Big Tings A Gwan in Toronto

(photo courtesy of timescolonist.com)

The time for revolution is nigh. The Blue Jays are poised to take over Toronto in heroic fashion this season, or at least that’s the feeling in the city after the exciting start they’re off to. Two dramatic extra inning wins and a near-comeback in their opening series in Cleveland were capped by a tough, but encouraging loss to Boston in their own raucous home opener. 

(photo courtesy of thescore.com)

The SkyDome was electric as guys like Brett Lawrie, Colby Rasmus, and Henderson Alvarez gave fans reason for optimism, regardless of how early it is. The Jays showcased some sharp infielding, creative coaching, and aggressive, determined base running. The culture has changed, and the relative youth on the roster suggests that the sky is the limit for this team. If they’re strong out of the gate, AL East beware.  

Carmelo Carries on Tradition of Cry Baby Culture

(photo courtesy of si.com)

The Knicks are stuck in a free fall that has them slipping from the playoff picture. Linsanity faded in the blinding light of Carmelo Anthony’s star, and now that shine has cost coach Mike D’Antoni his job. With that much offensive talent on the Knickerbocker roster, a bread-and-butter offensive specialist like D’Antoni has no excuse for sucking this hard. The way he’s exited however is a sad sign of the times. Reports had D’Antoni’s relationship with Melo deteriorating rapidly in the final days, with Melo asking for a trade. Thus the powers that be made their choice, and a spoiled brat got his way yet again. Sadly the NBA has cultivated a culture in which egos make business decisions, teaching the ever-valuable lesson to kids that if everyone likes you, you can get your boss fired. True role models.

Cage Fighting: Not as Safe as it Sounds

(Photo courtesy of thebiglead.com)

                                                                       

The UFC became a giant by convincing gaming commissions like Ontario’s that MMA is the safest combat sport in the world. Safer than boxing, maybe, but it's a cultural issue that may be doing their athletes the most damage. With Chris Leben opening up about his battle with addiction, and Gary Goodridge’s CTE diagnosis, we’re seeing a dark element to MMA that is seldom discussed. Fighters are under constant pressure to perform; their livelihoods depend on it, especially considering the modest purses, and limited sponsorship opportunities. When your job entails fighting a trained violence machine for peanuts, it becomes easy to feel the heat. Pop that pill; take the next fight. Ignore the headaches; take the next fight. MMA is safe enough to get sanctioned, but in a world of broken hearts, dreams, and bones, no one is truly safe. 

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