Jose Fernandez Spirit Award

We have seen so many athletes gone before their time. Whether it be Nick Adenhart, Roberto Clemente, Dražen Petrović, Sean Taylor, Jerome Brown or the most recent Jose Fernandez. All of these athletes had the talent and potential to become some of the greatest players ever to play. However, their lives were cut short. None will ever play their respective sport again. It is heartbreaking for fans, sport lovers, and the world when this happens. It brings a sense of unrest for anybody who looks at the playing field. Jose Fernandez this past weekend joined the ghosts of many great athletes’ gone before their time. I believe that Major League Baseball should implement the Jose Fernandez Spirit Award.

Jose Fernandez played with such passion and spirit that was unmatched. When he was on the mound, it was clearly the hot ticket to have. Nobody brought as much love to the game as Fernandez. A kid that came from nothing that built himself up. Fernandez tried defecting from Cuba three times, one of which landed him in jail. When he finally did successfully defect, he had to save his mother from drowning. Fernandez built himself up from the bottom; he truly lived the American Dream. He came from nothing, showing such love and passion on the field. He played every game like it was his last. Through injury and disappointment Fernandez was able to bring success, happiness, and joy to his teammates.

We see now that many reporters, players, and fans are pushing for a Jose Fernandez Spirit Award. Like the Roberto Clemente Award, which was created after Clemente's tragic death, the Fernandez Award would be given to those who show passion on and off the field. This award would be for those who truly love the game, and give everything they have to play it. I believe this is the best way to remember someone of his status. Someone that had so much potential who could've been a future CY Young winner and even the first Marlin in the Hall of Fame. Time will heal this terrible wound for the sporting world, but we should never forget Jose Fernandez.

RIP Jose Fernandez

-Brett

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Wentzylvania

Carson Wentz fever has taken over Philadelphia! There is no doubt that the biggest name in the city is Carson Wentz. Many fans would say after game one that he lived up to the hype. Wentz showed many skills in his first game. He showed fans his ability to be accurate and throw on the run. However, Philadelphia let's not get too excited yet. The #2 overall pick has only played in one game against a really bad team. There are going to be several growing pains to come.

The Eagles played extremely well in their first game of the season. Carson Wentz was able to get comfortable on the field right away. However, as the game progressed Wentz did show his weak points. The future of the Eagles still has some things to work on in his game. Carson needs to be more comfortable in the pocket. Though he had a very strong football IQ in college, he does not have an NFL IQ. Wentz throughout the game held onto the ball too long. It caused him to take too many hard hits early on. The Eagles have a strong line but, he needs to put more faith in his arm. He also favored only one side of the field. Wentz throughout the game would go through series where he would only look to one side of the field. If he wants to keep winning this is something he needs to work on.

If you listen to any caller Monday morning on any sports station in Philadelphia fans are overwhelmed. They believe Carson Wentz is a demigod. He passed one test and has several more to come in the future. Wentz did surprise me in his first game, he played very well. However, it was against a Cleveland Browns team who missed many opportunities on offense and who's defense struggled throughout the game. Philadelphia should not get overhyped on their QB yet. It is going to be a waiting game to see how he develops throughout the season. The real test will come in their 3rd and 4th games. Eagles fans it is time to see what this young kid can do.

-Brett

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The Phillies?

There is no doubt the Philadelphia Phillies are an enigma. They aren't a bad team in reality, but they haven't shown anything to peak my interest. They are basically sitting at average, they don't have any superstars and those guys that are supposed to be the future are either in the Minor Leagues or not playing well currently. The question that comes to mind is can/does this team have potential? My answer is at this moment at time I would have to say no. Now I know I'll hear from several people saying that the Phillies are still in playoff contention this season, that they have a great young pitching staff, blah, blah, blah. To be frank the Phillies potential stars have not proven anything, and this team is not in playoff contention.

