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Below are the predictions of the top 10 NFL defenses for the 2015 season:

10. Pittsburgh Steelers: Now, don’t expect a reincarnated “Steel Curtain” defense this upcoming season. However, they are back to the respectable defensive days of the Steelers with former defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau. Long time Steelers’ linebacker coach Keith Butler will carry on LeBeau’s legacy in Pittsburgh by running the 4-3 scheme. With injuries to Ryan Shazier, Troy Polamalu, Ike Taylor, among many others, the Steelers weren’t given a fair opportunity to shine defensively, despite already allowing the sixth lowest rushing yards per game in 2014. While the latter two listed may be gone, players like Bud Dupree, Shazier, and Stephon Tuitt are expected to have vital roles to help pro bowlers Lawrence Timmons and Cameron Heyward facilitate the defense efficiently. Not to mention, their preeminent anticipated offensive performance this year will be so threatening, the defense will have a cake walk in helping lead their team as a favorite to come out of the AFC. (2014 finish: 18^th in yards and 18^th in points)

9. Arizona Cardinals: An injury ridden season held the Cardinals from contending for the Super Bowl despite an impressive 11-5 campaign. The majority of their losses occurred on defense, as Calais Campbell, Tyrann Mathieu, Daryl Washington, and Darnell Dockett missed time. Now that Dockett has been let go, Washington’s status is unknown for the future, and defensive coordinator Todd Bowles is now the Jets’ head coach, the Cardinals will have a lot of voids to fill. Campbell and Mathieu will be returning healthy, and rookie Markus Golden out of Missouri will need to step up and solidify the gap left from John Abraham’s departure. Last year, with all of these injuries and obstacles to overcome, the Cardinals still finished fifth in the league in points allowed per game with 18.7. This leads to expectations for a stronger performance this year. (2014 finish: 23^rd in points allowed per game and 5^th in points per game).

8. Houston Texans: With acquisitions in the off season that include Benardrick McKinney and Vince Wilfork, the Texans look to sustain one of the stronger defenses in the league. Led by arguably the cornerstone of the NFL in JJ Watt, the defense is expected to light up all sorts of noise, including with their pass rushing threats on both the defensive line and linebacker corps. The significantly talented Jadeveon Clowney will be returning to the Texans lineup healthy with an effort to elevate the pass rushing game when Watt may be occupied with double teaming. Fixing up their pass defense that was 20^th in the league last year, the Texans have brought in Rahim Moore to team up with Jonathan Joseph as leading veterans to improve the team’s overall game. Additions via the draft such as Kevin Johnson, who was relentless in shutting down opposition at Wake Forest, with 30 pass deflections in the span of two years, will add to their threatening defensive front. (2014 finish: 16^th in yards allowed, 7^th in points allowed)

7. Detroit Lions: As arguably the second best defense in 2014, there most likely won’t be much improvement this season. Instead, there will probably be regression in the quality of their play, as Ndamukong Suh was shipped out to Miami this off season. While Haloti Ngata may be a stellar replacement at defensive tackle, he is on the wrong side of 30 and not quite as impactful as Suh. Suh was a game changer that you had to game plan for. Filling in the void will be arduous to say at the very least. This is not to take away from the spectacular cast of defenders the Lions have right now, with caliber players like DeAndre Levy, Stephen Tulloch, and pro bowler Glover Quinn. The defensive side of the ball will still remain a strength of their game, one that will be elite even. However, with Suh gone and no real defensive threats acquired in the draft, it’s hard to imagine a repeated performance. (2014 finish: 2^nd in yards allowed and 3^rd in points allowed)

6. Denver Broncos: The Broncos will yet again possess a defensive prowess that will be supremely successful and wreak havoc on a multitude of levels. However, the absence of Terrance Knighton will hurt. Knighton ended up signing via free agency with the Washington Redskins, which caused a massive hole to fill in the Broncos’ defensive line. Besides the possibility of maybe moving Shane Ray to the defensive end spot, the defensive line will probably take a step back this year after Knighton’s departure. This is not to say that the defense will not execute their responsibilities in an elite fashion like they were able to in 2014. With perennial pro bowlers like Demarcus Ware, Aqib Talib, and the pass rushing extraordinaire Von Miller, the Broncos are still destined for greatness on the defensive side of the ball. They will be successful with the players I listed and clear up and comers in Danny Trevathan, Brandon Marshall, and Chris Harris. (2014 finish: 3^rd in yards allowed and tied for 16^th in points allowed)

5. New York Jets: With the additions of Antonio Cromartie and Darrelle Revis in the off season, the Jets are in store for another elite season defensively. While offensively speaking it may be different, the Jets defense has always over performed, whether or not they have a star studded cast. These additions are vital to their success and vital to improving their pass defense that was last in interceptions and third in touchdowns allowed. Not to mention, the trio of pro bowlers Sheldon Richardson, Muhammad Wilkerson, and the supremely talented first round draft pick Leonard Williams, will form one of the top three defensive line corps in the NFL. While Ryan’s defensive legacy will be one to miss at MetLife, newly appointed head coach Todd Bowles is a no nonsense figure that will demand perfection. If there was anyone to carry the torch of coaching defense for the Jets franchise it would be Todd Bowles. The former Cardinals defensive coordinator, who was dealt an unfair hand of injuries, will find a way of overcoming any obstacle coming his way, like he did in Arizona. (2014 finish: 6^th in yards allowed and 23^rd in points allowed)

