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List Love: The Hit List August 11, 2009

Posted by gretchenarchangel in Sports, baseball.
Tags: Baseball, List Love, Random, Sports
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Oh, my dear Ozzie. How do I love your rampages and rants? It’s totally got folks up in arms: How dare he say he’ll retaliate? says one kind-hearted soul; another says that it’s a scaled down version of murder-for-hire. (I’m sorry; that one made me laugh out loud. Totally absurd.) Yes, the crazy Ozzie that is not married to Sharon said this:

If I see someone hit my player, and I know they hit him on purpose it’s two guys going down. I don’t care if I get suspended,” Guillen said. “I rather have me suspended for two games than have my players on the DL for 30 days.

I, for one, think this is a fair assessment. If I’m the leader of a team and another team comes in and whaps one of my own, it’s totally game on. There are ways other than commanding a knee-capping or a hit batter, and there are certainly ways to keep it on the quiet. I think a lot of people know this is how it works, but they don’t talk about it.

Yes, of course, it’s dangerous to whip a 90-mph fastball at someone’s head. It’s also dangerous to crowd the plate and to taunt the pitcher. I’m a firm believer in lessons that need to be taught.

Of course, these professional writer-type people can say this so much better than I. However, in the interest of stirring the pot, I’m going to give you my list of players that should get a plunking. Maybe two or three for good measure. These aren’t in any order, so no one’s panties should be in a twist over where their (least) favorite player sits. I’m an equal opportunity hater.

: David Ortiz (Photo: AP via bostonherald.com)

So maybe it’s a little mean-spirited to want a guy who’s under so much duress to get beaned with a ball. I mean, he thought that test was anonymous and whatever he might have bought/took wasn’t illegal in the sport then. At least not specifically. As far as I’m concerned, cheating has always been against the rules. That’s why it’s called cheating. Plus, how would he know that I find his nickname so damned annoying?

: The Yankees (Photo via sportsnetwork.com)

I was going to say “the entire Yankee organization”, but I have decided that it isn’t really the case. I actually still kind of like Nick Swisher and Xavier Nady.

Prince Fielder (Photo: AP via usatoday.com)

I know he’s a first baseman, and, therefore, is allowed to be sorta slow and hefty. I have no real reason behind my dislike of Prince; well, other than he keeps claiming that he’s a vegetarian and I don’t believe him. His plunking the other day was just plain awesome, and his half-hearted attempt to “charge the clubhouse” was awesomely bad.

Josh Hamilton (Photo: AP via sportsnet.ca)

I know, I’m going straight to Hell for this one. I am a cynic by nature and learning, so I have a really hard time buying Mr. Hamilton’s feel-good story, especially when he recently had to explain a few photos that found their way to teh interwebs. Sure, people with addictions battle it every day, and it’s HARD. I am not denying that. My problem is that he didn’t fess up to these things until the photos came out. It’s sorta like being on that list of 103…sorta. So, maybe he could use a good plunk scare to keep him on that straight and narrow that he so desperately needs.

: Image via DirectTV.com

So they don’t actually play baseball. They could play in a softball tournament…and then Jennie Finch could whip a pitch at them!

List Love: Reasons to love Detroit January 15, 2009

Posted by gretchenarchangel in Uncategorized.
Tags: Detroit, List Love
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I grew up in the Midwest, and before I ever even visited the Motor City, I had heard of how “bad” the city was. Unlike Chicago, Detroit is a big city that was never given due for its redeeming factors. To this day, and perhaps even more so now, people like to bag on Detroit.

I, on the other hand, have been there, have lived there, have experienced (almost) all there is in Detroit, and I will defend that city, much like I’ll defend my future hometown of New Orleans. Inspired by this story by Mitch Albom, I’m making my own list of reasons to love Detroit.

