Packers Take DE Nick Perry USC in 2012 NFL Draft First Round

 The Green Bay Packers with the 28th pick selected Defensive End Nick Perry out of USC in the 2012 NFL Draft first round. Perry will be expected to compliment Clay Matthews, and strengthen the pass rush, which was a weak spot last season. The speculation was the Packers Ted Thompson would try to trade up. The signing of Jeff Saturday at center is at best a one year band aid. Packers needs are at C, DE, OLB, and Safety after releasing Nick Collins this week. Thompson is known to take the best player available; I expect him to stick to his previous draft strategy, because the Packers have urgent holes to fill at key positions. Stay tuned at ESPN for further round coverage.


You can read more on the 2012 NFL Draft here. 
Until next time, Go Brewers n Packers. 


Follow me on Twitter @BrewersnPackers

Brewers at Braves Opener-Chipper Jones Back

 The Milwaukee Brewers take on the Atlanta Braves in their home opener at Turner Field tonight at 6:35c.t. Randy Wolf will pitch for the Brewers, with the hot hitting George Kottaras, Wolf's personal catcher behind the plate for the Brewers. The Braves record going into tonight's game is 2-4 after losing the first four games, have bounced back with two wins. Brewers shortstop Alex Gonzalez will be making his first start against his old team. Milwaukee is 4-3 one game behind the St.Louis Cardinals who are 5-2 and playing the Chicago Cubs, that score is Cubs 4, Cardinals 0, in the middle of the second inning.

  Chipper Jones is back in the lineup for the Braves who are actually on a winning streak, and now it's time to go home.  The Braves have won their last two games against the Astros, calming their grumbling fan base just a bit before they headed home. "Road trips get longer and longer," Jones said. "Especially when you lose the first four, you miss home at lot. It will be good to get back to Atlanta and play in front of the home fans, who we haven't seen in a long time. The home opener is always a special occasion no matter when it comes." This will be Jones' last opening day in Atlanta."

Here is the Brewers starting lineup.

2B Rickie Weeks
CF Nyjer Morgan
LF Ryan Braun
3B Aramis Ramirez
RF Corey Hart
1B Mat Gamel
SS Alex Gonzalez
C George Kottaras
LHP Randy Wolf

Till Next Time!  Go Brewers.   Follow me on Twitter @BrewersnPackers

Brewers Opening Day-Brauns Best Team

The day has finally arrived for Milwaukee Brewers fans, it's opening day! As many of you know this is the biggest day of the year for the Brewers; the only day bigger in the Brewers season would be if they was to make the playoffs. The Brewers will take on the defending World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals, scheduled first pitch is for 3:10C.T. Yovani Gallardo will take the mound for the Brewers in his third consecutive opening-day start, Left-hander Jaime Garcia will start for the Cardinals.


Milwaukee is facing a different St. Louis team this year, after losing Albert Pujols to the Angels and manager Tony La Russa's retirement. The Brewers infield looks almost totally different; Namely, the loss of Prince Fielder to the Tigers and his replacement Mat Gamel, Alex Gonzalez takes over at shortstop and Aramis Ramirez at third.


Ryan Braun was quoted recently as saying that this is the best team he's played on, which is quite a statement after losing Prince Fielder. He went on to say that the health of the team at the start of the season was part of the reason, as the Brewers started last season without Zach Greinke or Jonathan Lucroy on the opening day roster.


I like what Braun had to say and I'm backing his analysis up, with the addition of Ramirez at third, and another year under Jonathan Lucroy's belt; he's only getting better behind the plate and looked impressive at the plate this spring. Mat Gamel looks like he's ready at first base, with Rickie Weeks healthy at second and Gonzalez glove at short, could turn out to be a dynamic double-play duo. Oh, and we can't forget Aramis Ramirez at third, an everyday player that has hit for 25 to 30 home runs and averaged close to 100 RBIs consistently. I know I haven't said anything about Corey Hart or Ryan Braun, we know Braun will put up the numbers and what Corey Hart can do with the bat. Remember last year he missed the first month of the season, so there you have it. What you think?


