Let kids be kids? Why not?

So I’m sitting there Monday afternoon trying to get a little work done and my eyes wander the big screen and there’s Canada at the Little League World Series and it got me thinking.

There are definitely too many channels and if they cancelled the one that shows 12- and 13-year-olds playing baseball I’d be all for it because it’s simply too much.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for the kids playing at such a high level because it’s good to stretch their competitive level as far as it goes but do we really need them on television?

Doesn’t that just add a level of unnecessary pressure? Doesn’t it potentially hold them up to worldwide ridicule if they fail? Can’t we just let them play without the glare of the television spotlight and not be so invasive?

I know, I know. It’s the world we live in, everyone wants to be on TV and I’m sure the kids would tell you that in New York minute if you asked them.

But 12 year olds? Or 13 year olds?

Let ‘em be kids, let ‘em play in front of family and friends and have their fun. Let ‘em compete at the highest level without having to worry about a camera in the dugout or a microphone on a coach or be worried about crying when they fail and letting everyone in the country see if they want.

I played – or sat on the bench, more accurately – for a team of teenaged baseball players who competed at the highest possible level. We did just fine without being over-exposed through television, we let our parents and friends know how we did and we didn’t have to worry about our mugs being slashed all over the tube.

I can see it for, perhaps, 16- or 17-year olds, who might not be a fazed by the omnipresent cameras 12- or 13-year-old might be.

I know it’s not going to ever change – they were showing the Little League World Series when I was kid – but I wish it would.

We don’t let kids be kids nearly enough, and this is one area where it can happen.

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We lost Jack Layton yesterday as everyone knows and if there wasn’t a wee bit of campaigning in his final letter to Canadians, I’d say they should put it up on the wall of every primary school classroom in the country.

Maybe what they should do is take the last paragraph drill it into the minds of every person in the country, make them memorize it and live by it.

Read it here.

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Worthy Cause Time.

You folks know Skeets and Tas over at The (Formerly Known As Basketball) Jones?

They do outstanding work all the time, no doubt about it, but they’re on to something now that you all need to know about.

Along with the one and only Matt Bonner, they’re raising money for Athletes For Africa and a Toronto Boy’s Club and if you can see your way fit to sponsor them, I wish you would. Check this out.

Besides, if they can get a lot of cash maybe they can get Matt to a proper barber and get that hair fixed.

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Aw.

Nick Ashford passed away and who among us doesn’t at least vaguely remember Ashford and Simpson?

And who among us doesn’t remember maybe the greatest song he ever wrote, recorded first by the incomparable Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell.

Great song.

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Ballyard tonight, right?

Wonder if Saberhagen’s pitching?

Oh, wait. That’s 1985; not 2011.

Anyway, IGBT if you want. See you around 7.

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Okay, so I kind of suck at math and now I need some remedial geography.

I had the Quebec Kebs of the NBL in Laval. Oh, dopey me.

They are actually at Laval University in Quebec City, as more than a few of you have pointed out.

Glad you did before I pitched a road trip to the Tall Foreheads.

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So the FISU Games basketball guys lost to Serbia yesterday and come home with the silver medal and there’s certainly no shame in that.

My Man Triano made an interesting point when talking about the outcome and it’s one that should probably be hammered home.

You know the country is pretty good at age-group world championships, we’re always in them and always competitive and often in a legitimate hunt for a medal.

Someone has to be doing something right, right?

Well, it has to have a lot to do with coaching and getting these kids prepared and developing systems and team work relatively quickly and if you go down the list of coaches there’s one thing that stands out:

They almost all coach in the CIS.

Kevin Hanson is the latest, with that University Games team and anyone who suggests Canadian kids need to leave the country or go play for club teams to get better coaching is so dead wrong it’s ridiculous.

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All kinds of basketball stuff in here today

We’re almost all basketball today.

Don’t worry, it’ll get slow again for a few days so we can get to some of the usual off-the-wall stuff.

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Big basketball goings on in China.

No, not brawls.

The men’s FISU Games team plays Serbia for the gold medal this morning our time and it speaks to the depth of talent across all levels.

This is a group of CIS kids – Kevin Hanson’s the coach – and they’ve gone 5-1 after other university-age players to reach the final.

They beat Lithuania in the semis, after Lithuania had upset the United States in the quarters, which is a significant win in itself.

Now, World University Games (as they used to be known) and success for Canadian men really shouldn’t come as that big as a surprise.

A whole bunch of you most likely remember the “Miracle On Wood” out in Edmonton way back in ’83 when Canada won the gold medal in a tournament that included a stirring win over an American team with a couple of kids named Malone and Barkley on it.

I wasn’t at that one but I was in Buffalo in ’93 and that was almost as dramatic.

The Americans had a pretty good team – I seem to recall Damon Stoudamire on it, and Carlos Rogers, too – and the Canadians were supposed to be fodder for them in the gold medal.

Again, if my fading memory is right, I remember Canada taking almost a 20-point lead as the crowd looked on in stunned disbelief before the Americans rallied to win.

I emphatically recall one of Canada’s best – and youngest – players taking the loss particularly hard because he’d been on a college team that had pulled off a significant upset over a Stoudamire-led team earlier in his career.

I also remember thinking that the kid was going to be pretty good, an opinion held by Canada Basketball officials, who took him from Buffalo to the qualification tournament for the world championships to help get his feet wet at the highest international level.

The kid’s name?

Steve Nash.

Wonder whatever happened to him?

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So, the NBL Canada draft?

Good show, they tried their best to make it as professional and first-class they could and pulled it off.

Right down to comely lasses walking the draft picks up to meet the CEO, hats for them to put on (league caps in some cases since some teams don’t have names) and a packed room, they did pull it off quite well.

It was a big first weekend for the league and now they have to find some way to capitalize on the energy to sell some tickets and keep going in each of the league cities.

Best of luck.

Here’s the thing about the draft, though.

Think it might be better not to get picked? I know the league wanted a show – and put on a very good one – but if you’re a player, isn’t it now better to have seven teams to try to cadge a camp invite to rather than just one.

Unlike, say, the NBA, there are no guaranteed contracts for any of the draft picks and now they have to make sure they make the teams when camps open in October.

