Here’s what went down Monday on G&A
Heavy Medal - U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps did what everyone hoped he would - win eight Olympic gold medals in Beijing. He even caught the attention of NBA stars LeBron James and Kobe Bryant who attended the weekend event where Phelps finished his quest for history. Phelps wants to take the sport of swimming to another level. G&A agree much of the Olympic intrigue is gone with Phelps no longer competing. What can Phelps do to make swimming mainstream? Ash thinks it’s impossible because swimming interest only peaks during the Olympics - every four years. Gambo is still in awe that Phelps lived up to the pre-Olympic hype, but knows people will forget about swimming quickly - especially with football coming shortly.
One and Done? - Team USA Basketball continues to roll, picking apart Dirk Nowitzki, Chris Kaman, David Hasselhoff and Germany earlier today. Gambo wonders if Kobe, LeBron, and others will return in four years if/when they wrap up the Gold or will they turn it over to “the next generation?” The guys agree young stars like Brandon Roy, Kevin Durant, and Greg Oden might be the next in line to succeed certain members of the “Redeem Team.” Gambo wonders if Jerry Colangelo’s 3-year commitment to TEAM USA will scare off NBA stars - like it did with Kevin Garnett.
Jupiter Hammerheads manager Brandon Hyde discussed the up-and-down career of 2003 Florida Marlin top pick Jeff Allison who, like Rangers slugger Josh Hamilton, battled substance abuse and legal problems, before turning his life around and resuscitating his dream of playing in the big leagues. Hyde is Allison’s manager and close friend. Allison is 8-7 with a 4.72 ERA in 22 starts with the Single-A Hammerheads.
Bouncing Back - The D-backs wrapped up their 6-game road trip 4-2 and G&A agree Adam Dunn has had a big impact on their recent offensive outbursts. Gambo feels the team has become much more selective with Dunn wedged in the middle of the order. Ash thinks Dunn’s mere presence has made a big difference. Both agree the starting rotation - sans Doug Davis, has been lights out. Gambo thinks Webb is on pace to win 23 or 24 games this season. The guys debated if Webb’s efficiency is just as “sexy” as Randy Johnson’s and Curt Schillings’ high strikeout total.
Compare/Contrast - Brandon Webb won again on Friday to improve to 18-4. Gambo thinks Webb is on pace to win 23 or 24 games this season. The guys debated if Webb’s efficiency is just as “sexy” as Randy Johnson’s and Curt Schillings’ high strikeout total when they were at their peak (2001) with the D-backs. Gambo doesn’t think Webb holds the same fear factor as Unit or Schill did because he’s not a power pitcher.
Boldin Boltin’? - Reports are circling that the Cards will deal Anquan Boldin this next off-season. Gambo applauds the Cards for sticking to their guns and granting Q a new deal like he’s requesting. That being said, Gambo knows Boldin will leave it all on the field this season-regardless of how much money he’s playing. Ash doesn’t feel the Cards will get even close to equal value for Boldin because most NFL trades are made for picks, not players. He wouldn’t be too disappointed if this was Q’s final season in Arizona.
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