4. Kansas City Chiefs: With the sublime news of Eric Berry’s cancer free results, the Chiefs can only feel ecstatic and feel even more optimistic going into the season. Pro bowler Derrick Johnson will also be returning, following a torn ACL last season, which should immensely improve this defense. Pass rushing anchors like defensive tackle Dontari Poe, outside linebacker Tamba Hali, and resigned outside linebacker Justin Houston are expected to be even more dangerous this upcoming season. Houston, who just signed a six-year, $101 million deal, is coming off a surreal campaign of 22 sacks. Houston looks to carry that momentum into this season if he stays healthy. If this cast stays healthy, one must feel confident about their elite status defensively. Additions via the draft with players like Marcus Peters should help defensive coordinator Bob Sutton feel secure about his defense’s performance. (2014 finish: 7^th in yards allowed, 2^nd in points allowed)

3. Buffalo Bills: The Bills undoubtedly have the most ferocious and tenacious defensive line in the NFL right now. With Mario Willliams, Kyle Williams, Jerry Hughes, and Marcell Dareus, the Bills are expected to carry their 2014 campaign into 2015. Dareus, who came into the season failing his physical, managed to notch 10 sacks and 49 tackles for an all pro vote this past season. Despite the departure of Kiko Alonso – who would have probably elevated this team’s ranking higher on this list had he not been traded – Preston Brown is expected to continue solidifying the middle linebacker spot this season. Brandon Spikes’ absence from the team, while not on respectable circumstances, won’t really hurt the Bills’ chances of sustaining a high level of success. After leaving the scene of an accident, the Bills had no choice but to let the middle linebacker go, and Preston Brown may be able to not just fill in the void but elevate the production of that position. Even secondary players like Corey Graham and Stephon Gilmore are ones not to shy away from, as the two led the Bills’ third best pass defense by only allowing 205 yards per game. (2014 finish: 4^th in points per game allowed, 4^th in yards per game allowed)

2. Miami Dolphins: Around the week 13 mark of the season, the Dolphins were the second best defense in the league. Although that mark would eventually collapse to 11^th in terms of yards allowed. To expect them to slip like that again would not be a wise decision, especially considering their acquisition of Ndamukong Suh in the off season. At only 16^th in the NFL in sacks last year, the Dolphins were in need of a threatening pass rush  that they will need to contend in a tough AFC East. Adding Suh, with Cameron Wake and Olivier Vernon at the defensive end spots, can only help validate the prediction for this team to succeed defensively. A future interior linebacker stud in Jelani Jenkins, who accounted for 110+ tackles last year and 3.5 sacks, combined with Brent Grimes at cornerback definitely suggests future success in 2015. (2014 finish: 11th in yards allowed, 20^th in points allowed)

1. Seattle Seahawks: Back to back….to back no. 1 defenses are what to expect from the Seahawks this upcoming season. Already holding that crown in 2013 and in 2014, the Hawks are coming back healthy with the cast and crew still at a relatively young age. More importantly, no key players were sent away. Byron Maxwell was the only real defensive starting change this off season, and the Hawks, in terms of caliber of play, went with a lateral move in Cary Williams from the Eagles. Besides that, Bobby Wagner, Michael Bennett, and the rest of the legion of boom will continue to live on in 2015. The only obstacle they will overcome is that of remaining healthy, as Wagner was out for five games himself. While there may not be a lot of other pressing injuries sustained by their star players, the consistency in staying healthy, like the Hawks have had for the past three years, is rare to come by. Earl Thomas, Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, KJ Wright, and Wagner have missed a combined six games since 2012, which is very impressive to come by. As long as this team can sustain the health they have had to continue excelling on the field as the best in the league, don’t be surprise for a recurring performance. (2014 finish: 1^st in yards allowed, 1^st in points scored)

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Fans can utter what they want about Alex Rodriguez’s past, however there is no denying that his 2015 campaign has been superlative, as the slugger went yard three times in the Yankees’ 8-5 win on Saturday. With a historic mark in the win, Rodriguez has moved up to sixth All-Time in multi home run games, tying hall of famer Hank Aaron with 62.

The 21-year veteran accounted for four of the Yankees’ eight runs in yesterday’s win against the Twins including a ninth inning homer that tied the game.

Hitting .277 with 23 home runs and 58 RBI this season, Rodriguez may not be finished adding to the record books in other areas. Of past and present players at the age of 40, Rodriguez is on-pace to hit the most home runs and to accumulate the highest slugging percentage in a single season. His current pace is to hit 39 home runs with 98 RBI in 152 games. All three numbers exceed any mark since his last All-Star season in 2011.