Me?

I’d almost like to not get drafted and have my agent try to see my services to all the teams rather than have one just control me.

And the other thing that struck me?

How happy a lot of these kids were to have a chance to play in North America.

Listening to them rattle off the countries where they’ve played – and I heard Saudi Arabia, Germany, China, Japan, Argentina, Sweden, Iceland and France from the handful of players I talked to – just hammered home the fact a league in North America that seems legit and could do good things was the most important part of the night.

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Okay, this is from the Department Of Totally Logical.

How in the world there are people who think the marriage of a woman who, to the best of my knowledge, is famous for a sex tape and little else, and NBA journeyman can be remotely considered “news.”

That said, I wish Kim and Hump all the best.

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One last NBL thing.

It’s amazing who you’ll see at a tryout camp for a new Canadian basketball league.

The First Lady Of The Beat (reprising the role she played when, you know, she was on the beat) and I were standing around Seneca College at the NBL combine thingy on Saturday and there’s this bearded guy standing a few metres away.

He looks so familiar it’s killing us and finally we ask someone who it is.

Fred Jones!

The beard threw us off.

Yes, the combine did include a former NBA dunk champion, if only as a spectator, as the ex-Raptor was back at around his old stomping grounds making sure a cousin of his – Joshua Porter -- handled himself well at the tryout.

You remember Fred, right?

A rather inglorious half a season in Toronto where he seemed to shoot more three-pointers than manage to get to the rim but a good guy and it was good to see him.

He’s been in Italy and China the last two seasons and isn’t sure where he’ll be playing this fall.

And there you go, one of our infrequent stops on the Where Are They Now Tour.

Oh, and Joshua?

Didn’t get drafted.

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Hey, guess who’s Mr. Baseball this week?

Yep.

Tuesday night as a one-off fill in during the Royals series and then the Rays are all mine on the weekend for four games.

Excited?

Figure we need to bring back IGBT?

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Marilyn Monroe in the weekend mail? What a place this is!

And another day bites the dust.

I’ll have some time this morning at my Niagara local (hi, Starbucks on the Lane!) and maybe that’s when I do the NBL mock draft.

Or not.

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Q: Hi Doug. Nice to think back about growing up in Toronto and those Summers In The City - not just the CNE, but taking the ferry across to The Island, concerts at Ontario Place, picnics at Edwards Gardens and just wandering Yonge Street on a sunny day, window shopping and people watching. And, curiously, I happen to be reading a book right now ("Toronto Noir" and I highly recommend it) of short stories where each story is set in a different area of Toronto.

It always gives me a strange thrill to read a book, see a movie or hear a song that pays reference to specific places I know (and isn't it fun picking out Toronto landmarks in those American-made movies where T.O. stands in for New York City or Chicago???)

So, growing in Niagara Falls, I wonder if you feel the same thing when you see The Falls featured in movies or books, etc.? Can you name a favorite cultural reference or two where your hometown played a starring, or even, supporting role? Thanks!

Lorie P, London

A: Sure, I do. In fact, one of the Grandpas was working at the Canadian Niagara power plant and was involved in either driving or being on one of the boats that shuttled this beauty in the river during filming.

Don’t for a second think that movie doesn’t hold a special place in my heart.

But other than that, there aren’t of a lot of memorable flicks with the mighty cataracts as part of them.

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Q: Hi Doug. I'll be watching the progress of NBL Canada with interest. I've noticed that the two Ontario franchises, London and Oshawa, are located in communities with a rabid Junior A hockey following. Do you think this a coincidence?

With a franchise fee of $100k and a salary cap of $150k, do you think that another Junior A hockey market would dip its toe with NBL Canada? Would owners of the Guelph Storm or Kitchener Rangers look to fill their local arenas with at least another eighteen home dates? And if they do, will they take a page from the MLSE playbook and tie in hockey season ticket packages with basketball?

Here in Brampton, I would imagine that the Powerade Centre is largely vacant when the Batallion is not playing. Likewise with the Hershey Centre and their main tenant Mississauga St. Michael's Majors. I would definitely support a team in this neck of the woods but given the GTA's tepid support for all things not consider major league, I don't see a franchise in my neck of the woods happening.

What are your thoughts on seeing the reincarnation of the Toronto Tornados?

Roel O, Brampton

A: I think what you’ll find is that a lot of junior teams, unlike pro ones, play in arenas that they don’t own so it’s not like they’d benefit financially from a second tenant. Cities might, but I don’t think individual franchises would in a lot of cities because the arenas aren’t “theirs” per se.

Now, I also think it would be foolish for this league to look at Toronto, or even the closest suburbs like Mississauga or Brampton; I cannot see how a minor league basketball franchise could survive. I think Oshawa and London, and perhaps even Hamilton some time in the future, are far enough away that they work.

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Q: Hi Doug: I don't know if you know the answer to these, but I suspect you have some pretty good resources that you can refer to.

Basketball, football, hockey and soccer (and probably others) have a "coach," who is dressed in 'street clothes.'

Baseball is (as far a I know, the only sport with a "manager" who wears the team's uniform, complete with a number!

Do you know the reason for this peculiarity?

Thanks for all you do for both the Irregulars and the not-so-irregular reader!!

Tim H, Windsor

A: I do know the reason for that peculiarity, actually. No idea why, but I do.

Back in the day – and I’m talking turn of the century (not this one) a lot of baseball “managers” were former players sticking around the game and they stayed in uniform forever and in case they, you know, wanted to come back. There have been a couple of exceptions to the rule, the most famous being Connie Mack of the Philadelphia Athletics, who was also the owner.

The major league baseball rule book only says that “coaches” need to be in uniform, aimed at the on-field first and third base coaches but the tradition has stuck with managers.

And, thankfully, we’ve been spared the sight of other pro coaches in uniform of their teams, and I’m thinking specifically of a guy like Stan Van Gundy right now.

Of course, we weren’t spared the sight of Tommy Lasorda jiggling out to the mound in a form-fitting baseball uniform, which was quite retina-burning at times.

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Q: No comments about the incident between Georgetown and the Chinese team in Beiging? I'm surprised considering there are so little basketball news.