I'm still going by my previous prediction, of the Brewers 95-67 winning the division.
 GO BREWERS! 


until next time!    Follow me on twitter  @BrewersnPackers

Brewers Struggle-But Ready For Opener

The Milwaukee Brewers played there last spring training game today against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field in Phoenix, losing 14 to 3. Brewer’s pitchers were not sharp in their final tune-up before Friday’s season opener at Miller Park. Starter Shaun Marcum struggled through 4 1/3 innings and gave up seven hits and five runs, one walk and three strikeouts, throwing 78 pitches. Manny Parra came in for Marcum, and gave up five runs on four hits and two walks, all without recording an out. Tim Dillard worked 1 2/3 innings giving up four hits and three runs, leading to a seven run fifth inning for the Diamondbacks. Marco Estrada looked sharp pitching one inning, no hits, and two strikeouts. John Axford finished the game for the Brewers, giving up two hits and one run, striking out three. Overall, Brewer pitching surrendered 17 hits in the loss. One positive, starter Shaun Marcum reached a predetermined pitch limit, and barring any reoccurring soreness in his shoulder, should be ready to go. Arizona’s Joe Saunders went five innings for the Diamondbacks, allowing three runs on five hits and striking out five with the win.

The Brewers had six hits, including a double off the wall by Ryan Braun, his third of the spring; Corey Hart belted a two-run homer to tie the game at three in the fourth inning and that was all the Brewers would put on the board. Mat Gamel made a nice catch, narrowly avoiding a collision with catcher Jonathan Lucroy near the Brewers dugout. Gamel continues to look comfortable at first base and leads the Brewers with six home runs this spring. I still believe Matt will play a big part in the Brewers success this season, as I wrote in a previous article. If you’re interested in the final spring training statistics, you can find them here.

YovaniGallardo will take the mound Friday afternoon 3:10 p.m. CT against the Cardinals in the Brewers season opener at Miller Park.

Vote on the Brewers win Poll! on the upper left. Until next time. Go Brewers! Have a great 2012.

Follow me on Twitter @BrewersnPackers

Yovani Gallardo Opener-Season Wins Prediction

The Brewers manager Ron Roenicke named Yovani Gallardo, the opening day starter for the Brewers season opener April 6 at Miller Park against the defending World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals. The 26-year-old right-hander will start his third consecutive opening Day game for the Brewers. Filling out the rest of the Brewers starting rotation, a mirror from last year are Zach Greinke and Randy Wolf, Shaun Marcum, and Chris Narveson.

Zach Greinke pitched seven complete innings for the Brewers, giving up five hits, one earned run. I walk, and eight strikeouts, in a 7-1 win against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Greinke finished the game with an impressive ERA of 0.93 so far this spring, and was 16-6 for the Brewers last year, after missing the first month of the season with a cracked rib. Manager Ron Roenicke said, “Greinke would love to start opening day, but he’s a real good team player and understands the reasons for doing things. Here's the question, does it matter to you who the opening-day starter is?

Jonathan Lucroy was 3-4 today, and a triple shy of hitting for the cycle raising his average to .513 this spring, and has had a hit in 13 of 15 games. Lucroy signed a five year extension earlier this week.The Brewers complete spring training stats.

The Brewers announced outfielders Caleb Gindl and Logan Schafer optioned to AAA Nashville after the game today.

Prediction time, I think the Brewers will win their division with a record of 95-67. Let’s hear your predictions for the Brewers season; will we have a 20 game winner or maybe two? 

Until next time.  


Follow me on Twitter @brewersnpackers

Packers Sign Ex Colt Center Jeff Saturday-Tebow Time?

The Green Bay Packers and free agent center Jeff Saturday, agreed to a contract on Friday according to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter. According to sources, Saturday was not in the team’s plans going forward and the Colts told him they were willing to give him a front-office job. Saturday will fill the void at center after losing Scott Wells, who signed last week with the St. Louis Rams.

Saturday will turn 37 in June; and the Packers were concerned about age when negotiating with Wells. No word yet on the agreement terms. I would be very surprised if there was much money guaranteed, as the Packers were not willing to sign Scott Wells at age 31 to a long-term contract, which I wrote about last week. My guess is the Packers will still look to the draft to sign a center, and hope for a couple of good years from Saturday.

Aaron Rodgers should benefit from the proven veteran Jeff Saturday, a five-time Pro Bowler in 13 seasons, who has given up no more than two sacks in a season since 2008. Sources say Rogers was happy to hear of the agreement on Friday with Jeff Saturday.

A few days ago there was talk that the Packers were interested in Tim Tebow of the Broncos as a possible backup to Aaron Rodgers, after backup and free agent Matt Flynn signed with the Seattle Seahawks. As we all know now, Tebow has signed with the New York Jets, what you may not know is that Tim Tebow’s NFL jersey was number two in sales behind the Packers Aaron Rodgers. Tebow mania is in the news; sources say Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez is not happy with the Tebow signing, and reports are that Tebow intends to be the starting quarterback in New York, watch this video.

