Tuesday, October 05, 2010

Blue Jay Awards

Best hitter: Jose Bautista

Best fielder: Jose Bautista

Best starter: Brett Cecil

Best reliever: Shawn Camp

Overall, it was a very pleasant season. However, it's important to be cautiously optimistic for 2011. There are problems that need to be addressed (more on that later this week).

- ER

Monday, October 04, 2010

This Is Toronto - Facebook Fan Page

This Is Toronto, the podcast dedicated to Toronto's arts and culture community, now has a FACEBOOK FAN PAGE.

The fan page will offer many more features. It's also a better way for Torontonians to connect with each other and discuss art and culture.

Join the movement and tell all your friends.

- ER

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Re. Cito Gaston

As far as I'm concerned, Cito Gaston deserves to be in the Baseball Hall-of-Fame.

- Two World Series titles
- Two American League pennants
- Four AL East titles
- Over 800 wins

I rest my case.

Here is Cito in his own words, thanking the fans. True class.

- ER

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Re. C.C. Sabathia

DAMN!

Sabathia showed Kyle Drabek how it's done.

However, I still think the playoffs will not be kind to the Yankees.

- ER

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Re. A.J. Burnett

It amazes me how such an inconsistent pitcher can make so much money.

The playoffs will not be kind to the Yankees.

- ER

Friday, September 24, 2010

Marlies Nation

Episode 35 of This Is Toronto is now available!


Not only are the Toronto Marlies the top minor-league affiliate of the Maple Leafs, they're also heavily involved in the community. Marlies Play-by-Play Announcer John Bartlett talks about the team and the contributions the players make on and off the ice.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com


NEXT EPISODE: Oct. 8, 2010


- ER

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Re. Launy Schwartz, The Score and Drafted

Last night, Launy Schwartz was disqualified from Gillette Drafted.

An anonymous tipster accused The Schwartz of breaching the rules of his contract with The Score.

Here is Launy's official stance on the matter.

I know Launy. He would never break kayfabe or break any rule that would hurt his reputation.

- ER

Monday, September 20, 2010

Leave those shootouts alone!

After the over-glorified hockey summit in August, everyone is hatin' on the shootout all of a sudden. However, I have a solution that will appease shootout lovers and haters.

Enjoy!

- ER

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Re. A Portrait of The Artist as a Young Man

There were some scenes I really enjoyed. There were also some scenes that dragged on. Overall, it was a good story. There were times I could relate to Stephen, the main character.

Personally, I think I would've appreciated the book more during my early twenties. That's how old Stephen is when everything in the plot comes together.

Next book: Briefing For a Descent into Hell by Doris Lessing

I think it's about the Maple Leafs, post-1967. Hiyoooo!

- ER

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Kevin Brown vs. Kevin Brown

My latest from TheGoodPoint.com.

You will not believe how many Kevin Browns are out there. Ditto for John Tavares (plural) and Alex Gonzalez(s).

- ER

Friday, September 10, 2010

I Vote Toronto

Episode 34 of This Is Toronto is now available!

'I Vote Toronto' is a collection of individuals who want current voting laws to change. According to the organization's website, there are more than 200,000 eligible voters who are not legally allowed to vote in the upcoming municipal election.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Sept. 24, 2010

- ER

Tuesday, September 07, 2010

Re. Dawna Friesen

Is it me or does Dawna Friesen come off really pretentious in those Global National ads?

- ER

Monday, September 06, 2010

Re. George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight

I have to be honest. I'm not liking the new name

‎"George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight" = Generic and lame.

Seriously, what's so bad about "The Hour?"

- ER

Friday, September 03, 2010

Friday, August 27, 2010

My City Lives

Episode 33 of This Is Toronto is now available!

This latest edition features My City Lives, a website that allows Torontonians to upload videos about their favourite parts of the city.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Sept. 10, 2010

- ER

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Re. Bulldogs and Marlies

The American Hockey League has released its 2010-11 regular season schedule.

Here are the schedules for the Hamilton Bulldogs and Toronto Marlies.

- ER

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Re. Batman

I watched Batman (1989) on Saturday. It is still, by far, the best film involving Batman.

I did enjoy The Dark Knight, but all the hype was clouding my judgement. It's still a good film, but not as good as the Keaton/Nicholson/Burton version.