Like all news coming out of China, detail tend to be censored and sketchy. Do you know or have heard any detail on how the incident started? Any punishments handed out to those involved?

J C, Mississauga

A: Comments? On a brawl between an American college team and a Chinese club team in China. Um, guess it was bad. And maybe worse than the handful of fights that break out with regularity, it seems. Remember the one between the Canadian and Italian national teams? I remember being at one between, I believe, Brazil and Canada in Montreal a few years back. Things like that happen and while I don’t know the exact cause I would presume atrocious officiating, the escalating of physical play in the game and some minor pushing and showing got out of hand.

Punishment? Nah, don’t imagine there’ll be any.

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Q: Speaking of alternatives for hardcore fans, and for grunts with time to kill, has the Star given any thought to a "full-length" NBA Live video game challenge between DeMar DeRozan and Tristan Thompson/Cory Joseph (Raps vs. Cavs or Spurs) with both players donating money to the Star Christmas Fund, and complete with a IVGTB from you. Spurs by 12, anyone?

Jim S, Thornhill

A: The only thing I know about video games is that I miss Pong so I’m thinking an NBA Live video thingy with me talking about it would be, um, useless.

Maybe some marketing whiz can put something together. Me? I’ll stick with what I pretend to know.

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Q: On Around the Horn a bit ago I heard one of the panelists talk about receiving "gifts" and the other panelists derided him for it, he shot back "come on we all do it"...so that got me thinking, in light of your Butch Carter story and getting tickets and going to watch a ball game...what is your policy on receiving job related "gifts" as I am sure there must be a professional code of ethics in regards to this.

Thanks and cheers...

Doug B, Toronto

A: My policy, and one that’s pretty consistent throughout the industry, is that you take each situation on its own, judge whether or not you fear your integrity can be compromised and make a decision. I trust myself, and my boss trusts me, to make a rational decision each time out.

The strictest organizations forbid employs to “take” anything of value, ours is a bit more lenient because if I can be “bought” for a ticket or some such, or a T-shirt or some other trinket, I’m not good at my job anyway and won’t have it too long.

The start of the weekend mail, as usual

All right, everyone.

You did pretty well getting us through today and I see a fair bit left over for tomorrow, which is good.

Still, we’ll give you one last shot at it, click here and get it done.

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Q: Hey Doug! Was listening to the local (sort of - Detroit) sports talk radio about the appropriate 'dress code' for reporters doing a scrum/interview. There was two differing views - casual (shorts and a T-shirt) was OK; and a little more 'dressy' was more appropriate.

What is your personal dress code?

Thanks!

Tim H, Windsor

A: It really changes and depends on the typical dress of the event I’m covering and the comfort level necessary. For basketball, or even – egads – the pucks or other indoor winter events, I’m pretty much always in a shirt and tie but no jacket because it’s too restricting to type, I find.

Now, the baseball’s a bit more relaxed, I think primarily because of the weather and working conditions so shorts – nice shorts, of course – and a golf shirt are the usual dress.

Olympics? Shorts and t-shirts all the way, and that’s fine with everyone.

But it is a matter of personal taste; I’ve seen t-shirts and casual attire at basketball games and I’ve seen shirts and ties at the ball yard.

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Q: Hi Doug. I seem to remember a minor league basketball team playing out of Toronto in the early 80's. At the time I worked at a radio station in Barrie and recall the coach and a couple of the players coming up for an hour long interview on some sports show the station aired.

For the life of me I can remember the teams name - or the players involved.

Do you have any knowledge on the team - the league they played in - and any other details. Cheers

Michael D, Barrie

A: Oh, I’m sure that would have been the old Toronto Tornados, who played in the old Continental Basketball League for about three years in the mid- to early-80s. Played out of Maple Leaf Gardens in a league that spawned such NBA coaches as Phil Jackson and George Karl.

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Q: Dear Smitty. Other than CBC Saturday night, will pro sports ever be offered "over the air" again? I would quickly give up satellite/ cable, if I could get a couple of games a week on the old antenna. (now available digital)

Some smart TV and/or advertising guy must realize that there is a market out there of fed up people, who want free sports, over the air.

All the best!

Bob E, Kanata

A: Man, I wish. Wouldn’t it be nice to say screw the cable provider, take the cheapest package available and see sports?

Alas, my man, can’t see it happening. In fact, I’m afraid all signs point to leagues and teams moving all their stuff to higher tier networks and bleeding fans even more.

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Q: Hi Doug. A bit of baseball question for you. Last week, Bob McCown and one of his guests had a interesting discussion as to why so many young pitchers in the major leagues break down with arm trouble now a days. Bob's theory was that it was caused by the fact that from a young age, the modern pitcher is not conditioned, both physically and mentally, to go out and pitch 7+ innings each outing. What do you think? Do you agree or do you think it might simply be a case of bad luck or bad mechanics. Thank You.

Joe D, Mississauga

A: There is no doubt that more kids and minor leaguers are coddled beyond belief in comparison to the olden days. But there are a couple of reasons that it kind of makes sense:

There is such a financial investment in young arms that protecting them makes business sense as it does baseball sense.

And there’s one other thing to think about: Back in the day, the players really had no options, they had to pitch through pain because there were no guaranteed long term contracts and they were as complicit in it as the teams were.

Now, should kids be “stretched out” at a younger age so they build arm strength as youngsters? Probably, yes, but I still do know that it would make much difference at the high minors or major league level when everyone’s protecting an investment.

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Q: Greetings, pondering our National Basketball League this afternoon. If you were given the task of selling this sports undertaking to potential sponsors, whom, and how, would you be approaching them for support? Is there a particular demographic that stands out as a prime target to build support from? No negativity intended just have to think it would be an uphill battle. As always, thanks for what you do.

Doug T, Brantford

A: I’m sure that in some ways it will be a difficult uphill slog. But if I was doing it, I’d find local, local, local people who can “adopt” a team. It would be the usual big-ticket places like breweries and car dealers but I think you have to reach out to local restaurants and bars, local corporations and sell them on the idea of being intimately involved with a first-time venture in a city. One thing I’d do more than anything: I’d find a way to get the local media on-side, as much as you can, because having the local paper or radio station or television station writing and talking about you creates a buzz that has to help.

