That was just sad. There was about a moment's hope in the first half when Losman hit that bomb to Parrish, but the Patriots are so brutally efficient that hope turned to a dawning horror in about 6 plays and 70 yards. And then the rout was on.
Losman for the most part did not look horrible. Put it this way, with about the same level of talent at WR, he put up better numbers than Manning did. He was able to harness the power of the hair (seriously, even Marino is amazed by the flowing locks) to pull a Romo impression on one busted play, completing a great pass to Gaines for a first, and then scrambling out of trouble a couple of other times against a brutal rush. Unfortunately, that is about the only good thing that can be said about the offense (well Lindell's 52 yarder off the camera was pretty impressive)
Unfortunately the defense just gave up in the second half. Hard to blame them, but they couldn't even come close to containing the third and fourth string RBs for the Pats. When Kyle Eckel is running through your defense like a Navy Admiral running through some female colleagues at the Tailhook conference, you know you're in trouble. Unfortunate effort from the defense (I thought Dick Jauron always got his underachieving squad up for games?)
The only silver lining is that the Bills can't possibly be that bad. It's that the Patriots are exactly that good. Bills have a real tough one against Jacksonville on the road.
And to top it all off, it's snowing here in the City today.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Sunday, November 18, 2007
All Apologies
Not just a great Nirvana song, but what I am offering to anyone who came here from the Goose's Roost or Bflo Blog (or anywhere else) and got stuck reading the last few lame posts. What can I say? My dedication has been lacking. Also, the TaxWife has had me on this crazy diet the last week that has sapped my energy. Now that I've discovered cocaine, it's all good and I'm back to bloggin'...
The Taxes Update
Of course this week's big athlete tax news was Derek Jeter's tax woes. The taxman is coming after Mr. Clutch for his position that he is a nonresident of New York State and City, despite the fact that he maintains an apartment in the city and lives here half the year. The rest of the year he apparently lives in Florida.
The law on this is not actually all that clear. The first test is whether someone spends 183 days in the state. Assuming Mr. Worst Defensive SS in the AL actually spends the offseason in Florida and given the number of days he is on the road during the season, he probably is not physically present in New York State for the required 183 days.
The state is asserting that even though he does not meet this test that New York is still his primary residence based on his affinity for the city (e.g., his business ties in New York, holidays spent in New York, and, particularly, keeping items he holds "near and dear" to him in his New York apartment). This filing from the Admin. law judge in the case is illuminating. In taxgeek parlance, New York is his "tax home".
The idea is that while he may physically spend fewer than 180 days in New York, his home in New York is a home while a house in Florida is just a house - more like an offseason rental to which he has no connection. It's an interesting theory and to be honest, I haven't dug into the black letter law in New York to know if it would be enough, but we'll follow it.
The Tax Foundation notes that this is differernt than the "Jock Tax" that taxes a portion of every athlete's income in the state in which the game is played. New York is going after endorsement income, income earned in other states, etc.
Don't Mess With Taxes has a good piece on New York revenue officials' clutch performance in past cases.
The other big tax news was the continuing saga in DC of AMT relief. After some conflicting stories (it appeared for a day that the Senate would at least vote on a bill to provide a 1 year AMT patch with limited offsets solely for popular tax extenders), this do-nothing Congress continued to do nothing. So, it's at least December before any AMT relief is passed.
NFL Picks
No commentary needed (or necessary). You should be reading the Jamboroo for a funny NFL preview column.
Chargers (+3) over JAGUARS. Yes, I know people are jumping off the Philip Rivers bandwagon and that San Diego barely held on against Indy last week despite 6 picks (like Dallas against the Bills), but that defense is still solid and I think Garrard will have some rust in his first game back in a month.
Browns (-2.5) over RAVENS. Yeah, the Ravens really really suck.
Steelers (-9.5) over JETS. I almost took the Jets, but I cannot stand them. I mean, look at this guy:
Washington (+10.5) over COWBOYS.
DOLPHINS (+10) over Eagles. The Dolphins have played almost everyone close this year. They're the best 0-9 team I have ever seen.
Raiders (+5) over VIKINGS
Cardinals (+3) over BENGALS
Chiefs (+14.5) over COLTS. I don't care what Dr. Z says, Peyton is not the same without all of his toys. Just like the TaxBoy. If he's surrounded by the rattle, the horse on a string, the plastic balls that make noise, he's happy. If he has just the stupid fake phone? He throws six INTs.
LIONS (+2.5) over Giants. I'm a little surprised that the Lions are getting points at home, but then again, last time I went to Vegas, I came back looking like this:
Saints (-1) over TEXANS. This is where I call BS on one of the SportsGuy's theories - that early in the season nobody knows anything about the teams and that Vegas struggles just as much as the regular gambler. O.k. First, I don't believe Vegas struggles at all, ever, as compared to the regular degenerate gambler. Second, we're in week 11 and I still can't tell if the Saints, Chargers, Panthers, Washington, Seahawks, Cardinals and about 3 other teams are going to play halfway decent football or stink it up worse than Northrax.
Packers (-9.5) over Panthers. Case in point, although with Vinny starting and Steve Smith maybe not, this should be an easy one for the Favrers.
(Which reminds me of something else annoying - some moron talking head was talking about how Favre was doing this "all himself". I'm sure that Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, Nick Barnett and Charles Woodson were all happy to hear that. This team does have the second best rushing defense and fifth best defense overall in the NFC).
Rams (-3) over NINERS
Bears (+5.5) over SEAHAWKS
Titans (+2) over BRONCOS
BILLS (+16) over Patriots. Hell Yeah! This game being on Sunday night is great for a whole bunch of reasons. 1. I get to do work during the day and not feel guilty about watching the game (which I will be doing totally sober due to the aforementioned f*cked up diet). 2. I get to hear John Madden talk about Turducken and Buffalo Wings at the same time. 3. Now I can watch the MLS finals without missing any important NFL game action (score update: 0-0).
Bonus: I get to bust out my Marshawn Lynch "Money" t-shirt, recently purchased from 289 design, even though he won't be playing.
Score Prediction: Patriots 31, Bills 20. (Hoping for the upset though).
That's it, all. Enjoy the games.
(I notice that I missed calling the TB game. Let's just say that I did not have Atlanta. That one is going in the win column)
The Taxes Update
Of course this week's big athlete tax news was Derek Jeter's tax woes. The taxman is coming after Mr. Clutch for his position that he is a nonresident of New York State and City, despite the fact that he maintains an apartment in the city and lives here half the year. The rest of the year he apparently lives in Florida.
The law on this is not actually all that clear. The first test is whether someone spends 183 days in the state. Assuming Mr. Worst Defensive SS in the AL actually spends the offseason in Florida and given the number of days he is on the road during the season, he probably is not physically present in New York State for the required 183 days.
The state is asserting that even though he does not meet this test that New York is still his primary residence based on his affinity for the city (e.g., his business ties in New York, holidays spent in New York, and, particularly, keeping items he holds "near and dear" to him in his New York apartment). This filing from the Admin. law judge in the case is illuminating. In taxgeek parlance, New York is his "tax home".
The idea is that while he may physically spend fewer than 180 days in New York, his home in New York is a home while a house in Florida is just a house - more like an offseason rental to which he has no connection. It's an interesting theory and to be honest, I haven't dug into the black letter law in New York to know if it would be enough, but we'll follow it.
The Tax Foundation notes that this is differernt than the "Jock Tax" that taxes a portion of every athlete's income in the state in which the game is played. New York is going after endorsement income, income earned in other states, etc.
Don't Mess With Taxes has a good piece on New York revenue officials' clutch performance in past cases.
The other big tax news was the continuing saga in DC of AMT relief. After some conflicting stories (it appeared for a day that the Senate would at least vote on a bill to provide a 1 year AMT patch with limited offsets solely for popular tax extenders), this do-nothing Congress continued to do nothing. So, it's at least December before any AMT relief is passed.
NFL Picks
No commentary needed (or necessary). You should be reading the Jamboroo for a funny NFL preview column.
Chargers (+3) over JAGUARS. Yes, I know people are jumping off the Philip Rivers bandwagon and that San Diego barely held on against Indy last week despite 6 picks (like Dallas against the Bills), but that defense is still solid and I think Garrard will have some rust in his first game back in a month.
Browns (-2.5) over RAVENS. Yeah, the Ravens really really suck.
Steelers (-9.5) over JETS. I almost took the Jets, but I cannot stand them. I mean, look at this guy:
Washington (+10.5) over COWBOYS.
DOLPHINS (+10) over Eagles. The Dolphins have played almost everyone close this year. They're the best 0-9 team I have ever seen.
Raiders (+5) over VIKINGS
Cardinals (+3) over BENGALS
Chiefs (+14.5) over COLTS. I don't care what Dr. Z says, Peyton is not the same without all of his toys. Just like the TaxBoy. If he's surrounded by the rattle, the horse on a string, the plastic balls that make noise, he's happy. If he has just the stupid fake phone? He throws six INTs.
LIONS (+2.5) over Giants. I'm a little surprised that the Lions are getting points at home, but then again, last time I went to Vegas, I came back looking like this:
Saints (-1) over TEXANS. This is where I call BS on one of the SportsGuy's theories - that early in the season nobody knows anything about the teams and that Vegas struggles just as much as the regular gambler. O.k. First, I don't believe Vegas struggles at all, ever, as compared to the regular degenerate gambler. Second, we're in week 11 and I still can't tell if the Saints, Chargers, Panthers, Washington, Seahawks, Cardinals and about 3 other teams are going to play halfway decent football or stink it up worse than Northrax.
Packers (-9.5) over Panthers. Case in point, although with Vinny starting and Steve Smith maybe not, this should be an easy one for the Favrers.
(Which reminds me of something else annoying - some moron talking head was talking about how Favre was doing this "all himself". I'm sure that Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, Nick Barnett and Charles Woodson were all happy to hear that. This team does have the second best rushing defense and fifth best defense overall in the NFC).
Rams (-3) over NINERS
Bears (+5.5) over SEAHAWKS
Titans (+2) over BRONCOS
BILLS (+16) over Patriots. Hell Yeah! This game being on Sunday night is great for a whole bunch of reasons. 1. I get to do work during the day and not feel guilty about watching the game (which I will be doing totally sober due to the aforementioned f*cked up diet). 2. I get to hear John Madden talk about Turducken and Buffalo Wings at the same time. 3. Now I can watch the MLS finals without missing any important NFL game action (score update: 0-0).
Bonus: I get to bust out my Marshawn Lynch "Money" t-shirt, recently purchased from 289 design, even though he won't be playing.
Score Prediction: Patriots 31, Bills 20. (Hoping for the upset though).
That's it, all. Enjoy the games.
(I notice that I missed calling the TB game. Let's just say that I did not have Atlanta. That one is going in the win column)
Sunday, November 11, 2007
For Avoidance of Doubt
Here were my NFL picks. And unfortunately, I took New Orleans in the Kissing Suzy Kolber suicide pool. not looking good there...
Vikings (+6.5) over PACKERS
CHIEFS (-4.5) over Broncos
Bills (-2.5) over Dolphins (ugh)
Rams (+11.5) over SAINTS
BROWNS (+9.5) over Steelers
Jags (-4.5) over TITANS
WASHINGTON (-2.5) over Eagles
RAVENS (-5.5) over Bengals
Lions (+1.5) over CARDINALS. Incidentally, this really seems strange to me. The Lions are getting no respect from Vega$
GIANTS (+1.5) over Cowboys
RAIDERS (-3.5) over Bears
Colts (-3.5) over CHARGERS
SEAHAWKS (-9.5) over 49Ers
That's it for now.
Vikings (+6.5) over PACKERS
CHIEFS (-4.5) over Broncos
Bills (-2.5) over Dolphins (ugh)
Rams (+11.5) over SAINTS
BROWNS (+9.5) over Steelers
Jags (-4.5) over TITANS
WASHINGTON (-2.5) over Eagles
RAVENS (-5.5) over Bengals
Lions (+1.5) over CARDINALS. Incidentally, this really seems strange to me. The Lions are getting no respect from Vega$
GIANTS (+1.5) over Cowboys
RAIDERS (-3.5) over Bears
Colts (-3.5) over CHARGERS
SEAHAWKS (-9.5) over 49Ers
That's it for now.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Friday Afternoon Update
Relatively quiet afternoon at work.. so on to the updates.
The Bills Update
YES. This guy is doing the Bills-Dolphins game this weekend:
Since Eagle/Wilcots are off this week, I guess that makes them officially the Z-team of CBS broadcasters. And if I had an HDTV, I could watch the game in hi-def.
Seeing that Gus is doing the game made me wonder if I would remember differently some of the famous and infamous moments in Bills history if he had been calling the games.
Wide Right: Norwood lines up for the kick. This is at the EDGE of Norwood's distance. Marv Levy is putting his faith in the young kicker out of JAMES MADISON. It's all on the line for the Bills. The snap, the hold is down. The Kick is UP... And... It's NO GOOD!! NO GOOD!! WIDE RIGHT! And TIME HAS EXPIRED! The GIANTS WIN! Somehow the Giants are able to carry Parcells OFF THE FIELD. OH MY, Scott Norwood will carry this moment TO HIS GRAVE. SLEEP TIGHT SCOTTY! HA HAAAAAA"
Frank Reich comeback against Houston in '93: "Forget about the Nazis, here in Buffalo it's the RISE OF THE FOURTH REICH as the Bills unleash the stormtroopers aganist the Oilers. Ha haaaaaaa." "Christie lines up for the winning kick. And it's GOOOOOOOD!!!!! Christie drives a STAKE through the hearts of the Oilers as the Bills win in DRAMATIC FASHION!! DIE NOSFERATU!!!
(sidenote: this game was NOT televised locally in Buffalo because the Bills actually did not sell out the game. A playoff game. I had to listen to freaking Van Miller on the radio).
Music City Miracle: The kick is short to Neal. Neal hands off to Wycheck.. and Oh, Wycheck HEAVES it to Andre Dyson, and Dyson is RUNNING. OH NO, IT's A CLEAR PATH TO PAYDIRT. OH NO. NOBODY's GOING TO CATCH HIM. And Dyson is IN. And it's PANDEMONIUM in Tennessee. Rob Johnson can't bear to look. Wade Phillips is STUNNNED as the Titans RIP THE BEATING HEARTS out of the Bills's chests. KALI MA, they'll SEE YOU IN HELL!!!!!"
No, that still would have sucked.