This is how I'd currently rank the films:

1. Batman
2. The Dark Knight
3. Batman Begins
4. Batman Returns
5. Batman Forever
6. Batman and Robin

One other thing....

Jack Nicholson was a better Joker than Heath Ledger.

I know Heath won an Oscar, but he wasn't as good as Jack (at least in my mind). Put it this way: Heath had the look. Jack had the character.

- ER

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Re. Jose Bautista

Mr. Bautista hit homeruns #39 and #40 last night. He's seven away from the Blue Jays' all-time, single-season mark (47 by George Bell).

For the last few weeks, I've felt that Detroit's Miguel Cabrera should receive the AL MVP award.

But now......I'm wondering..........dare I say it?

Jose Bautista - 2010 AL MVP (?)

- ER

Friday, August 20, 2010

AHL & CBC

The CBC announced it will broadcast ten American Hockey League matches during the upcoming 2010-11 season. All ten games will feature the four Canadian AHL clubs, as well as Binghamton (Ottawa) and Oklahoma City (Edmonton).

Perhaps my Hockey54.com article on the AHL inspired the deal (just kidding).

Regardless, this a smart move by the CBC.

- ER

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Re. Karri Ramo

Goalie for goalie.

The Canadiens have sent Cedrick Desjardins - who spent most of his time in Hamilton - to Tampa Bay for Karri Ramo.

Desjardins, along with colleague Curtis Sanford, posted the lowest combined GAA in the AHL last season.

Ramo, who played for Omsk in the KHL, was sixth in GAA and was in a fourth-place tie for shutouts. His overall record in 44 games was 21-17-4. He also played 48 NHL games for Tampa from 2006-2009. Ramo's NHL record: 11-21-10.

Judging by the posts on Twitter, Habs fans aren't happy.

Hands up if you think Karri Ramo will be the next Georges Vezina!

- ER

Friday, August 13, 2010

Made In Your Neighborhood

Episode 32 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

The Freedom Clothing Collective is an eco-friendly store that supports local artists and designers. However, it's more than just a clothing store.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Aug. 27, 2010

- ER

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Raptors 2010-11 Schedule

The NBA/Raptors have released their 2010-11 regular season schedule.

Important dates:

Oct. 27 - Season opener vs. New York

Mar. 4-5 - Two games against New Jersey in London, England

Feb. 16 and April 13 - CB4 returns to the ACC

Feb. 25 - Turk returns to the ACC

- ER

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Monday, August 09, 2010

Re. Arencibia & Morrow

What an incredible weekend for the Blue Jays. Two well-pitched games and one match with a football-esque score. They also manage to sweep the wild-card leading Rays and that's not even the important part of story.

Brandon Morrow's performance on Sunday was a true masterpiece.

17 strikeouts, one hit and a complete game shutout. He was just one out away from Toronto's first no-hitter in almost 20 years. Unfortunately, he fell short of the no-hit bid and Dave Stieb, after all this time, still stands alone.

The one-hitter should not overshadow Morrow's outing. It was an incredible display of pitching and shows just how good this young hurler can be. And to think, all AA had to give up for Morrow was Brendon League.

Full marks also have to be given out to Vernon Wells for that sensational catch and Jose Molina for keeping everything intact.

***

Forgive the cliche, but J.P. Arencibia's debut on Saturday was one for the ages.

Two homeruns, a double and a single. That's what I would call a good start.

I've always been skeptical when players like Arencibia are described as prospects or studs. However, the hype surrounding Arencibia is holding true. Of course, it's one game and before we start to anoint the young catcher as a future hall-of-famer, let's see what else he can do.

In the past seven days, the Jays took two out of three from the Yankees and swept Tampa. If you're a Blue Jays fan, you can't help but feel optimistic about the future.

- ER

PS: The Zamboni is rambling again.

Thursday, August 05, 2010

Heart and Soul

VH1 did a five-part series on the top 100 one-hit wonders from the 1980's. Quite a few tunes from the series are now floating in my head, including this one:

T'Pau - Heart and Soul

Such soft vocals and then.......T'PAU!!!!

- ER

Wednesday, August 04, 2010

Re. Ricky Romero vs. NYY last night

Damn!

And here I thought Romero always seemed to pitch poorly against AL East opposition. Good time to adapt and change.