It won’t be easy, I’m sure there will be a lot of skepticism in some circles but hard work, being honest, developing mutually-beneficial relationships by getting players, coaches and executives out in the community is a must.

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Q: Hi Doug. Last week (I think) you mentioned that the Raps would probably like to see a reduction in the length of free agent contracts as part of a new CBA. While the cynic in me suggests this is due to the one area where BC hasn't really hit a home run, I do wonder if the Raps, or any other NBA team have considered the other side of this sword. A team could sign a free agent for, say three years, feel he is part of their growing core, and then, lo and behold, off he goes to the highest bidder.

Any thoughts on that? Thanks as always for considering the question.

Sohail G, Collingwood

A: I can see and understand your skepticism but I will only say this:

It is much easier to convince guys to stay if things are going well than it is to get rid of them if things are going bad.

And that’s why I think they should think that shorter is better.

Another one's gone, but he'll be back

So, another one’s gone for a little bit, I hear.

Reports out of Brazil say Leandro Barbosa’s going to play a little basketball in his native land this fall, he’s signed, or is going to sign, with the storied Flemengo franchise.

It’s no surprise at all, his brother-slash-agent-slash-spokesman had said a month or so ago that he’d check out other possibilities and it makes entire sense that Leandro would stay at home.

Unlike Sonny Weems, though, Barbosa’s deal has an out for whenever the NBA lockout gets settled so he will be back in Toronto whenever there are games to be played.

I know Leandro a little bit and know how he feels about his homeland, his family there and his love of all things Brazil so the chance to play a little basketball there before coming back to the NBA would suit him just perfectly.

It’s good for him, it’s no sweat for the Raptors so this seems to be one of those win-win situations.

I still contend you’re not going to see a flood of North Americans headed to European leagues, there’s not enough money, not enough roster spots, not enough coddling to keep them happy for even a couple of months.

But why wouldn’t a non-North American stay in his country and play? Be with family, familiar surroundings, work on his game, stay in shape and not have to travel back to this continent and sit around and wait.

I’m dead certain you’ll hear about a lot more guys in Barbosa’s situation who stay at home and play until they’re summoned back to North America.

Good for them.

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Okay, all this talk yesterday about the Ex got me thinking even more about the olden days.

Two things came to mind:

Those ice cream waffle sandwiches you used to get.

And cotton candy.

Not sure why those two stuck in my head, maybe I’m a traditionalist and don’t know about these new fangled donut-burgers or what have you.

But ice cream waffle sandwiches and cotton candy are the perfect meal.

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Too bad this guy’s not playing this year:

Or this guy, RIP

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Mail call.

Not much there so go here and get it done, okay?

Like this Irregular did.

Q: Hi Doug, are you missing Summer League yet ? :) I actually am - after having watched Team Canada, Ryerson and the Baylor crew, it reminded me of how there is a lot of really entertaining non-NBA basketball out there.

Wayne P, Toronto

A: I miss Summer League like I miss a migraine.

But you’re right, this has been a good time for the game in the city, I’m really ticked that life got in the way of seeing any of it personally.

But that should serve as a reminder: If this thing drags on and the start of the NBA season is delayed, there are other alternatives for the hard-core fans who want some basketball.

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So a guy’s sitting on a stool working away and there’s all kinds of TVs on, one of which has the CFL game.

And the first reaction? Where the heck is everyone?

Yes, I know they were 1-6 (entirely on merit, I’m told) but even when they’ve been this bad, there’s always seemed to be a core of about 18,000-20,000 who showed up.

What happened?

Did losing finally cost them people? Ticket prices? The stadium? The experience?

I have a friend, a diehard Argo fan from back in the old Exhibition Stadium days, and he’s so fed up with the losses, the transient nature of the roster, the experience at the park, that he’s given up season tickets he’s had forever.

And now he doesn’t even want to drive down to catch a game, knowing he can get the best seat in the house simply by walking up to the box office.

It’s too bad, really.

Used to be that Argo games had an “event” feel to them, even in the mausoleum that a two-thirds empty Rogers Centre is.

I hope they get it back; I’m doubtful that they will.

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Still, the worst CFL game you’ve ever seen is probably better than any pre-season NFL football because I tried to watch some of one last night and needed to splash cold water on my face to stay awake.

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Oh, from the Department of Utterly Ridiculous, guess what arrived yesterday?

The NBA pre-season schedule.

Guffaw. Guffaw. Guffaw.

Bet they’ll sell a lot of tickets to those games now.

Anyway, in the fantasy world of the HOTH, here’s their schedule and it’s not bad.

Four at home, which is good, and only one neutral site game, in Grand Rapids, Mich., which will mark my first trip to that megalopolis.

The Raptors have been there before and I guess I need to check with my Mighty Old Colleague because, if memory serves, I was able to shuffle off that glamour trip to her back in the day.

You will notice, however, that there are no Canadian cities outside of Toronto on the schedule and you can chalk that up entirely to the on-going labour dispute.

These schedules get worked on beginning months in advance and it would have been unfair – and not business-prudent – for them to book an arena, find local sponsors in some other Canadian city knowing full well they might have to pull the plug on the game at the last minute.

Too bad, though; it’s always been fun to travel around with the circus; hope we get to do it in 2012.

Oh, and this labour thing’s screwing with training camp, too.

Because there’s so much planning needed to pull that off – booking gyms, finding hotels, making other travel arrangements – I fully expect even if training camp starts on time it’ll be in boring old Toronto rather than some exotic locale like St. Catharines or Ottawa or Vancouver.

Too bad.

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More CanCon and a quick trip down memory lane

We’ve mentioned the National Basketball League here a time or two and they are coming up to their biggest weekend yet.

There’s a tryout combine Saturday and Sunday and the league’s draft on Sunday night as they get closer to actually being an entity that’s got rosters and players and something to talk about.

I have no idea of the calibre of basketball we’re in for, it’s impossible to figure out what kind of player is going to show up this weekend.

But is that really all that important?

If there’s good competition, close games, a couple of “wow” moments, does it matter if it’s Division 1 NCAA or Division 2 or small European league calibre?

Not sure.

Had a chance to talk to the CEO of the league, Andre Levingston, the other day and came away pretty impressed (you’ll read the fruits of that chat on the weekend) with the plans.