Last Second Jason Elam Field Goal: Oh wait, he actually did call this game:
I'm surprised he didn't refer to it as a "CHINESE FIRE DRILL!!!!"
Anyway, it's always a "SPECIAL GAME" when Gus is announcing.
-- As for actual analysis? Happy that Losman is starting. He's like Brett Favre, except without the joy. Or much of the talent.
For actual analysis, go to Bflo Blog for the Tailgate.
Goose's Roost has an interesting post on Jim Kelly and Jack Kemp being potential white knights in a future sale of the Bills.
That's it. My prediction? (not that it matters): Bills 21, Miami 17
The Taxes Update
-- The House today passed a bill providing for a one-year AMT patch and extending a bunch of popular tax deductions, the cost of which is offset by changing the tax treatment of carried interest in private equity funds and eliminating offshore deferrals of compensation (where the payor is tax-indifferent). The Senate has not introduced a bill addressing AMT relief and apparently won't until December.
Which really is an abdication of Congresional responsibility. You see, even if a bill is introduced in December, debated, passed, harmonized with the House and signed by Bush, it won't be in time for the IRS to make changes to tax forms necessary to allow taxpayers to file returns correctly. This means that millions of taxpayers will end up overpaying their taxes and seeking refunds later (because they will be forced to file based on the law that is in effect now which sucks millions of taxpayers into the AMT. I think the House is probably more to blame for waiting so long to introduce a bill when EVERYONE KNEW ABOUT THE ISSUE.
-- One other interesting story from last week that is semi-sports related: The IRS has announced an initiative targeting foreign golfers, tennis players and entertainers who work in the U.S. That's right - Roger Federer is a tax cheat* The concern is that foreign entertainers are not paying their "fair share" of withholding taxes on income earned in the U.S. (there is a 30% withholding tax applicable to nonresident aliens performing services within the United States). The focus apparently is on the structures through which entertainers earn money within the United States and making sure that withholding takes place somewhere along the chain. This is all part of closing the tax gap.
*May not actually be a tax cheat, but this commercial is ridiculous:
And what the hell is Henry saying? "I nevuh fthk about ystdy".... Thanks Thierry, er Terry. Go back to playing with your ball.
No Death Update right now. Maybe later.
The Bills Update
YES. This guy is doing the Bills-Dolphins game this weekend:
Since Eagle/Wilcots are off this week, I guess that makes them officially the Z-team of CBS broadcasters. And if I had an HDTV, I could watch the game in hi-def.
Seeing that Gus is doing the game made me wonder if I would remember differently some of the famous and infamous moments in Bills history if he had been calling the games.
Wide Right: Norwood lines up for the kick. This is at the EDGE of Norwood's distance. Marv Levy is putting his faith in the young kicker out of JAMES MADISON. It's all on the line for the Bills. The snap, the hold is down. The Kick is UP... And... It's NO GOOD!! NO GOOD!! WIDE RIGHT! And TIME HAS EXPIRED! The GIANTS WIN! Somehow the Giants are able to carry Parcells OFF THE FIELD. OH MY, Scott Norwood will carry this moment TO HIS GRAVE. SLEEP TIGHT SCOTTY! HA HAAAAAA"
Frank Reich comeback against Houston in '93: "Forget about the Nazis, here in Buffalo it's the RISE OF THE FOURTH REICH as the Bills unleash the stormtroopers aganist the Oilers. Ha haaaaaaa." "Christie lines up for the winning kick. And it's GOOOOOOOD!!!!! Christie drives a STAKE through the hearts of the Oilers as the Bills win in DRAMATIC FASHION!! DIE NOSFERATU!!!
(sidenote: this game was NOT televised locally in Buffalo because the Bills actually did not sell out the game. A playoff game. I had to listen to freaking Van Miller on the radio).
Music City Miracle: The kick is short to Neal. Neal hands off to Wycheck.. and Oh, Wycheck HEAVES it to Andre Dyson, and Dyson is RUNNING. OH NO, IT's A CLEAR PATH TO PAYDIRT. OH NO. NOBODY's GOING TO CATCH HIM. And Dyson is IN. And it's PANDEMONIUM in Tennessee. Rob Johnson can't bear to look. Wade Phillips is STUNNNED as the Titans RIP THE BEATING HEARTS out of the Bills's chests. KALI MA, they'll SEE YOU IN HELL!!!!!"
No, that still would have sucked.
Last Second Jason Elam Field Goal: Oh wait, he actually did call this game:
I'm surprised he didn't refer to it as a "CHINESE FIRE DRILL!!!!"
Anyway, it's always a "SPECIAL GAME" when Gus is announcing.
-- As for actual analysis? Happy that Losman is starting. He's like Brett Favre, except without the joy. Or much of the talent.
For actual analysis, go to Bflo Blog for the Tailgate.
Goose's Roost has an interesting post on Jim Kelly and Jack Kemp being potential white knights in a future sale of the Bills.
That's it. My prediction? (not that it matters): Bills 21, Miami 17
The Taxes Update
-- The House today passed a bill providing for a one-year AMT patch and extending a bunch of popular tax deductions, the cost of which is offset by changing the tax treatment of carried interest in private equity funds and eliminating offshore deferrals of compensation (where the payor is tax-indifferent). The Senate has not introduced a bill addressing AMT relief and apparently won't until December.
Which really is an abdication of Congresional responsibility. You see, even if a bill is introduced in December, debated, passed, harmonized with the House and signed by Bush, it won't be in time for the IRS to make changes to tax forms necessary to allow taxpayers to file returns correctly. This means that millions of taxpayers will end up overpaying their taxes and seeking refunds later (because they will be forced to file based on the law that is in effect now which sucks millions of taxpayers into the AMT. I think the House is probably more to blame for waiting so long to introduce a bill when EVERYONE KNEW ABOUT THE ISSUE.
-- One other interesting story from last week that is semi-sports related: The IRS has announced an initiative targeting foreign golfers, tennis players and entertainers who work in the U.S. That's right - Roger Federer is a tax cheat* The concern is that foreign entertainers are not paying their "fair share" of withholding taxes on income earned in the U.S. (there is a 30% withholding tax applicable to nonresident aliens performing services within the United States). The focus apparently is on the structures through which entertainers earn money within the United States and making sure that withholding takes place somewhere along the chain. This is all part of closing the tax gap.
*May not actually be a tax cheat, but this commercial is ridiculous:
And what the hell is Henry saying? "I nevuh fthk about ystdy".... Thanks Thierry, er Terry. Go back to playing with your ball.
No Death Update right now. Maybe later.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
I've Been a Bad Bad....
blogger.
Anyway... here are the updates...
The Taxes Update
I didn't want to comment on any of Charlie Rangel's tax machinations (he is, after all, my congressman), although he has gotten superficial coverage in the Economist, the NY Times, and elsewhere. (Edited to note: I was glib - A Taxing Matter has had great coverage on this and other recent tax issues. Much better than I, anyway.
Bottom line: The AMT is scheduled to apply to a shitload of middle-class families in '08 absent at least a "one year patch" extending prior laws exempting more and more American taxpayers. The patch is a political necessity. Rangel proposed (and the House W&M committee passed) a bill that offset the cost of the patch and some popular extenders with (1) a change in taxation of carried interest and (2) a change in the taxation of deferred comp.
Grassley, et. al., have said that they did not view an AMT patch as requiring revenue offsets because the AMT was never intended to have the bite it now has (which is odd since it was never indexed to inflation).
Thus, we find ourselves in a bit of a stalemate. Although not that much of one as Rangel has already basically caved (via Tax Notes) and agreed to look at other possible revenue offsets besides the carried interest raise. See this also from Rep. Emanuel.
Here is my view: (1) A change in legislation allowing tax-exempts to invest in funds that borrow to fund their investments will pass, (2) The carried interest and deferred compensation bills will be deferred to '09, but then pass and (3) Whatever happened to the "Blackstone Bill"? It was not included in Rangel's bill. Would have thought that would be a great revenue raiser.
Lots of other interesting tax stuff, but, it will have to wait.
The Death Update
I realized today as i was writing an entry in my "bricks and mortar" journal that the book I was writing in was intended to be used as a book of remembrance for Dean Gordanier, a brilliant tax lawyer who passed away about 4 years ago in Boston.
He was a great man, a great tax lawyer. A brilliant guy, one who touched all who came in contact with him. He was always there with a hug or a clap on the shoulder and while a bit prickly, was the first to share with you a wide, kidlike grin when things were right in the world.
He also thought accountants "whores and charlatans". Of course, this was before the Andersen meltdown. Now he'd call them scurrulous and scaredy-cats. That was Dean.
So I should be careful to make sure my bricks and mortar journal is sturdy. For Dean.
The Rest Update
Since baseball season is over, the rest of the updates, will be the... um... "Rest" Update, like Paul Harvey says.. the rest of the story.
-- The Bills - Losman back in again. Damn. And I just got my hair cut. Seriously though, the team is more suited to a QB with his particular skills. Speed, dangerous long ball, acrobatic catches. It's not a possession receiver team. Hopefully they can keep the 'fish winless this week.
-- The Sox - Schilling resigned yesterday (have you noticed that the same word means two absolutely opposite things? resigned/re-signed. EERIE). Anyway.. Great K with Schill. Hopefully they'll sign Lowell and a spot starter for the rotation, and perhaps some backup IF help. Otherwise, not sure what else they need (except for a new starting C of course, but that's not happening).
That's it for tonight. I'm tired and my Sapphire and Tonic is empty.
Oh, almost forgot. This makes me happy.
Anyway... here are the updates...
The Taxes Update
I didn't want to comment on any of Charlie Rangel's tax machinations (he is, after all, my congressman), although he has gotten superficial coverage in the Economist, the NY Times, and elsewhere. (Edited to note: I was glib - A Taxing Matter has had great coverage on this and other recent tax issues. Much better than I, anyway.
Bottom line: The AMT is scheduled to apply to a shitload of middle-class families in '08 absent at least a "one year patch" extending prior laws exempting more and more American taxpayers. The patch is a political necessity. Rangel proposed (and the House W&M committee passed) a bill that offset the cost of the patch and some popular extenders with (1) a change in taxation of carried interest and (2) a change in the taxation of deferred comp.
Grassley, et. al., have said that they did not view an AMT patch as requiring revenue offsets because the AMT was never intended to have the bite it now has (which is odd since it was never indexed to inflation).
Thus, we find ourselves in a bit of a stalemate. Although not that much of one as Rangel has already basically caved (via Tax Notes) and agreed to look at other possible revenue offsets besides the carried interest raise. See this also from Rep. Emanuel.
Here is my view: (1) A change in legislation allowing tax-exempts to invest in funds that borrow to fund their investments will pass, (2) The carried interest and deferred compensation bills will be deferred to '09, but then pass and (3) Whatever happened to the "Blackstone Bill"? It was not included in Rangel's bill. Would have thought that would be a great revenue raiser.
Lots of other interesting tax stuff, but, it will have to wait.
The Death Update
I realized today as i was writing an entry in my "bricks and mortar" journal that the book I was writing in was intended to be used as a book of remembrance for Dean Gordanier, a brilliant tax lawyer who passed away about 4 years ago in Boston.
He was a great man, a great tax lawyer. A brilliant guy, one who touched all who came in contact with him. He was always there with a hug or a clap on the shoulder and while a bit prickly, was the first to share with you a wide, kidlike grin when things were right in the world.
He also thought accountants "whores and charlatans". Of course, this was before the Andersen meltdown. Now he'd call them scurrulous and scaredy-cats. That was Dean.
So I should be careful to make sure my bricks and mortar journal is sturdy. For Dean.
The Rest Update
Since baseball season is over, the rest of the updates, will be the... um... "Rest" Update, like Paul Harvey says.. the rest of the story.
-- The Bills - Losman back in again. Damn. And I just got my hair cut. Seriously though, the team is more suited to a QB with his particular skills. Speed, dangerous long ball, acrobatic catches. It's not a possession receiver team. Hopefully they can keep the 'fish winless this week.
-- The Sox - Schilling resigned yesterday (have you noticed that the same word means two absolutely opposite things? resigned/re-signed. EERIE). Anyway.. Great K with Schill. Hopefully they'll sign Lowell and a spot starter for the rotation, and perhaps some backup IF help. Otherwise, not sure what else they need (except for a new starting C of course, but that's not happening).
That's it for tonight. I'm tired and my Sapphire and Tonic is empty.
Oh, almost forgot. This makes me happy.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Quick Picks
I haven't blogged all week (post Sox comedown, I think). But here are the quick picks with Tax and Death Updates to come today (and a postgame report on the Bills).
BILLS (+1) over Bengals Yeah, Losman in again (as he should have been last week anyway). He should be able to complete at least one bomb to his own guys today. And what's this I see? Fucking Solomon Wilcots is calling the game? Good Christ - I get to listen about how well the "Bee-ills" are playing today. Maybe I'll listen to the NFL audio coverage at nfl.com.
LIONS (-3) over Broncos
TITANS (-4) over Panthers David Carr on the road? No thank you.
CHEIFS (-2) over Packers I have to believe arrowhead is good for something.
Chargers (-7) over VIKINGS
FALCONS (-3.5) over Niners Simmons's "sleeper" is comatose, but the Niners are Schaivo-tose at this point.
SAINTS (-3) over Jaguars
Washington (-3.5) over JETS The Jets can go straight to hell.
Cardinals (+3.5) over BUCS
Seahawks (+1) over BROWNS
Pats (-5.5) over COLTS
Texans (+3) over RAIDERS
EAGLES (+3) over Cowboys
STEELERS (-9) over Ravens
Go here for the best NFL preview going.
And here is Bflo Blog's tailgate.
Enjoy the games, and don't forget - this guy is the WORST commentator going. God he sucks.
BILLS (+1) over Bengals Yeah, Losman in again (as he should have been last week anyway). He should be able to complete at least one bomb to his own guys today. And what's this I see? Fucking Solomon Wilcots is calling the game? Good Christ - I get to listen about how well the "Bee-ills" are playing today. Maybe I'll listen to the NFL audio coverage at nfl.com.
LIONS (-3) over Broncos
TITANS (-4) over Panthers David Carr on the road? No thank you.
CHEIFS (-2) over Packers I have to believe arrowhead is good for something.
Chargers (-7) over VIKINGS
FALCONS (-3.5) over Niners Simmons's "sleeper" is comatose, but the Niners are Schaivo-tose at this point.
SAINTS (-3) over Jaguars
Washington (-3.5) over JETS The Jets can go straight to hell.