Actually, it was a great team effort. Almost everybody chipped in and given the last few seasons, that doesn't happen frequently for the Blue Jays.

- ER

Friday, July 30, 2010

Toronto After Dark

Episode 31 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the 5th annual Toronto After Dark Film Festival; Aug. 13-20.

http://www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com/

NEXT EPISODE: Aug. 13, 2010

- ER

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Blue Jays vs. TFC

Mark down this date: July 27, 2010

The Blue Jays defeated the Baltimore Orioles 8-2. About 16,000 people were at the Skydome.

Toronto FC beat CD Motagua 1-0. About 18,000 people were at BMO Field.

To quote Bob Dylan, "The times, they are a changin'."

- ER

Monday, July 26, 2010

Zamboni Ramblings

(Cheap Plug Alert)

The answer: Lebron James, Chris Bosh, Dwayne Wade, Lindsay Lohan, Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, Ryan Miller, Ilya Kovalchuk and Launy Schwartz.

The question: Who appears in my latest Hockey54.com article?

- ER

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Draft The Schwartz

Unfortunately, I'm not a top ten finalist for season two of Drafted.

But...

I'm very happy to report that my fellow Hockey54.com colleague (and he's the co-owner of the site too) LAUNY SCHWARTZ has made it to the top ten.

As far as I'm concerned, The Schwartz is Canada's next sportscaster. He will "Be Like Brothers."

The Score has chosen wisely.

- ER

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Two Short Film Reviews

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus: 4 stars. Incredible imagery. The story flies off the rails. However, it's a Terry Gilliam film, so that's expected.

I watched Dr. Parnassus to prepare for...

Inception: 4.5 stars. IN-FREAKING-CREDIBLE! I highly recommend it. It's a long film (2.5 hours), but it keeps your interest.

- ER

Friday, July 16, 2010

Late Night in the Bedroom

Episode 30 of This Is Toronto is now available.

This latest edition profiles Late Night in the Bedroom, an online talk show that features local artists, musicians and cultural players.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: July 30, 2010

- ER

Thursday, July 15, 2010

The Trades

A Raptor trade and a Blue Jay trade, all in the same day? I thought my poor head was going to explode. Some notes about both transactions:

Blue Jays

- The second Alex Gonzalez era has ended. Sorry to see him go, but his value is at its highest point and won't go any higher.

- Yunel Escobar has potential, but he's slumping and said to have off-field issues. Perhaps a change of location will lead to positive results.

- For the Blue Jays, this trade was about the future. For the Braves, this trade was about adding additional parts.

- Don't really have anything to say about the minor leaguers exchanged in the deal. Personally, I feel all minor leaguers are gambles. Labelling prospects is a waste of time.

Raptors

- Bye Turk.

- Barbosa is coming off an injury-plagued season. Wrists injuries can really affect a career. So forgive me for being a little skeptical.

- Barbosa, DeRozan, Calderon, Jack. One of these four won't be here in the fall. My guess (reluctantly) is Jose.

- Dwayne Jones will likely spend most of his time on the bench.

Something tells me BC & AA aren't done.

- ER

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

George Steinbrenner: 1930-2010

Likable or not, Mr. Steinbrenner was extremely successful.

In honour of the late Yankee owner:



- ER

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Before the trade becomes official...

Bryan Colangelo sent this e-mail to every Raptor fan on the team's mailing list last week:

Dear ERIC,
What a spectacle! What we have all just witnessed is something unprecedented in professional basketball and possibly even in professional sports. In a year where multiple NBA teams positioned themselves for the ability to sign a "maximum" contract player (or players) in free agency, three of the NBA's bright young stars are teaming together in an attempt to win an NBA Championship. Kudos to the Miami Heat for pulling off such a feat.

I'm sure that there is frustration and disappointment, possibly even resentment, upon hearing the news that Chris Bosh is leaving Toronto to join forces with Dwyane Wade and LeBron James in South Beach. Well that certainly is the feeling from this vantage point as we lose a player that has been the centrepiece of our franchise for the last several years. I can assure you every move/investment made in the last four years to improve our basketball team was designed with the belief that putting the right pieces around Chris would get us closer to our goal of winning an NBA Championship. In fact, Chris actively participated in that process as transactions and changes were contemplated because I have always believed that a franchise player experiences a sense of ownership in team building. Unfortunately, we fell short of that goal and must now move on to a post-Bosh era in Toronto.