The diversity. From the rich folks in Bloomfield Hills and Grosse Isle, to the “inner city” and the plight of 8 Mile Road, and to the largest Arabic population outside of the Middle East in Dearborn, there are so many ethnic groups that merge, meld, and coexist in metro Detroit. Those ethnicities are celebrated and encouraged in the city – unlike most of its Midwest peers. I believe this is one of many reasons people don’t like Detroit – they’re afraid (and close-minded, IMO) of those differences that Detroit encourages.
The food. Partially because of those varied ethnicities, there is some damn good cooking going on in Detroit. If you’re there, try some of my favorites: Fishbone’s in Greektown, the Downriver Coney Island in Southgate, the Wheat & Rye bars downriver, and a Lebanese place that used to be called Al Berdouni’s in Dearborn (Chase Rd near Ford Rd).
The drivers. I know, it’s widely considered as a place for reckless driving. We know a smooth driving move from the left lane to the exit ramp of a freeway as the “Detroit Slide”. The truth is that drivers there are awesome. For the home of the automobile, those folks know how to drive them – they’re aggressive enough, defensive enough, and not afraid to use appropriate maneuvers. I often say that I learned to drive in Indiana, but I perfected my driving skills in Detroit.
The music. Yes, it’s Motown. It will always be Motown, regardless of the fact that Berry Gordy left the city behind. But there’s a lot more. Alice Cooper, Madonna, Eminem, Kid Rock, The White Stripes, Insane Clown Posse, and The Knack can all call (metro) Detroit home. The immense talent that has (and will) come from that area is amazing – and great to listen to.
The sports. Yeah, so the Lie-downs suck really bad right now. They’ve been bad since – oh, almost as long as I can remember. The Pistons, the Shock, and the Red Wings are bright professional spots. Heck, even the Tigers have a good season every now and then. The best part is that fans in Detroit are true fans – some of them are damn near rabid. Who else would consider tossing octupi on the ice at the Joe to celebrate their favorite sport?
The cars (and the minds behind them). Automobiles are a thing of beauty, for the most part, and there’s a lot of Detroit ingenuity and elbow grease behind every car on the road. Yes, the union folks probably make too much money for what they do. Yeah, there’s probably some bad management. But look at the cars – the beauty of the lines, the purr of the engines, the ability to make hearts race with an accelerator pedal. There’s a reason that the Detroit Auto Show is such a big deal…it’s a gorgeous sight.
The hospitality. I have never felt unwelcome in Detroit. Truthfully, I’ve never felt unsafe in Detroit, but I have a slightly different perspective than most. Even at the Lions game on Thanksgiving, the people on the street, the people tailgating (there were a few), and the people within the stadium were great. It didn’t matter that everyone there knew that the Lions were going to be smeared across the field…the only taunting I heard was from Titans’ fans.
The approach to weather. This one hits home right about now. It wouldn’t matter if it were a blizzard, I think – the roads in Wayne County would still be dry and covered in that blue-tinged salt that’s mined from under the city (or at least used to be).
The toughness/pride/perception. It’s pretty cool, I think, for someone from Detroit to proudly say that’s where they’re from. There’s no shame in Detroit, and the city has this image that goes far and wide. These people are tough, they’re strong, and they’re not afraid to kick your ass if they have to. It’s obvious that there’s at least a modicum of respect for Detroiters – why do you think so many people outside the city – nay, the state – sport the Old English Ds (Tigers’ logo) on their hats? It may be that they’re Tigers’ fans. It’s more likely that they’re showing that they’re ike Detroit – tough, cool, and totally bad ass.
The resiliency. This city has been here before. There have always been bad times to go with the bad. It may be feast or famine in the Motor City, but they’ll always be back. They’ll take their lumps and come back again, if nothing else but to prove that you can’t keep a good city down.

List Love: The NFL’s Hot Wide Receivers November 7, 2008

Posted by gretchenarchangel in Football, Sports.
Tags: Football, Hotties, List Love, NFL, Sports
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I almost put hot with two Ts, like the “chat line” commercials they air on late-late TV, mostly because one or two of these guys are possibly en fuego they’re so hot. It must be one of those days, because thinking of being on fire made me think of firefighters, another of my particular delights…that’s got to be a topic for another day or I’ll never get these WRs their due on List Love.

Once again, I used the NFL’s own website and their associated roster photos to make my list. If the roster pix sparked any interest at all, I went on a search for additional photos. That narrowed it down. Perhaps your favorite WR isn’t on here – either we have differing tastes, or their roster photo is no good. I’ll be happy to check out any suggestions. For instance, I read this morning that one of the “Girls Next Door” is engages to Eagles WR Hank Baskett. While I know the name, I knew he wasn’t on my short list, so I went to check him out. He’s still not on my list, but apparently, he’s on hers.