Cardinals (+3.5) over BUCS
Seahawks (+1) over BROWNS
Pats (-5.5) over COLTS
Texans (+3) over RAIDERS
EAGLES (+3) over Cowboys
STEELERS (-9) over Ravens
Go here for the best NFL preview going.
And here is Bflo Blog's tailgate.
Enjoy the games, and don't forget - this guy is the WORST commentator going. God he sucks.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Taking a Deep Breath
Lots to talk about today, first and foremost:
The Red Sox
It's amazing how something can go on for more than 6 months, night in, night out, and then be over in a flash - like the previous 6 months never happened. That's how I feel today after the Sox swept the Rockies. Forgotten are the calls to bench Pedroia for Cora, to trade for Jermaine Dye at the deadline and bench Drew, to go back in time and reverse the Beckett/Lowell for Hanley Ramirez/Anubal Sanchez trade, to inquire whether Ortiz and Manny have been juicing all these years. Forgotten are the picayune and picky - whether Beckett should have pitched Game 4 of the ALCS, whether Tito should have pulled him in Game 1 after 5, whether Julian Tavarez should have been on the postseason roster instead of Gagne. Today, there is just joy and relief and the fulfillment of expectations. That is the biggest change since '04 and the reason why many people now think the Sox are the new Yankees. Becuase we expect success and are gratified when it is achieved, instead of hoping for success and overwhelmed and surprised when it happens. A great change.
some wrap up thoughts:
-- This team was built, as Joe Posnanski so aptly pointed out before the ALCS, on imrpoved starting pitching, an improved bullpen and an improved Mike Lowell. Those three things, plus the emergence and contributions of Ellsbury and Pedroia were on full display the last week.
-- Someone at MLB - PLEASE order FOX to replace McCarver and Buck with an announcing team that actually is involved in the game, doesn't just promote the hot storyline and isn't reduced to spouting totally empty platitudes (actually Buck was not that bad this year, but McCarver has been reduced to a caricature of his already shopworn self).
-- I was not at all interested in the World Series last year - partly because work was absolutely insane, but more because the Sox were not involved and my dad had just died. I didn't think of him a single time last night. I'm not sure if that's progress or just life, but there it is.
The Blogs
Soxaholix are note perfect
Jere has his head in the clouds and has a really cool recording of the call of the end of last night's game. Give it a listen. Man, I miss Castiglione.
Away Team has a cool set of pictures celebrating last night's win.
If this video doesn't bring tears to your eyes, I don't know what to tell you (via Sox & Dawgs)
That's it on the Sox. I'll leave you with one picture (woke up this morning and had this greet me on the cover of the NY Times):
The Bills
Is it o.k., as a fan, to be extremely happy your team won, but still have dissatisfied, wondering how they did it, and worried for the rest of the season?
That's how I felt about the Bills 13-3 win over the Jets yesterday.
It's as though Jauron and the coaching staff (more Fairchild than anyone else) was trying to take away the Bills' chances of succeeding as well as screwing up. It's like when you're raising a kid (I can say this now that I have one) - you can't put them in a bubble - yeah, they'll fall, bump their heads, get hit by a car, whatever, but they'll also have a chance to succeed. Watching the first 3 quarters, it was apparent that while Edwards had been designated the starter, he wasn't "A Starter". Some examples:
-- Calling a shovel pass on 3rd and 8 in the Red Zone on the Bills' first successful drive. Yeah, they were in field goal range, but again, what is the risk of taking a shot at the end zone there? You throw a pick, you throw a pick - they're not making the playoffs so they should take more chances (note, this is exactly the OPPOSITE of the horrible call against the Cowboys when they were AHEAD by two scores to pass on a similar down, distance and situation).
-- Another conservative call in the third quarter when they were driving - 3rd and 4 and they call a flanker screen - it was busted anyway.
-- 3rd and short late in the game, and they run straight up the middle for no gain - the third consecutive handoff up the middle. A run is the right call, but why not a sneak, or an inside handoff (they got a FG to go up 6-3, but could have sustained the drive with a better call).
Luckily, they called a few downfield passes for Losman which put the game away - one which Roscoe Parrish should have hauled in, one that Evans improbably did.
Like I said, I like the result, but I doubt the plan.
The Bills blogs:
Goose's Roost has a great picture of Losman.
The prolific Brian Galiford over at Buffalo Rumblings has the game story and a piece on the "QB controversy".
My take on the "controversy" is that the team was built to run an offense that features a lot of downfield passing and a power running game. It was not built for a game manager, dink and dunk style game such as they have tried with Edwards. That woudl argue for Losman to start; however, either way, they HAVE to pick one guy or the other and run the offense they think gives the team the best chance to win WITH THAT GUY.
I'm happy they're 3-4 with the injuries they've had, but they should be 5-2, and that failure is due to a failure of process.
The Red Sox
It's amazing how something can go on for more than 6 months, night in, night out, and then be over in a flash - like the previous 6 months never happened. That's how I feel today after the Sox swept the Rockies. Forgotten are the calls to bench Pedroia for Cora, to trade for Jermaine Dye at the deadline and bench Drew, to go back in time and reverse the Beckett/Lowell for Hanley Ramirez/Anubal Sanchez trade, to inquire whether Ortiz and Manny have been juicing all these years. Forgotten are the picayune and picky - whether Beckett should have pitched Game 4 of the ALCS, whether Tito should have pulled him in Game 1 after 5, whether Julian Tavarez should have been on the postseason roster instead of Gagne. Today, there is just joy and relief and the fulfillment of expectations. That is the biggest change since '04 and the reason why many people now think the Sox are the new Yankees. Becuase we expect success and are gratified when it is achieved, instead of hoping for success and overwhelmed and surprised when it happens. A great change.
some wrap up thoughts:
-- This team was built, as Joe Posnanski so aptly pointed out before the ALCS, on imrpoved starting pitching, an improved bullpen and an improved Mike Lowell. Those three things, plus the emergence and contributions of Ellsbury and Pedroia were on full display the last week.
-- Someone at MLB - PLEASE order FOX to replace McCarver and Buck with an announcing team that actually is involved in the game, doesn't just promote the hot storyline and isn't reduced to spouting totally empty platitudes (actually Buck was not that bad this year, but McCarver has been reduced to a caricature of his already shopworn self).
-- I was not at all interested in the World Series last year - partly because work was absolutely insane, but more because the Sox were not involved and my dad had just died. I didn't think of him a single time last night. I'm not sure if that's progress or just life, but there it is.
The Blogs
Soxaholix are note perfect
Jere has his head in the clouds and has a really cool recording of the call of the end of last night's game. Give it a listen. Man, I miss Castiglione.
Away Team has a cool set of pictures celebrating last night's win.
If this video doesn't bring tears to your eyes, I don't know what to tell you (via Sox & Dawgs)
That's it on the Sox. I'll leave you with one picture (woke up this morning and had this greet me on the cover of the NY Times):
The Bills
Is it o.k., as a fan, to be extremely happy your team won, but still have dissatisfied, wondering how they did it, and worried for the rest of the season?
That's how I felt about the Bills 13-3 win over the Jets yesterday.
It's as though Jauron and the coaching staff (more Fairchild than anyone else) was trying to take away the Bills' chances of succeeding as well as screwing up. It's like when you're raising a kid (I can say this now that I have one) - you can't put them in a bubble - yeah, they'll fall, bump their heads, get hit by a car, whatever, but they'll also have a chance to succeed. Watching the first 3 quarters, it was apparent that while Edwards had been designated the starter, he wasn't "A Starter". Some examples:
-- Calling a shovel pass on 3rd and 8 in the Red Zone on the Bills' first successful drive. Yeah, they were in field goal range, but again, what is the risk of taking a shot at the end zone there? You throw a pick, you throw a pick - they're not making the playoffs so they should take more chances (note, this is exactly the OPPOSITE of the horrible call against the Cowboys when they were AHEAD by two scores to pass on a similar down, distance and situation).
-- Another conservative call in the third quarter when they were driving - 3rd and 4 and they call a flanker screen - it was busted anyway.
-- 3rd and short late in the game, and they run straight up the middle for no gain - the third consecutive handoff up the middle. A run is the right call, but why not a sneak, or an inside handoff (they got a FG to go up 6-3, but could have sustained the drive with a better call).
Luckily, they called a few downfield passes for Losman which put the game away - one which Roscoe Parrish should have hauled in, one that Evans improbably did.
Like I said, I like the result, but I doubt the plan.
The Bills blogs:
Goose's Roost has a great picture of Losman.
The prolific Brian Galiford over at Buffalo Rumblings has the game story and a piece on the "QB controversy".
My take on the "controversy" is that the team was built to run an offense that features a lot of downfield passing and a power running game. It was not built for a game manager, dink and dunk style game such as they have tried with Edwards. That woudl argue for Losman to start; however, either way, they HAVE to pick one guy or the other and run the offense they think gives the team the best chance to win WITH THAT GUY.
I'm happy they're 3-4 with the injuries they've had, but they should be 5-2, and that failure is due to a failure of process.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Quick NFL Picks
Real quick this week, I have $hit to do around the house...
Browns (-3) over RAMS. Norm van Brocklin is spinning in his grave.
BEARS (-5) over Lions. I believe in the power of Griese.
BUCS (-3.5) over Jags. Yes, feel the power of the favorites this week.
Panthers (+7) over COLTS. I really want the Colts to lose to take some of the craziness out of next week's Pats-Colts matchup.
Bills (+3) over JETS. Seriously, how could you ever root for a team that presents this guy as the face of the franchise?
Also, this is the first real "test" for Trent Edwards as it seems he now really has a handle on the starting job. I'm worried about Kelsay possibly not playing, but I like the Bills to come on strong in the second half this year and get to 6-10.
(by the way, the Goose's Roost had this excellent piece on the whole QB "controversy", which was ridiculous in the first place.
BENGALS (+3.5) over Steelers . Pittsburgh was exposed last week and Cincy has been playing better. By the way - there haven't been any stories this year about how the Bengals are staying out of trouble, have there?
Eagles (-1) over VIKINGS . Because Philly just can't be this bad.
Raiders (+7.5) over TITANS. I don't think Tennessee is built to blow teams out.
Saints (-2.5) over 49ERS. So who was the Saint who posted this craigslist ad? (link via deadspin). My money's on Aaron Stecker.
Dolphins (+9.5) over Giants. (neutral field). I'd say the Dolphins win outright if the Jason Taylor robot can find a way to get into the game.
PATRIOTS (-16) over Washington. 7-0 ATS this year and this is the week everyone is giving up on them. Um, inexperienced QB on the road against Belichick? check. Richard Seymour getting back into the game for the Pats to stabilize run defense? check. I say DC pots no more than 10 points on the board. 31-10 Pats.
BRONCOS (-3) over Packers. Farve continues his seasonal transition from God to Moron - as the leaves turn, you can count on it.
CHARGERS (-9) over Texans. QB situation is nasty in Houston, otherwise I would take them. I don't see Norv as a "bring the boys together" coach - he's more a "what play do I call again?" coach.
Browns (-3) over RAMS. Norm van Brocklin is spinning in his grave.
BEARS (-5) over Lions. I believe in the power of Griese.
BUCS (-3.5) over Jags. Yes, feel the power of the favorites this week.
Panthers (+7) over COLTS. I really want the Colts to lose to take some of the craziness out of next week's Pats-Colts matchup.
Bills (+3) over JETS. Seriously, how could you ever root for a team that presents this guy as the face of the franchise?
Also, this is the first real "test" for Trent Edwards as it seems he now really has a handle on the starting job. I'm worried about Kelsay possibly not playing, but I like the Bills to come on strong in the second half this year and get to 6-10.
(by the way, the Goose's Roost had this excellent piece on the whole QB "controversy", which was ridiculous in the first place.
BENGALS (+3.5) over Steelers . Pittsburgh was exposed last week and Cincy has been playing better. By the way - there haven't been any stories this year about how the Bengals are staying out of trouble, have there?
Eagles (-1) over VIKINGS . Because Philly just can't be this bad.
Raiders (+7.5) over TITANS. I don't think Tennessee is built to blow teams out.
Saints (-2.5) over 49ERS. So who was the Saint who posted this craigslist ad? (link via deadspin). My money's on Aaron Stecker.
Dolphins (+9.5) over Giants. (neutral field). I'd say the Dolphins win outright if the Jason Taylor robot can find a way to get into the game.
PATRIOTS (-16) over Washington. 7-0 ATS this year and this is the week everyone is giving up on them. Um, inexperienced QB on the road against Belichick? check. Richard Seymour getting back into the game for the Pats to stabilize run defense? check. I say DC pots no more than 10 points on the board. 31-10 Pats.
BRONCOS (-3) over Packers. Farve continues his seasonal transition from God to Moron - as the leaves turn, you can count on it.
CHARGERS (-9) over Texans. QB situation is nasty in Houston, otherwise I would take them. I don't see Norv as a "bring the boys together" coach - he's more a "what play do I call again?" coach.
The Baseball Update
Last night, for only the second time this postseason (first was right before Game 5 of the ACLS), I was nervous that the Sox would not win the game. That did not last long. Ellsbury and Pedroia said "oh yeah?", kicked dirt in the faces of the Rockies and their fans and walked off with their girlfriends and the win.
I opened my big mouth in the third inning and asked the Taxwife whether it was too early to start considering WS MVP. After she punched me in the face, she said "yes". She was right. Although this morning - let's look at the candidates (As you will see, I take into account intangibles):
Jacoby Ellsbury: .417/.500/.667, 3 2B, 4-5 last night and the Stolen Base that Launched A Million Tacos.
Dustin Pedroia: .357/.438/.643, 1 HR, 4 RBI, clutch hit last night and the worst hairline I've ever seen on a 24 year old.
Josh Beckett: 7 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 9 Ks, 1 BB and a huge set of huevos.
Jonathan Papelbon: 2.2 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 2 Ks, 2 SV and some sick dance moves.
Hideki Okajima: 3.1 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 6 Ks, 0 BB and a head jerk to third (thanks, Timm-ay).
I think if it goes 5 and Beckett gets another win, he'll be the MVP. If it's a sweep and Paps saves a close one tonight, it will be him. Otherwise, it's wide open and a clutch hit by Pedroia or Ellsbury (or Lowell or Drew (!) for that matter) will win it.
Of course, the Rockies could come back.
Some random thoughts from last night's game:
-- The best Rockies fans could do was a sign that said "Big Papi eats boogers"? That seems more appropriate for College Gameday.
-- Ditto the Halloween costumes - the Cat in the Hat and the Jolly Green Giant? WTF?