In completing a Sign-and-Trade transaction with Miami, we were able to extract a very valuable Trade Exception and future draft picks that will serve as building blocks in the process of re-tooling our basketball team. The Trade Exception can be used to acquire players under contract with other teams via trade, or it can be used to leverage the acquisition of additional future assets. Speaking of the future, I can't tell you how energized we all feel to see the positive growth and development of so much young athletic talent on our roster including re-signing Amir Johnson and the recent first-round draft selection of Ed Davis. While more changes to the roster are possible, even likely, we can promise you now that this team will compete every night they take to the floor.

We believe we have the best fans in the NBA and we believe in the city and country that we play in. Your passion, pride and support has been tremendous no matter what the circumstances, and we cannot thank you enough for that. We all share a commitment to winning both on and off the floor and MLSE/Toronto Raptors ownership and management will do whatever it takes to WIN while also making the community a better place. Our franchise will evolve and emerge stronger than before, and I assure you that our combined efforts will produce the WINNER you are hoping for.

Sincerely,

Bryan Colangelo

President and General Manager
Toronto Raptors Basketball Club


Very different from Dan Gilbert's tone.

- ER

Monday, July 12, 2010

Brendan vs. Zach

Forget Taylor vs. Tyler. Let's take a look at Brendan vs. Zach.

It's the biggest debate in hockey (at least in my head).

- ER

Friday, July 09, 2010

Re. Lebron James

Yeah, I saw this coming.

Did anyone really expect him to stay in Cleveland? Miami gives him more money and a greater chance to win a title. In case you weren't aware, loyalty is very, very rare in the world of professional sports.

So...

James+Wade+Bosh = The 2010-11 Miami Heat.

What looks like a gift could also be a curse. Just saying.

- ER

Thursday, July 08, 2010

Re. Chris Bosh

And so, the Chris Bosh era has ended.

Can't say I'm surprised.

Fans knew he would leave if the Raptors weren't a winning team. For any fan, it was their biggest fear. I made peace with Bosh's eventual departure many months ago.

Bosh was solid player. He gave a full effort every night. He was respectful to the fans and the media. He never complained or embellished success. From my end - and I'm just one Raptor fan - there is no hate for Chris Bosh; only affection.

Could he have handled his free agency adventure better? Absolutely! But Twitter or no Twitter, Bosh was leaving the Raptors.

And I'm fine with that.

The Raptors survived without Damon Stoudamire, they survived without Vince Carter and they'll survive without CB4.

For the remaining roster, there is nothing but opportunity.

Almost every player has the chance to become the leader; the one to bring the troops together and lead them into battle. There are some good candidates: Jack, Bargnani, Turkoglu (if the rumours about making amends are true), even DeRozan and Ed Davis.

Don't be fooled. Bosh's presence will be missed and every player will need to step up their game. The upcoming season will not be pretty. But the outlook isn't consumed completely by darkness.

Bosh is gone and just like Carter, Stoudamire, Doug Flutie, Mats Sundin and Roy Halladay, it's time to move on.

- ER

Tuesday, July 06, 2010

Re. 2010 Blue Jay All-Stars

Vernon Wells: Absolutely!

Jose Bautista: Absolutely!

John Buck: Okay, that was a little surprising. He is replacing an injured player (Victor Martinez), but has put up decent numbers. If it were up to the fans, Jorge Posada would've probably taken Martinez's spot. However, the players choose the backups.

Also surprised that none of Toronto's starting staff made the team. The rotation (with the exception of a few) has allowed the Jays to hover at the 500 mark, which has exceeded most expectations. I thought Marcum and/or Romero had good shots of sneaking onto the AL roster. Then again, All-Star games are more about the offense than the defence. Better luck next year.

- ER

Monday, July 05, 2010

Re. Gillette Drafted

Need a good laugh?

Here's my audition video for the second season of Gillette Drafted on The Score. A lot of people gussied up their auditions. I preferred the KISS method.

Here's my face. Here's my voice. Here's my delivery. Take it or leave it.

Enjoy!

Oh.....the audio and video are little out of sync (thanks YouTube). Just pretend my lips correspond with what you're hearing, lol.