Photo taken by Ann Heisenfelt of the Associated Press

Many doubted a season even remotely like this would occur for a player – at the age 40 – who previously was on the descending side of his career and had just returned from an entire season suspension. However, Rodriguez has revitalized his career and has established himself as arguably the most valuable Yankee this season.

In just the past 17 games, Rodriguez has belted eight home runs and has knocked in 13 runs, helping the Yankees win 12 games in that span.

Many believed that, despite his controversies, he was snubbed in the All-Star voting results, as the 14-time All-Star missed the vote for his third consecutive active season. With the stacked cast of American League designated hitters that were statistically better this year including Seattle’s Nelson Cruz and Texas’ Prince Fielder, there simply was not enough room to have Rodriguez on the team.

Nonetheless, the game is predicated on playing to win as a team and not as an individual player, which is exactly what Rodriguez is doing, as the Yankees are in first place in the AL East.

Rodriguez is tied for second in most career three home run games with five, behind Johnny Mize and Sammy Sosa who have six. Following his ninth inning shot, Yankee catcher John Ryan Murphy would seal the deal with a curtain call three run shot a few at-bats later.

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Photo Credit: Brian Bahr/Getty Images

A gunslinger, a risk taker, and a controversial figure, yet one of the greatest football players of All Time are all words that define the meritorious quarterback Brett Favre. The legend was honored this past Saturday at Lambeau Field with over 67,000 fans in attendance too see his induction into the team’s Hall of Fame, as well as the retirement of his No. 4.

Despite the controversy that ensued with his departure from Green Bay, the honor was long overdue.

Joining Don Hutson, Bart Starr, Ray Nitschke, Reggie White, and Tony Canadeo as the only Packers to have retired their numbers, Favre led a legendary 16-year stretch under center for Green Bay from 1992-2007.

It was inevitable for the man to have his jersey retired, as Favre’s history in Green Bay runs wild with a multitude of both franchise and NFL records as the Packers greatest quarterback ever.

For the record, Rodgers cannot be dismissed for his numerous accolades and when all is said and done, will probably be not just the franchise’s best, but the NFL’s best ever.

But that does not negate the current status of who truly is the best in green and gold, and it’s unanimously Favre. In his time, Favre accumulated 508 passing touchdowns (second best in NFL history) and a NFL best 71,838 passing yards and 302 wins.

Photo taken by Doug Mills of the Associated Press.

Owning just about all veteran passing records is not why Favre is the greatest Packer. Instead, the record that stands above them all is his 255 consecutive games played as a Packer.

While Favre doesn’t have a nickname – though one could say that the “Iron Man” is fitting for him – his record for starting games extends beyond what he did as a Packer, but as the leader in the NFL too.

He stood above the rest, proving to be the leader that consistently showed up for the Packers week in and week out.

Concussion, broken thumb, coughing up blood or completely healthy, Favre would show up in uniform, and while it wasn’t always pretty, he would deliver for his team. The man even delivered with four touchdowns and almost 400 yards the day after his dad’s passing.

Most notably though, Favre led the Packers to three consecutive NFC Championship games from 1995-1997, two consecutive Super Bowl appearances, and a win in 1996.

To add to that, the 11-time Pro Bowler was not just a three-time All Pro throughout those years, but a three time MVP as well.

Favre may have left Green Bay for another team in an abrupt and indecisive fashion – as he had supposedly contemplated retirement – but his 16 year tenure was nothing to sugarcoat.

His passion to play for Green Bay was emphasized to the utmost degree in every one of those 255 games he started consecutively. His departure from Green Bay was not his wish.

As a victim of prematurely retiring following his NFC Championship game campaign in 2007, his intention was to come back, not just to play football, but to play for the organization he loves.

Naturally, a complicated clause in his contract led to a highly publicized dispute with Packers management, after his official retirement at that time in March 2008.

Favre was heartbroken and had made repeated efforts to resolve the situation with management, but was forced out.

It was understandable to let Rodgers step in at the helm, but Favre’s loyalty to the Green Bay franchise was nothing to question. Green Bay has always been in his heart, even as a Jet or as a rival Viking.

To say he had a vengeance after he left Green Bay could not be farther from the truth, as his intentions were to solely play football, the only passion that exceeds Green Bay.

Reconciliation has taken place now, as evident by the warm welcome Favre received at Lambeau Field, with fans chanting, “MVP! MVP! MVP!”

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Photo Credit: Kirk Irwin – Getty Images

It’s no secret that the Boston Red Sox are coveting an ace to help ameliorate their pitching woes this year, and if there is anyone to help redeem this atrocious 2015 campaign thus far, it’s Johnny Cueto.

Their restraint of pursuing Cueto, however, remains an issue going forward, as they intend to pursue a younger cast of pitchers instead, according to WEEI.com’s Rob Bradford.

The Red Sox are also expected not to pursue pitchers that are looking for a larger compensation. The ultimate caveat suggests the Red Sox will not find an immediate solution to their pitching by the end of this season.