Update! reports now are that agreement with center Jeff Saturday is for a two-year contract.

Until next time, enjoy!

Matt Flynn Decision Near-Packers Holes to fill

Hello everybody, it has been a while since my last post. I have been busy doing my helping hand thing. The unbelievable warm weather in Wisconsin has everyone outside working in his or her yards more than a month earlier than normal. Of course, you know I have to do my spring cleanup, put the snow blower away, and get the Harley out. I know what you are thinking. It is too early to put the snow blower away. Well if it does snow. I am hoping it will melt in a day or two. I live in southern Wisconsin and one of my neighbors mowed their lawn last Sunday, March 11. How many of you living in Wisconsin have mowed your lawn this spring?

Okay, let us talk Packers now. Scott Wells, the Pro bowl former center for the Packers signed a four-year deal with the St. Louis Rams for a reported 24 million that could exceed 25 million with incentives. The deal includes a reported 13 million guaranteed. Wells was reportedly asking for a deal somewhere around 7.5 million per year from the Packers. The guaranteed money, in my opinion was something Packers Ted Thompson was not willing to gamble. The Packers had shown interest in center Chris Myers of the Texans. Myers, a Pro Bowler and a year younger than Wells, was also in line for a big contract. AP has reported Myers signed a four-year extension with the Texans. It looks like at this point, the Packers are willing to take a gamble at the center position. I guess at 31years of age, and being the best offensive lineman for the Pack in 2010 and 11, according to head Coach Mike McCarthy, and the anchor of the line protecting quarterback Aaron Rodgers is not worth 6 million a year.  
Chad Clifton is due 5.25 million for 2012 and at age 35 could be released, I should say probably. Why would the pack pay 5.25 Million for a 35 year old who played seven games in 2011, and not sign your best Offensive lineman and so-called anchor at 31 years of age for 6 million average. Guess what! The Packers are not telling us the whole story, which will come out later in the laundry. 

Free-agent Packers quarterback Matt Flynn has reportedly landed in Miami after interviewing in Seattle. According to the Palm Beach post, Flynn’s father Alvin said his son enjoyed his Seattle visit, but would not make a decision until he met with the Miami Dolphins. Joe Philbin, Miami’s new head coach was Flynn’s offense of coordinator in Green Bay. The Dolphins were still in the running for quarterback Peyton Manning until Thursday, when Peyton’s group said he was no longer interested, leading many to believe that Matt Flynn would be the new dolphin quarterback after this weekend.

The Packers will have to fill key positions through the draft system, namely the quarterback and center position. Wisconsin badgers center Peter Konz, could be an option at center. Ted Thompson is reportedly a fan of Konz, and could be available in the first round. The Packers have also been looking for help at defensive end, to complement Clay Matthews and the pass rush. Tell me your thoughts on the Packers 2012 needs. 

Until next time.

Brewers Bats On Fire Win 12-2

The Brewers brought their bats today, hosting the Cleveland Indians in Maryvale Park. Brewer pitchers held the Indians to no hits through 6 2/3 innings, before giving up a hit to Christian Guzman. Pitching for the Brewers against the Indians were, Randy Wolf, Juan Perez, Francisco Rodriguez, Manny Parra, Rivas, and Zach Braddock.

Brewer’s principal owner Mark Attanasio, and his wife Debbie, attended to watch the Brewers cruise to a 12-2 win over the Indians. Brewers had home runs from, Brooks Conrad, Niger Morgan, Mat Gamel, and Jonathan Lucroy.

Manager Ron Roenicke had to like what he seen today as the Brewers pumped out 16 hits, and Brewer pitchers only gave up three hits. Jonathan Lucroy had three hits today, including the home run and a double, giving him seven hits in 11 at-bats.

Mat Gamel’s home run was his second in as many games. Gamel had a good game fielding, and the blast he hit today should quiet some of the doubters. I wrote apiece earlier about Mat and his doubters.

Carlos Gomez had one hit and one walk from the leadoff spot; his second stolen base of this spring, and was caught stealing once. Ryan Braun was hitless in two at-bats and walked once. Logan Schafer took over in left field and kept up his hot hitting streak, and was two for two with two doubles.

The Brewers pitchers were spot on, going almost 7 innings without giving up a hit. Randy Wolf pitched 2 2/3 innings, struck out two, with two walks. K Rod pitched one inning, with two strikeouts and one walk. Many Parra looked good pitching two innings, giving up a hit and had three strikeouts. Box Score

Overall a great game for the Milwaukee Brewers, who would like nothing better than to keep things going tomorrow against the Chicago Cubs.