The wide reciever is supposed to catch the ball, regardless of how crappy it’s tossed at him by the QB (ask any Colts receiver), and occasionally play special teams as kick returners or even punt blockers (see below for that). They are fast, agile, and are required to have great hands. That’s a good enough reason to like any man, I say. WRs can be pretty flashy on the field with spectacular grabs, and they’re somewhat known to be rather diva-like both on and off the field of play. I tried to see past the attitude and just focus on the face, arms, abs, etc., to bring you the hottest. The things I do for you…

In alphabetical order, for your drooling viewing pleasure, I present the Hottie WRs of the NFL:

Marques Colston – New Orleans Saints

If you’ve happened by here before, you’ll know that I heart Marques. I think he’s hot. On my search for other hot pics of this quiet guy (perhaps the aytpical WR), I ran across this page that has a video of Marques doing a photo shoot for Pelle Pelle clothes. Yes, I enjoyed it.

Braylon Edwards – Cleveland Browns

We all know I love me some Michigan Men, and I could go on and on about Braylon, but…I’m just gonna post this picture and let it do all the talking.

Brandon London – Miami Dolphins

Somewhat a recent trade to the Dolphins from the Giants, Brandon London is a tall, good-looking guy. He’s attractive enough to be a model…what do you think? One of the stories that I read from his stint with the Giants implied that he’s got a great sense of humor. I like his lips.

Lance Moore – New Orleans Saints

Generally used as a slot receiver, Lance is a little short for my personal preference. But he’s still a total cutie. I like the short hair (a change from previous headshots), and I just love his smile. The celebratory endzone shot is, uh, tempting in a come hither sort of way.

Does this mean come and get it??

Sean Morey – Arizona Cardinals

Sean’s been mentioned a few times recently for his punt blocking skills – helping the Cardinals to another win. I know, it sounds weird to be saying that the Cardinals can win anything. Regardless, Sean Morey (formerly of the Patriots, the Eagles, and the Steelers – the team that won the Super Bowl) is HOT. He’s not extremely tall, which may be his only disadvantage to his inclusion on the hot list. No, there’s one more – it’s harder than hell to find a pic of him looking anything other than totally freaking serious. He is, however, dark, handsome, has great eyes, and he’s got those hands…

...AND those arms.

Terrell Owens – Dallas Cowboys

Okay, so he’s a diva; I’m not denying that. Lots of the other WRs in the NFL are divas, but not all of them are hot. TO, I think, works hard at both his game and his reputation. Don’t forget, the man cried about how his QB was being treated by the press.

Photo: Sports Illustrated

Logan Payne – Seattle Seahawks

Logan may be the first Seahawk on a List Love. Looking at him, it’s hard to disinclude him. A beautiful 6′2″ WR in his first pro season out of Minnesota, Logan’s definitely a keeper. At least on the list. He hasn’t seen a lot of play, but give him time – he’s only 23, so there’s plenty of it for him.

Pecs ahoy!

On a somewhat-related note, Minnesota can sure turn out the hottie WRs. Check out the newest: Eric Decker. Oh, my. He’s only 21. Oh, my.

Oh, my.

He’s the Future of NFL Hottie WRs.

Write a novel? Really? November 6, 2008

Posted by gretchenarchangel in Football, Sports, Uncategorized.
Tags: Chicago White Sox, Football, Green Bay Packers, Hotties, List Love, NFL, Sports
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Check out this post. NaNoWriMo, huh? I was surprised by a few things: First, it only takes 175 pages and 50K words to make a novel? Shit, I have a romance story (I’d never call it a novel) that’s only 2/3 finished and I already have 53K+ words and 153 pages. I guess I’m close…if only I could figure out how to end it without it being so trite. I know, it’s a romance story – they’re all trite and silly. That’s their source of popularity, right?

My second surprise was that so many people that commented on the post had participated before and had actually placed or been finalists. No kidding. I’m a total wallflower when it comes to my creative work. I’m terrified that people will see it…whether they like it or not…that’s me out there. Hell, I don’t even have a pen name. I used my own name in the story I wrote.