-- McCarver busting out the phrase "a bevy of fastballs" - I prefer a "veritable cornucopia" myself.
-- Okajima worked through trouble like the pro he is and struck out Atkins in the bottom of the 7th with an absolutely nasty splitter. I read time and tie again how breaking pitches don't break as much in the thin Colorado air, but Dice-K's curve was working and Okie's splitter was nasty.
Cruising the Blogs:
Red Sox Chick had this up pretty quickly after last night's game. I'm not sure anymore who McCarver and Buck root against. They seemed relatively fair and balanced last night - McCarver even gave Manny props on the slide into home (after I yelled at the tv for a minute or two).
Peter has his summary of last night's game - including mad props to Dice-K who was in command throughout (although I didn't realize until this morning that he topped 100 pitches).
Joy of Sox has all of the Sunday morning headlines.
NFL Picks in a bit.
I opened my big mouth in the third inning and asked the Taxwife whether it was too early to start considering WS MVP. After she punched me in the face, she said "yes". She was right. Although this morning - let's look at the candidates (As you will see, I take into account intangibles):
Jacoby Ellsbury: .417/.500/.667, 3 2B, 4-5 last night and the Stolen Base that Launched A Million Tacos.
Dustin Pedroia: .357/.438/.643, 1 HR, 4 RBI, clutch hit last night and the worst hairline I've ever seen on a 24 year old.
Josh Beckett: 7 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 9 Ks, 1 BB and a huge set of huevos.
Jonathan Papelbon: 2.2 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 2 Ks, 2 SV and some sick dance moves.
Hideki Okajima: 3.1 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 6 Ks, 0 BB and a head jerk to third (thanks, Timm-ay).
I think if it goes 5 and Beckett gets another win, he'll be the MVP. If it's a sweep and Paps saves a close one tonight, it will be him. Otherwise, it's wide open and a clutch hit by Pedroia or Ellsbury (or Lowell or Drew (!) for that matter) will win it.
Of course, the Rockies could come back.
Some random thoughts from last night's game:
-- The best Rockies fans could do was a sign that said "Big Papi eats boogers"? That seems more appropriate for College Gameday.
-- Ditto the Halloween costumes - the Cat in the Hat and the Jolly Green Giant? WTF?
-- McCarver busting out the phrase "a bevy of fastballs" - I prefer a "veritable cornucopia" myself.
-- Okajima worked through trouble like the pro he is and struck out Atkins in the bottom of the 7th with an absolutely nasty splitter. I read time and tie again how breaking pitches don't break as much in the thin Colorado air, but Dice-K's curve was working and Okie's splitter was nasty.
Cruising the Blogs:
Red Sox Chick had this up pretty quickly after last night's game. I'm not sure anymore who McCarver and Buck root against. They seemed relatively fair and balanced last night - McCarver even gave Manny props on the slide into home (after I yelled at the tv for a minute or two).
Peter has his summary of last night's game - including mad props to Dice-K who was in command throughout (although I didn't realize until this morning that he topped 100 pitches).
Joy of Sox has all of the Sunday morning headlines.
NFL Picks in a bit.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Untitled
Always wanted to do that.
Anyhoo, crazy work day on Friday and G-D computer problems today delayed the bloggin' goodness.
So what did I miss?
-- Schilling coming up huge again. I didn't get the people who said he was washed up - he only had the one bad start against Cleveland. Otherwise, here is his postseason line:
19.1 IP, 16 H 3 ER 3BB 13K 3-0, 1.40 ERA.
F U Curly Haired B, I don't care how he's getting it done. He's getting it done.
-- McCarver again informing me about the length of various players' strokes. Keep it to yourself Timm-ay.
-- One worrying trend - lots of guys left on base by the Sox. This team loses games it shouldn't when it gets guys on and can't drive them home. Happened a bit in the Cleveland series (DPs) and happened in Game 2. Luckily the pitching was strong enough to overcome it. It won't be tonight.
My prediction for tonight - Dice-K goes 5+, but first guy in (Delcarmen) allows two inherited runners to score. Rockies win 5-3.
I hope I am wrong, but I did pick the Sox in 6.
Some blogs before I leave to finish my third drink of the night:
Red Sox Fan From Pinstripe Territory has a good post taking apart CHB.
Red Sox Chick went to Game 1. Hereare the gory details.
Joy of Sox has the open thread and the headlines for tonight's game.
Peter notes that if the NL had home field, the game could be rained out, and Dice-K is the first starting pitcher from the land of the rising sun in the World Series.
That's it. Enjoy the game. Off to change into the lucky "Why Not Us" t-shirt. To wit:
Anyhoo, crazy work day on Friday and G-D computer problems today delayed the bloggin' goodness.
So what did I miss?
-- Schilling coming up huge again. I didn't get the people who said he was washed up - he only had the one bad start against Cleveland. Otherwise, here is his postseason line:
19.1 IP, 16 H 3 ER 3BB 13K 3-0, 1.40 ERA.
F U Curly Haired B, I don't care how he's getting it done. He's getting it done.
-- McCarver again informing me about the length of various players' strokes. Keep it to yourself Timm-ay.
-- One worrying trend - lots of guys left on base by the Sox. This team loses games it shouldn't when it gets guys on and can't drive them home. Happened a bit in the Cleveland series (DPs) and happened in Game 2. Luckily the pitching was strong enough to overcome it. It won't be tonight.
My prediction for tonight - Dice-K goes 5+, but first guy in (Delcarmen) allows two inherited runners to score. Rockies win 5-3.
I hope I am wrong, but I did pick the Sox in 6.
Some blogs before I leave to finish my third drink of the night:
Red Sox Fan From Pinstripe Territory has a good post taking apart CHB.
Red Sox Chick went to Game 1. Hereare the gory details.
Joy of Sox has the open thread and the headlines for tonight's game.
Peter notes that if the NL had home field, the game could be rained out, and Dice-K is the first starting pitcher from the land of the rising sun in the World Series.
That's it. Enjoy the game. Off to change into the lucky "Why Not Us" t-shirt. To wit:
Thursday, October 25, 2007
The Baseball Update
Once again, I am late this morning with the update, but what a game. Even Buck and McCarver couldn't ruin my enjoyment (although they still caused me to talk to myself a lot more than I normally would).
Like Jere, I thought the Royce Clayton/Coco conversation was the humor highlight of the game, at least until McCarver told me that "usually the bigger you are, the longer your stroke". I think he meant it in terms of Matt Holliday's impressive short swing, but I could be wrong.
Three Things I Noticed: (1) Ed Montague was decent behind the plate, but actually had a rather small strike zone, except in the first when Beckett was pitching, and then toward the end of the game when he started calling the belly-button strike. He was giving Francis a few calls he wasn't giving Beckett which just shows you how great Beckett was last night. (2) I know from statistical data that Troy Tulowitzki is an excellent defensive shortstop, but did you see the highlight reel that Fox ran? You could not have come up with a mor anodyne set of clips if you tried. Basically they were "run to the left, plant feet, fire to first". None of the leaping grabs that he's actually made in the NLCS. Anyway, it immediately reminded me of Letterman's "Close Plays of the Month" when Marv Albert would come on and narrate a ridiculolusly average play as though it was something special. Unintentional comedy - thy name is Fox baseball coverage. (3) I was openly rooting for Tito to pull Beckett in the 6th. I mean, 13-1? I guess he's already made up his mind that Lester will be the game 4 starter, but that was a little curious. Allowed me to set up the TaxWife for a good joke, however. I told her that they should bring in Gagne in the 6th. She said no matter the score she doesn't want Gagne coming in in the 6th of any game. So she went to bed before the 9th inning and when she woke up asked me what the final score was. I told her, "you wouldn't believe it, they brought in Gagne and he gave up 6 runs. Paps had to close". She immediately yelled "I told you, I knew it, that guy sucks... etc". (she didn't actually say "etc"). I said, actually it was 13-1. 1-2-3 inning. Good times.
Some Good Blogs
The aforementioned post from Red Sox Fan from Pinstripe Territory.
Keep Your Sox On is rocking Freddy Mercury this morning.
02145 says to keep a little perspective, Red Sox Nation (I agree, this is how we started the ALCS, remember?)
Joy of Sox has the front pages.
Soxaholix. No words necessary.
Pinto says it came down to throwing strikes. See above on the ump. Tight zone last night.
That's it. Busy day. Huge Tax Update should be due, but not sure if I'll get to it.
Like Jere, I thought the Royce Clayton/Coco conversation was the humor highlight of the game, at least until McCarver told me that "usually the bigger you are, the longer your stroke". I think he meant it in terms of Matt Holliday's impressive short swing, but I could be wrong.
Three Things I Noticed: (1) Ed Montague was decent behind the plate, but actually had a rather small strike zone, except in the first when Beckett was pitching, and then toward the end of the game when he started calling the belly-button strike. He was giving Francis a few calls he wasn't giving Beckett which just shows you how great Beckett was last night. (2) I know from statistical data that Troy Tulowitzki is an excellent defensive shortstop, but did you see the highlight reel that Fox ran? You could not have come up with a mor anodyne set of clips if you tried. Basically they were "run to the left, plant feet, fire to first". None of the leaping grabs that he's actually made in the NLCS. Anyway, it immediately reminded me of Letterman's "Close Plays of the Month" when Marv Albert would come on and narrate a ridiculolusly average play as though it was something special. Unintentional comedy - thy name is Fox baseball coverage. (3) I was openly rooting for Tito to pull Beckett in the 6th. I mean, 13-1? I guess he's already made up his mind that Lester will be the game 4 starter, but that was a little curious. Allowed me to set up the TaxWife for a good joke, however. I told her that they should bring in Gagne in the 6th. She said no matter the score she doesn't want Gagne coming in in the 6th of any game. So she went to bed before the 9th inning and when she woke up asked me what the final score was. I told her, "you wouldn't believe it, they brought in Gagne and he gave up 6 runs. Paps had to close". She immediately yelled "I told you, I knew it, that guy sucks... etc". (she didn't actually say "etc"). I said, actually it was 13-1. 1-2-3 inning. Good times.
Some Good Blogs
The aforementioned post from Red Sox Fan from Pinstripe Territory.
Keep Your Sox On is rocking Freddy Mercury this morning.
02145 says to keep a little perspective, Red Sox Nation (I agree, this is how we started the ALCS, remember?)
Joy of Sox has the front pages.
Soxaholix. No words necessary.
Pinto says it came down to throwing strikes. See above on the ump. Tight zone last night.
That's it. Busy day. Huge Tax Update should be due, but not sure if I'll get to it.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Oh Yeah
Sox in 6.
MVP: Manny just like in '04.
Number of dumb things McCarver will say? Too many to count.
World Series Limerick:
They've conquered the Angels and Tribe
Down three to one they survived
With the Rockies in town
Even if they get down
We know they will come back and thrive.
Sorry - I only had 10 minutes.
Enjoy the game!
MVP: Manny just like in '04.
Number of dumb things McCarver will say? Too many to count.
World Series Limerick:
They've conquered the Angels and Tribe
Down three to one they survived
With the Rockies in town
Even if they get down
We know they will come back and thrive.
Sorry - I only had 10 minutes.
Enjoy the game!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
A Day Late...
But we'll do the Bills update anyway.
I knew it would be a close game, but I had it coming out the other way - with Baltimore grinding away at the Bills D and coming out on top on a late FG. I was pleasantly surprised.
Overall, Edwards did fine given (i) the defense and (ii) the playcalling. As I thought, they took about 3 shots downfield. One connected with Evans. One resulted in a pass interference play. One was woefully underthrown.
He's still not crisp on intermeidate routes - especially to the sideline - what got him in trouble against Dallas and caused his 1 INT in this game. As the TV guys noted, he doesn't look off coverage and so gives defenders time to jump routes (although his INT was just a bad throw).
I was originally of the opinion that they should stick with Losman. He showed enough down the stretch last year to get another shot. But he clearly isn't Levy's or Jauron's guy and Ralph himself seemed to have ordered the switch. He won't himself beat any good pass defenses, but he'll pull a Trent Dilfer and allow Lynch and the D to keep them in close games. All that said, I agree with Brian Galiford at Buffalo Rumblings that they need to stick with one guy or else Jauron should be fired.
Speaking of Lynch - that kid is going to be good, especially once the Bills get a good O line. He has excellent patience for a rookie, sticking behind the line until a hole opens up. Excellent draft pick.
Playcalling and clock management? Meh. Not nearly agressive enough on the drives in the red zone (a draw on 3rd and 10 from your opponent's 10? Really?) And then once again, down the stretch, much too conservative on offense (running out the clock is fine, but contrary to Easterbrook, repetaed runs right up the middle won't get it done - especially with this O line) and on defense (it was more a case of Boller missing plays - Bills were once again willing to give up yards). It worked because Baltimore's defense is so inept, but they've got to be more agressive when in TD territory.
Game recaps:
Goose's Roost
Buffalo Rumblings
Bills Gab
I knew it would be a close game, but I had it coming out the other way - with Baltimore grinding away at the Bills D and coming out on top on a late FG. I was pleasantly surprised.
Overall, Edwards did fine given (i) the defense and (ii) the playcalling. As I thought, they took about 3 shots downfield. One connected with Evans. One resulted in a pass interference play. One was woefully underthrown.
He's still not crisp on intermeidate routes - especially to the sideline - what got him in trouble against Dallas and caused his 1 INT in this game. As the TV guys noted, he doesn't look off coverage and so gives defenders time to jump routes (although his INT was just a bad throw).
I was originally of the opinion that they should stick with Losman. He showed enough down the stretch last year to get another shot. But he clearly isn't Levy's or Jauron's guy and Ralph himself seemed to have ordered the switch. He won't himself beat any good pass defenses, but he'll pull a Trent Dilfer and allow Lynch and the D to keep them in close games. All that said, I agree with Brian Galiford at Buffalo Rumblings that they need to stick with one guy or else Jauron should be fired.
Speaking of Lynch - that kid is going to be good, especially once the Bills get a good O line. He has excellent patience for a rookie, sticking behind the line until a hole opens up. Excellent draft pick.
Playcalling and clock management? Meh. Not nearly agressive enough on the drives in the red zone (a draw on 3rd and 10 from your opponent's 10? Really?) And then once again, down the stretch, much too conservative on offense (running out the clock is fine, but contrary to Easterbrook, repetaed runs right up the middle won't get it done - especially with this O line) and on defense (it was more a case of Boller missing plays - Bills were once again willing to give up yards). It worked because Baltimore's defense is so inept, but they've got to be more agressive when in TD territory.
