Pirates Generation

A lot of teams have a local band or someone who is good with words and a guitar come up with a song about their local baseball team. Many times these songs are played at the ballpark, sometimes after a win or when the team is running out of the dugout. The team has stopped doing this a few years ago but A New Pirates Generation is a good song in any outlet. Alluding to the storied past of the Pirates while anticipating a good looking future, this song is a great package. If I knew how to post a video on here I would.

Best song that reminds me of baseball: Centerfield- John Fogerty

I can listen to this anytime of day, anytime of year and still imagine a baseball in my hand. If any song could be my personal theme song, this could be it. Nothing matches my enthusiasm quite like it. "Put me in coach, I'm ready to play" And I sure am, I mean come on I am the centerfielder, number 15. But it just excited me to watch a game, blog or read a baseball website. My favorite line happens to be 'Rounding third and headed for home, It is a brown eyed handsome man. Anyone can understand the way I feel." I'm not afraid to admit on several seperate occasions I have re-enacted this scene picturing myself as this brown-eyed handsome man (I have blue eyes by the way), but it excites me to come in hot around third, slide feet first, dodge the tag, scoring the winning run. I know all of you cancertainly understand the way I feel.

There you have it folks, The Grammys of Baseball of come to a close. There were winners and losers. Kanye West Did not come up on stage, so we can call that a success. I am a fan of his music, just not his character. You want someone with good music and good character get a load of these guys.

Country artists, Zac Brown Band, stole the stage at the show taking home Best New Artist awards. They surely deserve it. As one of my favorite bands I congratulate them and encourage you all to give them a try. I for one really do enjoy country music and their hit "Chicken Fried" along with "Toes" and "Whatever It Is" are good listens to anyone who is a fan of good music is general. The ZBB is coming to PNC Park this summer, opening for the Dave Matthews Band. I honestly find DMB to be annoying but Zac Brown woulds surely be worth checking out regardless.

picture credits: grammy.com 

Sunday was one of the greatest days of 2010. After an enjoyable night of enjoying the college lifestyle on Saturday, the action continued Sunday morning. A few buddies of mine hopped in my Nissan Versa and trekked up I-79 for the hour long journey to Pittsburgh.

Pirate Fest opened its doors at noon, we arrived around 12:30. The snaking line extended well past the gates, a surprising sight for my friends Marc, Jared and Richard.

The cost of admission was originally $12 bucks, however we caught a break. A father with a son had four extra "VIP" passes  (which literally meant nothing) he sold them to us for $5 dollars. Scalping tickets to Pirate Fest? Heck yeah!

We rushed to the autograph line where we first hit former Pirate El Roy Face, pitcher Charlie Morton and catcher Ryan Doumit.

 They're nice young guys and Jared's two favorite Pirate players.

Later in the day we came back for another round of autographs.

Firstbaseman/right fielder Garrett Jones and third baseman Neil Walker signed along side another former Pirate in Jim Rooker. It looks like Penguin Sergei Gonchar joined in on the festivities. The Pens were actually playing across town, hosting the Red Wings. Many fans adorning Penguins gear were at the fest and the Penguins won in an epic shootout. The game was playing on an HDTV at a booth.  

Although the lines were fairly long, we waited in the lines for nearly an hour each time, it was a fun time. We talked to some cool people around us and I got major flack from an elderly man for wearing my Barry Bonds jersey.

One of my favorite parts of Pirate Fest are the memorabilla tables.

This table was filled with just Roberto Clemente stuff. From cereal boxes to buttons to an autographed baseball with a 10,000 dollar price tag. I cam away with a cool Pirates poster from the 90's, a 1989 game program and some packs of 2010 Topps baseball cards.

Pirate Fest is also a great time to meet some very cool people associated with the team.

I did meet him on Tuesday but seeing Andrew McCutchen rocking out on Guitar Hero was pretty cool. The guy in the black Cutch shirt was getting owned by the star centerfielder. I think this is a cool picture, considering their both rockin' the 22.

One of the most bubbly, entergetic and fun people associated with the Pirates is Joe Klimchak. He is famous for his commercials for the Pirates where he mimmicks the "Shamwow" guy. They are very funny and do the job. He is also the in-game host at PNC Park. He hosts the between inning shin digs and brings a good vibe to the ballpark.

The best moment of the day and perhaps my entire life around baseball was meeting General Manager Neil Huntington.