- ER

Friday, July 02, 2010

Toronto Youth Shorts

Episode 29 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the 2nd annual Toronto Youth Shorts Film Festival; July 14-17

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: July 16, 2010

- ER

Monday, June 28, 2010

Re. The NHL Entry Draft

The NHL Entry Draft was held over the weekend. I didn't watch a single minute of it.

In fact, I couldn't care less about the draft because it is a huge waste of time.

- ER

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Re. The G20 S**t Storm

Well Harper, I hope you're happy.

I wonder...

Did you want to promote or punish Toronto?

Sadly, 90% of the protesters were peaceful. The remaining 10% were thugs who caused the damage. Those thugs got all the attention. They took attention away from the main issues. They devalued activism and the real activists who used non-violent methods to get their messages across.

What an awful and destructive waste of time and money.

- ER

Friday, June 25, 2010

Re. G20 & G8

There's been a lot written about the summit.

This open letter by Justin Beach is probably the most thoughtful article about everything that has and will take place over the next few days.

Take a look: An Open Letter to G20 Protesters.

- ER

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Canadiens 2010-11 Schedule

The Montreal Canadiens have released their 2010-11 regular season schedule. Just like the previous season, they start and end with the Leafs.

- ER

Monday, June 21, 2010

Final Thoughts - NBA Finals

Well, I was right about the Lakers. Now I have put up with Kobe-this and Kobe-that. To be honest, I had no interest in the finals this year. I know the Lakers-Celtics rivalry is one of the best in sports, but I had no desire to watch the series. It happens.

Alright, the stats:

10 out of 15; 67%

That's actually better than my NHL predictions. Go figure.

- ER

Friday, June 18, 2010

Parkdale Showcase

Episode 28 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the 12th annual Parkdale Film + Video Showcase; June 25-27.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: July 2, 2010

- ER

Thursday, June 17, 2010

The Halak Trade

I shouldn't be surprised, but I am.

I suspect Halak (or more likely his agent) told the Canadiens he was going to leave, regardless of whether or not they chose him over Carey Price.

Don't know much about these "prospects." One was an AHL all-star. The other put up decent numbers in the WHL.

One thing I do know: Carey Price's worst nightmare has come true. The poor kid will face immense pressure next season; more than what he had to deal with this season. I do not envy him.

- ER

Monday, June 14, 2010

Re. Blue Jays vs. Rockies

Well that was utterly ugly.

Friday, they get screwed by the weather. Saturday, the bats fall silent. Sunday, they get crunched.

The only Blue Jay that looked decent on the weekend was Morrow and the poor guy suffered a "Halladay" loss.

As for Jesse Litsch: He's not ready yet. It takes more than a year to fully recover from Tommy John surgery. I'll give him one more chance, but I doubt Litsch will stay in the rotation.

- ER

Friday, June 11, 2010

Final Thoughts - Stanley Cup Playoffs

- Congrats to the Chicago Blackhawks! This is a young, talented team. I've been keeping my eye on these guys for the last year. They have lots of character. And this is only the beginning.

- BTW, perfect prediction :-)

- Congrats also have to go to the Flyers. They had an incredible run. As long as they stay healthy, I think Philly has a good shot at the cup next year.

- Who were all those women interviewing Patrick Kane? Is he dating them?

- Great moment #1: Duncan Keith and his fiancee.

- Great moment #2: Stan and Scotty Bowman.

- Crosby may have the glitz and glamour, but Toews has a Conn Smythe.

- Totals: 8/15, 53% Bah!

- ER

Wednesday, June 09, 2010

Re. Hedo Turkoglu

(If the rumours are true)

Don't let the door hit you on the way out, Turk.

PS: Ball!

- ER

Tuesday, June 08, 2010

Re. Writing

thoughts are not easy
to put down on paper for
the world to see

- ER

Friday, June 04, 2010

Choosing How We Choose

Episode 27 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

Better Ballots is a non-partisan organization that wants to create a public discussion about voting reform in Toronto. Is it time to change the way we elect local officials?

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: June 18, 2010

- ER

Thursday, June 03, 2010

Wednesday, June 02, 2010

Tuesday, June 01, 2010

Re. P.J. Carlesimo

So it looks like P.J. Carlesimo is going to be an assistant coach with the Raptors.

P.J. & Marc Iavaroni?

Anyone thinking what I'm thinking?

Looks like Jay Triano will be working next season with an axe above his head.