Cueto, of the Cincinnati Reds, who has been placed on the trading block, has many patrons looking into investing in him for the long term future, including the Astros, Blue Jays, Royals and Yankees.

At only age 29, Cueto marks a laudable 2.73 ERA with 113 strikeouts in 118 innings pitched, posting a 6-6 record this year for the Reds. Keep in mind, this is a pitcher that has sustained a below 3.00 ERA for the past five seasons, while coming off a CY Young campaign that left him second in the voting last year.

There is no need to prepare for the long run, when a pitcher as respectable as Cueto is has yet to even exceed the age of 30.

Fifth in the league in strikeouts last year, fourth in ERA and tied for second in wins, Cueto looks to be right in the prime of his career.

Now is the time to swing for the fences with pursuing Cueto to be the ace the Red Sox so desperately need.

Some say the Red Sox have already located their ace, as Eduardo Rodriguez has received the utmost praise by former Red Sox great Curt Schilling.

Recording a 5-2 record with a 3.59 ERA, the future appears bright for the 22-year-old. But to rely on this youngster to be the ace carrying the load is not fair, nor realistic.

Even a collection of other youth put in the rotation to carry the load is not bound to happen immediately either, especially when there are no ideal candidates to really cultivate from Pawtucket.

There is also the issue of affording the price that comes with Cueto, especially after the mishap with overpaying the unproven Rick Porcello $20+ million per year.

Cueto will probably be seeking out a deal that will pay him over $15 million per year for long term, and with how well he is playing and his emergence into his prime, it’s undoubtedly worth the investment.

Consideration for an offensive star or even a star reliever such as Cueto’s teammate Aroldis Chapman who is expected to leave as well, is not necessary.

Plain and simple, the Red Sox need an ace; it’s absolutely necessary if they want to salvage the season and succeed in the near future.

The expense may be significant, but a veteran like Cueto wouldn’t just fit in cohesively with their rotation, but would also give a better shot at resuscitating the team’s abysmal season thus far.

The post Cueto is the Answer to Boston’s Pitching Woes appeared first on Insider Sports Network.

Photo Credit: Ronald C. Modra – Getty Images

To recapitulate the controversy that ensued with Pete Rose in recent weeks, the former Cincinnati Red has been indicated as not only one to have gambled on games he managed, but ones he played in as well.

New documents obtained by ESPN’s Outside the Lines program suggest Rose bet extensively on baseball as a player-manager for the Reds in 1986. The documents contained a notebook that had been seized by the US Postal Inspection Service in October 1989 and had been sealed up until this past month.

The notebook manifested numerous pages from Rose’s former gambling associate, Michael Bertolini, that held betting details for games from March through July in 1986, listing Rose’s compensation as well.

“This does it. This closes the door,” said former federal prosecutor John Dowd, who led the investigation on Rose’s gambling activities.

These records, along with sworn testimony from former bookie Ron Peters that conducted business with Rose from 1984 to 1986, surely appears to put this matter to an end. So what should be his future regarding his business with MLB in any capacity?

To be blunt, the man deserves Hall of Fame induction. It cannot be stressed enough how pathetic of a curtailment it is for Rose to not have his name on the ballot.

To accumulate the staggering production of 4,256 hits, 746 doubles, and 5752 total bases which rank first, second, and seventh in MLB history respectively is unimaginable.

Nicknamed Charlie Hustle, Rose was prominent for his impressive work ethic in baseball that never had a whiff of tainted controversy with any performance enhancing drugs or substances.

Rose may have posted unreachable numbers, but they were posted as a result of his meticulous approach and determination to go above and beyond. His versatility as a player to play multiple positions was unparalleled, as Rose excelled in six different positions in his career.

Work ethic was epitomized by this superstar and it was all genuine in the way he delivered…yet we deny him entry into Cooperstown? We allow performance enhancing drug users eligibility to be inducted, but Rose is considered a different story?

The act of compromising the integrity of the game is the controversy associated with Rose’s actions. Rose’s authenticity in terms of whether or not he threw games away is what is being questioned, not his actual level of production, which was 100 percent authentic and clean.

Meanwhile, players like Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Sammy Sosa, and Mark McGwire are given the nod to have the chance to be elected, despite their illegally enhanced level of play. The four players have been associated with performance enhancing drugs throughout their career

Both acts question the game’s integrity, but at least Rose’s actual contribution was never tainted and that every one of his 4,256 career hits was all him and not a bevy of steroid injections.

To analyze Rose’s career, one can look through every statistic as evidence of his contribution to his team and to the league as a player, but the same can’t be said for the others.

One can’t analyze the PED user’s careers for what they contributed, because there is no certainty as for when everything they delivered was pure. It’s contradictory and even hypocritical for one to allow them to have a shot at the Hall of Fame, while Rose is renounced.

The public knows Rose is a true 17 time All-Star, two time gold glover, three time world series champion, and model representative of the MVP honor. Each home run hit and strike out thrown is not ensured to have 100 percent legitimacy with the other four players.