When you think of the Phillies currently and their hitters three names come to mind immediately: Franco, Herrera, and Joseph. Those three players have played well and have shown glimmers of potential. However, they are not the superstars fans and management are trying to make them into. Starting with Herrera he is in my mind a .300 hitter who can steal bases and hit doubles. However, he is not a strong candidate for the leadoff spot. He has shown the most potential and skill of any of the others mentioned. However, the Phillies are using him wrong. Herrera likes to swing the bat, I see him more as a 2nd or 7th guy in the lineup. Someone who is given the ability to swing the bat and try to move guys over. He is not the type of player to take pitches and wait out a pitcher.

Joseph is another guy that has taken the league and the Phillies fans by storm. Their is no doubt in any fans mind that what Joseph was able to do in his first few weeks in the big leagues was amazing. The guy was truly a hitting machine with a great story. Tommy Joseph is a hitting machine in the sense that he makes strong contact with the ball and doesn't strikeout often. However, he is not a star or your 3 or 4 hitter. Joseph is the type of player that gets on base and does not like to have pressure on him. I think of Joseph as a Joey Votto type player, one that can do his job when needed but won't hit a bunch of home runs. Do I think Joseph could hit 30hrs in a season? Yes, but I do not think it is necessary for him to do that to be a success in the MLB.

There is no player with more pressure than Maikel Franco. Franco came up and was supposed to be the Phillies savior and future star. Though he has put up great numbers I don't think he is the power threat everyone wants him to be. From what I have seen is Franco is a guy that could hit a bunch of home runs 35+, but he would also hit .235 in doing that. I think Franco is a guy that is a gold glove 3rd baseman who should focus on hitting .280 with 25+ home runs. The homers will come for Franco due to his style of hitting. When he makes strong contact those balls will find themselves over the fence. But, this comes down to a player who is facing too much unneeded pressure. Franco needs to relax.

I agree with many of the fans and experts who say the Phillies have a good young pitching staff. Guys like Morgan, Nola, and Eickhoff have impressed me. However, they have a lot of work still to do. These guys are young and their stuff will develop with age. I only see the pitching staff getting better as the years go on. One thing I will state in regards to the strong Minor League players is that this does not mean they will succeed in the MLB. I believe that guys like Rhys Hoskins and Dylan Cozens have proven themselves worthy of a call up. I believe that they deserve a chance to play no matter what the position, or we will have another Ryan Howard situation of a great player stuck in the Minors. All this being said Ben Davis of the Phillies said it best when talking about J.P. Crawford, "He may never make it to the Major Leagues." The future can be bright for the Phillies, but it is a waiting game at this point.

-Brett

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Hawks Flying High in Summer League?

The NBA summer league is now in full swing! This allows us to get a look at the NBA’s next batch of superstars! Whether you are watching to see how the first overall pick Ben Simmons is doing or the question mark in the draft Thon Maker, it will be an interesting summer. Saint Joseph’s University students and alumni are glued to their TV’s as well. As we watch how our former superstar DeAndre Bembry adjusts to the NBA, and our former most improved player Isaiah Miles tries to make an NBA squad. Both players bring different unique games to their respective teams. These two have much different paths, but both hope to be great assets to their NBA teams.

DeAndre Bembry- Atlanta Hawks 21^st Overall

There is no doubt Bembry has continued his college dominance right onto the NBA summer league. Many reporters and fans are calling him the best player on the Hawks summer team, and his skills are truly being shown. Not only has Bembry brought his strong ability to take the ball to the rim, and his unbelievable defense to the NBA. But, he also brought along his never quit work ethic. Bembry has increased his basketball IQ, meaning he is taking shots that he is much more confortable with. DeAndre has also improved his ability to distribute the basketball among his teammates, something he was known on Hawk Hill for. In three games Bembry is averaging 10pts 4.7assists and 4.7rebounds. He is bringing his do all attitude right along with him to the NBA. It is clear to see the 21^st overall pick will continue to garner a lot of attention and playing time. Look for Bembry to be in the headlines in Atlanta come this fall.