- ER

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Re. Windows Movie Maker

I'm not very knowledgeable about computers. I only know the basics. So for those who understand these devices, a question:

I'm trying to import a WMV file onto Movie Maker. However, the program is telling me it doesn't support the file. What am I doing wrong?

Thank you.

- ER

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Flyers 4 Habs 2 (Flyers win 4-1)

For the second time in three years, Philadelphia knocks out the Canadiens in five games.

Well, it was a good run while it lasted. But all good things must come in to an end.

First and foremost, congrats to the Flyers. They were better than Montreal in every category and almost every game. No question about it. They deserve the victory.

Once again, the Habs did not play a full game. They woke up late in the third period, but it was too late. I don't like blaming specific players because it's a team sport, but I do wonder what would happen if Halak didn't play the puck in the first. The score would've been tied, going to the third.

Regardless, Halak was Montreal's MVP. Honourable mention to Cammalleri.

(Writing as a fan) It was an amazing month. Hold your heads up high, boys. You have plenty to be proud about.

Go Habs Go!

- ER

Friday, May 21, 2010

Silver Screens

Episode 26 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the Silver Screens Arts Festival, a week-long event that celebrates the vibrancy, vitality and creativity of adults 50-plus.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

Next Episode: June 4, 2010

- ER

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Re. Game 3, Habs vs. Flyers

5-1. Some random thoughts:

I hope Maxim Lapierre doesn't mind having a bulls-eye on his back. Right or wrong, his antics worked.

For the Habs, there's still work to be done.

Habs took their foot off the accelerator for the final few mins. Not a smart move. However, the Flyers were making their own mistakes, so it didn't hurt Montreal in the end. Still, you never let up.

Getting that first goal was clutch for Mtl. It set the tone.


-ER

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Re. Game 2, Habs vs. Flyers

A slightly better effort by the Habs. Yet, it's an unfavourable result. No, I'm not pushing the panic button, but I am concerned.

They need to work on their PP & PK. They need to take it to eleven.

- ER

Sunday, May 16, 2010

NHL Playoff Predictions - Round Three

Second Round: Two out of four; one perfect prediction (Mtl/Pit). Damn you, San Jose and Philadelphia.

And now, the third round:

Eastern Conference

Montreal over Philadelphia in 7

Western Conference

Chicago over San Jose in 6

NOTES: Team 7 vs. Team 8 for the East final. Did not see that one coming. Full credit to both teams. As long as Montreal doesn't allow the Flyers to bully them, they'll keep rolling...still not sold on San Jose.

- ER

Saturday, May 15, 2010

NBA Playoff Predictions - Round 3

In round two, I was three out of four. No perfect predictions.

Third Round:

Eastern Conference Final

Orlando over Boston in six games

Western Conference Final

Phoenix over LA Lakers in six games

- ER

Thursday, May 13, 2010

BRAVO CANADIENS - PART DEUX

Incredible. Absolutely incredible.

It's hard to describe how I feel right now. It's harder to explain it all.
First, you start with Halak. A hot goaltender provides a huge sense of confidence. Then you look at the rest of the roster. They all play an important role.
I don't want to say anymore. This was only a second round series. There's still a third and (hopefully) fourth round.

I haven't felt this excited since 1993.
- ER

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Game 7, Habs vs. Pens

A little something to get you in the mood for tonight's match.

- ER

Re. Blue Jays vs. Phillies

From BlueJays.com:


Major League Baseball announced today that the venue of the scheduled June 25-27 three-game Philadelphia Phillies-Toronto Blue Jays series has been relocated from Toronto's Rogers Centre to Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Park because of the scheduled events of the G20 Summit in Toronto. The rescheduled games will still be considered home games of the Blue Jays, who will bat last, and the Designated Hitter will be used.

Major League Baseball announced the decision following consultations with the Blue Jays, the Phillies, the G20 Summit Management, the Integrated Security Unit and the City of Toronto.

Said Baseball Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig: "After considering all of the options with the parties, Major League Baseball has determined that the best course of action is to play the series in Philadelphia. Major League Baseball appreciates the cooperation of the Blue Jays, the Phillies and all of the parties who have helped resolve this challenging situation."

