District Six Boys Basketball Quick Championship Outlook.

Jim Hammett
D6SN  Sports Editor
Follow me @JimHammett @D6SN

Class A

2. Bishop Guilfoyle (19-5) vs. 1. Bishop Carroll (24-0)

Friday 8:30 DeGol Arena Saint Francis University

PIAA Playoff Implications: Winner plays District 9 #4 seed (Johnsonburg/Clarion Limestone)

Loser plays District 5 #2 (Forbes Road)

Bishop Carroll and Bishop Guilfoyle will get together for the third time this season on Friday night for all the marbles. This is a rematch of last year's championship that saw the Marauders upset Bishop Carroll by a score of 42-39. Things are a little different, and this game brings some different story lines to the table.

Martinazzi

Bishop Carroll comes into this game with a perfect record, and the state's number three ranking. The Huskies have been a machine that have rolled through the Laurel Highlands with relative ease, and have won their postseason games in convincing fashion.  The only problems the Huskies ran into at all this season have been their two meetings with Bishop Guilfoyle.  The other 22 games have typically been blowouts by halftime. Carroll runs a up-tempo pressing game that leads to a lot of steals and layups.  The leader of the attack is junior guard, Brandon Martinazzi. The speedy guard leads the team with 20 points a game. Also, the Huskies have a pretty good big man in 6-6 Marcus Lee, who averages 17 and 7 per game. Scott Lucas, Mitchell Madonna, and David Maruca round out the Huskies four guard lineup. Lucas brings a good scoring spark, while Madonna and Maruca handle the ball and create havoc in the press. Nick Suckinos plays the sixth man role very well, and comes in can make shots.  This team works together, and they all understand their roles very well. They haven't been tested a lot this year, but they all went through a deep run into states last year, and the benefit of those big games should help in this one as the Huskies look for their first title since 2011. 

Fulare

Bishop Guilfoyle comes in as the defending champions, and they are not short on confidence. They have proven twice this year they belong on the floor with Bishop Carroll, as they played two classic games with the Huskies.The Marauders' offensive game starts with senior forward,  Damon Rickens.  Rickens has had the most success in games with Bishop Carroll this year, as he is averaging 18.5 in those contests.The Marauders can also ride the hot hand of junior guard, Sam McCloskey. McCloskey posted a team high 25 points in a win over Homer Center in the semifinals.  CJ Fulare is another key player for BG, and the senior guard has come up big all year.  Guilfoyle's game plan revolves around their depth, and ability to throw multiple defenders on Carroll. Guys like Brandon Chadbourn, Owen Wolf, and Nick Little add a solid and versatile post presence. Guilfoyle got the last laugh in this rivalry last season, but they did not come out strong in the state tournament. Guilfoyle will be looking to pull the upset Friday, and perhaps take some momentum into a run in the PIAA tournament.

My Thoughts - I look for this game to be very much like the first two. Bishop Guilfoyle has ball handlers to withstand the pressure, and they also have the depth to throw Carroll different looks. It will come down to a few things for each side

Can Bishop Guilfoyle match Bishop Carroll offensively?  Carroll gets a lot of their points off the press, but are more than capable of putting up numbers in the half court as well. BG will be tested in the half court game once they get into their offense.

Will Bishop Carroll's depth be tested if the game becomes physical?  Bishop Carroll runs with their first five a good bit, and will go probably eight deep if they have to. Still, BG is comfortable going 11 deep if need be, and their bench can bring more to the table.

I picked Bishop Carroll at the onset of the playoffs, and I'll be sticking with that pick.

Class AA

7. Central (17-7) vs. 1. Richland (19-5)

Saturday 8:30 DeGol Arena Saint Francis University

PIAA Playoff Implications: Winner plays District 7 #6 seed (Quaker Valley or Summit Academy)

Loser plays District 7 #3 (Beaver Falls or Aliquippa)

Much like the A game, we have a rematch on our hands, although of a different kind. Back on November 22, these two schools met at Mansion Park for a memorable District Six football final with Central taking down top seeded Richland 27-22. Now the two teams meet on the hardwood, and they are the two teams left standing in a very difficult, and wide open AA field. 