It was a very personal time with Jared and I speaking to the GM for a good five minutes. He was standing in the concession stand area just mingling with some fans. He was very genuine and came across like a strong minded individual. After getting a cool snapshot I gave an ill attempt at a joke saying "We just made a deal and I'm the new fifth starter." Neil really didn't laugh and Jared just thought I was stupid. It was a good segway into a discussion regarding who the fifth starter for the Bucs. It is a race between Kevin Hart and Daniel McCutchen-he talked highly of both and really believes the competition will bring out the best in the two young guns.

Jared brought up his former affiliation with the Cleveland Indians, Jared's favorite team. He is excited for manager Manny Acta to take over and think he deserved the job. He made a point that Terry Francona and Joe Torre were not successful in their first two managerial positions and that the change of scenery will be good for a younger manager with potential.

Talk around Pittsburgh has been heated with Pirates debate. It was reported that Penguins owners Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle have made an offer to Pirates owner Bob Nutting in an attempt to buy the team. It is a hot button issue that probably won't go anywhere but it has given Pittsburghers false hope. I'm torn on the matter, obviously the Pens are a better run franchise and Mario may perhaps be the face of Pittsburgh sports history. However, because of the market size and baseball regulations, not much would change. It would be cool to have a Pittsburgh cable sports channel broadcasting the Pens/Pirates and other local teams to bring in more revenue than FSN Pittsburgh does already.

While I did not want to bring this up when talking to Mr. Huntington he did cite a similiar position. He said the key for small market teams is too avoid injuries as well as big, bad contracts. While it is easy to say with Lemieux/Burkle the Pirates could spend more money, will they spend it wisely? I don't just want millions thrown at top free agents to lock them in for multiple years. Currently, Neil is allocating the money properly stocking up with high level prospects who the Pirates have control over for many years at a small cost. It is a risk, but will prove to be rewarded just a few years down the road.

Now that the ownership tangent is over, we made two more stops in the 'Burgh. Here are pictures from our Steel City travels.

Readers, you know my disdain for the University of Pittsburgh, it is well-documented. We rode into the Oakland section of Pitsburgh and had a self guided tour of the campus. We walked through the basketball arena and stopped by the famous Cathedral of Learning. I hate to say it, but Pitt is a very nice campus. However, it is my civic duty as a Mountaineer to hate everything regarding our bitter rivals. On Wednesday the Panthers come to Morgantown for a battle of top ten college basketball game.

Before departing back to the Mountain State one final stop had to be made, PNC Park. I honored Willie Stargell the only way I knew how, bowing down. Pops would have been a great player to watch back in the day. He is one of three Pirates honored with statues, with a fourth on the way. It was announced at Pirate Fest that a Bill Mazeroski statue will be erected later this season.

The field was just feet in front of me but the dang metal bars were seperating me from happiness. It was still a cool moment enjoying PNC Park at its calmest. It truly is the most beautiful park in baseball and to be able to regularly attend games here is an awesome feeling. I am spoiled that this is my home park and I can watch a major league baseball games at a great price in a beautiful setting.

With February upon us and winter nearly over, actually its not but hey, we can hope, that could mean just one thing.

OPENING DAY IS JUST TWO MONTHS AWAY! (bought my tickets at Pirate Fest)

I wasn't the only proud Bucco mlblogger enjoying the fest, check out these blogs for more about the weekend event.

http://kristylovesherbuccos.mlblogs.com/

http://countingbaseballs.mlblogs.com/

http://section316.mlblogs.com

It was the moment I have been waiting for since the date was announced back in December. The Pirates Caravan rolled into Morgantown West Virginia to appease the 125 fans waiting for them at Damons. On top of having a great selection of barbecued items, Damons was gracious enough to host the Morgantown stop for the caravan.

The event began at noon, perfect timing for my 19 credit hour semester. I had a class at 9:30-11 and my next was not until 2:30. There was nothing greater than having my normal lunch break along side some of my favorite players. Manager John Russell, relievers Evan Meek and Kevin Hart, center fielder Andrew McCutchen and broadcasters Greg Brown and Bob Walk and the Pirate Parrot came to the event.

My buddy Andrew and I arrived at the restaurant ten minutes before noon and took our seats. We scouted the crowd and realized we were the only two college students among the fans. Weird considering Morgantown is a full fledged college town, but also understandable because this generation of Pirate fans really ceases to exist. I am of a rare breed and even Andrew (who is a die-hard Orioles fan) considers himself a bigger Pirate fan than most baseball fans in this area. I agree with him whole heartedly.