They know that going too big too soon is a recipe for disaster, which is why they are in smallish cities with solid ownership (although I am telling you now that there will be blips because there always are) and plans based in reality.

The only issue I have – and it’s one shared by a couple of other basketball types I’ve spoken with this week – is with the number of Canadians on each roster.

Don’t get me wrong, mandating that two spots be held for local talent is a good idea and quite admirable but maybe they should have gone to three or even four.

The league is as much about developing Canadian talent as anything, I’m told, and I wonder if there will be much difference between an American 10th or 11th guy on a roster or a Canadian in the same role.

Maybe that’s something they can think about as the league grows and, hopefully, prospers.

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So we’re at the golf outing yesterday (a big thank you to Coating Specialties for great hospitality and a great day) and it got me thinking, which is always a troublesome, and sometimes scary, thing.

There used to be a group of us who played rather regularly and when you play regularly, you tend to want to spice a game up with a wager or two, don’t you?

Silliest bet ever?

Well, I do remember a losing team having to ride back to Toronto from Glen Abbey in the back of a pickup truck one cold Halloween day, I believe.

Oh, and there’s a guy out there somewhere with a small tattoo courtesy of some ill-advised bogeys, if memory serves. That’s one I wasn’t directly involved in although there was a time when it was distinctly possible. Trouble was, I wasn’t sure if I lost how I’d explain a couple of another guy’s initials and a score etched on my skin to those closest to me.

Ah, youth. What a fun time.

Ever do anything stupid like that?

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Oh, what the heck, let’s do this one out of the mail since it’s been a few days since the last seamhead query.

(Apologies to Griff for cutting his grass).

Q: Hey Doug, I gotta admit, your baseball work is on point. Respect. I got a question for you relating to the TOD. 2012 has been advertised as the year we will begin to seriously compete, but with our pitching looking the way it is, do you see one winter of free agency and trades as enough to fill in the gaps?

Cheers

Fuzzy D, Devonshire

A: Now, you have to understand I am not fully up on the vagaries of contracts when I do this but …

No, I’m not sure they can fix what ails that staff in one winter with one or two signings.

They need to entirely revamp the bullpen (Janssen, Litsch, maybe Camp are keepers) to get a proven closer and while I definitely think Morrow, Cecil and Romero are a solid front end of a rotation what’s behind them worries me a bit so a starter or two are needed.

I think they can make major strides next season if they open the pocketbooks but they’ll need to catch lightning in a bottle to truly contend next year. It’s happened before but I’m thinking 2013 is more realistic.

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So, I notice that the Ex opens tomorrow.

I know this is going to perhaps bore those Irregulars who aren’t local but doesn’t that mean something to folks around here?

Now, I haven’t been to the CNE in years and years and years but as soon as I hear about it opening each August it brings back memories.

Of:

The Grandstand.

Can’t remember which was the best concert I saw there but it was always a great time.

The peewee ball tournament

Yeah, we’d come up each year as little kids from the Falls and be in awe for the most part. Best thing about it? If you won, you got to come back and spend another day wandering the midway after the game.

Tiny Tom Donuts

Man, were they ever good. Not good for you, just good. Could gobble them all day.

This ride

Man, now I’ve got to spend a good chunk of today coming up with other stories and memories for the morning. That’ll be fun. What have you got?

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Speaking of mail …

Here. Please.

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Real basketball stuff and the necessities for a golf game

Hey, know what I did last night?

Saw basketball.

Real, live basketball.

Odd, with all the squeaking and talking and running fast; not something a guy who’s done some baseball is used to.

And I can dutifully report that the national team doesn’t look too bad at all.

Saw four or five mini-games and they looked pretty sharp (now, don’t go saying it was because they were playing against each other) with some good ball movement, aggressive defence and shot-making.

Talking to Leo after – you’ll see the results of the conversation scattered throughout the paper and the website in the next few days – it’s obvious this team has to play a nearly perfect game to win but that the margin of error is greater than it was a year ago at the worlds.

The addition of Cory Joseph, international vets Jesse Young and Carl English and a healthy Andy Rautins provides a bit of a cushion.

Joseph is still very much learning the game at this level but he’s got some leadership and point guard abilities that this team sorely needs. All he’s got to do is to get use the physical nature of the play, and the rhythm of the game and he’ll be all right.

Talked to assistant coach Renato Paquali last night (and I must say Leo has surrounded himself with a great teaching staff) and his biggest issue with Joseph is that he has to learn to pace himself, and his team.

It’s going to be a difficult transition but it’s also very good that it’s starting now.

I still maintain the most legitimate goal for this team is a top five finish at the Olympic qualifier that’ll get it a shot to make it to London next year and, having watched them a bit, I think that’s quite realistic.

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Okay, as I may have mentioned, there’s a big golf outing today (be wary Doon Valley, be very wary) and it’s the Mighty Rockies coaching staff let loose with a designated driver and an entire day of tomfoolery.

So, the check list:

Tees?

Got ‘em.

Balls?

Like I need more than one.

Clubs?

All 16 of ‘em.

Shoes?

Plastic spikes, of course.

Box of wine?

Um, what?

You know how a guy might have a couple of cans in his bag to start a day?

Well, the last time we were out as a gaggle of duffers one of the fellows who shall go nameless (hi, Coach Steve!) shows up all set to play with, yes, a box of wine safely tucked away. And it was another first in the golfing career.

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Mail’s still not on strike, right?

Hmm.

Wonder where my invitation is?

Big nuptials this weekend and I can’t believe I’m not going to be there.

Yep, I hear Hump Takes A Bride.

Bet it's a great bash.

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Raptors news?

Well, it’s not big and I’m sure only the most hard core of you will care a lick but the reason the national team’s at Ryerson and not the ACC is that they’re putting a new floor in the practice gym.

Told you it wasn’t big.

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So the long arm of the NBA in this lockout reaches Canada Basketball.

The organization had to get special dispensation from the league to have Raptors assistant coach Scott Roth join Leo’s national team staff.

With three NBA guys on the team – Andy Rautins, Joel Anthony, Cory Joseph – there might have been concerns that a team employee would have illegal contact so permission was needed.

