Random Thoughts (December 30, 2009)

LaMarr Woodley is trying out Reverse Psychology 101 in an attempt to get some help from the Patriots and Bengals so that his Steelers can sneak into the playoffs. To make it into the playoffs, the Steelers need the Patriots to defeat the Texans and the Bengals to score a win over the Jets. Both the Texans and Jets are in contention for playoff berths as well. It is Woodley's contention that the Patriots and Bengals are afraid of the defending Super Bowl champions and will "lay down" this week to keep them out of the postseason. While Woodley's heart is in the right place, I doubt that the Pats or Bengals (who beat Pittsburgh twice this season) are worrying too much about the Steelers. It's the Colts and Chargers who are striking fear in the hearts of the AFC these days... Jason Bay decided that the possibility of an extra year and a few more millions mean more than the chance to compete for a World Series. The free agent left fielder signed a four-year deal with the Mets for a reported $66-million that contains an option for a fifth year. The Red Sox had reportedly offered Bay a four-year deal for $60-million. Bay has a swing made for Fenway Park and will probably see his power numbers decline playing in the spacious Citi Field. David Wright hit 27, 26, 30, and 33 homeruns in his first four full seasons with the Mets but hit only 10 a year ago, the debut season of Citi Field. The Red Sox do have a big hole in their lineup. Acquiring Padres first baseman Adrian Gonzalez looks to be the best way to fill that void... Texas Tech's firing of Mike Leach over his treatment of an injured player has raised many eyebrows across the country, including mine. Leach has made Tech a consistent winner in his decade in Lubbock but the administration was obviously not as happy with the coach as the fan base. After last year's 11-2 season that saw the Red Raiders climb as high as #2 in the nation, Texas Tech leaders got into a public dispute over Leach's contract. This current controversy seems like a convenient way for Tech to dismiss Leach during the rare time when he was vulnerable. Texas Tech will never find the same consistent level of success that they have under Leach. On the other hand, Leach should find work quickly, maybe as a coordinator in the NFL... Happy is an understatement to describe whatever NBA team wins the Draft Lottery. John Wall is that good... College football usually dominates the television during this time of year but the college hoops marathon on ESPN2 features some excellent matchups, including Oklahoma and Gonzaga... Enjoy 2010...