Players like Bonds cheated and unfortunately succeeded in gaining an unfair edge over other players, while Rose stuck to his own guns and won in the fairest fashion.

This isn’t an attempt to bash steroid users, although it appears they’ve been coddled too much. Instead, it’s simply another argument to be made for why Rose deserves enshrinement.

It has been 26 years and counting since Rose was last an MLB employee and 23 years since Rose has been eligible for induction into the Hall of Fame.

Enough is enough: if Rose is to be kept from working in MLB ever again, so be it. Although an argument can be made to suggest a second chance, refusing to honor him for his heroics as a player is absurd.

Racists, criminals, and yes, even cheaters have been inducted into the Hall of Fame. But Rose is the one to be. Pud Galvin is an immediate red flag that comes to mind and accentuates the hypocrisy and pathetic ignorance of MLB staying true to valuing the game’s integrity more than anything else.

Galvin’s time of play was far before professional baseball took actual consideration into banning performance enhancing substances, but to honor a cheater as him, despite dismissing Rose, is simply illogical.

It’s been long enough for Rose to remain out of this prestigious honor that his meritorious career has warranted.

Rose wasn’t just a star player, but was someone who revolutionized MLB in what he accomplished – and it all stemmed from his hard work shaping his average level of talent into an elite skillset.

This All-Time leader in games played changed MLB for over 24 seasons and should be honored for his dedication and commitment to the game that we might never see again.

Getting back into MLB as an employee may be a work in progress, but 23 years out of the Hall of Fame is a travesty for a man that was among the greatest at what he did.  It’s up to Rob Manfred to make it right.

The post Pete Rose’s case for Cooperstown appeared first on Insider Sports Network.

Photo taken by Denis Poroy of Getty Images.

The National League All-Star voting process was far less deplorable with bias than the American League, but it still has it’s share of disappointments.

Meet your National League starters:

First Baseman – Paul Goldschmidt (ARI): The Diamondbacks may be in third place in the NL West, but Paul Goldschmidt may find himself first in the MVP voting. The now third time All-Star has scorched 20 home runs on the year while leading the National League in batting average (.348). One could say this is the most feared hitter in the major leagues, as he currently leads the league in walks with 66. Many may have overlooked the elite hitter this year, but he seems to be on a mission to deliver his best performance yet.

Second Baseman – Dee Gordon (MIA): Cut and dry, Gordon has wheels. The second time All-Star has proven yet again the difficulty that comes with subduing his successful delivery of getting on base. Gordon ranks second among MLB players in stolen bases with 29. He is also first in hits with 116 in just 79 games played. The trade from a NL contending Dodgers may have cost the star a run in the playoffs as the Marlins remain fourth in the NL East, but his career has set off in Miami to accomplish unbelievable feats. At tenth in the MLB for Defensive WAR, Gordon displays the versatility that validates why he was elected to the All-Star game yet again.

Photo taken by Alex Brandon of the Associated Press.

Third Baseman – Todd Frazier (CIN): While I do not dismiss this election, I did not see eye to eye with the voters. Frazier has been surreal this year and has thrived into a highly respected baseball player that can deliver with power in a flash. It’s evident that he has produced for the Reds this year, batting .285 with 25 home runs and 54 RBI. His defensive play wasn’t quite as impressive, accumulating a 0.2 defensive WAR on the season.

Shortstop –Jhonny Peralta (STL): The National League’s shortstop cast isn’t quite as sublime as the American League’s impressive cast, but Jhonny Peralta is one shortstop that’s holding up and playing well. The now three time All-Star has redeemed himself from a disappointing 2014 performance in his first year as a Cardinal, hitting .297 with 11 home runs and 42 RBI. Peralta ranks second among all shortstops in home runs, third in RBI and fourth in average. He has been a notable contributor for the Major League best St. Louis Cardinals and is on pace for his best statistical year yet.

Outfielder – Bryce Harper (WAS): There is not a more suitable candidate in the league to win the MVP award than Bryce Harper. Now his third trip to the All-Star game, Harper is tied for second in home runs among MLB players with 25, second in average (.344), fourth in RBI with 60, and is the league-leader in slugging percentage and OBP. There simply has not been anyone in MLB more electrifying than Harper, who has vastly improved from his previous three satisfactory, yet not exceptional seasons. Harper has elevated to greater heights that don’t simply warrant an MVP election, but a historical year for the ages.

Outfielder – Giancarlo Stanton (MIA): While the three time All-Star won’t be participating in this game, nor any game for the next 3+ weeks, Stanton has been clobbering the baseball thus far, leading the league with 27 home runs. Ranked second among all MLB players in RBI (67), Stanton has established himself as the best active power hitter in the Majors. Despite experiencing a serious facial injury last year in September, Stanton recovered back into his elite form, smashing the baseball to unbelievable lengths. Stanton is a selection you can’t go wrong with in representing the National League outfield.