It helps that Roth has extensive international history – he coached Turkey and the Dominican Republic – because without it, it might have been hard to get the hiring approved.

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Quiz time.

Best golf movie?

Me? I’ve got Caddyshack, for sure, at the top of the list and there is no way anyone can change my mind on that.

But No. 2?

Tin Cup? Happy Gilmore? Dead Solid Perfect?

What do you think?

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An old Irregular checks into the mail with this, and if you want to be part of the fun, just click here and let me know what you think.

Q: Hi Doug. These really are the dog days of the summer for me. I don't like baseball and therefore find your blog a bit less interesting than usual although I am sure you're doing a pretty good job covering the Jays and sharing nuggets with the Irregulars.

Layman's questions (which perhaps explains their relative stupidity):

It seems to me that baseball is the only team sport that can be played at a professionnal level by people not necessarily in a top physical condition. To me, several baseball players appear to be, say, out of shape, which is very rarely the case with basketball players (hello big O!). How can you explain this?

Subsidiary question: what makes a sport during which sometimes nothing happens for loooong minutes so attractive to so many people?

Thank you and "vivement" the end of the lock-out!

Matthieu B, Bern (who's already seen one baseball game live in Toronto and barely survived).

A: I can understand baseball not being for all, that’s for sure Glad you’re still around a bit.

Anyway, it’s true, baseball players – some – are far from great physical specimens but it’s mainly pitchers, I’ve found. Not sure why except to say they don’t need the fast-twitch reactions of other professional athletes and can get by without the requisite stamina that some other pro athletes need.

But, on the other hand, there are indeed some finely tuned athletes in the game who play positions, not sure I can recall a truly slovenly third baseman, for instance.

And to some, the beauty of the game is its pace. Or lack thereof. It’s not for everyone, for sure, but sitting in the sun at a ballpark can be relaxing as much as entertaining. There’s generally enough “action” to get the juices flowing but the relaxing nature of the game is as much the allure as home runs and back-door sliders.

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Okay, off to the links soon, will get to comments when I can.

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Milestones, births, deaths and a kid caddy doesn't screw up

We do like our sports stars to have a little bit of an edge to them, don’t we?

Especially when it comes to lionizing them for some significant career accomplishment.

We go gaga over Derek Jeter’s 3,000th hit and the time leading up to it because he’s the captain of the Yankees.

We glorify, or have glorified, Tiger Woods, even though he’s a bit standoffish, because he was chasing Jack Nicklaus.

The Miami Heat are all the rage because of the manner in which they were put together and some hope a dynasty is building while others hope for a train wreck.

And then along comes a guy like Jim Thome, who has just reached one of the true pinnacles of major league baseball with as little fanfare as you can possibly imagine.

Thome hit homers No. 599 and 600 last night, becoming just the eighth player in major league baseball history (and we’re talking a lot of good baseball players in that group) to get to that plateau and I cannot think of something so significant being achieved to such little acclaim.

I don’t know Thome at all, not sure I’ve even ever been in a scrum with him, but by all accounts of people writing about him today, he’s a classy, thoughtful guy who goes about his business quietly and with none of the “hey, look at me!” antics of some other professional athletes.

All professional sports is dotted with massive egos, senses of entitlement and athletes who think the world revolves around them. We – the collective we of fans and members of the media – feed into it far too much, we want our guys to be a bit edgy, it feeds the media beast and fuels the hearts of passionate fans.

But maybe we should pay more attention to the nice guys and what they do on the fields of play and how they handle themselves off it.

There needs to be more room to learn about them, to appreciate them, to celebrate them.

I’m sure the tributes will come rolling in today for Thome (read this one from ESPN.com to get a sense of the guy) and that he will be recognized for the milestone he reached.

Too bad it kind of snuck up on us but I guess that’s just the way things are. Maybe it’s time to search out ways to change it.

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I think we might be hitting the links tomorrow, it’ll be one of the rare appearances of the season. Seems the Mighty Rockies coaching staff – minus the one non-golfer in the group – will be guests of one of the Dads up at a company tourney in Kitchener.

We’ll be riding, that’s for sure, because if we didn’t, we might get a guy like a fellow who was one of the worst caddies in the history of the game:

Me.

Oh, yeah, story time.

It’s a Canadian Tour event, early ‘90s, in Ottawa and I find myself hanging out with Mike Weir and Dean Wilson at my sister-in-laws up there, helping a couple of struggling young kids with housing and having a wee bit of fun.

Anyway, it’s Saturday night, Mike’s, um, well off the pace and his regular looper, Crazy Stu, has to go to some wedding or something in London, I believe.

Well, because even if Mike shoots 59, he’s going to make about $80 (the Canadian Tour was hardly lucrative back then) and because Crazy Stu has tendency to have a rather good time wherever he goes, there’s no way he’s getting back from London to sweep the dew and carry the bag.

So, in a true moment of weakness, I volunteer, like a dope.

About the first hole, I’m on the green, holding the flag and minding my own business when Mike’s lining up about a five-footer for par.

Now, the only thing about reading putts that I know is that I can’t do it so I’m just standing there. Well, apparently I’m standing in the wrong place because the lefty can see me out of the corner of his eye and nicely gestures that I, you know, get the hell out of the way.

We get to about the 15th or so, we’re not on the way to shooting 59, and Mike kind of draws one in to the right rough. Sunday morning dew sweepers at Canadian Tour events don’t tend to draw huge galleries or forecaddies so we’ve got to try to find the ball in the thicket of rough.

I’m tired, a bit worn out, was probably a tad over-served on the Saturday night and the bag is damn heavy so I’m kind of listlessly walking the rough looking for the ball.

We can’t find it, I’m grumpy, Mike’s grumpy, we just want to go home and all of a sudden, I feel something by my foot. Oh, yeah, the ball and I came thisclose to kicking it, which would have been a very bad thing.

Sheepishly, I tell him I’ve got it, think we went on to make par after I didn’t incur a penalty stroke because I wasn’t paying attention and, shockingly, that was the end of my caddying career.

I blame Crazy Stu.