Isaiah Miles- Dallas Mavericks Undrafted
Unlike his former teammate, Isaiah Miles is taking a much different approach for his path to the NBA. Miles wasn’t drafted, nor was he high on many teams’ draft boards. Miles is looking to take an approach much like that of Langston Galloway his former teammate. However, the former Hawks big man is looking to translate his unique game to the NBA. As someone who is both tall and can shoot the three, there were many questions surrounding how Miles game would work in the NBA. Miles has struggled early on in the summer league only averaging 1.7ppg and 3.3rebounds in three games. Miles though has always been a late starter. Look for his numbers to increase has the summer season goes on. Miles will continue to do his job on the court, he will score when open and pull down rebounds when needed. Minutes will be the biggest enemy for Isaiah Miles. If Miles can continue to improve his shot and rebounding ability, he may find himself a valuable asset in the D-League for an NBA team.

-Brett 

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NBA Mock Draft

The NBA Draft is only a few hours away! Here is the draft order we may see tonight!

1. Sixers
Ben Simmons

2. Lakers
Brandon Ingram

3. Celtics
Jaylen Brown

4. Suns
Marquese Chriss

5. T-Wolves
Buddy Hield

6. Pelicans
Kris Dunn

7. Nuggets
Dragan Bender

8.  Kings
Jamal Murray

9. Raptors
Jakob Poeltl

10. Bucks
Deyonta Davis

11. Magic
Henry Ellenson

12. Jazz
Skal Labissiere

13. Suns
Timothe Luwawu

14. Bulls
Domantas Sabonis

15. Nuggets
Malachi Richardson

16. Celtics
Wade Baldwin IV

17. Grizzlies
Malik Beasley

18. Pistons
Denzel Valentine

19. Nuggets
Ante Zizic

20. Pacers
Tyler Ulis

21. Hawks
Ivica Zubac

22. Hornets
Malik Beasley

23. Celtics
Brice Johnson

24. Sixers
Paul Zipser

25. Clippers
DeAndre Bembry

26. Sixers
Thon Maker

27. Raptors
Taurean Prince

28. Suns
Zhou Qi

29. Spurs
Demetrius Jackson

30. Warriors
Ben Bentil

-Brett

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Phuture Phillies Lineup!

I was recently asked what I believe the Phillies lineup and rotation would look like in 4 years! Well Phillies fans here is my best take on it! Though I think a few guys could be traded like Joseph or Herrera. Below is my starting lineup and pitching rotation predictions.

Batting Order:
1. SS Crawford
2. 2nd Herrera
3. 1st Hoskins
4. RF Cozens
5. 3rd Franco
6. LF Joseph
7. CF Williams
8. Alfaro

Pitching Rotation:
1. Nola
2. Appel
3. Eickhoff
4. Morgan
5. Eflin

I could see a few guys being traded for well established players or free agents moves. However, if the Phillies decide to stick with what they have this is the Phuture Phils.

-Brett

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Top 5 Greatest Records

In sports there are some records that are meant to be broken, and others that will never end. Over the past 50 years we have seen some of the most incredible achievements shattered. However, there are some that will never end. This season we got a taste of that in the form of JBJ and his hits. In honor of the failed streak by Jackie Bradley Jr. we decided to look at the top five sports records that will never be broken.

5. CY Young 749 Complete Games

This record will never fall in today’s game. Baseball has changed dramatically since the days of CY Young, and it is apparent that this record will never be broken for that reason alone. We can see that it will be almost impossible to find a player that can throw that many complete games. Going beyond that, today’s players are more prone to injuries causing this to be an impossible feat.

4. Barry Bonds 688 Intentional Walks

Lets be honest, steroids or not Bonds was a god among men playing the sport of baseball.  He was the most feared player not only during his time but also, of all-time. When Bonds came to the plate there was only one option in the minds of pitchers and that was to put him on base. Though we may see a player on the same level as Barry Bonds one day. I don’t think we will ever see the astronomical number of intentional walks ever again.