Game recaps:
Goose's Roost
Buffalo Rumblings
Bills Gab
Monday, October 22, 2007
Tito is a Good Manager
I was not among the Tito bashers when he went with Wakefield over Beckett in Game 4. The numbers were on Tito's side. Wakefield was fresh. Wakefield did not pitch a gem in Game 4, but he also was not the reason the Sox lost. Beckett then went on regular rest in Game 5, Schill was Schill in Game 6 and the Sox blew the Indians out of the water in Game 7.
And then there is this (from Buster Olney's ESPN chat today)
Excuse? Doesn't matter. Good call Tito.
And then there is this (from Buster Olney's ESPN chat today)
brendan(ny): What happened to Travis Hafner? How come he doesn't get the same treatment as ARod despite a miserable postseason?
Buster Olney: Brendan: His bat was incredibly slow the last three games. And there is some thought in the Cleveland family that facing Wakefield's knuckler may have fouled up some of the Indians' hitters for the last few days of the series
Excuse? Doesn't matter. Good call Tito.
The Baseball Update
Really, just a tour of pieces from the interwebs this morning. They're all saying it better than I can.
Charles Pierce defends Manny better than anyone I have seen so far.
You knew Keep Your Sox On would choose "Don't Stop Believeing" for their tribute to last night's game.
Peter is overjoyed.
Soxaholix has the first Flowers for Algernon reference I have seen in a long time.
Call of the Green Monster has the scoop on baseball lessens for Rockies fans.
Bills update and maybe Death and Taxes Updates later. I'm behind the 8 ball at work after watching so much baseball over the weekend.
Charles Pierce defends Manny better than anyone I have seen so far.
You knew Keep Your Sox On would choose "Don't Stop Believeing" for their tribute to last night's game.
Peter is overjoyed.
Soxaholix has the first Flowers for Algernon reference I have seen in a long time.
Call of the Green Monster has the scoop on baseball lessens for Rockies fans.
Bills update and maybe Death and Taxes Updates later. I'm behind the 8 ball at work after watching so much baseball over the weekend.
This is nice
Evidence that Sox fans generally are good people, like fans everywhere. From Art Martone's indispensible ProJo Blog
Stay Classy, Boston
BOSTON -- As the Indians' players made their way from their clubhouse to the team bus, which was parked in right field, they found themselves being honored by an unlikely group of people.
Red Sox fans who had stayed behind at Fenway Park for the post-clinching celebration stood to the sides and created an alley for the players to walk through. And as they passed, the fans applauded, making comments like, ''Good series,'' and ''Good luck next year.''
Ex-Sox right fielder Trot Nixon was the first to pass, and he seemed surprised by the ovation. The other Cleveland players passed stoically, but Travis Hafner had a smile on his face.
It all occured at around 1 a.m.
And at 1:04 a.m., with the field finally clear of Red Sox players but the lights still on and the grounds crew beginning its work, the Fenway Park organist began playing ''The Impossible Dream.''
Stay Classy, Boston
Job Well Done
Squanders in the first 3 innings. Nail biting in innings 4 through 6. Dodging a bullet in the 5th - with a little help from the second base ump. Then a breakthrough in the 7th, aided by an error and some luck. Then the floodgates opening in the 8th.
The Sox did it with a little more execution (specifically the pen), a few breaks (the Manny grounder off the lip that went for a single instead of a DP) and one bad call by the second base ump and an historic mistake by Joel Skinner.
Check the archives. I was never more than moderately nervous, and was actually pretty confident all through the series. Even in the dark day after going down 3-1. Team has too much talent and the breaks were due to even out. Now, the Sox get to face God's team. Good luck to them.
Enjoy the celebration. I am f-d at work tomorrow.
The Sox did it with a little more execution (specifically the pen), a few breaks (the Manny grounder off the lip that went for a single instead of a DP) and one bad call by the second base ump and an historic mistake by Joel Skinner.
Check the archives. I was never more than moderately nervous, and was actually pretty confident all through the series. Even in the dark day after going down 3-1. Team has too much talent and the breaks were due to even out. Now, the Sox get to face God's team. Good luck to them.
Enjoy the celebration. I am f-d at work tomorrow.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Quick NFL Thoughts
The Bills play the Ravens today in Buffalo. It's homecoming for Willis McGahee. There has been quite a bit of trash-talking by Bills fans this week, in anticipation of McGahee's return. Some of it has been over the top. However, let's take a look at what this classy guy said on his way out of town last year:
Coming from Miami, I was used to partying, going out, just having something to do every night. Restaurants, whatever. Going to Buffalo, it was like hitting a brick wall. Like, Damn. Can't go out, can't do nothing. There's an Applebee's, a TGI Friday's, and they just got a Dave & Busters. They got that, and I'm like, 'What the' And, you know, the women?
You see, when I was in college that's what I used to thrive off of. The better you do, the more fame you get. So you know, it was like, I was used to that. And then you get to Buffalo and no matter how you do, it's the same. It's no big city. You know what I did every day? I came home and played video games.
That's nice. Typicl grad of The U. Anyway, hopefully the Bills' Run D will get up for the game - unlikely given their record thus far, but a fan can hope.
BfloBlog has the tailgate report.
Buffalo Rumblings breaks down the Ravens.
Goose's Roost has a better takedown of McGahee than I could muster.
My prediction? This will be a close game. The Ravens offense, McGahee notwithstanding is gross. Boller has his last week in there and will be pressing to try to get another week as the starter. This will result in some takeaways for the Bills.
On the offensive side, Edwards will throw deep and hopefully link up with Evans for a couple of long plays. If he connects, they will win. If he doesn't they will lose. The game will come down to one or two big plays (because the Bills will not be able to move the ball with any real regularity) and takeaways.
The score: Ravens 16, Bills 14
The Quick Picks
COWBOYS (-9.5) over Vikings
BILLS (+3) over Ravens
Bucs (+2) over LIONS What have the Lions done the last 3 weeks to inspire any confidence?
Patriots (-16.5) over DOLPHINS
SAINTS (-9) over Falcons
GIANTS (-9) over Niners This is the week that Eli reverts to last season's Eli, of course.
WASHINGTON (-9) over Cardinals Well there goes my theory that the SG doesn't use the racist nickname. Wonder why it said Washington last week and Redskins this week.
Titans (-1) over TEXANS
BENGALS (-6) over Jets I hate the Jets
Chiefs (+3) over RAIDERS
Rams (+8) over SEAHAWKS I thought Qwest Field was supposed to be a tough place to play?
EAGLES (-5) over Bears Wow, I am taking a lot of favorites this week.
BRONCOS (+3.5) over Steelers For avoidance of doubt, I also hate the freaking Steelers.
Jags (+3) over COLTS I hope.
That's it - enjoy the games.
Also, Paul Byrd is a cheating cheater.
6 Down, 1 to Go
Just. Wow. This is why I love baseball. Well, this and the dingers. J.D. Drew, a guy who couldn't buy a big hit all year, who had fans mocking him, actually pining for Trot Nixon (!) after Game 2, who apparently had personal problems off field that may have contributed to his relative lack of production this year, was redeemed in a big way. All of a sudden, curtain call, standing "Os", possible chants of "Drew, Drew" (I couldn't quite hear them).
Some commenters on Deadspin were complaining about "Sox Fans" - to quote one:
You Red Sox fans are f*cking pathetic - rip J.D. Drew and then he saves your season like that so he's a God.
Yeah, that's about right. But you see, that is a fan's prerogative. I don't necessarily agree with booing your own players (well, I will make an exception for Gagne), unless they have come out and maligned fans or teammates, or generally acted like jerks. However, fans are absolutely entitled to complain about a guy, whine to talk radio, bitch and moan and then, when the moment is right, turn on a dime and cheer cheer cheer.
It's not two-faced. It's called being a fan. And last night Drew got to experience the good side of the equation. As did Sox fans everywhere.
Three things I noticed: (1) Schilling was actually pretty masterful. The picture of efficiency. He threw 90 pitches over 7 innings, never more than 18 in an inning. He never was in any real trouble, despite Joe Buck and Tim McCarver's fevered hand-wringing in the third inning when Cleveland cut it to 4-1 and had the tying run at the plate. He was the epitome of crafty. The only people who should have been surprised are people with poor memories. He pitched the exact same way against Anaheim. Too many people let the one bad start against Cleveland color their views.
(2) Speaking of McCarver. He's become downright unlistenable (I know - this is news?) What I mean is, I used to be able to listen to him at least for the unintentional comedy effect - like the other night when he expressed surprise that a lead-off home run will lead to more big innings than a lead-off walk. Something has changed, though. I don't know what - seems like he's forcing himself to find things to say. He actually said last night, apropos of nothing that the word "gameplan" has been used in football for a while and is now being used in baseball. Huh? What does that even mean? That people use gameplans in baseball now, or just the word? There were countless other examples, but he's not even funny anymore. He's just sad. Like the drunk uncle who goes from funny to quiet and distant. Sad.
(3) I've talked about it over and over again, but it was finally nice to see it acknowledged by a real baseball person. After the game, Eric Wedge noted that the breaks that had been going the Indians way, went the Sox way last night. Some borderline pitches by Carmona were called balls. A couple of little infield hits in the first loaded the bases. Drew's grand slam cleared the wall by about a foot. And then the late miscues came - lack of execution. The series has done a 180 since i wrote this, and I think it's 25% execution and 75% breaks falling in a different way.
Touring the blogs
Jere is luckily going to Game 7 tonight. He's too fixated on the Yankees though for my taste. I did not once think of the Yankees last night.
Sox Nest knows the meaning of redemption.
Keep Your Sox On echoes the theme of little moments making the big difference.
Peter has the money quote from Schilling about Dice-K ready to go out there tonight.
That's all for now on the baseball front. Unfortunately this is a work day for me, but I'll be back in a bit with quick NFL picks.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Friday Randomness
1. Sabres I have not had the time to really get down and dirty with the Sabres this year (wait, that came out wrong) - to really follow the Sabres this year. I had expected they would be down following the loss of Drury (Go BU) and Briere. After the first two games, I looked to be right, but they bounced back nicely.
Of course, Goose's Roost and BfloBlog cover the Sabres much more closely (and betterly) than I could hope to.
For example,
Goose's Roost has this excellent breakdown of the Jochen Hecht deal - a great signing, and great sign, that Drury and Briere notwithstanding, Regier is going to try to keep the young core together.
And BfloBlog has this hilarious Daily Show-esque mock interview. I don't want to spoil it - just check it out. The funniest thing I've read all day (especially since Deadspin has turned into one hell of a whine and bitch-fest the past few days).
2. Bills The enterprising soul who set up the Fire Dick Jauron blog has a new post tying the potential Toronto games and the benching of J.P. Losman (and his flowing locks) to the ineptitude of Mr. Jauron. (Note: Goose's Roost also weighed in on this)
As far as this weekend's game is concerned, the Bills D should keep it close - there will be some revenge factor against McGahee and Boller is atrocious. The Ravens D is still scary, but not the stout squad it has been in the past. I'd take the Bills and the under - then again - I am a horrible handicapper.
3. Miscellany Joe Posnanski's blog is tremendous, although the commenters are crazy.
In local news, TaxBoy is nearing 9 months now and is standing - not unassisted - he needs to hold on to something to keep from falling. I can't believe it. He also weighs about 20 lbs - so now he's noticeable when I carry him around.
St. John - 5 weeks away. Can't wait.
Of course, Goose's Roost and BfloBlog cover the Sabres much more closely (and betterly) than I could hope to.
For example,
Goose's Roost has this excellent breakdown of the Jochen Hecht deal - a great signing, and great sign, that Drury and Briere notwithstanding, Regier is going to try to keep the young core together.
And BfloBlog has this hilarious Daily Show-esque mock interview. I don't want to spoil it - just check it out. The funniest thing I've read all day (especially since Deadspin has turned into one hell of a whine and bitch-fest the past few days).
2. Bills The enterprising soul who set up the Fire Dick Jauron blog has a new post tying the potential Toronto games and the benching of J.P. Losman (and his flowing locks) to the ineptitude of Mr. Jauron. (Note: Goose's Roost also weighed in on this)
As far as this weekend's game is concerned, the Bills D should keep it close - there will be some revenge factor against McGahee and Boller is atrocious. The Ravens D is still scary, but not the stout squad it has been in the past. I'd take the Bills and the under - then again - I am a horrible handicapper.
3. Miscellany Joe Posnanski's blog is tremendous, although the commenters are crazy.
In local news, TaxBoy is nearing 9 months now and is standing - not unassisted - he needs to hold on to something to keep from falling. I can't believe it. He also weighs about 20 lbs - so now he's noticeable when I carry him around.
St. John - 5 weeks away. Can't wait.
The Taxes Update
The bill I mentioned yesterday was introduced today by Senator Kerry - S. 2199, the "Offshore Deferred Compensation Reform Act of 2007". Rep. Emanuel's bill apparently will be introduced in the House later with identical language.
(note - haven't found the bill yet online, but here is a press release from Kerry's office)
In substance, it is as I described - it would prevent nonqualified deferred comp arrangements by companies located in low tax jurisdictions. The definition of low tax jurisdiction for this purpose, however, is not quite clear. The bill requires that:
It is not clear whether this means that a corporate income tax must be on the books of such country, or whether the corporate income tax must actually apply to the actual income of the company. In either case, however, it does not say that the rate needs to be high - so the idea I mentioned yesterday - domicile in a country with a legit corporate income tax, but negotiate for a low rate (Zug, Switzerland comes to mind) could still work. Treasury regulations (which are authorized) would be necessary to refine details like this.
I know that someone did a client alert on this yesterday, but I have not found it. I do not expect to do another one. There's nothing new here that I didn't already mention in my prior alert.
(note - haven't found the bill yet online, but here is a press release from Kerry's office)
In substance, it is as I described - it would prevent nonqualified deferred comp arrangements by companies located in low tax jurisdictions. The definition of low tax jurisdiction for this purpose, however, is not quite clear. The bill requires that:
substantially all of the income of [the offshore] corporation is subject to an income tax imposed by [the offshore country]
It is not clear whether this means that a corporate income tax must be on the books of such country, or whether the corporate income tax must actually apply to the actual income of the company. In either case, however, it does not say that the rate needs to be high - so the idea I mentioned yesterday - domicile in a country with a legit corporate income tax, but negotiate for a low rate (Zug, Switzerland comes to mind) could still work. Treasury regulations (which are authorized) would be necessary to refine details like this.