As we dined on our pulled pork sandwiches we were joined by two familiar faces, fellow WVU students in the journalism school. Although I give them credit for being at the event they were self proclaimed "not Pirates fans." However, they had a good time and admitted that they would follow along because they do support the Penguins and Steelers.

Greg Brown got the festivities under way by taking the mic and adressing those in attendance.

"Look at this sell out crowd!" he said in a joyous tone. I turned to Andrew and said, "He doesn't get to say that very often" A reference to the infamous spotty crowds that PNC Park is accustomed to.

However, he got the ball rolling introducing Meek, Hart, McCutchen, Russell and Walk to us all. Each Bucco member gave a minute long introduction and expressed their gratitude along with aspirations for the coming season.

While everyone pretty much sugar coated how great the upcoming season is going to be it did give me up. Hearing John Russell speak is not the most exciting thing in the world. He speaks softly with a monotone voice and it really could put you to sleep. However, he did seem excited with an intimate group of fans in front of him, but still maintained the montotone clarity, or lack there of.

The crowd cheered the loudest for this guy.

No, not Andrew, o wait, yes Andrew. McCutchen that is, not Schuerholz. When his name was announced there were hoops and hollers. Many questions were directed his way including one of my own. I asked a question opened to all on the panel but only Cutch answered. I asked, "Who was the most missed player traded last season?" A genral question without getting too in depth. I was more interested in what Russell had to say, but he did not answer. Meek was hurt most of last season and Hart came to Pittsburgh mid season by way of the Tom Gorzelanny/John Grabow to the Cubs trade. I did not expect them to form too tight of a relationship with the current Bucs. It was obvious that McCutchen said Nyjer Morgan, I knew it was coming. It was well documented back in Spring Training of 2009 that the duo were best buds and forming great chemistry that rubbed off on the rest of the team. I was happy when a large smile grew on Cutch's face when talking about Morgan.

I ended up collecting many autographs which are displayed below.

Evan Meek, Kevin Hart, Andrew McCutchen, Bob Walk, Greg Brown and John Russell all signed these beautiful picture cards. Each year I have been a Pirate fan these cards are passed out throughout the year. Usually they are just headshots of the players on a small sized card. This year has one of the best sets of these cards I have seen. The McCutchen pose is one of my favorites. He is thrusting his arm towards the air in celebration after one of his home runs.    

The shrine dedicated to McCutchen is one of my favorite. I had him autograph a ball on the sweet spot a picture card that was provided and the November issue of Baseball America which features Andrew on the cover, I had the card signed during a game at PNC Park earlier this year. 

It was an awesome hour and a half, we had a great time. This weekend I have another Pirates event coming my away. Pirates Fest is taking place in Pittsburgh, my WV buddies plan on going up Sunday. The event begins Friday night and concludes Sunday. Talk about an awesome Pirates week!

Here are some more photos from the day:

The autograph line

Andrew McCutchen and me. Too bad Andrew Schuerholz couldn't have taken a better pitcture from a better angle.

Announcer Greg Brown and myself posing for the camera. I explained to him about my journalism aspirations and that I hope to take his job someday. He was very encouraging and a down to earth fellow.

The Pirate Parrot made an appearance and brought laughter to the party.

Thank you all for letting me share this experience with you all!

A month or two ago I was nervous. The Pirates bullpen looked to be in shambles after a horrendous year in 2009.

There were injuries and youngsters that set the club back. It seemed that when the offense got the job done, a lead was blown thanks to a shaky bullpen.

Not to mention four of the mainstays in the bullpen were traded during the year. It was no secret that it was definitely an area of discussion that needed to be strongly discussed.

The offf season of 2009 gave Pirate fans mixed feelings. While acquiring Akinori Iwamura from the Rays, Pittsburgh also sent one of our best relievers, Jesse Chavez to Tampa Bay.

The Matt Capps situation was also ugly. Capps had a bad year, but I did not feel it was warrented to non-tender the guy after a one dismal year. But anywho, you cannot change the past.

Since that moment the Bucs have added a considerable number of relief pitchers.

Brian Bass, Vinnie Chulk and Jack Taschner were anything but groundbreaking but nonthesless a nice quantity to start re-building the pen.

Then things started to bulk up.