3. Wilt Chamberlain 100pt game

Now if you ask me on some days I would say this record is possible. Especially looking at the players in today’s NBA. The league is extremely soft, and the defense extremely lacking. Though I think that another coming of a Kobe could possibly match this feat. I have to say it is impossible for 4 reasons: Kobe, LeBron, Iverson, Jordan. If none of those guys could match it in the past 25 years of basketball then I have to say I don’t think it can be done.

2. Michael Phelps Medal Record

I do not think we will ever see quite an athlete like Michael Phelps. His determination and his abilities were unmatched. He never let age get the best of him, and he seemed to be timeless in the pool. Though his overall medal total of 22 may be broken some day, his 18 gold medals may stand forever.

1. Joe DiMaggio 56 Game Hitting Streak

This record will never be broken; some of the greatest hitters of all-time have challenged it and have failed. In the top 10 longest hit streaks only two players are from the modern era, Pete Rose and Jimmy Rollins. Both of these players missed the record by way over 10 hits. Most of the players that have challenged it have fell short once reaching 30 games. This feat looks as though it will stand the test of time.

-Brett

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Eagles Desireable QB Situation

Besides the elite NFL teams, The Philadelphia Eagles have the most ideal quarterback situation. They are paying their QBs the second most out of any team in the league. Other teams around the NFL are jealous of how the Eagles have constructed their quarterback position for the future. Philadelphia has three quarterbacks that other teams will possibly want to start for their team at some point in the season. With Sam Bradford, Chase Daniel, and Carson Wentz the Eagles are positioned to have bright future.

Voluntary organized team activities is underway, and the spirits are high. Since Daniel has been in the same offense the past three years, he can teach it to Bradford and Wentz. Doug Pederson is bringing the west coast offense back to Philadelphia. Combining Bradford's skills with the west coast offense will propel the team. The future quarterback of Philadelphia, Wentz, can sit back and prepare for NFL competition. He will not be ready for a while, and he should not be rushed. Daniel will be ahead of Wentz on the depth chart. The Eagles success this season will be attributed to how tremendous their quarterbacks play.

Sam Bradford had every right to request for a trade, but it was completely irrational for him to think that another team would come to an agreement with the Eagles for him. Bradford says the trade request was his agent's idea; but he is just able to say that because of the large amount of money he pays his agent. He had his chance to seek a contract with another team back at the start of the off-season, but he decided it was best to come back to Philadelphia. Like the rest of the NFL, the Eagles did not think Bradford is a long term solution at quarterback. Number 7 for the Eagles is stuck in Philly, and he must prove to the NFL that he belongs in the league.

The Eagles organization is hoping their quarterbacks can get along. Bradford knows that he has to to play for his future. If he is a top 5 quarterback this season, Sam should not be traded. The City of Brotherly Love will be obsessed with Bradford if he can be a top QB. There is no rush to start Wentz. While Philadelphia wants to see their first round pick start football games, he is not ready. As Sam is learning the offense and getting ready to prove himself this upcoming season, he has to teach a rookie QB how to play in the NFL.
- Pants (Glen)

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A Phuture for the Phillies?

“Can the Phillies actually compete?” This is a question I keep getting asked, and to be honest I don’t have an answer. This Phillies team is extremely interesting, that is because they aren’t good on paper. In reality if you watch a game, it is clear to see that they don’t have the talent to compete in the long run. There are several players that cannot continue to play if the Phillies want to be a playoff team. However, the one thing the Phillies do have is that their division is awful. There is no team in the NL East that is great. Fans and experts constantly say that the Nationals are the team to beat, however lets face it every year they are and every year they lack something. This year it looks like the NL East once again is up for grabs.

The team I picked at the beginning of this season to win it all was the Florida Marlins. Like the Phillies the Marlins are young and have young talent. However, after watching several games it looks like the Marlins are just too young to compete all season. That being said I do not think the Mets will be the powerhouse like they were last season. After watching their play I do not see them lasting the entire season to win the division. This is where the Phillies opportunity lies. The NL East is a mess with the Braves being terrible, Nationals not playing up to expectations, the Marlins being too young, and the Mets struggling pitching.  