Dale Sveum the new Chicago Cubs Manager; once a Brewer player and hitting coach for the Brewers last season, will be facing his former team as the Manager of the rival Cubs. Sveum, a fan favorite in Milwaukee, should be greeted with warm hearts from fans and players alike. until next time.

 

Brewers vs. Cubs Sat. March 10, 2:05 CST.

Brewers Gamel Braun Homer Relieve Pressure

With the Brewers season opener one month away, Mat Gamel hit his first home run of the early spring training season. The home run, a Bomb to deep right field, put the Brewers on the board and helped make up for an error made the inning before. Gamel committed the error when he failed to scoop a low throw from Rickie Weeks. The Blast, his second hit this spring, could help jump start Gamel, to the big Spring the Brewers want from Gamel.  

The Gamel doubters are coming out of the woodwork, writing him off and asking the question, will Gamel finish the season at first base for the Brewers? I have read countless articles, and seen polls asking the same one. Here we are in the second week of training, and were looking for a new first baseman? Come on, Man!

Gamel’s numbers have been good in Nashville over the last two seasons, including a .310 batting average, 28 home runs, and 96 RBIs in 128 games in 2011. Over the last three seasons, in short stints in the majors, Gamel has not put up numbers the Brewers had hoped for. Given the biggest challenge in his baseball career, and at 26 years of age, this will be a make or break year for Matt Gamel.

Go Brewers! Go Mat Gamel, until next time.

Update! Read about Ryan Braun, hit his first home run today, and Caleb Gindl added a home run. Greinke Strikes out 4. The Brewers lost 8 to 6 to the Reds.

3/8/2012 Brewers Reds Box Score here! 
The Brewers vs Indians Friday 9th 2:05 CST.

Brewers Mat Gamel Can Fill Big Shoes

The Milwaukee Brewers play tonight at 8:35 PM central standard time against the San Francisco Giants on MLB network. Tuesday you can catch the Brewers at 9 PM central standard time on FSN playing the Oakland Athletics.

The Brewers Mat Gamel has been handed the chance to be the first baseman for the Crew this season; this is not new to most you,

what has changed for Gamel and the Brewers is the knee injury to Corey Hart. A surgery is scheduled for Tuesday; Hart is expected to be out 3 to 4 weeks and hopes to be back for the start of the regular season, and likely will see limited playing time for a few weeks after his return.

 The unfortunate injury to Hart, makes it less likely that Gamel will have to platoon, and the Brewers can get a better look at what he can do facing left-handed pitching.

Another option for the Brewers at first base is Taylor Green, who also bats left, and had some success at the major league level Last year with the Brewers. Green could fill in at first base when needed, and can play second and third base, possibly filling the void of the retired Craig Counsell, a valuable utility player.   

I am Predicting Mat Gamel will prove himself with consistent playing time, and I have high expectations for him, and a big year for the Crew. 
Tell me what you Think?

Till next time. Go Brew Crew!

Packers Franchise Tag Deadline-Use?

The Green Bay Packers have only a few hours left before the 3:00 PM CST deadline to use the franchise tag. Quarterback Matt Flynn or Pro Bowl Ctr., Scott Wells are not likely to be tagged, as time is running short for a deal. The Packers are not showing their hand, and will probably come down to the wire. As the saying goes, no news is good news; sometimes it just does not satisfy the craving for us fans.

The Detroit Lions placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on defensive end Cliff Avril. The non-exclusive franchise tag allows other teams to negotiate with Avril; the Lions would have the option of matching any offer, or losing him for a pair of first-round picks to the team that signs him.

Not all teams use the franchise tag every year, with less than a few hours to the 3:00 PM central time deadline, only 13 teams have used the tag.

The tag prices have dropped this year from last year’s record. The Quarterbacks franchise tag was worth 16.1 million last year and has dropped to 14.4 million this year. Sources have predicted we could see more use of the franchise tag, due to the lower pricing of the tags.

 We shall see soon, until next time. 
Update! As of 4:10 P.M. CST. there was 21 teams using a form of Franchise Tag!

Brewers Renew Axford-Gamel Primed

The Brewers are playing an intrasquad game at Maryvale Park today, which started at 12:30 PM

The game is a tune-up before their first cactus league game against the San Francisco Giants on Sunday. The intrasquad game will only be three innings. Taylor Jungmann, a first round draft pick by the Brewers last year is scheduled to pitch, along with Tyler Thornburg, Mark Rogers, Dan Meadows, and Manny Parra.

The lineup card can be seen here. This lineup looks like a possible lineup for opening day; no doubt, we will see many lineups before the regular-season opener.