I know that someone did a client alert on this yesterday, but I have not found it. I do not expect to do another one. There's nothing new here that I didn't already mention in my prior alert.
The Baseball Update
Ahhhhhh... back to business, back to Boston.
I watched the game last night from the bar at Morton's here in the city with a good friend from Boston who was down. Reminded me of the '04 ALCS when I watched the comeback games in San Francisco with the same guy, plus some other guys. Good transplant karma, I guess.
It still started out frustrating - like games 2-4 - the Sox were getting lots of chances, but not capitalizing - the Manny throwout at home, the long single, Lugo's DP (which I called). But the worm obviously turned and some of those breaks I've been talking about went the Sox' way - miscues in the field, ball 4 calls that were close - and timely hitting (not clutch, just timely).
Three Things I Noticed: (1) It was the curveball that did it for Beckett. The hook was nasty all night and the Indians just couldn't figure it out, even upon third viewing in the 7th and 8th. (2) Lugo is just terrible. I didn't get the infatuation last year when the rumors were heating up that the Sox would not resign Gonzalez and go after Lugo. He doesn't hit. He doesn't field. He's a 30 steal guy with a penchant for GIDPS. The only entertaining thing about him is his passion for cup adjustments, which he doesn't even seem to be doing as much. Ah well, I shouldn't be negative after a game like last night. (3) Joe Buck and McCarver were actually excellent last night. I had the sound off and can say that they have never sounded better.
Let's go to the Blogs....
Jere has a typically passionate take on the game and golden goblets.
Keep Your Sox On says that Beckett goes to 11.
Peter says that Beckett was Santa Claus (he has a lot of Mrs. Clauses, apparently).
Surviving Grady is calling for the Randy Johnson move from Beckett if it gets to 7. He also finds the hidden meaning in the art of holding a microphone.
Soxaholix say let the "real Indian" play.
Back later. Busy morning.
I watched the game last night from the bar at Morton's here in the city with a good friend from Boston who was down. Reminded me of the '04 ALCS when I watched the comeback games in San Francisco with the same guy, plus some other guys. Good transplant karma, I guess.
It still started out frustrating - like games 2-4 - the Sox were getting lots of chances, but not capitalizing - the Manny throwout at home, the long single, Lugo's DP (which I called). But the worm obviously turned and some of those breaks I've been talking about went the Sox' way - miscues in the field, ball 4 calls that were close - and timely hitting (not clutch, just timely).
Three Things I Noticed: (1) It was the curveball that did it for Beckett. The hook was nasty all night and the Indians just couldn't figure it out, even upon third viewing in the 7th and 8th. (2) Lugo is just terrible. I didn't get the infatuation last year when the rumors were heating up that the Sox would not resign Gonzalez and go after Lugo. He doesn't hit. He doesn't field. He's a 30 steal guy with a penchant for GIDPS. The only entertaining thing about him is his passion for cup adjustments, which he doesn't even seem to be doing as much. Ah well, I shouldn't be negative after a game like last night. (3) Joe Buck and McCarver were actually excellent last night. I had the sound off and can say that they have never sounded better.
Let's go to the Blogs....
Jere has a typically passionate take on the game and golden goblets.
Keep Your Sox On says that Beckett goes to 11.
Peter says that Beckett was Santa Claus (he has a lot of Mrs. Clauses, apparently).
Surviving Grady is calling for the Randy Johnson move from Beckett if it gets to 7. He also finds the hidden meaning in the art of holding a microphone.
Soxaholix say let the "real Indian" play.
Back later. Busy morning.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
The Baseball Update
Here we go...
In under 4 hours, Dustin Pedroia will step into the box against CC Sabathia in the biggest game of his life. For all of the "we've been there before" stuff we've been hearing from Yoooooouk and others, for some of the key players (Pedroia, Lugo, Coco, Papelbon, Okajima), they haven't been there before. This isn't a post about pressure though. It's a post about how, in a season that lasts more than 6 months, over two hundred games, counding pre- and post-season, that goes from cold to hot and back to cold again, everything comes down to three or four chances at the plate and a half dozen chances in the field. How exhilirating must that be?
Mike & Mike this morning (shut up, I was getting dressed) were talking about this phenomenon - how casual fans sitting in the stands say things like "I'd kill for that guy's job" or "those players don't know how good they have it", when the player's perspective is, well, it's a job. Still, Golic admitted that there were times when he would step back, look around and say, "wow. This is pretty damn cool. I'm in the NFL."
I imagine tonight is one of those nights. Even on the road, even with the expectations. You have to think that when Pedroia steps in at 8:07 to face the real Hefty Lefty (sorry Jared, CC has you beat), he'll close his eyes and shake his head, as he does, step out, adjust the batting gloves and wait, just for a second, before stepping in and getting back to his job.
Bring it back to Fenway, guys.
Some pre-game blogtalk:
The Mighty Quinn reminds us that the Sox have faced this situation before. Often with worse odds (who thought Schilling would be able to pitch again in '04 Who thought the Sox would beat the Indians in '99 after going down 0-2 with that dead-ass pitching staff?)
Joy of Sox has the salient quotes for tonight.
Peter says it's Beckett or Bust and (rightly) defends Manny. Let's give the Manny-bashing a rest and YES, Mike No Talent Adams, I'm looking at you.
Triumphant Red Sox Fan thinks we need more Millar.
Red Sox Dad (wait that could describe me as well) thinks the Sox look nice and loose.
Go Sox.
In under 4 hours, Dustin Pedroia will step into the box against CC Sabathia in the biggest game of his life. For all of the "we've been there before" stuff we've been hearing from Yoooooouk and others, for some of the key players (Pedroia, Lugo, Coco, Papelbon, Okajima), they haven't been there before. This isn't a post about pressure though. It's a post about how, in a season that lasts more than 6 months, over two hundred games, counding pre- and post-season, that goes from cold to hot and back to cold again, everything comes down to three or four chances at the plate and a half dozen chances in the field. How exhilirating must that be?
Mike & Mike this morning (shut up, I was getting dressed) were talking about this phenomenon - how casual fans sitting in the stands say things like "I'd kill for that guy's job" or "those players don't know how good they have it", when the player's perspective is, well, it's a job. Still, Golic admitted that there were times when he would step back, look around and say, "wow. This is pretty damn cool. I'm in the NFL."
I imagine tonight is one of those nights. Even on the road, even with the expectations. You have to think that when Pedroia steps in at 8:07 to face the real Hefty Lefty (sorry Jared, CC has you beat), he'll close his eyes and shake his head, as he does, step out, adjust the batting gloves and wait, just for a second, before stepping in and getting back to his job.
Bring it back to Fenway, guys.
Some pre-game blogtalk:
The Mighty Quinn reminds us that the Sox have faced this situation before. Often with worse odds (who thought Schilling would be able to pitch again in '04 Who thought the Sox would beat the Indians in '99 after going down 0-2 with that dead-ass pitching staff?)
Joy of Sox has the salient quotes for tonight.
Peter says it's Beckett or Bust and (rightly) defends Manny. Let's give the Manny-bashing a rest and YES, Mike No Talent Adams, I'm looking at you.
Triumphant Red Sox Fan thinks we need more Millar.
Red Sox Dad (wait that could describe me as well) thinks the Sox look nice and loose.
Go Sox.
The Death Update
There hasn't been one in a while.
A very sad day in Macedonia, Croatia and the greater former Yugoslavia as Toshe Proeski died Tuesday in a car accident. He was 26.
Proeski was an extremely popular (apparently) pop singer who, in 2004, participated in the prestigious Eurovision singing competition (think Idol, then multiply by the EU).
He was buried yesterday in Macedonia with full state and religious honors.
Here is a sample of some of his work.
Here is an excellent article explaining better than I can why Proeski was an important figure in an area that has suffered extremely.
And here is the obit.
A very sad day in Macedonia, Croatia and the greater former Yugoslavia as Toshe Proeski died Tuesday in a car accident. He was 26.
Proeski was an extremely popular (apparently) pop singer who, in 2004, participated in the prestigious Eurovision singing competition (think Idol, then multiply by the EU).
He was buried yesterday in Macedonia with full state and religious honors.
Here is a sample of some of his work.
Here is an excellent article explaining better than I can why Proeski was an important figure in an area that has suffered extremely.
And here is the obit.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Some Common Sense
From David Pinto writing at the Sporting News. Basically, the series has come down to timely hitting by the Indians, lack of same from the Sox and superb fielding by the Indians.
Hopefully those trends will reverse themselves soon.
(via Baseball Musings)
The Taxes Update
I referred to this a month ago when it first came out, but Rep. Rahm Emanuel (D-IL), along with Sen. John Kerry (D-MA) tomorrow will introduce legislation in the House and Senate that would limit deferral by hedge fund managers (among others) of compensation paid offshore. The bill would impose a limit equal to the amount people are allowed to defer into 401(k) and Roth IRA accounts (approximately $20,000).
Some background - Hedge fund managers receive management fees for operating their hedge funds equal to 2% of the NAV of the funds. In addition, they receive a performance based fee equal to 20% of the net appreciation of the funds (called, "2 and 20" in industry parlance).
It is common practice for fund managers to defer receipt of the 2 and 20 fees, avoid current tax on these amounts, invest them back into the funds they manage, and then receive them later, having compounded tax free in the interim (kind of like what happens to your 401(k) - you defer tax on the amounts you contribute into a 401(k) account, it earns a return tax-free while it is in there and then you pay tax at ordinary rates when you pull it out).
The perceived abuse is that this deferral opportunity is not available to regular taxpayers - only managers of offshore hedge funds. From a tax policy standpoint, so long as the deferred amounts are at risk and may be lost (which they are - the amounts are usually reinvested back into the hedge funds the managers run), I do not see how this is any different than any other deferred compensation plan. It's simply a matter of quantum.
Here is the press release from September when he first announced his intentions.
And here is my client alert on the same topic.
Update: I should have mentioned in the above that one of the reasons given for the "fairness" aspect of the bill is that deferrals of comp made by employees of US-based companies result in a economic detriment to the employer, as the employer loses the deduction until the employee is ultimately paid. By contrast, the deferrals that Kerry's and Emanuel's bill will apparently target, are made by employees of hedge fund management companies domiciled in tax havens (Cayman, Bermuda, etc). Thus, there is no lost deduction and no economic detrminent to the employer of allowing the deferral.
However, this grossly misunderstands why hedge funds are set up offshore in the first place - they are set up offshore to allow tax-exempt and non-US investors invest in hedge funds without becoming directly subject to US tax. Tax-exempt and non-US investors, of course, would also have no use for the tax deduction associtaed with payments of compensation to hedge fund managers, because they do not ordinarily pay US federal income tax. Thus, even if the hedge fund managers engaged directly with investors in these deferral arrangements, there would be no lost deduction.
It's a function of the nature of the taxpayer, not the domicile of the management company that creates the mismatch.
My personal view on the topic (which I should have included above) is that this is a small issue in the larger scheme of taxation of private equity funds and their managers and is a distraction from the larger debate. This bill (along with Rep. Sander Levin's bill on UDFI) would probably at least encourage hedge funds to come back onshore.
It's all moot, however, because no tax raises will be signed by President Bush, in my opinion.
Further update: The bill apparently has an easy workaround - organize the fund and management company in a country that can be low tax, but not a tax haven (e.g., Switzerland). The summary of the bill (no actual text yet) says that the cap on deferrals does not apply where the corporation is domiciled in a jurisdiction that imposes an income tax on corporate income, has deductibility rules that work similarly to the US rules and has a tax treaty with the US. Thus, an offshore fund manager could be set up in Switzerland, obtain a ruling to negotiate a low local rate of tax, and continue deferring as usual. There would be some tax slippage, but presumably the tax benefit would outweigh the slippage if the return on the deferred amounts was high enough.
Some background - Hedge fund managers receive management fees for operating their hedge funds equal to 2% of the NAV of the funds. In addition, they receive a performance based fee equal to 20% of the net appreciation of the funds (called, "2 and 20" in industry parlance).
It is common practice for fund managers to defer receipt of the 2 and 20 fees, avoid current tax on these amounts, invest them back into the funds they manage, and then receive them later, having compounded tax free in the interim (kind of like what happens to your 401(k) - you defer tax on the amounts you contribute into a 401(k) account, it earns a return tax-free while it is in there and then you pay tax at ordinary rates when you pull it out).
The perceived abuse is that this deferral opportunity is not available to regular taxpayers - only managers of offshore hedge funds. From a tax policy standpoint, so long as the deferred amounts are at risk and may be lost (which they are - the amounts are usually reinvested back into the hedge funds the managers run), I do not see how this is any different than any other deferred compensation plan. It's simply a matter of quantum.
Here is the press release from September when he first announced his intentions.
And here is my client alert on the same topic.
Update: I should have mentioned in the above that one of the reasons given for the "fairness" aspect of the bill is that deferrals of comp made by employees of US-based companies result in a economic detriment to the employer, as the employer loses the deduction until the employee is ultimately paid. By contrast, the deferrals that Kerry's and Emanuel's bill will apparently target, are made by employees of hedge fund management companies domiciled in tax havens (Cayman, Bermuda, etc). Thus, there is no lost deduction and no economic detrminent to the employer of allowing the deferral.
However, this grossly misunderstands why hedge funds are set up offshore in the first place - they are set up offshore to allow tax-exempt and non-US investors invest in hedge funds without becoming directly subject to US tax. Tax-exempt and non-US investors, of course, would also have no use for the tax deduction associtaed with payments of compensation to hedge fund managers, because they do not ordinarily pay US federal income tax. Thus, even if the hedge fund managers engaged directly with investors in these deferral arrangements, there would be no lost deduction.
It's a function of the nature of the taxpayer, not the domicile of the management company that creates the mismatch.
My personal view on the topic (which I should have included above) is that this is a small issue in the larger scheme of taxation of private equity funds and their managers and is a distraction from the larger debate. This bill (along with Rep. Sander Levin's bill on UDFI) would probably at least encourage hedge funds to come back onshore.
It's all moot, however, because no tax raises will be signed by President Bush, in my opinion.
Further update: The bill apparently has an easy workaround - organize the fund and management company in a country that can be low tax, but not a tax haven (e.g., Switzerland). The summary of the bill (no actual text yet) says that the cap on deferrals does not apply where the corporation is domiciled in a jurisdiction that imposes an income tax on corporate income, has deductibility rules that work similarly to the US rules and has a tax treaty with the US. Thus, an offshore fund manager could be set up in Switzerland, obtain a ruling to negotiate a low local rate of tax, and continue deferring as usual. There would be some tax slippage, but presumably the tax benefit would outweigh the slippage if the return on the deferred amounts was high enough.