This is where opportunity lies for the Phillies. Right now they are getting unbelievable starting pitching and relief from their staff. The bats are coming alive as well, with guys like Herrera and Franco leading the way. Those two hitters and their staff are carrying the Phillies right now. This is leading many experts to say the Phillies should be buyers at the deadlines. Though I agree if they are in a good place at the deadline they should go out and get some more pieces, I do not think they should mortgage the future for it. The Phillies have to be smart making their future decisions with this team.

The Phillies are giving us a taste of the future right now. Though I think they are a few pieces away from being a playoff contender again, I do think they are on their way. They need a better hitting infielder as well as a better right fielder. The team also needs one more quality pitcher in their staff. But, besides those issues the Phillies have truly shocked the world as of right now. If the Phillies can keep their hot streak going, we may see the playoffs soon enough.

-Brett 

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Thank You!

As March Madness is winding down, we first want to say congratulations to our friends down Lancaster Ave. Villanova. It has been an amazing season for Jay Wright and his Wildcats, and we wish them all the best. Now that the Hawks season is over, it is time to reflect. Many called this most exciting time on Hawk Hill since the team went undefeated. I could not agree more with that statement. Not only did Phil Martelli’s crew exceed expectations in the win column, but they also made their own little run in March. We can truly tip our caps to a magical season for SJU.

Whether or not DeAndre Bembry stays on Hawk Hill is in the back of everyone’s mind. Bembry led the Hawks to one of the best seasons around for a player and a team. Nobody expected the A-10 POY to actually take his team to the tournament. As most would agree Bemby is the best player in the A-10, however there were questions about his ability to get his team to win. After this season, those questions were thrown to the wayside. Bembry with help from his senior teammates; Miles, Brown, and Papa gave Hawk Hill what they needed. Besides the great play by Bembry, the seniors truly stepped up their game. Whether it was Papa’s amazing performance in the A-10 tournament or Miles big 3 against Cincinnati, the team was always ready to play. Every single one of the players on SJU needs to hold their heads up high, they provided the excitement that has been missing from Hawk Hill.

For a senior getting ready to graduate, I thank the Hawks for making my final year on Hawk Hill exciting. Over four years I saw some heartbreaking moments by this team, but this season was different. Every single moment on the court was exciting to watch. Though I do wish the Hawks were able to pull off a miracle against Oregon, I can say they impressed a lot of people. I will say this a lot of people are saying even if DeAndre stays the team won’t have a good season next year. I disagree, this team can and will make a run next season. Just wait and watch Captain Bembry lead his team to victory once more.     

-Brett 

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Saint Joseph's University it is time to dance!

Saint Joseph’s University is dancing once again! The Hawks flew through the competition at the A-10 Tourney, to take it all! Now the A-10 Champs have their biggest challenge ahead and that is in the form of the Bearcats! The Hawks had a dominating performance against VCU to finish up the A-10 Tournament. Now the A-10 Player of the Year DeAndre Bembry looks to take the Hawks to dance further this March!

The Hawks veteran stars DeAndre Bembry and Isaiah Miles led the St. Joe’s to victory, combining for 56 of the Hawks 87pts. It was a truly a group effort from the Hawks, one strong play after another was made by their players. Throughout the game there were several memorable moments whether it be Papa screaming at the refs or DeAndre’s exclamation point dunk, it was truly a great game. The Hawks showed the world that they are a strong team on both sides of the ball, and are beginning to get the attention they deserve.

The Hawks hope to make a long run this March starting in Spokane against Cincinnati. The 8 seed Hawks have a lot of work ahead of them, but if they want to compete they need to keep the offense hot. If Bembry and Miles can keep the team running at full throttle they can compete, and they can win. The Hawks have a lot of potential and hopefully our dance lasts longer than last time!

THWND!   

-Brett 

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