 Javier Lopez, the lefty veteran, gives the Bucs a presence. He has been with the Red Sox and Rockies over the past five years and has had solid stints at each stop. It was not a good year for Lopez in Boston last season. He was injured for a bulk of the time while only pitching in 14 games. However, while we dumped Capps because of a bad year we picked up another guy who had a bad year. Lopez is a cheaper option and very well could bounce back quickly.

Brendan Donnelly joined the mix recently. He is 38 and also will be a veteran to accompany Lopez in a relatively young bullpen. He is well-seasoned and well mediocre. However, he is indeed the epitome of a journey man. Pitching for 18 different professional organization since being drafted by the White Sox in 1992, he is surely not short on experience. I'm hoping he can overpower hitters and be a viable long inning guy.

The American League leader in innings pitched is now a Pirate. D.J. Carrasco joins the pe as a fresh face. He looks to be building a solid career and should be welcomed full heartedly in Pittsburgh. Various Whote Sox blogs reportedly were very sad to see him go.

The Grandaddy of them All. Sorry Rose Bowl, just stole that from a very exciting bowl game and I apoligize for that because I am a devout college football fan. And if the Rose Bowl committee knew I made that reference to Octavio Dotel they may sue me. I was happy to see us pursue this aging veteran. To actually sign him to a one year deal sent shockwaves through Pittsburgh. Yes his best years are behind him but he still has gas left in the tank. He is said to be the frontrunner for the closer position even after not being the closer for the White Sox last year. He made 6 million last year, but will probably make less in Pittsburgh.

In closing, it looks like the Pirates have completed their off season spending spree. Maybe. The pieces are there with the rebuilt and even stronger bullpen. The bench is filling out and viable talent. There will still be a rat race for the final spots in the starting rotation and that is where Ben Sheets comes in.

It was reported that the Pirates had representatives watching Sheets' throwing session earlier this week. It was been well documented that the Pirates are not in the full hunt for Sheets mostly because of monetary reasons. He is asking for 10 million a year which may scare even the top teams away after his injury problems. However, the Pirates may be willing to spend a pretty penny to make a splash before Spring Training begins. Just like the MLB did to the Marlins a few weeks ago, the Pirates may be investigated in terms of their revenue sharing allocation. By spending some last second cash on an available free agent, a starting pitcher ideally, it may cause an MLB turnoff and bypass the investigation.In the end, it may be the  thing for the organization to be under the microscope and right the ship so to speak. 

photo credits: bygoshitslangosch.mlblogs.com (2), fullpitchcount.com (2), whitesoxblog   

Who is Bixler? You ask. Well for one, he is an ex-Pirate and new member of the Cleveland Indians. Brian-his first name, has been dubbed one of the worst Buccos in the storied history of the Pittsburgh Baseball Club.

Bixler was swapped with Jesus Brito. Brito was a member of the Mahoning Valley Scrappers, my hometown minor league team back in my city of Youngstown, OH. The Scrappers are a Single A affiliate of the Indians. I have been to a handful of Scrappers games this past year and greatly recall seeing Brito play. My ears perked up whenever he was announced, partially because his name sounds oddly similiar to a Mexican food dish, Burrito.

Brito, pictured to the right, is an intriguing fellow. He is just 22 and has spent two seasons in the Tribe's farm system. Last season the Dominican Republic native batted .322 for Mahoning Valley, that is the fifth highest batting average among all minor leaguers for last season. Also interesting is that Jesus was born on Christmas Day, December 25th. I mean what else are you going to name a baby born on Christmas Day?

Even though he is light years from making the big league roster he definitely has shown potential to be a solid player. He has the ability to hit and get on base. His development will be crucial to his success.

Going back to my original statement, that Bixler is often regarded as one of the worst Pirate players in history. Honestly, it is true. In 68 major league games, the Sandusky, OH native owns just a .178 career batting average. Mario Mendoza, be happy. Bixler was often sought as the future shortstop to take over for Jack Wilson. Bixler never even came close to sniffing the dirt off Wilson's cleats. . 475 OPS, .237 SLG, only 6 extra base hits and 62 strikeouts in 152 at bats are not major league numbers at all. 

The fanfare from the trade of Bixler has resounded across online media since the trade was announced yesterday.

 There has been some colorful comments left on the official facebook fan page of the Pirates. Usually littered with comments trashing the team left and right, fans came out of the wood work to express gratitude that Bixler will never don the black and gold again. Here is a sample of what has been posted:

• "I liked bixler, until he forgot how to hit a baseball. Happy trails."
• "The Indians now have the worst player in baseball in their organization."
• "Bixler made Sammy Khalifa and Rey Quinones look pretty good"
• "Thank goodness Bixler is gone!"