The Baseball Update
Well that was frustrating. Really, in both games 3 and 4, the emotion was one of frustration. Frustration that the Sox were not coming through in big moments like they seemed to have in the regular season. Frustration that the breaks in the game were not going the Sox' way. Frustration that each game lost was there for the taking, but for a mistake in strategy (Game 2 - bringing in Gagne, leaving Tavarez off the playoff roster), a mistake in execution (Game 2 - the pen, Game 3 - Dice-K and the Double Plays, Game 4 - Wakefield knocking down the grounder that could have ended the horrendous 5th and Youk dropping the popus), or breaks gone the other way (Lofton's home run that barely made it over the fence, Wakefield's gaffe last night, the wide strike zone that cause Dice-K's pitch count to soar).
Still, after being down 3-1, I am disappointed, but still cautiously optimistic. Beckett goes in Game 5. If the Sox win tomorrow, Schilling goes at home in Game 6 (and don't forget, he was dominant in Game 3 against the Angels). I still firmly believe that the Sox bats will come back, in moments that matter (not the backtobacktoback or Varitek's homer), and that the breaks will start to even out. If the Sox lose, they will lose because of the lack of execution and the lack of breaks, not, because of some ridiculous half-baked "Sox have become the Yankees" hypothesis. Please.
This is the comment I left on Deadspin's page when i read that post.
Why does every sporting event need a meta-theory? This series does not need one.
Touring the Sox Blogs:
Jere is relatively optimistic, and points out something ridiculous McCarver said last night, reminding me of the time Steve Lyons said he'd rather a batter hit a triple than a home run in an inning because it "keeps the rally going".
Over the Monster is asking for it from the baseball karma gods. The Taxwife would not approve.
That's it for now. Taxes update and Death Update (really) t/k.
Still, after being down 3-1, I am disappointed, but still cautiously optimistic. Beckett goes in Game 5. If the Sox win tomorrow, Schilling goes at home in Game 6 (and don't forget, he was dominant in Game 3 against the Angels). I still firmly believe that the Sox bats will come back, in moments that matter (not the backtobacktoback or Varitek's homer), and that the breaks will start to even out. If the Sox lose, they will lose because of the lack of execution and the lack of breaks, not, because of some ridiculous half-baked "Sox have become the Yankees" hypothesis. Please.
This is the comment I left on Deadspin's page when i read that post.
Why does every sporting event need a meta-theory? This series does not need one.
Touring the Sox Blogs:
Jere is relatively optimistic, and points out something ridiculous McCarver said last night, reminding me of the time Steve Lyons said he'd rather a batter hit a triple than a home run in an inning because it "keeps the rally going".
Over the Monster is asking for it from the baseball karma gods. The Taxwife would not approve.
That's it for now. Taxes update and Death Update (really) t/k.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
One more quick link
Not Alot of Time This Morning
So this will be a quick one.
Kenny Lofton -- Really?
Dice-K -- Actually did not pitch that badly. The Lofton Home Run was just barely over the fence, and the 4th run scoring on the Hafner fielder's choice was similarly unlucky. Pedroia missed the DP by about 6 inches. That said, he had a case of Scott Kazmir-itis throwing over 100 pitches through less than 5. At times I was yelling for him to throw more fast balls, but his curve was his out pitch in the 3rd and 4th. I am not too worried, but I am hoping the Sox can take it in 6th so we don't need to see Dice-K out there in the 7th.
Brian Gorman did a horrible job behind the plate. YOu know the ump is lousy when Joe "Milquetoast" Buck is openly questioning balls (heh) and strikes. I do think that Fox's strikecast, or whatever the hell it is called, is not an accurate representation of the strike zone.
Silver Lining? The bullpen was once again nasty, going 3 1/3 of scoreless ball.
Sox Blogs:
Keep Your Sox On with a tour de force post from last night's game. I especially liked the joke about "Grady's Ladies". They were so ugly even McCarver wouldn't throw them a bone.
Sox Fan In Hell advises calmness. Serenity now! (note - I agree 100%).
Red Sox Chick is also trying to stay positive (after an angry post last night - I felt the exact same way during and after the game.
Peter, I think, wants Francona to skip Wake. He also has some choice words for Dice-K's start.
More to come.
Kenny Lofton -- Really?
Dice-K -- Actually did not pitch that badly. The Lofton Home Run was just barely over the fence, and the 4th run scoring on the Hafner fielder's choice was similarly unlucky. Pedroia missed the DP by about 6 inches. That said, he had a case of Scott Kazmir-itis throwing over 100 pitches through less than 5. At times I was yelling for him to throw more fast balls, but his curve was his out pitch in the 3rd and 4th. I am not too worried, but I am hoping the Sox can take it in 6th so we don't need to see Dice-K out there in the 7th.
Brian Gorman did a horrible job behind the plate. YOu know the ump is lousy when Joe "Milquetoast" Buck is openly questioning balls (heh) and strikes. I do think that Fox's strikecast, or whatever the hell it is called, is not an accurate representation of the strike zone.
Silver Lining? The bullpen was once again nasty, going 3 1/3 of scoreless ball.
Sox Blogs:
Keep Your Sox On with a tour de force post from last night's game. I especially liked the joke about "Grady's Ladies". They were so ugly even McCarver wouldn't throw them a bone.
Sox Fan In Hell advises calmness. Serenity now! (note - I agree 100%).
Red Sox Chick is also trying to stay positive (after an angry post last night - I felt the exact same way during and after the game.
Peter, I think, wants Francona to skip Wake. He also has some choice words for Dice-K's start.
More to come.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Sunday Morning Updates
The Baseball Update
Well, you win one, you lose one as the Sox swapped 7 run wins and losses with the Indians. To be honest, I went to bed as soon as I saw Gagne come out to pitch the 11th.
Three Things I Noticed: (1) Schilling actually did not pitch that badly, except for the mistake to Jhonny "don't spell my name right" Peralta. Unfortunately "not that badly" doesn't cut it in the ALCS. He wasn't his "all time best ERA in the postseason" best last night. (2) Papelbon was a stud as usual, which is good to see in case the Sox ever have a 9th inning lead needing protecting. (3) Manny Ortez is still hitting the cover off the ball. Ortiz is hitting .615 with an OBP of .783 and Manny is hitting .429 with an OBP of .652. Unfortunately, Manny blew a goldent opportunity in the first inning to bust the game open early (and get Carmona out of there early) by GIDPing.
Bonus Thing I Noticed: MEMO TO TITO, JAVIER LOPEZ CANNOT GET OUT LEFTIES. They hit .293 against him in the regular season. He's not a LOOGY. Stop using him as if he were one.
Bonus Bonus.... Varitek? Must be hard catching with that fork sticking out of his back. He is totally lost out there - 8 Ks in 21 ABs. Unfortunately, we have no other options unless Youk gets out the big glove again (would be nice to have Kelly Shoppach right about now - If we hadn't taken back bard in '05 in the Crisp trade, we might still have him. Big mistake by Boy Wonder).
A look at some blogs:
Soxnest wishes that Game 2 (like Rocky V and the 1994 NBA season) never happened.
Keep your Sox On has a typically lucid recap of last night's debacle.
Peter's Red Sox Forever had the same sick feeling when Gagne came in.
As an aside, it's hard to know why Gagne has been this bad since joining the Sox. Pitching coach? Injury? Mental issues playing in Fenway? Whatever it is, I have zero confidence that he'll be able to straighten it out this season. He should simply not be a late inning option.
Sox & Dawgs are also scratching their head at bringing in Gagne in a 6-6 game. Maybe in addition to my sister site, I should start Fire Tito soon.
Game 3 tomorrow night in Cleveland. Dice-K (yikes-K) vs. Westbrook. Should be a slugfest, although the way the series has gone so far, who knows.
NFL Picks
Once again, quick picks as the Taxwife has breakfast ready. (as a reminder, using the same lines as the SG and Home Teams in ALLCAPS). Edited to note that the Saints are on the road and Seahawks at home this week
CHIEFS (+3) over Bengals
Jaguars (-6.5) over TEXANS
BROWNS (-4.5) over Dolphins
BEARS (-5) over Vikings
Eagles (-3.5) over JETS
Rams (+9.5) over RAVENS
Washinton (+3) over PACKERS I like that the SG uses the team nickname for everyone except Washington. Not sure if that's an ESPN editorial choice or not, but I like it.
Titans (+3) over BUCS
CARDINALS (-4.5) over Panthers Let's see. Delhomme out, Carr questionable. Oh my god... That.. that's Vinny Testaverde's music!!!
CHARGERS (-9.5) over Raiders
SEAHAWKS (-6.5) over Saints
Giants (-3.5) over FALCONS
Patriots (-5.5) over COWBOYS After last Monday night's disaster, I'm hoping for 38-3 Pats, but I'll expect 27-17 Pats.
That's all for now, taxes and death update later today.
Well, you win one, you lose one as the Sox swapped 7 run wins and losses with the Indians. To be honest, I went to bed as soon as I saw Gagne come out to pitch the 11th.
Three Things I Noticed: (1) Schilling actually did not pitch that badly, except for the mistake to Jhonny "don't spell my name right" Peralta. Unfortunately "not that badly" doesn't cut it in the ALCS. He wasn't his "all time best ERA in the postseason" best last night. (2) Papelbon was a stud as usual, which is good to see in case the Sox ever have a 9th inning lead needing protecting. (3) Manny Ortez is still hitting the cover off the ball. Ortiz is hitting .615 with an OBP of .783 and Manny is hitting .429 with an OBP of .652. Unfortunately, Manny blew a goldent opportunity in the first inning to bust the game open early (and get Carmona out of there early) by GIDPing.
Bonus Thing I Noticed: MEMO TO TITO, JAVIER LOPEZ CANNOT GET OUT LEFTIES. They hit .293 against him in the regular season. He's not a LOOGY. Stop using him as if he were one.
Bonus Bonus.... Varitek? Must be hard catching with that fork sticking out of his back. He is totally lost out there - 8 Ks in 21 ABs. Unfortunately, we have no other options unless Youk gets out the big glove again (would be nice to have Kelly Shoppach right about now - If we hadn't taken back bard in '05 in the Crisp trade, we might still have him. Big mistake by Boy Wonder).
A look at some blogs:
Soxnest wishes that Game 2 (like Rocky V and the 1994 NBA season) never happened.
Keep your Sox On has a typically lucid recap of last night's debacle.
Peter's Red Sox Forever had the same sick feeling when Gagne came in.
As an aside, it's hard to know why Gagne has been this bad since joining the Sox. Pitching coach? Injury? Mental issues playing in Fenway? Whatever it is, I have zero confidence that he'll be able to straighten it out this season. He should simply not be a late inning option.
Sox & Dawgs are also scratching their head at bringing in Gagne in a 6-6 game. Maybe in addition to my sister site, I should start Fire Tito soon.
Game 3 tomorrow night in Cleveland. Dice-K (yikes-K) vs. Westbrook. Should be a slugfest, although the way the series has gone so far, who knows.
NFL Picks
Once again, quick picks as the Taxwife has breakfast ready. (as a reminder, using the same lines as the SG and Home Teams in ALLCAPS). Edited to note that the Saints are on the road and Seahawks at home this week
CHIEFS (+3) over Bengals
Jaguars (-6.5) over TEXANS
BROWNS (-4.5) over Dolphins
BEARS (-5) over Vikings
Eagles (-3.5) over JETS
Rams (+9.5) over RAVENS
Washinton (+3) over PACKERS I like that the SG uses the team nickname for everyone except Washington. Not sure if that's an ESPN editorial choice or not, but I like it.
Titans (+3) over BUCS
CARDINALS (-4.5) over Panthers Let's see. Delhomme out, Carr questionable. Oh my god... That.. that's Vinny Testaverde's music!!!
CHARGERS (-9.5) over Raiders
SEAHAWKS (-6.5) over Saints
Giants (-3.5) over FALCONS
Patriots (-5.5) over COWBOYS After last Monday night's disaster, I'm hoping for 38-3 Pats, but I'll expect 27-17 Pats.
That's all for now, taxes and death update later today.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Late Thursday Night Update
First off, again, a shout-out to my boy Kevin Pritchard at Bflo blog for slapping a link to the Taxman up on his site. For those of you from WNY, I grew up in Newfane (north of Lockport), went to HS at Willy North (go Spartans) where my dad was an English teacher (Mike Naylor) and now live in NYC. Still root (painfully) for the Bills and Sabres and want to hear thoughts and suggestions for coverage of Buffalo sports. Please email me.
No posts yesterday as I was out golfing.
Please head over to Fire Dick Jauron to see my breakdown of how Dick Jauron, despite all evidence to the contrary, still has a head coaching job. It's a sordid story of secret societies and school ties (with apologies to Brendan Fraser).
Anyway...
The baseball Update
Just linking around tonight to some friendly blogs.
Jere at Red Sox Fan from Pinstripe Territory is talking about Suzyn Waldman's crying jag.
A good back and forth from Fire Brand of the American League between a Sox blogger and Indians blogger. Y'all know where i stand - Sox in 6, mostly scoring early runs, the Sox win the battle of the bullpens.
Keep your Sox On's breakdown of the Sox-Indians.
An awesome post from Surviving Grady wherein he hopes that the Sox win the series so the Repo Man won't come take his furniture away.
And it comes with this awesome picture:
Go Paps.
So that's it for the baseball update for now. Again, for the hard of reading (i.e., Yankees fans), Sox in 6. Manny = MVP.
The Taxes Update
No Taxes update tonight as I have lost access to my work email with my summary of tax notes updates.
The Death Update
Red Shipley passed away last week. He was 70. I note his passing because of his promotion of bluegrass music, the same kind of music that led my dad to move to Missouri in 1973, pregnant wife in tow. He had some crazy idea that he and some buddies would start a bluegrass band and make their fortune (or at least fame). It didn't work out, and southwest Missouri was apparently desolate. Amish or fundamentalist Ozarkians ruled the area and my parents were woefully out of place (even though, as Vermonters, they should have been used to that). Anyway, he kept listening to bluegrass, but didn't live his dream.
As for Red, like my dad, he died from cancer, but lived a long productive life promoting the art he loved. The obit is here.
No posts yesterday as I was out golfing.