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If I could remotely be interested in fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches, I’d be all over them today in memory of this guy, who died this day back in ’77

And you know how, because most of us are of a Certain Vintage, we do lists here every now and then about music and where bands fit of long-ago eras, where do you put Elvis?

Personally, I wasn’t a huge fan. Didn’t mind some of it but wouldn’t be near the top of my list and I’m quite proud that the only thing of significance I’ve seen in Memphis is the Civil Rights Museum and I’ve lived a Graceland-free life.

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Seriously, Hobbs homers and TOD ‘pen coughs up another one?

Talk about predictable.

Glad I didn’t stay up and only had to read Zorro’s piece about the carnage rather than watch it. Or write it ‘cause it sounds like a bit of a buzzer-beater.

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We’ve got the national senior men’s team on the mind – rightfully so since they’re here – but checking in on the women, they’ve just come back from a 1-2 trip to China and now take a wee break before getting back to camp in early September for the final session before their Olympic qualifier later that month in Chile.

Best news?

Finally, they’ll be in our neighbourhood, at U of T Hazelville, which is like a home game for me and a perfect chance to say hello.

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Hey, may as well start it now, right?

Mail. Here. Please.

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Okay, one death duly noted, we may as well get to a birthday and I cannot believe Madonna’s the same age as I am now.

She a good one?

Changed the face of music as performance in some manner?

Again, not a huge fan but some toe-tapping ditties, for sure.

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Couple of wins is good; and some sports on TV is very bad

No, I didn’t see either of the Canada-Belgium games on the weekend because real life kind of took over but the reports are good, that’s for sure.

A couple of wins can’t be a bad thing – although I caution again, they were just exhibition games against a so-so opponent that had travelled from Europe – but I’m told the way they played, with some cohesion and teamwork was the most significant thing.

I think we can all agree that from a purely talent point of view, Canada is in tough every time it takes the court.

Leo’s told us a hundred times – and correctly every single time – that there is a very small margin for error with this team. They don’t have to be perfect every time out to win but they have to be darn close to it and that’s a tall order.

A couple of wins, regardless of the opponent, always affirms things that have been worked on in practice and that’s important.

There’s a week of work left here in Toronto – thankfully, because things are clear enough that I should get out there a couple of days – before they really get to see where they stand.

Integrating Cory Joseph is huge because he’s going to be a big key to whatever success they’ve had and because they’ve now had two games with him, and handful with the old guard, it’s going to be a bit easier to get done this week.

There’s a tournament in Dominican Republic next week that will really open some eyes because a lot of teams that’ll be in the Olympic qualifier and then it’s off to show.

I do think expectations have to be tempered. The main goal – and I think the realistic one – would be a top five finish at the qualifier so they have a shot next summer at getting one of the last Olympic berths.

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This is leftover from the mail and provides us with a list, thank you very much.

Q: So, God forbid, we have no NBA to watch this fall/winter, what will you be tuning into, Doug, with all that extra stool time?

Maybe the better question is, what won't you be tuning into? Care to offer up your TV Sports Bottom 5? For example, when did poker become a sport? Wasn't that thanks to some other lockout or something?

Thanks, Doug!

David M, Ottawa

A: These are the absolute worst “sport” on TV at this time of year, or ever, and should be avoided like the plague.

Poker

Silly faux drama, mostly luck as the determining factor.

Darts

They still put it on TV, I see. More skill needed than poker but it remains a sport built on imbibing.

Wrestling

Yes, I know no one considers it a sport but, still, it’s one of those sports channels.

Auto racing

I swear, if they were going around my crescent, I’d sit on the back deck with headphones on.

Golf

I used to watch it all the time, actually, but the fall series and silly season are, well, silly.

So, I’m figuring once the fall hits and the snow flies, if I’m not working six or seven days a week with the HOTH, it’ll be time to catch up on things like The Wire and other stuff that I’ve been missing out on.

-

Speaking of the national team, they finally had a chance to recognize Levon Kendall on the weekend for going past 100 games in a Canadian uniform (I avoided the use of the term “capped” you’ll notice).

Hoped they had this music from his dad’s old band playing in the background.

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So Hobbs ties the game with a double in the bottom of the ninth, TOD wins in 10 on Sunday and I figure the next thing he does is solve the world’s economic issues.

Seriously, though, I cannot think of another rookie who arrived with such fanfare and such an impact. Maybe Vince way back in the day? Perhaps Carlos Delgado when he first showed up (I remember covering them and him hitting about a kabillion homers in his first or second month)?

Other than that, there hasn’t been a young ‘un who delivered so much so quickly as Brett Lawrie has.

Now, baseball is as much about managing failure as it is celebrating success and the interesting thing to see will be how he handles his first 0-for-16 stretch. It’s coming, no question, and that’s when the true test is upon him.

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Oh yeah, almost forgot:

MIGHTY ROCKIES RULE!

Yes, a tough, tense weekend ends with second playoff championship in two years (we’re not thinking of the two-win 2010 season, thank you very much) and I don’t know that I’ve been prouder of a group of kids.

They played hard all the time, tried their best, played for the guy sitting next to them and respected the game.

Excellent year.

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I would venture a guess that this last weekend was the first time in eons that I haven’t seen one shot struck in a major golf championship.

Now, I’ve never been all that enamoured of the PGA, actually, so that plus the absence of Mike Weir and Stephen Ames and the entirely ennui I feel for Tiger Woods made it understandable that I’d take the weekend off.

Anyone else feel that way?

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All right, I have to make my way to 1 Yonge, hope I remember how to get there. And hope there’s not a pile of work waiting for me.

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The end of the weekend mail, again

Once again, you've come through with some solid stuff and once again I'll say thanks.

You folks are good at what you do.

Have fun.

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Q: Hello there, and good luck to the Mighty Rockies this weekend.

In lieu of the "man in the white shirt" scandal that hit the Jays this past week my question to you is this, what is your opinion of anonymous sources and how do you decide to use them in an article? There was a good piece written about that very issue in a article this week and there seemed to be differing opinions even from writers in regards to this, and also does your editor specify instances of when and if they can be used?

To me it's a tricky issue but if it were me as a writer I would try to limit their use as there has to be some sense of credibility to a article.

Thanks.