Outfielder – Matt Holliday (STL): Just because he is a player with a previous history of accolades and is on the best team in the league does not mean he is the best at his position this year, nor should receive an All-Star selection. Holliday is one to fit that assertion, as the leftfielder has missed 29 of the Cardinals’ 81 games this season. While hitting a respectable .303, he has only managed to compile a mediocre three home runs on the year. Holliday is a six time All-Star that has a bevy of accomplishments worthy to honor as a possible future Cooperstown inductee. However this season does not constitute a starting role in the All-Star game. His divisional rival Andrew McCutchen is far more suitable for the honor than Holliday, knocking in 51 runs and having hit 10 home runs. McCutchen has actually been present during his team’s season, as the Pirates are the favorite to win the Wild Card, which is worth noting for his reason to start.

Photo taken by Mike Ehrman of Getty Images.

Catcher – Buster Posey (SF): Posey is the right choice for representing the National League at catcher, as the three time All-Star is establishing himself not just as an elite catcher, but an elite hitter. Posting a .304 average on the year, Posey is tied for seventh in RBI with 57, while leading all catchers in average, RBI, home runs, and hits. More importantly, Posey has contributed more to his team’s success than any other catcher in MLB, ranking tenth in the league in WAR (4.1). There simply was not a better choice at catcher than Posey, as he is on pace for yet another spectacular year.

The post 2015 MLB All Star Game: Evaluations on the NL Starters appeared first on Insider Sports Network.

Photo taken by Rob Carr of Getty Images.

Don’t be shaken by the drug test results for Antonio Gates. The man simply made a mistake, and there’s nothing more to think of it.

Gates’ most recent drug test revealed a performance enhancing drug within his system, which as a result, will land the tight end with a four game suspension to kick of the 2015 season. Despite the opportunity to appeal, Gates was adamant in accepting the punishment for not further researching the components of substance in which he took.

In comparison to Indianapolis’ Robert Mathis, Gates also failed to remember to check with the NFL about whether or not he was allowed to use that substance. Both athletes were misled about the substances, as the ingredients of each drug were not clearly detailed and decided not to contact the NFL for assurance that what they were doing was legal.

This, of course, was their fault and they do deserve a punishment as a result. But their punishment should take away from their legacy. What speaks more to a mistake committed is the intent behind it; when someone intentionally circumvents the rules, that’s where one’s legacy may be labeled tainted.

The intent of Antonio Gates was not to cheat. It was a “holistic” approach in an effort to recover from injuries sustained last year, and there is nothing to dispute it.

Gates has never and would never be associated with something so low as to intend to cheat. Not a whiff of controversy has been associated with his name in regards to his on-the-field play.

To think the tight end’s intention was to take an illegal substance in an attempt to get back to the Pro Bowl after a four year absence is absurd. Depending on the way one could look at it, it’s fair to say Gates’ game is aging like fine wine.

The eight time Pro Bowler hauled in 12 touchdowns last year, which marks the second highest of his career. In the 2013 season, Gates posted his highest catching mark since 2009. It is safe to say his regression is minimal if at all.

His work ethic is second to none, which is why he has been a star in the league as long he has. His ability to mentor athletes stands out even more. Ladarius Green, his apparent successor at tight end, has expressed his fair share of compliments for what he has done.

“He has taught me so much and I can still learn more. He is a great person all around so it’s a great situation for me,” said Green.

It was inevitable to see how Gates would impact this league, as he was simply destined to be not just an All-Time great, but only fall short to his former AFC rival Tony Gonzalez at tight end.

Tied for most 10+ touchdown seasons by a tight end with four, third in yards for a tight end, and third in receptions as well. He also ranks fourth among tight ends in 100 yard games in a career and doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon.

It’s fair to say Gates has already solidified his spot as the second best tight end of All Time and still has plenty left in the tank to continue to dominate at his 6’4″ and 260 pound stature.

A blemish on this otherwise prodigious career that simply lacks evidence to suggest it’s anything more than a mistake should not compromise this man’s induction into the Hall of Fame. The mistake speaks less to affecting their character than the people prescribing the medicines to properly notify these athletes of what they are actually consuming.

The post Despite Suspension, Antonio Gates’ Legacy Remains Untainted appeared first on Insider Sports Network.

Photo taken by Jim Rogash of Getty Images.

To envision a perfect MLB All-Star game lineup for both the American League and the National League is simply wishful thinking. That dream will never materialize into an actual reality, as fans once again fail to prove they know what’s best with their vote. Both starting lineups will be evaluated below on whether or not their performance warrants this prestigious honor.

Meet your American League starters:

First Baseman – Miguel Cabrera (DET):  Why not vote him in? I have absolutely no issue with this selection, as the nine time All-Star continues to build his hall of fame resume with another spectacular year, leading the league with a .350 batting average. Despite a lengthy career of being at the top, Cabrera keeps delivering for his team, whether it’s his 54 RBI, 15 home runs, or a league-leading .456 OBP. It’s unfortunate that the slugging Tiger won’t be sauntering his way up to the plate in Cincinnati come July 14, as Cabrera succumbed to a nagging calf strain that will be keeping him out the next six weeks.