Rogers Sports Entertainment President and CEO Paul Beeston said: "This was an extremely difficult decision and one which we did not take lightly. By moving our games to Philadelphia, we are acting in the best interests of our fans, our employees, the players and the game of baseball. We did not want to move the games but in looking at the realities of this situation, we felt that relocation was the most prudent course of action."

The Friday, June 25 game will be scheduled for 7:05 p.m. (ET) and the Sunday, June 27 game will be scheduled for 1:35 p.m. (ET). The time of the Saturday, June 26 game is not yet finalized.



Smart move by MLB. Public safety is more important than turnstyle clicks.

- ER

Friday, May 07, 2010

From Russia with Film

Episode 25 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the inaugural Toronto Russian Film Festival; May 14-16

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: May 21, 2010

-ER

Wednesday, May 05, 2010

Re. Game 3, Pens vs. Habs

No explanation needed. Pittsburgh was the better team last night.

However, the series is far from over.

- ER

Tuesday, May 04, 2010

Re. Brett Cecil

Last night vs. Cleveland

IP - 8.0
H - 1
R - 1
ER - 1
BB - 2
SO - 10

One word to describe this performance: Brilliant.

He waited patiently to be called up from Las Vegas and now he's pleading his case for staying in the rotation. This is a classic example of taking advantage of an opportunity. If Cecil keeps this up, then there's no reason why he should be sent down.

- ER

Monday, May 03, 2010

Hockey Plays "What If"

I am sick and tired of those arrogant Stanley Cup ads. Here's why.

Agree or disagree?

- ER

PS: One word: Halak

Sunday, May 02, 2010

NBA Playoff Predictions - Round 2

In round one, I was six out of eight. One perfect prediction.

Onto the second round:

Eastern Conference
Orlando in 6
Cleveland in 5

Western Conference
Phoenix in 7
Lakers in 6

- ER

Friday, April 30, 2010

NHL Playoff Predictions - Round Two

I was four out of eight in the first round. No perfect predictions. Damn you, Philadelphia and Boston. I'm sorry, Detroit. Thank you for proving me wrong, Montreal.

And now, the second round:

Eastern Conference
Boston over Philadelphia in 6
Montreal over Pittsburgh in 7

Western Conference
Detroit over San Jose in 7
Chicago over Vancouver in 7

NOTES: I admit, my prediction for Pens/Habs is completely biased. But you never know. As long as Halak keeps his great play up, anything can happen. Everything is reset for each round. Stats go out the window....I'm not sold about San Jose. It's one thing to beat a young Colorado team. It's a whole different thing trying to beat the experienced Red Wings.....Luongo is good. But if you rattle his confidence, you can take advantage of him.....Bruins/Flyers can go either way.

- ER

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Round 2 Predictions

Lots to digest after last night. I'll save my official predictions for Friday. But I will give one prediction since Detroit/San Jose starts tonight:

Detroit over San Jose in 7

- ER

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

BRAVO CANADIENS!




(I'm so happy they proved me wrong)
Is it too early to start the "Halak for Conn Smythe" campaign?
- ER

As We Enter

This song has been playing in my head for the last two weeks:



- ER

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Re. Habs/Caps, Game 6

Wow! It's almost 2004 all over again.

The Habs are now 13 wins away from their 25th Coupe Stanley.

Too soon?

- ER

Friday, April 23, 2010

The Baseball Leafs

Episode 24 of This Is Toronto is now available!

The Toronto Maple Leafs of the Intercounty Baseball League have been a part of the local sports scene since 1969. They are also one of the city's most successful franchises. Maple Leaf P.A. Announcer, Statistician and Fan 590 Sportscaster Roger Lajoie discusses the team and previews the 2010 IBL season.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

- ER

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Re. Habs/Caps, Game 4

I don't want to talk about it.

It takes 60 minutes (or more) to win a hockey game. Not 40.

- ER

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Monday, April 19, 2010

Re. The Hamilton Bulldogs

The Bulldogs are the Canadiens' minor league affiliate. They had a really good season. But for some reason, no one in Hamilton seems to care.

So I asked the following question:

What's wrong with hockey fans in Hamilton?

- ER

Saturday, April 17, 2010

NBA Playoff Predictions - Round One

Now that the Raptors won't be taking part, I don't have a lot of interest in the NBA playoffs. However, I will lay down some picks.