Pretty harsh huh? I can't disagree though, it is well warranted. Bixler had every opprtunity to succeed and was handed opportunities to play. He failed, miserably, and rightfully showed he is not ready for a major league position.

My good friend, Jon Anderson from mceffect.com may have stated the best goodbye message to Bixler in his facebook status this morning.

Jon said: "woke up, remembered the Pirates traded Bixler yesterday... I think it's going to be a good day."

I got a good laugh out of that and will have to check on him later to see if his day went well.(Chances are, it did!)

This may have been the most landmark off-season deal the Bucs have made thus far. Yes they have added Bobby Crosby, Ryan Church and Akinori Iwamura. And the bullpen pieces are faling together. They signed veteran Brendan Donnelly to a one year deal and inked American League innings pitched leader DJ Carrasco. There are also talks of picking up the aging Octavio Dotel.

But this move brough Pirate fans together. The joy and happiness of seeing Bixler leave Pittsburgh gave something we have not had in quite sometime, hope. This is perhaps my favorite comment I have come across regarding the issue:

"Do you feel that? I haven't felt it in a long time. You know what it is? Optimism. I like this club. I like where they are heading. In Neal We Trust!"

Optimism my friends, it is a good thing to have.

photo credits: mlb.com, milb.com, tcd.ie

Which MLB player attends religious services every Sunday?

Well I'm sure many do, but one player stands out as one of the holiest players in the league.

RYAN CHURCH

Now I am not totally sure of Church's religious background, it was just a lame attempt at a joke.

Anyway, getting back on track here, the Pirates have reportedly signed outfielder Ryan Church to a one year, 1.5million dollar deal.

The former 14th round pick of the Indians really made a name for himself when he was a National. During his four years with the organization, his numbers really never stood out.

His highest batting average was .287 in 2005. His highest home run total was 15 in 2007. His OPS numbers range from the upper .700s to mid .800s. Nothing to brag about there, but Church is widely regarded as a reliable, yet solid player.

 Church spent brief and injury prone years in New York and Atlanta. He gained national attention in a bigger market playing for the Mets. His power numbers digressed after leaving Washington and so did his playing time. He was used in 4th outfielder capacity for both teams but still did his best to strive in the position he was in.

Church, now 31 and a seasoned league vet has always been a favorite player of mine. I have literally had the privelege of following him from the very beginning of his professional career.

Church was drafted by Cleveland in 2000. The Mahoning Valley Scrappers, short season A ball, usually recieve the top draft picks of the organization literally days after they are signed. It has been great watching former Indians stars such as C.C. Sabathia and Victor Martinez has been a real treat back in my hometown.

Church arrived on the scene in that summer and was a hot player destined for greatness right away. He was named New York Penn player of the week muliple times, a legaue leader in home runs and RBIs and just an exciting player to watch.

It is not very often a player in short season A ball makes a name for himself right out of the gate. Not only is there high turnover rates this low, the fans really do not look that much into these very young players.

As a pre-teen boy I was in awe of Church. Every Scrappers game I went to I would bug Ryan for his autograph. I never did get it though. The crowds were hyped full of tee-ball league players getting autographs as well. I was always too late. Now that he is a Pirate, I plan on earning his signature and explaining to him how he snubbed me some ten years ago.

Church's role on the Pirates will be unique. He will probably be th 4th outfielder for Pittsburgh, a role he is already used to. With Lastings Milledge and Andrew McCutchen inked into the left and center field positions the right field spot is definitely up for grabs. Brandon Moss and Church will be in the running for the starting spot, however, more than likely Garrett Jones will be the guy the Pirates are most comfortable with manning the outfield grass.

I would rather put Jones at first to give Church the starting position in right. But Jeff Clement looks to be the starting first baseman. Clement came to the Bucs via the Mariners and is considered quite the hot prospect. He does not have very good game experience in the big show, but he is a minor league prodigy. I am skeptical though because I honestly have to see it to believe it.

With the addition of Church the Pirates have just one more bench spot to fill. Brandon Moss and Delwyn Young will be competing for that final spot. This is a tough spot for me personally. I enjoy the potential of Moss, but he has never came through or lived up to any expectations. I hate to give up on him seamingly quickly considering he was part of the Jason Bay deal.