 MLB network will show the Brewers game Monday night at 8:35 PM central time against the Giants.

Brewer’s manager Ron Roenicke has told the team he would like to run more this year, Roenicke wants to work on manufacturing more runs. Under previous manager Ken Macha, players were instructed not to run, because he did not believe in making an out on the base paths.

Corey Hart is all for the aggressiveness on the base paths, Hart said, when you get away from running for a couple years it’s hard to get it back. Carlos Gomez is without a doubt the fastest on the team, but has limited playing time because of platooning with Nyjer Morgan in centerfield.

Mat Gamel taking over first base for the departed Prince Fielder will get his chance to prove himself in the majors. Corey Hart thinks he’s ready and says he has a good feeling about the 26-year-old Gamel. A third baseman originally, he moved to first base at AAA late last year, to be a possible replacement for the possible loss of Prince Fielder to free agency. 

I think that the numbers Mat Gamel has put up in the minors, and consistent at-bats, knowing that the job is his to lose, will show he is ready.

 Till next time. Go Brewers!

 Update!

The Brewers renewed the contract with reliever John Axford for $525,000 for 2012 Today. Talks for a multi-year contract are to continue according to sources.

Brewers John Axford Due Big Raise Plus Twitter Follow

Milwaukee Brewers closer John Axford and Brewers assistant general manager Gord Ash are reportedly trying to work out a deal on a multi-year contract. The deadline for renewing 2012 team contracts is tomorrow. Axford is the only brewer on the 40-man roster not under contract, and his agent says things will pick up in March.

The Ax-man is do a raise to the major league minimum $480,000 for this year, which is a healthy raise over last year. The talk is leaning towards a one-year deal, and working with his agent Dan Horwitz on a long-term deal later, which could turn out to be costly for the Brewers.

A Multi-million dollar deal for John Axford would help secure him and his family, and allow him to concentrate on his duties as closer without any distractions.

Axford has pitched his way to over 70 saves in two years, and his 46 saves last year tied for the National League saves title. Not bad for a pitcher who almost quit baseball a few years ago, and was selling cell phones and bartending for a living.

The Twitter bug has landed close to John Axford, and he has quite a following, that I am sure will continue to swell, along with his success. Follow him on Twitter here.

The Brewers will play there first spring training game Sunday March 4th against the San Francisco Giants at 2:05 PM central time.  Brewers game on Monday against the Giants is scheduled for 8:35 PM central time and will be televised on the MLB network. 

 Go Brewers! till next time.

Packers Scott Wells an Asset? Yes

The Packers and Center Scott Wells are reportedly not even close in their contract talks, and the clock is ticking. March 13^th Wells will become a free agent, and it seems the Packers are not interested in making a long-term commitment. Wells turned 31 in January, and made the Pro bowl for the first time in his eight-year career, and most believe he deserves, and should be rewarded with a long-term contract. Wells started 16 games for the second year in a row, and only allowed two sacks this season in their high-powered pass offense.

Scott Wells has been described as one of the smartest players on the team, and goes all out and is seldom beaten, which has allowed Aaron Rodgers and the Packers pass heavy offense to thrive. Some say the knock on Wells is supposedly his run blocking ability, blamed on his size at 6’2 and 300 pounds. The other factor is his age at 31, Ted Thompson is not known for giving long-term contracts on players over 30.

Now here is the interesting part, the Packers have reportedly talked to the agent of the Houston Texans Center Chris Myers, also becoming a free agent on March 13. Myers who also played in his first Pro bowl this year, and like wells considered a leader, very smart, and get this, 30 years old. Myers at 6’4 289 pounds is credited for much of the success of the running game, with running back Arian Foster getting plenty of credit for the running game of the last two seasons.

Brewers Ryan Braun Fans Scramble for Game Tickets

The Brewers “Arctic tailgate” kicks off the single-season ticket sales for 2012 home games. Those sales began at 9 AM Central time online @Brewers.com, and the Miller Park box office, and by telephone, 414 – 902 – 4000. If you are not at the ballpark, your best bet is by telephone. The tailgaters camped out in the parking lot last night, and there were long lines this morning.

The Ryan Braun Saga lasted what seemed like an eternity, and kept the Brewers fans tuned in to the news. Braun addressed his teammates at Maryvale Park, shortly after his arrival, and held a press conference for the media. Braun the NL MVP insisted all along he was innocent and believed a possible 50 game suspension would be overturned and that he would be in the lineup on opening day for the Milwaukee Brewers. Braun thanked the Brewers organization, principal owner Mark Attanasio, and his teammates for never doubting him. Ryan said, “When you go through a situation like this where everything you worked for has been called into question, you truly see who your friends are.