Doug B, Toronto

A: Thanks, Mighty Rockies lost a heart-breaker Saturday, weather-permitting we’re playing for all the marbles later this morning.

I have a somewhat lower opinion of anonymous sources, although I do admit to having used them on more than a few occasions.

My general rule is that they truly have to add something of significance to a story and couldn’t be used with attribution for some very legitimate reason. It is a hugely tricky issue, which is why I involve my bosses each time and make sure they are okay with having it in the story.

And, by extension, that means someone higher up the food chain knows who the source is and I can’t just fabricate things.

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Q: Doug, The best use of modern technology in professional sports today comes from Iris in tennis. Horse racing picture finish a close second. Arguments about missed calls and McEnroe rants have left like the dodo bird. Might the next best use of modern technology not be best used in baseball to call ball & strikes? Would the game of baseball not be better, and would it serve the umpires with some humble pie to have calls reviewed and changed?

I like the potential modern technology brings to today’s professional sports and I can't understand the resistance. In my opinion the poor excuse that the human elements is required in today’s game should follow the dodo bird. I think a better argument can be made that technology works and that the human element is corruptible and can be influenced from so many angles that it can and does compromise todays game.

Any chance you someday change your stance regarding modern technology?

Steph R, Glencoe

A: I will give tennis full credit for developing what seems to be the perfect system but it is only there because the clearly-defined boundaries that make it easy, it’s super quick and doesn’t ruin the flow of the game and the number is limited. So I guess I’m quite okay with that one.

So, if they could develop one in other sports that works as foolproof that with things like strikes-balls, I’d probably be okay with it.

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Q: Hey Doug! So, you've got a gloomy mailbag? Well, didn't that old stalwart of medical offices everywhere used to provide us with a monthly feature: "Laughter is the Best Medicine"? (So, why did we all still stick around for our appointments if that was the case?) Yes, Reader's Digest was right. I even think it's good for the cardio. So, that being said, I'd like to say what a treat it was having both you and Griff entertain us with the first Two-Man-IGBT. As a team your comic timing and delivery were very good (although I wasn't sure which one of you was supposed to be the 'straightman') and it made me think back to other comedy teams. Who were your favourites, Doug? Past, present or even literary! And speaking of comedy, they say you can tell a lot about a person by their Favourite Joke. (Mine is: Q: Why did the chicken cross the road? A: To see his friend Gregory Peck! I swear, 40 years after first hearing it still makes me laugh.) So, what is your favourite rib-tickler? The one that makes you chuckle - if not outright guffaw - just thinking about it! Cheers! And Chuckles.

Lorie P, London

A: Good one?

Horse walks in the bar.

Barman says: “Why the long face?”

I swear, I chuckle every time.

But let’s leave the top comedy teams at a short list of three right now and we’ll get more into it during the week one day, shall we?

How about:

Rowan and Martin.

Martin and Lewis.

Burns and Allen.

Now I’ll spend some time probing the deep recesses of my mind and see where we can go from those three.

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Q: Hey Doug, have written a couple of times before but haven't noted our similar pasts (this can be on or off the record). I was born in Niagara Falls, went to the evil arch-enemy Myer (one year behind Jay) and spent one summer, 1978 if memory serves, as a security guard at Marineland.

As a question, what type of labour deal do you think would be best for the Raptors, both from a business and competitive perspective? For example are they a franchise that would have a better chance of winning with a relatively high cap? Length of contract guarantees? Franchise player designation? And as they participate in negotiations, how much do the on-court considerations weigh on their input? Or is it all about cost containment?

Gary M, Ottawa

A: Myer? Myer’s like Wollerton to a guy from Stamford but time heals all wounds so we’re cool.

I haven’t had a chance to have a long, serious discussion with Bryan or anyone else about what kind of perfect system the Raptors would want yet.

But I would think they would want absolute cost certainty that wouldn’t allow other, more spendthrift, teams to stockpile talent, spreading it around more equitably. I think they’d probably want shorter, non-guaranteed contracts so that they could get out of mistakes more easily (a feeling held by every franchise, I imagine) and the on-court impact (what kind of team they may be able to build and how, how their current roster would be impacted by a new deal) would, I imagine, be a very large part of the considerations.

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Q: Hi Doug. I am hoping the NBL does well when it starts it. Two questions for you about it. Will this league help at all for players hoping to get to the NBA? I'm thinking it is more likely to help with creating depth at the national team level.

Secondly, will the Raptors provide any type of support (openly or behind the scenes) with this league? It seems to fit the mandate they have created for themselves in helping develop Canadian basketball.

Kevin M, Maple

A: I don’t think anyone sees this now as a path to the NBA, not with the D League and Europe far more viable. If it does provide a better level of competition for Canadian kids and deepen the national team talent pool, that would be about perfect, as well as giving basketball fans in smaller cities a home team to cheer for and support.

Now, I can’t give you any specifics because it’s so early in the venture but I can be near certain that the Raptors would be glad to help out in any way they can, they do it with the national team program to advance the game, I cannot think why they wouldn’t do it – within reason – with the league.

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Q: So, for you, when it really comes down to it, is it basketball or baseball?

K J, Toronto

A: Oh, it’s still basketball. I like the pace, I know the game a bit better, I much prefer losing nights to work in the winter rather than the summer. That said, having covered a dozen or so ball games so far this year has been a lot of fun. And I don’t think I’ve embarrassed myself too much by having to write a sport I haven’t written about in a couple of years.

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Q: Over the last 5/10 years I have sensed a concerted effort by the NBA to be a 12 month a year enterprise. Now with the lockout they have regressed to being an October to May league. And of course in the case of the lottery teams a much shorter event then that. So when the new CBA is signed do you seem them trying to get back to the level or has the damage been done. In other words I see you covering Jay's games in July/August for years to come :-)

To make this question complete I would also need to throw in a question about the grill (hope it's busy) and music but both escape me at the moment.

John P, Minneapolis

A: Once this thing gets settled I’m sure we’ll be back to the same old schedule. That’ll be regular season late October to April, playoffs until mid-June, draft, free agency, summer league, downtime in August and getting back at it with informal camps in September before the real thing starts again.

So, I guess I could be free to do some ball in August but I think next year I’ll be spending three weeks or so in London doing Olympic things.