Eastern Conference

Cleveland in four
Orlando in five
Atlanta in six
Miami in six

Western Conference

Lakers in seven
San Antonio in seven
Phoenix in six
Denver in six

- ER

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Re. 2009-10 Toronto Raptors

Don't hate the Chicago Bulls. The Raptors brought this upon themselves. No excuses here.

It was a very exhausting season. Quite frankly, I don't want to write about it. I can't remember a more frustrating season than this one. It's funny because I think I said the same thing about the '09 Blue Jays.

The Raptors' season can be summed up in three acts:

Act. 1 - The Bad (Start of season to early December)

Act. 2 - The Good (Early December to the All-Star break)

Act. 3 - The Ugly (All-Star break to end of season)

It was a total meltdown.

Let the post-mortem begin.

- ER

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

NHL Playoff Predictions - Round One

Yee-haw

Eastern Conference

Washington over Montreal in six
New Jersey over Philadelphia in seven
Buffalo over Boston in six
Pittsburgh over Ottawa in five

Western Conference

San Jose over Colorado in five
Chicago over Nashville in four
Vancouver over Los Angeles in four
Phoenix over Detroit in seven

NOTES: These are objective predictions. Subjectively, I'm rooting for my Habs. Part of me hopes I'm wrong about Washington/Montreal. The only way the Habs could win is if Halak stands on his head and the defense actually plays defense. The Habs would also have to take advantage of Theodore, who can be shaky at times...Looks like I'm a little more conservative with the East than I am with the West...Phoenix has crazy momentum, but getting past the Red Wings won't be easy...San Jose, don't let me down...Little worried about Chicago's goaltending, but I don't think it will hurt them.

- ER

Monday, April 12, 2010

Re. Blue Jays Home Opener

I'll see you at the Home Opener. And to those who are planning to show up to Skydome wasted and/or planning to start crap and/or planning to throw things on the field: STAY AT HOME, POSERS!

- ER

PS: I don't want to talk about the Raptors.

PPS: Playoff predictions coming soon.

Friday, April 09, 2010

Silver Screen L'Chaim

Episode #23 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition features a preview of the 18th annual Toronto Jewish Film Festival; Apr. 17-25

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Apr. 23, 2010

- ER

Wednesday, April 07, 2010

Re. Bucks, Bulls and Raptors

I am sending a huge THANK YOU gift to the Milwaukee Bucks. After that, I'm going to try to figure out a way to correct Bosh's facial fracture and get him back here asap. Has anyone seen my roll of duct tape and my box of popsicle sticks?

- ER

Tuesday, April 06, 2010

Re. Jason Frasor

Not to going to panic yet. Way too early to do that. I'm going to give him two more chances before I suggest a change. This isn't 2007 and he's not Mike Timlin. Hopefully, yesterday's game was a just a rarity.

- ER

Monday, April 05, 2010

Canada and the AHL

I've been thinking a lot about the American Hockey League. There's something romantic about it. Fortunately, I've been able to put my thoughts down on paper.

Enjoy.

- ER

Friday, April 02, 2010

And we have a roster

2010 Blue Jays

Rotation
1. Shaun Marcum
2. Brian Tallet
3. Ricky Romero
4. Brandon Morrow
5. Dana Eveland

Bullpen
1. Jason Frasor
2. Kevin Gregg
3. Scott Downs
4. Shawn Camp
5. Casey Janssen
6. Jeremy Accardo
7. Merkin Valdez

Lineup
1. Jose Bautista, RF
2. Aaron Hill, 2B
3. Adam Lind, DH
4. Vernon Wells, CF
5. Lyle Overbay, 1B
6. Edwin Encarnacion, 3B
7. John Buck, C
8. Travis Snider, LF
9. Alex Gonzalez, SS

Bench
1. John McDonald, SS
2. Randy Ruiz, 1B/DH
3. Jose Molina, C
4. Mike McCoy, UTIL

- Not liking Tallet in the two-spot. He rarely pitches past five innings. I would've kept him at the 4 or 5 spot. Remember, Tallet in the rotation is only temporary.

- Skeptical about Dana Eveland. Spring Training is one thing, but the regular season is a whole different beast. However, I was skeptical last year when Romero made the team and look what happened there.

- Mike McCoy can play IF and OF. Perfect.

- Merkin Valdez. Don't really know what to expect. As long as he can give 1-2 solid innings, I'm happy.

That's all I've got for now.

- ER