Brewer’s manager Ron Roenicke was happy to see Ryan Braun, and that he wanted to talk to the team, so he and the coaches left the clubhouse, so Ryan could address his teammates in private. Ron Roenicke said, “We are a lot better team now’’ that’s all it comes down to.

The story is not over, but the Brewers players have work to do in defending their Central division championship. The pieces are in place for the Brewers to make another run for the ultimate goal, the World Series. Brewer’s fans have supported their team, through the good times and the bad, and have always been some of the best fans in Baseball. Go Brewers 2012!

Ryan Braun Wins Appeal Player Reactions

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun has won his appeal of a positive test for a performance-enhancing drug. The Major League Baseball Players Association announced the decision Thursday. Braun tested positive back in October for elevated testosterone, which was reported by ESPN in December.

 The Brewers organization and fans have backed the 2011 National League MVP, through the long silent process, which seemed like an eternity. Braun, who had faced a 50 game suspension, claimed throughout the process he was innocent.

 Brewers Manager Ron Roenicke said, "Ryan had exchanged texts with him and would report Friday to spring training," leading the media to report that a decision was close. Watch a video with Doug Melvins thoughts here.

The Brewers Doug Melvin has worked hard to fill the void left by Prince Fielder’s signing with the Detroit Tigers, and the uncertainty of the possible Braun suspension, signing Arimas Ramirez to bat cleanup and Norichika Aoki to a two-year deal from Japan, for insurance in the outfield.

The Great news today has the internet buzzing, and Brewers Fans hopes alive, and should help lift the Brewers to another record setting year! Go Brewers.  

Here are some reactions off Twitter about the Ryan Braun news.

 

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers tweeted in Braun's defense: "MLB and cable sports tried to sully the reputation of an innocent man. Picked the wrong guy to mess with. Truth will set u free #exonerated."

Packers All-Pro linebacker Clay Matthews III tweeted, "Happy for my friend Ryan Braun. EXONERATED by the TRUTH!!"

 Brewers closer John Axford tweeted, "All I can say is that Braun has exemplary character is continuing to handle this in an unbelievable manner."

 Brewers outfielder Nyjer Morgan posted on Twitter, "Aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!! Great News for Brew Crew!!! The Hammer has been exonerated!!!"

Packers Moves signal what Direction? Finley Signs

The Packers are sending some confusing smoke signals. On one hand they timed there Stock sale, at the very best possible time; namely, being on top of the world as the defending Super Bowl Champions. On the other hand, the Packers failed big time--to make changes to their defense late in the season, leading to an early exit in the playoffs.

 The coaching carousel started before the Packers season was prematurely cut short with a loss to the eventual Super Bowl winner New York Giants. Now which direction are we heading? Do we have a dismantling of the team under way?

 The Packers coaching changes are sure to change the team, now we have the Franchise tag, and whom do you tag. Another problem the Packers have is with Scott Wells, Wells is unhappy with the Packers lack of appreciation, and may be headed elsewhere. The Offensive line would suffer further problems next year trying to rebuild again.                     

Considering Wells is probably the best Packers linemen -- and one of the best centers in the game -- and considering he just played in his first Pro Bowl, this revelation comes as quite a surprise. Nevertheless, that is the word from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, which writes, “Wells is being told by the Green Bay Packers that he has overvalued himself as an undersized, 31-year-old center no matter how well he has played for them. Wells basically is telling the team, ‘Watch what happens.’”

As the paper writes, this is not a salary cap issue, because the Packers could pay Wells what he is worth. It sounds like they are just not willing to do it, because, I do not know, he is not important enough to the team.

Aaron Rodgers has to be concerned about the constant changes to his line, and with protection problems--concussions are always a concern. Do the Packers want to regress to the line protection problems of 2010?

   

According to a poll conducted by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, only 24% say let Wells go to free agency, with over 3500 votes, 76% say no to letting him go via free agency. 

                        

The Packers Donald Driver has stated he would take a pay cut to stay with the Packers, not much has been said relating to his status. Jermichael Finley is being considered for the franchise tag, Finley has yet to show in my opinion, being worthy of a top tier paid Tight End, Finley ranked 14th in the NFL at tight End, and drops were a problem that hurt the Packers when it counted.

The faces of the Packers are changing from top to bottom, and money is always a factor in the equation; thus, the money coming from new television contracts should enable the Packers to sign, and keep players, not rebuild.