Photo taken by Jim Rogash of Getty Images.

Second Baseman – Jose Altuve (HOU): Here is where the voting results don’t correlate with the reality of who has actually been the best at their position. Altuve was phenomenal last year, leading the league in average and hits with .341 and 225 respectively. He also finished second in stolen bases with 56. Altuve has been All-Star caliber this year, but nowhere near the dominant level he exhibited in last year’s campaign. Hitting .303 with 24 stolen bases thus far, Altuve hasn’t exactly lived up to the expectations in evolving even more from his elite form in 2014.  Don’t misinterpret this, as Altuve is having a very respectable year, especially as a leader on the AL West leading Astros, but are we forgetting about Jason Kipnis? Kipnis, of the Cleveland Indians, is hitting .341 on the year and is leading the league in doubles right now, despite the pressure of delivering for an AL Central fourth place team. Altuve’s big name shouldn’t blind others from really evaluating who is producing more, as Kipnis is clearly the right candidate for the selection.

Shortstop – Alcides Escobar (KC): Another swing and a miss with the All-Star voting, as the American League leading Royals have packed a lot of players onto the final voting process, with four starters. Escobar is one I am failing to understand why he made the final lineup, as the first time All-Star has a .276 batting average with a measly two home runs, 28 RBI and five stolen bases.  Escobar is definitely a contributor, with what he has done in elevating the Royals’ level of play going back to last year’s World Series campaign. The team is on pace to continuing that campaign on into next year, but his role in that is far more minimal than one would deem all-star worthy.

Photo taken by Duane Burleson of the Associated Press.

Third Baseman – Josh Donaldson (TOR): Donaldson was a selection worth noting, because it was the right call to make. Donaldson’s heroics are not to be dismissed, as the second time All-Star has notched 20 home runs, 56 RBI, and is sporting a .296 average thus far. His defensive play has also been dominant, as he ranks among the top twenty in defensive WAR this year. A play to epitomize Donaldson’s efforts as a third baseman is his diving catch into the stands against the Tampa Bay Rays on June 24. What ultimately sets Donaldson apart from the field his overall contribution to his team, where the star ranks ninth in the MLB in WAR with a 4.3 mark. The versatility that comes with a Donaldson – hitting for power and average while fielding efficiently – is quite a rarity and it’s not as apparent to the respected competition. Donaldson has been a legitimate reason for a multitude of Blue Jay victories, which is why he deserves the honor.

Outfielder – Mike Trout (LAA): Mike Trout is on pace to posting yet another elite year, with 21 home runs, 45 RBIs, 60 runs, and a .299 batting average. The reigning American League MVP has clearly established himself as the future of the MLB and has not disappointed in living up to those expectations. Aiming for the lead, while now second, in the highly competitive AL West, Trout’s value to the team is paramount, and they’ll only gain an edge on the Astros, if Trout is both healthy and consistent in his game. Ranking third in MLB WAR, with a 4.92, Trout is a serious candidate to win the MVP again, and if his Angels can climb up and settle into first place in the AL West, he may end up being the recipient again.

Outfielder – Lorenzo Cain (KC): Cain is absolutely suitable for this election, as the star is taking the diamond by storm both offensively and defensively. Cain is the Royals most valuable offensive player, hitting .305 on the year with 36 RBI and 16 stolen bases. His contribution to the team has ultimately made him a leader and one that teammates can admire and emulate as a hitter and as the defensive star he has become (currently 12^th in defensive WAR).

Outfielder – Alex Gordon (KC): Again, the overstuffing of ballots to get half of a team’s offensive lineup on the starting All-Star Game lineup is simply farcical. Gordon is another selection that just doesn’t stand tall marking a .262 average with 10 home runs and a .380 OBP. There is simply nothing impressive about how Gordon has played this year, as the left fielder was nowhere near as efficient as he was last year, especially when you factor in his defensive absence. Instead of Gordon, the young, prodigious JD Martinez of the Detroit Tigers should be starting instead. Martinez is hitting .285 on the year with 23 home runs and 56 RBIs. Martinez may not just be the snub of the All-Star game voting this year, but may be the snub of public attention whatsoever on the diamond. He has been absolutely phenomenal thus far this year, and it’s fair to expect he’ll hold down the fort for when Cabrera is out on the disabled list.

Catcher – Salvador Perez (KC): Another Royal that I did not think deserved to be starting in the All Star game is Perez. I respect his game, as the catcher has hit 13 home runs on the year with a .263 batting average. He’s a solid fielder as well, and I would not mind him representing the American League on the roster, but as the starter? Perez has been nothing more than a good American League catcher this year, but he doesn’t even lead MLB catchers, let alone American League catchers, in anything this year. The spot should be given to Stephen Vogt of the Oakland Athletics, who has belted 13 home runs, while hitting .290 this year. Vogt has filled in impressively at the catcher spot, despite All-Star Derek Norris’ departure from the Athletics this year. The all-star reserve leads all catchers in OBP, triples, and slugging percentage.