Delwyn Young on the other hand has exceeded expectations, my personal ones and that of Pirate fans. In what was really his first full big league season Young was a clutch hitter who had a knack for finding the holes to get the ball through. He ran out of gas at the end of the year and was really in a deep funk. Delwyn is one of my favorite players. He is likeable and brings a "fresh" feeling to the club.

It'll be an interesting race and a great storyline heading into Spring Training.

photo credits: homeruncards.com, lompoclockerroom.blogspot.com, wfan.com, brotherpeacemaker.com

The  Pirates

The Penguins

and

The Steelers

are my favorite professional sports teams. They play in the city I love and proudly don the colors black and gold. The tradition and longevity of the colors are synonymous with the Steel City and have been a staple to Pittsburgh's lifestyle.

This week a new team was on the block, sporting the black and gold.

The West Virginia basketball team. They announced that a black alternate jersey would be worn during the season earlier in the year and I was very excited. The tri fecta of black and gold expanded to a quadrilateral in terms of my favorite teams.

On Wednesday the Mountaineers busted out the jerseys in a game against Rutgers. WVU bounced back from their first loss of the season on New Years Day to rout the Scarlet Knights 86-52. It was great to see the team come out in sync for the huge victory.

The Mountaineers have a legit shot to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Currently ranked 8th in the country with a 12-1 record, WVU is poised and confident after that win on Wednesday. The road won't be easy and they will have to play their best game in and game out to get through the rigorous Big East schedule.

The only problem with the Mountaineers making a run at the Final Four is that it will coincide greatly with Spring Training! As I'm watching the development of the Pirates roster the Mountaineers will be lighting up the scoreboard during March Madness. However I do welcome both teams to win win and win. With the NCAA Championship game being played on April 4th and Opening Day baseball on April 5th good things will occur that week. It may be too much for me to handle.

photo credits: sportingnews.com, sportsbusinessdaily.com, steelertribute.com, msnsportsnet.com

Blue and Orange fits him well, don't ya think? Nah? I don't think so either.

Bay is quite the ball player and the baseball world has taken notice. I'm so proud that my favorite player is making the big bucks after proving himself worthy the past few years.

$66 million is a whole heck of a lot of money. Bay will make $16.5 million a year, playing for the Mets and he will be worth every penny.

Bay is the definition of a major league baseball player. He puts up the numbers, comes through in the clutch and is good with the fans and media. You really can't ask for anything greater than that when searching for a player to build your team around.

Bay batted for 100 RBIs and 30 home runs in back to back seasons with the Red Sox. In Pittsburgh he was just as productive with 2005 and 2006 being his best years when he belted over 30 HRs and 100 RBIs in each of those seasons. He has always flirted with the .300 mark in batting average making him one of the best combinations of power and average in the league. He has consistently hit above .900 is OPS in every season he has been in the MLB.

It was an absolute joy watching him play nearly 5 seasons in Pittsburgh. He was "the guy" for the Pirates and fans flocked to him. There's no question Bay shirts and jerseys were the hottest selling Pirate item during his time here. His batting song "Down with the Sickness" by Disturbed could be played miles around the Pittsburgh area and fans would recognize it mostly because it was played for Bay.

There is some skepticsm about the trading of Bay and the return we got for him, however it was necessary. There was no way the Pirates would be able to afford such a fine player. This was evident even with the amount the Red Sox paid him, which was at and above $6 million. My goodness I would love to be able to pay that much for a star player, seems like a peanut amount to you big market fans doesn't it?

I do think the Pirates unloaded him at the right time. Having been involved in a 3-way deal with the Dodgers, Red Sox and obviously the Pirates- Andy LaRoche, Brandon Moss and Bryan Morris and Craig Hanson (minor league relievers).

LaRoche and Moss were forced into starting positions and mostly underachieved. However, with a little time, patience and practice they very well could blossom to their full potential. Will either of them match the performance of Jason Bay? Probably not but good numbers       (.280, 20, 70) are definitely achievable in the pair.

Jason Bay is my favorite player. His outlook and demeanor are straightforward and welcoming. He isn't boastful with his abilities and his ego isn't inflated liek other players of his caliber. I do think he will fit in as a New Yorker, because he is so easy going. The bright lights of the Big Apple may be something new for him to adjust to, but the Trail, British Columbia knows what is at stake in a new surrounding. He may be on a short leash with fans if his performance falters, if so he will always have one fan who always has his back-ME.

Don't worry Jason, I'm planning your triumphant August 20th homecoming to PNC Park already!

photo credits:

getty images, morthas.com, si.com