The Packers will look different going into next season; that is, more changes than a normal attrition year, Coaches and Players. The question is which way are the Packers leaning? Rebuilding or Building the nucleus of good players we have. Time will tell us, which direction the Packers choose.
UPDATE!

The Green Bay Packers have reached an agreement with tight end Jermichael Finley on a two-year, $15 million deal, a league source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

Finley posted a message on his Twitter account Wednesday night appearing to confirm reports that he has agreed to return to the team. Finley wrote, "It's TRUE! Thank you so much to the Packers organization, all my fans, and my beautiful wife."

Packers officials did not immediately confirm terms of the deal.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report

The Packers Stock sale has expanded to Canada, fans have expressed a big interest in the stock and after regulatory hurdles, the original stock offering was for 250,000 shares, and added another 30,000 late last year. A total of 880,000 could be made available.

Brewers arrive early for spring training

The Brewers Official Spring training workouts will begin on Monday, Feb 20 after physicals. Pitchers and Catchers are to report on Sunday the 19^th, which is tomorrow. Some players have been working out in Maryvale, ahead of their normal dates, which is nothing new considering many live in the area.

You can view pictures of Brewers working out in Maryvale here!

      

 Maryvale is a neighborhood in Phoenix. Maryvale Baseball Stadium is a modest facility, to be sure: it holds only 8,000 folks (7,000 seats, plus 1,000 or so on lawn seating), its home to only one spring training team, and uses a familiar layout of a rear concourse with concessions in back of the seating area. The 56-acre complex features of five full major/minor league practice facilities, two half-field practice facilities, a major-league clubhouse, and a minor-league clubhouse.

 The Milwaukee Brewers have spent every spring training in Arizona, a stretch beginning when the team was the Seattle Pilots: in 1969, the team's history began with spring training in Tempe, which lasted through 1972. This was followed by springs in Sun City (1973-1985), Chandler (1986-1997) and then Phoenix (1998-present).

  I know the Brewers are just as anxious as us fans; that is are, to hear the words, 

Play Ball!

Here is some video for you to whet your appetite. Go Brewers 2012   

Packers Donald Driver all time Great deserves better

The Packers organization is facing some tough decisions; namely the Donald Driver, and Matt Flynn situations. If you are reading this, I am sure you have seen one article after another pertaining to this dilemma; if not, the talk is the Donald may be done in Green Bay. I am going to say a little about Donald Driver.

 Yes, I think we have a problem that is being twisted, and turned in such a way as put the blame on age, and declining skills that comes with age, rather than production. Donald Driver has played hurt, and been more productive than most receivers who have played the game. Production is more than catching a pass; it is leading by example, taking the punishing hits, while catching passes across the middle, and showing the younger players what it takes to be a winner. Here is an article that talks about the value of player stats.

 The Donald, in my opinion was not given the opportunity late in the season, for whatever reason, to contribute in helping the Packers. It was sad to see him on the bench, he knowing something that none of us knew at the time. The touchdown and no Lambeau leap! From Donald, Come on Man!

This situation is similar in some ways; namely, the Brett Favre divorce, only Driver does not want to retire; on the contrary, he wants to play for three more years. I think Donald Driver is more than likely in better shape, than the younger receivers we all are reading about in the media.

Whatever is going on behind the scenes? I hope it can be resolved in everyone’s best interest, so that one of the all-time Packer greats can go out in style; that is, with his head held high and when the time comes a Green Bay Packer!       

NFL to PGA Pebble Beach to MLB

The first Sunday with no Football since August! Can you believe we are almost half way through February? One week gone since Super Bowl 46. The only NFL players making any news worth reading about were in the Pro-Am at Pebble Beach. The Packers Aaron Rodgers and his partner D.J. Trahan missed the cut, and would not play in the final round of the AT&T National Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Phil Mickelson started the 4^th round, back in 5^th position but has moved into the lead as of this writing. Tiger woods started the day Sunday in 3^rd but had some trouble and has fallen five shots back of the leaders with seven holes remaining for Woods. The Leaderboard, and full scores of this PGA event are on the Official PGA website here, along with the full list of amateur scores. 
UPDATE! Phil Mickelson wins! AT&T National Pebble Beach Pro-Am by two strokes over Charlie Wi. Mickelson won for the 40th time on the PGA tour at the age of 41, Mickelson remembered his Grandfather who caddied at Pebble Beach.

In Baseball news, the Seattle Mariners Pitchers and Catchers reported for spring training yesterday, a full week earlier than any team. The remaining teams will begin reporting next weekend; Many MLB players live near their spring training sites and work out together during the winter months, getting a jump start to the season.