Designated Hitter – Nelson Cruz (SEA): While the Mariners may not be contenders for the AL West, they at least have obtained bragging rights for the best designated hitter in the Majors. Cruz is on pace to delivering another spectacular season, having swatted 21 home runs on the year while hitting .304. Coming off of a horrific slump in June, in which he hit only one home run the entire month, while his average dropped almost 30 points, Cruz still remains second in batting average for designated hitters and first in home runs. A gloomy outlook on the Mariners’ season isn’t enough to suppress this slugger from consistently producing, as the hitter ranks 10th in the MLB in slugging percentage.

The post 2015 MLB All Star Game: Evaluations on the AL Starters appeared first on Insider Sports Network.

Photo Credit: Brian Blanco – Getty Images

While Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Chris Archer’s impressive 2015 campaign deserves mention for Cy Young award candidacy, the Boston Red Sox remain the obstacle he has yet to master.

The Rays failed to overcome the power of the Red Sox in their 5-3 loss on Sunday.

Archer may have struck out 10 over six innings of work, but his effort to suppress the power that stemmed from Pablo Sandoval, Alejandro De Aza, and his rival, David Ortiz, was simply not enough.

Archer began his struggles on the day in the top of the second, when Sandoval and De Aza scorched a pair of solo shots over the wall. Big Papi later belted a two run homer of his own in the fourth.

From there on, Archer had no choice but to rely on his team to catch up. Despite some impressive hitting, including from former BoSox player Grady Sizemore, the opposing pitching was too much to overcome.

In Archer’s nine starts against the Red Sox, he has accumulated a 1-6 record with an ERA of 5.48. Against other AL East opponents he boasts a 2.88 ERA and a 28-18 record. Even with the continuous struggles the Red Sox have on all levels imaginable in recent times, Archer has yet to neutralize the team. His last victory against the Red Sox would go all the way back to 2012, when he was a rookie.

Archer is still on pace for a possible Cy Young winning season with his still impressive ERA, 133 strikeouts, and 9-5 record…as long as he is not continuously facing the Red Sox.

The Cy Young favorite is expected to start in the Tampa Bay series opener against the Yankees on July 3, in which we can expect redemption, as he has yet to lose to the team in his career.

The post Archer’s Kryptonite Strikes Again appeared first on Insider Sports Network.

Photo by Hunter Martin of Getty Images.

Correction, they were on a roll. The Nationals held a double header against the Philadelphia Phillies today, extending their eight game winning streak in game one before losing it a couple hours later in game two.

With an allowance of two runs or less in that eight game span – including two shut outs – the Nationals glided on into first place, surpassing the NY Mets who they have been trading places with this entire season. 

Ranked seventh in runs scored and 10^th in team ERA, the Nationals continue to shine amongst the others in their division as they carry their reign from last year to now.

As every team in sports does, the Nationals fell from paradise, with their game three series finale loss to the Phillies today. However this didn’t happen before their two three game series sweeps against the Pittsburgh Pirates and their division rival Atlanta Braves.

Hosting a doubleheader for game two and game three of the series, the Nationals began out with a 3-2 win in large part because of the dominant pitching performance of Stephen Strasburg. 

Strasburg struck out nine en route to his 3-2 victory, allowing only foir hits in his second game back from the disabled list after sustaining a strained trapezius muscle. It would be a sigh of relief for the All-Star, as the pitcher had gone 1-3 in his previous five starts in May with an 8.00 ERA.

Denard Span and Bryce Harper were two others that made their return to the lineup today, following their absence on the diamond for the past two games. Span had sustained back spasms and Harper a strained hamstring, but both were able to come back in top shape as well Harper recorded a double and Span got on base twice, scoring a run.

Dan Uggla even displayed glimpses of the respectable past he had in Florida and in Atlanta, as he reached base four times today, going 3-for-4 with a walk.

Despite managing the lead into the fifth inning, Kevin Correia couldn’t contain the Nationals, as he allowed three runs between the fifth and sixth inning.

In game three, their second matchup of their doubleheader today, the Nationals struggled to close the deal on sweeping the series, as the Phillies rebounded with an 8-5 win. Tanner Roark struggled to carry the groove on into their second matchup of the day, allowing eight runs in just 3.1 innings pitched.

Despite homeruns from Ian Desmond and Jose Lobaton, the Phillies were just too much to handle, as Odubel Herrera and Cesar Hernandez each accumulated at least three base hits each. 

With Maikel Franco being one of the few bright spots of this abysmal Phillies team, the team relied on him to drive in three runs today, which helped secure the victory.

The Nationals are in position to get back to the post season, with their 2.5 game lead in the NL East. 

With a star studded cast of having some of the best players in the league, such as Bryce Harper, Yunel Escobar, and Max Scherzer, the Nationals have a lot of momentum going into the latter half of the season. 

The Nationals will be facing the Atlanta Braves in a three game series starting Tuesday.

The post Washington Nationals Winning Streak Ends in Doubleheader  appeared first on Insider Sports Network.