/rolls eyes at self

I agree with the folks that commented that they’d not put it up on their blog. It could be stolen and it could be used against you. The fun part would be if my story actually picked up steam and worked out well. I’ve read several articles about books – real, published ones – that started out as blogs. I guess that could be pretty fun. I thought I could actually do one about work. Enough stupid stuff happens here on a daily basis, that if I could be witty and straight with it all the time, that’d be some good stuff, even though it’s been done a few hundred times. I’m already 6 days behind, and I don’t usually post on weekends, so I’ll have to push it a little more than the usual…if I’m going to do it. Hmmm…

Anyway!! Very little in the way of sports stuff for me today. We did get a ChiSox fan in the White House. How cool is that? All my favorite football teams play this weekend, and I may actually be around to see some games this time. The Pack has a must-win against the ViQueens, and the newly-contracted Aaron Rodgers needs to play like he means it. I still love you, Aaron, but no more choking under red zone pressure, sweets. I’ve been working on the List Love for Hot NFL Wide Receivers. I’ve got it all narrowed down, but I’ve got to locate some good photos. If you are reading this and want your fave WR considered (on hotness alone) where I may have left him behind because his roster photo sux, let me know. I’ll check it out on your suggestion.

List Love: Hot Tight Ends of the NFL October 16, 2008

Posted by gretchenarchangel in Football, Sports.
Tags: Football, Hotties, List Love, NFL, Sports
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Technically, in American Football, the tight end is both a blocker and a receiver. He’s supposed to block for the QB or running back and he’s also supposed to make some great catches, depending on the play called. Overall (and not technically), TEs are big strapping lads that have great abilities to set my heart to racing. The position name can be very, very true as well.

Sadly, roster pictures are TERRIBLE, and your favorite may have been left off the list. I used NFL.com’s player listing by position to get to the roster photo. If there was any interest at all, I then used other search engines for additional picture research.

The fine specimens below are in alphabetical order, and remember, they’re only based on hotness. I’d say that for the most part, I’ve picked some talent as well, but it’s all a matter of opinion.

Mark Campbell – New Orleans Saints

Standing at a fantastic 6′6″, Mark is tall and handsome. He’s also a University of Michigan grad, which can only add to his hotness.

Mark Campbell, TE, Saints

Tight end, indeed. (Photo: AP Photo)

Chris Cooley – Washington Redskins

I had no idea who Chris Cooley was until I saw his ad for Reebok/Fantasy Football. When he doesn’t have crazy-ass hair, I think he’s adorable. Cute smile and great blue eyes. Chris is also a blogger – you can find his stuff (sometimes literally) here.

Ain't he cute? (Photo: Washington Post)

Tony Curtis – Dallas Cowboys

One of two Cowboys on this list (just wait for the other one, alright??), Tony’s not had a lot of playing time. I say it doesn’t matter – standing on the sidelines looking good is good enough for me.

I don't know why, but I love this photo.

Greg Estandia – Jacksonville Jaguars

Standing at a whopping 6′8″, Greg Estandia must be an imposing presence. After enjoying my search for pictures of him, I’ve decided that he can’t be a “tall drink of water”. Something about him makes me think it’s a much more wicked and tasty beverage he’s got. I love cool tattoos.

Jermichael Finley – Green Bay Packers

There was no bias in this list, other than my personal determinations on hotness. It didn’t matter to me if the guys play for Cleveland, the Dolts, or (my favorite) the Packers. It just so happens that there are two Packers players on this list. First up, fine Finley: He hasn’t played much, but give the guy a break – he’s brand new, fresh off the plane from Texas. It matters not – hotness rules this list, if it were talent-based, Dallas Clark would be on here (sorry, man).

Antonio Gates – San Diego Chargers

He’s got a name I’m sure you recognize, even if you only have a passing interest in football (no pun intended). In his 6th year in the NFL, Antonio is known for making some awesome catches, and there’s plenty pictures of those…fortunately, there’s also a few pictures that showcase his hotness. Plus, I love boys from Detroit.

Donald Lee – Green Bay Packers

At the ripe old age of 28, Donald Lee is the mentor for previously mentioned Green Bay Hottie Jermichael Finley. He’s got a gorgeous smile.

See? Great smile. (Photo: Packers.com)

AND – who could resist a guy who just loves to do the Lambeau Leap?

Kellen Winslow – Cleveland Browns

See? I told you it didn’t matter what team these hotties play for! In his 5th season (all with the Browns), Kellen Winslow is just plain adorable. I did mention that I like tattoos, right?

Jason Witten – Dallas Cowboys

I know you’ve been waiting on this one. Jason Witten is the perennial favorite for hot TE selections, mostly because everyone knows how hot he is. It’s hard not to.

Did I mention that he's a tight end?

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