 Baseball cannot get here soon enough for us fans, there are GMs working out deals on trades, and trying to sign players before spring training starts. Baseball fans get ready for 2012, the season is just around the corner, and as they say, Play Ball! “Let’s get it started” Already.  GO BREWERS! 

Brewers Fever Promotions Giveaways Video Memories

Brewer fever is warming up even as our temperatures are closer to normal. The Brewers released there Promotions and Giveaways schedule; “which includes six Bobblehead giveaway dates;” The announced six are Kwik Trip Jonathan Lucroy Bobblehead, Robert Haack Diamonds Yovani Gallardo Bobblehead, Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board Nyjer Morgan Bobblehead, Klement’s Sausage Italian Racing Sausage Bobble, Time Warner Cable Bob Uecker Bobblehead, and Wild Impact Marketing Arimas Ramirez Bobblehead. For a complete schedule "Click Here".  All Promotions and Giveaways are subject to change.

Tickets for individual Brewers games go on sale February 25th at 9:00a.m. at the Miller Park Box Office or at Brewers.com/tickets,  you can also call (414-902-4000 (800-933-7890).

The annual (Arctic Tailgate Party) will start the individual ticket sales. This is the 6^th year of the party, which will include the Klement’s Racing Sausages, Bernie Brewer, Brewers alumni players will also be greeting fans. The first 2000 fans in line will receive a hot dog, and soda compliments of Klement’s, Pepsi and Sportservice, and also an Arctic Tailgate T-shirt. The Brewers want you to note this. Please note the following safety regulations for the Arctic Tailgate. Participants will not be permitted to set camp prior to noon on Thursday, February 23. No hand-made or hand-built shelters shall be permitted. Please read the remaining regulations on the Brewers website.

A very limited amount of Brewers Opening Day Tickets will be available at this Arctic event. The Miller Park Box Office will be the only place to buy Opening Day tickets on February 25; no phone or online orders accepted.

You can still enter for Opening Day tickets, and Marquee/Gold games in a Lottery system here; deadline is 11:59p.m. CT, Tuesday 2/14/2012 Good Luck! Hope to see you there, Go Brewers!   

"Click on this video" I think the fever is catchy!

 

Packers Aaron Rodgers NFL MVP-Randall Cobb Honored

The Packers Aaron Rodgers was honored with The NFL MVP award last night in Indianapolis. The Super Bowl XLV MVP last year, Rodgers won by a landslide over Drew Brees, of the New Orleans Saints. The actual vote was Rodgers 48, Brees 2. Rodgers set a NFL league record 122.5 passer rating, threw for 45 touchdowns passes and only six interceptions. Watch video!

Drew Brees was awarded the (offensive player of the year), throwing 46 touchdowns and setting an NFL record 5,476 passing yards. Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs won (defensive POY), Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (offensive rookie of the year), Broncos linebacker Von Miller (defensive ROY).

The Packers kick returner Randall Cobb won Play of the year, with his 108 yard kickoff return, over Bengals wide receiver Jerome Simpson’s acrobatic flip for a touchdown against Arizona “I definitely thought (Simpson’s) flip would win,” Cobb said.

Today’s Super Bowl 46 between The New York Giants and New England’s Patriots, will take place today at 6:30PM ET in Indianapolis at Lucas Oil Stadium, and will be broadcast exclusively on NBC.

Super Bowl Parties and Bets

Wow! The Super bowl kickoff is about 22 hours from this writing, parties are underway in cities everywhere, and of course the big doings are in the host city, Indianapolis.

What a big Party day the Super Bowl has grown into all over the world. For the last two weeks, the advertising and commercials for food, places to watch the game and the Pro Bowl last weekend, contributing to the hype.

Pro Bowl players were allowed to Tweet during the game! Are you kidding me?

Twitter has become such a big tool, instant news or message, anyone and all things that interest you, if you want to know or share, Tweet!

Bettors are in heaven on Super Bowl Sunday, you can wager on anything about the game, over or Under, Coin toss, First score, and first penalty, anything you want! Just think of it, and you can make a wager in Vegas. Check this Bet Link

I almost forgot my buddy Dave, is out in Vegas for the Super Bowl again this year, lucky Guy!  Suppose it is time to give him a call, what should we bet on? Hmmm. Come on Man! I wish Americas team, the Green Bay Packers were the team we could try one of them silly bets. Oh well!

Okay, I will make a prediction on the score, but my bets are private for obvious reasons, here we go! The Giants over the Patriots 30-24. There you have it, enjoy the day and stay safe my friends. Till next time.