Please head over to Fire Dick Jauron to see my breakdown of how Dick Jauron, despite all evidence to the contrary, still has a head coaching job. It's a sordid story of secret societies and school ties (with apologies to Brendan Fraser).
Anyway...
The baseball Update
Just linking around tonight to some friendly blogs.
Jere at Red Sox Fan from Pinstripe Territory is talking about Suzyn Waldman's crying jag.
A good back and forth from Fire Brand of the American League between a Sox blogger and Indians blogger. Y'all know where i stand - Sox in 6, mostly scoring early runs, the Sox win the battle of the bullpens.
Keep your Sox On's breakdown of the Sox-Indians.
An awesome post from Surviving Grady wherein he hopes that the Sox win the series so the Repo Man won't come take his furniture away.
And it comes with this awesome picture:
Go Paps.
So that's it for the baseball update for now. Again, for the hard of reading (i.e., Yankees fans), Sox in 6. Manny = MVP.
The Taxes Update
No Taxes update tonight as I have lost access to my work email with my summary of tax notes updates.
The Death Update
Red Shipley passed away last week. He was 70. I note his passing because of his promotion of bluegrass music, the same kind of music that led my dad to move to Missouri in 1973, pregnant wife in tow. He had some crazy idea that he and some buddies would start a bluegrass band and make their fortune (or at least fame). It didn't work out, and southwest Missouri was apparently desolate. Amish or fundamentalist Ozarkians ruled the area and my parents were woefully out of place (even though, as Vermonters, they should have been used to that). Anyway, he kept listening to bluegrass, but didn't live his dream.
As for Red, like my dad, he died from cancer, but lived a long productive life promoting the art he loved. The obit is here.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Rainy Tuesday Night Update
The Bills Letdown
It was quite strange when I turned to the Taxwife not 10 minutes after the Bills lost last night and said "well, they deserved to lose that game - if you can't win getting six turnovers, you deserve to lose". In other words, serenity now.
This morning, before even going on the blogs to check out others' reactions to the games (links below), I thought a little more critically about the game...
-- The Bills gave up an easy 3 at the end of the first half by attempting a 53 yard field goal on a 4th and 3. Not to go all Gregg Easterbrook or anything, but going for it on 4th and 3 has a higher positive outcome than attempting a 53 yarder. Punting may have been the best move there.
-- They sent Roscoe Parrish on an end around (it may have been a reverse) on 3rd and 2 in Dallas territory. It was predictably blown up and the Bills needed to punt. A simple run up the middle or toss over the middle to Lynch or Royal (who was a great weapon in the game (would have obviously been much more productive).
-- Jauron misused times out in the second half, resulting in a bad onside kick defense formation.
-- Defensive playcalling down the stretch was atrocious, giving up easy yards over the middle and then the inexcusable 8 yard sideline route with 7 seconds left. Again, they could have called a time out if they had the wrong personnel on the field, or to make sure the young defense was on the right page.
-- The decision to pass on third and medium deep in Dallas territory in the 4th quarter is inexcusable. That should have been a fireable offense.
I realize that most of the above decisions were not made directly by Jauron, they were made by his coordinators, Brian Fairchild and Perry Fewell (Dr. Z really tears Fewell a new one in particular). Still, Jauron is the HEAD coach and has to ultimately take responsibility for the overall schemes and the decisions to try trick plays on third and short. Most importantly, it is clear that the Bills young players are trying extremely hard and giving it all they have, but they are young. They need a solid gameplan that will not let them down and a coaching staff that knows when to take a breather, settle the troops down and focus that energy. That is sorely lacking this year and it is clear to me that Jauron is not the right man for the job.
Others' more precise takes on last night:
Bflo Blog (special thanks to BfloBlog for linking to the Taxman, by the way)
Buffalo Rumblings
The Goose's Roost
I guess the silver lining I was looking for is that Jauron can't screw up the Bills this Sunday.
In happier news....
The Baseball Update
The ALCS and NLCS are set. Word from Boston is that Schilling will start Game 2 for the Sox, with Dice-K going in game 3. This makes sense insofar as Dice-K has been about 3/4 of a run better on the road than at home this year; however, the way the series lines up, that would have Dice-K going in game 7. I'm not sure how I feel about that, except that the Cubs-D-Backs series showed the fallacy of planning too far ahead in the tournament (although fundamentally, I think Lou was in the right pulling Z).
I'm sticking by my previous prediction of Sox in 6 over the Indians. I only got half of the NLCS teams correct, but I'll stick with the team I did get right - Rockies in 7.
The Taxes Update
Senator Reid announced today that no carried interest legislation would make it through the Senate in 2008. No surprise. Makes for an interesting election year issue. Romney has already pledged no new taxes if he is elected.
The Death Update
A rather obscure one today. Nolan Herndon passed away Sunday at the age of 88 from pneumonia. He was a member of the famed Doolittle Raiders who engaged in one of the most daring aerial missions of World War II. The mission, a bombing raid over Tokyo in the Spring of '42 was memorialized in the book and film Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo, with a screenplay by blacklisted screenwriter Dalton Trumbo (ironic that a writer of a film known as borderline propaganda was later blacklisted for refusing to name names).
Anyway, back to Mr. Herndon, he retired from the military shortly after the war ended and passed away apparently at his home in South Carolina. The obit is here.
It was quite strange when I turned to the Taxwife not 10 minutes after the Bills lost last night and said "well, they deserved to lose that game - if you can't win getting six turnovers, you deserve to lose". In other words, serenity now.
This morning, before even going on the blogs to check out others' reactions to the games (links below), I thought a little more critically about the game...
-- The Bills gave up an easy 3 at the end of the first half by attempting a 53 yard field goal on a 4th and 3. Not to go all Gregg Easterbrook or anything, but going for it on 4th and 3 has a higher positive outcome than attempting a 53 yarder. Punting may have been the best move there.
-- They sent Roscoe Parrish on an end around (it may have been a reverse) on 3rd and 2 in Dallas territory. It was predictably blown up and the Bills needed to punt. A simple run up the middle or toss over the middle to Lynch or Royal (who was a great weapon in the game (would have obviously been much more productive).
-- Jauron misused times out in the second half, resulting in a bad onside kick defense formation.
-- Defensive playcalling down the stretch was atrocious, giving up easy yards over the middle and then the inexcusable 8 yard sideline route with 7 seconds left. Again, they could have called a time out if they had the wrong personnel on the field, or to make sure the young defense was on the right page.
-- The decision to pass on third and medium deep in Dallas territory in the 4th quarter is inexcusable. That should have been a fireable offense.
I realize that most of the above decisions were not made directly by Jauron, they were made by his coordinators, Brian Fairchild and Perry Fewell (Dr. Z really tears Fewell a new one in particular). Still, Jauron is the HEAD coach and has to ultimately take responsibility for the overall schemes and the decisions to try trick plays on third and short. Most importantly, it is clear that the Bills young players are trying extremely hard and giving it all they have, but they are young. They need a solid gameplan that will not let them down and a coaching staff that knows when to take a breather, settle the troops down and focus that energy. That is sorely lacking this year and it is clear to me that Jauron is not the right man for the job.
Others' more precise takes on last night:
Bflo Blog (special thanks to BfloBlog for linking to the Taxman, by the way)
Buffalo Rumblings
The Goose's Roost
I guess the silver lining I was looking for is that Jauron can't screw up the Bills this Sunday.
In happier news....
The Baseball Update
The ALCS and NLCS are set. Word from Boston is that Schilling will start Game 2 for the Sox, with Dice-K going in game 3. This makes sense insofar as Dice-K has been about 3/4 of a run better on the road than at home this year; however, the way the series lines up, that would have Dice-K going in game 7. I'm not sure how I feel about that, except that the Cubs-D-Backs series showed the fallacy of planning too far ahead in the tournament (although fundamentally, I think Lou was in the right pulling Z).
I'm sticking by my previous prediction of Sox in 6 over the Indians. I only got half of the NLCS teams correct, but I'll stick with the team I did get right - Rockies in 7.
The Taxes Update
Senator Reid announced today that no carried interest legislation would make it through the Senate in 2008. No surprise. Makes for an interesting election year issue. Romney has already pledged no new taxes if he is elected.
The Death Update
A rather obscure one today. Nolan Herndon passed away Sunday at the age of 88 from pneumonia. He was a member of the famed Doolittle Raiders who engaged in one of the most daring aerial missions of World War II. The mission, a bombing raid over Tokyo in the Spring of '42 was memorialized in the book and film Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo, with a screenplay by blacklisted screenwriter Dalton Trumbo (ironic that a writer of a film known as borderline propaganda was later blacklisted for refusing to name names).
Anyway, back to Mr. Herndon, he retired from the military shortly after the war ended and passed away apparently at his home in South Carolina. The obit is here.
FIRE DICK JAURON
All I can say after last night's game is that the Bills' coaching staff is an abortion of an enigma of some bad sea urchin.
Go here for a blog advocating the termination of Coach Jauron, forthwith.
And take Fairchild and Fewell while you're at it!
Go here for a blog advocating the termination of Coach Jauron, forthwith.
And take Fairchild and Fewell while you're at it!
Monday, October 8, 2007
Are You Ready for some.... Bleeech
Yeah, it's a nice story and all that MNF is coming back to Ralph Wilson for the first time since 1994, but let's be real, it's bound to be ugly.
Here's my humble breakdown:
When the Bills pass: It's hard to know what to expect. Edwards is starting his second pro game and although he looked decent last week, he was dangerously off-target with a lot of his completions - the WRs bailed him out. The Jets' pass defense was soft so he was able to get away with it - i.e., the WRs had room to adjust. Dallas is middle of the pack in passing YPG against (19th), but is tied for the league lead in INTs (9). Now, given they've faced Grossman, Trent Green, Bulger (last week) and Eli, we are talking mistake-prone guys, but still. Not auspicious. Inauspicious, even.
Conclusion: Bills passing need to throw deep early to try to loosen up the Cowboys' D and then try to push down the field with controlled middle-range passes. Hoepfully Royal will be a target.
When the Bills run: I got some flak on a Bills message board this week from a Cowboys fan for calling the Cowboys' run D "soft". Stats-wise, they are anything but soft, ranking 10th last year in rushing YPG and even better this year (4th overall). My point was more that they hadn't faced any legit offenses, but I guess the Bills would also not constitute a real offense. It's going to be a tough go for Lynch.
Conclusion: Bills need to get lucky.
When the Cowboys pass: Romo has not been particularly accurate this year, but Owens and Crayton have impressive YPC stats. Jabari Greer has the unenviable task of covering Owens (I would have thought he'd be on Crayton and McGee would be on Owens). Hopefully Schoebel and Kelsey can get some pressure on the edges, but then again, Romo's mobility could counteract that as he works well outside the pocket. Word is that the Bills practiced all week against a guy who continually rolled out, so hopefully that will help. But I doubt it. They are, after all, dead last against the pass.
Conclusion: Bills need to get serious pressure on Romo and LBs need to be disciplined in coverage. Also, Jabari Greer needs to be the Greer of week 4, not the Greer of week 3.
When the Boys run: It's all about MBIII. Bills' 22nd rated run D will probably have trouble containing him as his bruising style doesn't mesh well with the Bills' 4-3 setup which matches up better against quick backs. In addition, the Bills will constantly be dropping extra guys back in coverage to cover Witten out of the backfield which will give the linemen less help against the run. I predict that the Cowboys come out and run on 75% of the plays on their first drive.
Conclusion: Bills are facing the best RB they've faced all year. It probably won't be pretty unless they can strip him (but he's never lost a fumble in his career).
The Prediction: Cowboys 38, Bills 13
Other Bills links:
Bflo Blog's open game thread
The Goose's Roost also can't find many positives about tonight's game.
Buffalo Rumblings' open game thread
Buffalowdown's silver linings, such as they are.
Oh, and this is nice. Way to represent, Buffalo. MNF stayed away from Foxboro for like 20 years because of idiocy like this.
Enjoy the game!
Here's my humble breakdown:
When the Bills pass: It's hard to know what to expect. Edwards is starting his second pro game and although he looked decent last week, he was dangerously off-target with a lot of his completions - the WRs bailed him out. The Jets' pass defense was soft so he was able to get away with it - i.e., the WRs had room to adjust. Dallas is middle of the pack in passing YPG against (19th), but is tied for the league lead in INTs (9). Now, given they've faced Grossman, Trent Green, Bulger (last week) and Eli, we are talking mistake-prone guys, but still. Not auspicious. Inauspicious, even.
Conclusion: Bills passing need to throw deep early to try to loosen up the Cowboys' D and then try to push down the field with controlled middle-range passes. Hoepfully Royal will be a target.
When the Bills run: I got some flak on a Bills message board this week from a Cowboys fan for calling the Cowboys' run D "soft". Stats-wise, they are anything but soft, ranking 10th last year in rushing YPG and even better this year (4th overall). My point was more that they hadn't faced any legit offenses, but I guess the Bills would also not constitute a real offense. It's going to be a tough go for Lynch.
Conclusion: Bills need to get lucky.
When the Cowboys pass: Romo has not been particularly accurate this year, but Owens and Crayton have impressive YPC stats. Jabari Greer has the unenviable task of covering Owens (I would have thought he'd be on Crayton and McGee would be on Owens). Hopefully Schoebel and Kelsey can get some pressure on the edges, but then again, Romo's mobility could counteract that as he works well outside the pocket. Word is that the Bills practiced all week against a guy who continually rolled out, so hopefully that will help. But I doubt it. They are, after all, dead last against the pass.
Conclusion: Bills need to get serious pressure on Romo and LBs need to be disciplined in coverage. Also, Jabari Greer needs to be the Greer of week 4, not the Greer of week 3.
When the Boys run: It's all about MBIII. Bills' 22nd rated run D will probably have trouble containing him as his bruising style doesn't mesh well with the Bills' 4-3 setup which matches up better against quick backs. In addition, the Bills will constantly be dropping extra guys back in coverage to cover Witten out of the backfield which will give the linemen less help against the run. I predict that the Cowboys come out and run on 75% of the plays on their first drive.
Conclusion: Bills are facing the best RB they've faced all year. It probably won't be pretty unless they can strip him (but he's never lost a fumble in his career).
The Prediction: Cowboys 38, Bills 13
Other Bills links:
Bflo Blog's open game thread
The Goose's Roost also can't find many positives about tonight's game.
Buffalo Rumblings' open game thread
Buffalowdown's silver linings, such as they are.
Oh, and this is nice. Way to represent, Buffalo. MNF stayed away from Foxboro for like 20 years because of idiocy like this.
Enjoy the game!
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