Richland makes it back to championship weekend for the first time since 2011, and they are seeking their first title since 1975. Richland rides the play of an experienced group of seniors that have improved each and every season. From 6 wins in 2012, to 10 wins last year, to now Richland going for a District Title and win number 20 is a tremendous job by Coach Greg Burke and this senior class. Richland is paced by their senior guard, Kyle Flick. Flick runs the point and averages 13 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds a contest.  Flick is a 1,000 point scorer, and was a key player for the 2011 District runner up team.  Matt Shaffer leads the team in scoring and rebounding by posting 13 and 6 a night. Jacob Lushko and Aaron Miller are Richland's outside shooting threats. Ryan Ball rounds out the starting lineup, and brings a big 6-4 presence to the court.  Richland's main production comes from these five guys.  Linnie Joy and Johnny Kutchman can come in and make things happen, but the first five do the majority of the damage. Richland has a toughness about them, and they are definitely hot right now having won 4 straight, all in convincing fashion. 

Central is looking to win their first District Six title since 1995, and the same man is on the bench from their great teams of the 1990's. After a few years of retirement, Reggie Nevins has been back for the past two seasons and already has the Dragons playing for gold with a 17-7 record. Central is a scrappy, and resilient team. The Dragons do not have one player that stands 6-2, and they have strong guard play, and play tough defense. Austin Cunningham is a quick slashing guard that makes things happen for this Central team, and has been averaging 11 points this postseason.  Alex Lafferty is a solid junior guard, and is a very good outside shooting threat for this team. Zach Slagenweit is another quality guard that brings an outside shooting prowess to the court. The Dragons also turn to a pair of 6-1 seniors, Ben Brumbaugh and Lucas Patterson, to play down low and hang with much taller competition. If any team in this field is prepared for a slug fest, it would be Central. They are coming off a pair of hard fought playoff games against conference opponents decided by four points total. 

My Thoughts - I look for this game to be as entertaining as any on the docket this weekend. Both teams are senior laden with great, headstrong athletes. Both sets of seniors are accustomed to winning, and this will be an absolute battle all night long. I think it comes down to a few things.

Can Central hang with Richland's size? The combination of Ball and Shaffer could be a lot to handle for an undersized post tandem from Central. 

How will Richland handle Central's quickness and tough defensive pressure? Central just held a hot shooting Tyrone team to just 33 points, and did not give Bald Eagle much for most of the game. Richland has one player that can comfortably handle the ball in Flick, but the smaller Central guards can give everyone else some problems. 

I actually picked a Tyrone-Penns Valley final, and I was way off on that. AA was very wide open, and I've been saying since about early January that any of the top 7 seeds could make a run here. Central had to play some battles, while Richland calmly took care of business like a top seed should. I think this will be a spirited affair, but I like Richland to prevail. 

Class AAA

1. Somerset (15-8) vs. 2. Huntingdon (15-8)

Mount Aloysius Convocation Center

Saturday 2:00

PIAA Playoff Implications: Winner plays District 3 #7 (Lancaster Mennonite) 

Somerset and Huntingdon get together for the District Championship Saturday afternoon at the brand new Mount Aloysius Convocation Center to decide the AAA crown.  This will mark the first time since 2008 that the Johnstown Trojans will not be the District champions. Somerset is looking for their first District Six title ever, while Huntingdon is going for their first win since 2002.  

Somerset comes in as the top seed, and they have been hot of late. The Golden Eagles are currently riding a five game winning streak, and the young Golden Eagles are starting to come together. Jake Heiple and Dylan Barnes are two very good sophomore guards that are really coming on strong lately. Both players average around 16 points per game, and they both handle the ball and pass it well on top of their scoring prowess. Connor Zarefoss is a senior that is capable of knocking down three pointers in Somerset's shooting friendly offense. Michael VanLenten is also another capable and versatile player for coach Scott Close. Elliott Dick provides the post presence for Somerset at 6-3. Somerset is solid team, and when they are knocking down their three's, they are very tough to beat. 

Huntingdon started slow at 1-4, but since then, the Bearcats have really put things together. They come in winners of five of six, including a take down of the defending champions, Johnstown. Huntingdon starts their game plan with 6-4 junior wing, Nate Gearhart. The junior averages 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. He can really light up, as evidence by a 36 point performance in the season finale against Central Mountain.  Huntingdon also has a smart and heady senior guard in Devon Claar. Claar posts 13 points and 4 assists per game. One of the biggest aspects of Huntingdon's emergence can be attributed to the breakout season by Kobren Frederick. Frederick averages 10 points and 7 rebounds, and poses a presence with his 6-6 frame. Matt Speck and Tanner Cook round out the starting five, and both have the ability to make plays when needed. This Huntingdon team has a lot of firepower, and they definitely have flown a little under the radar in the Mountain League. They are coming together at the right time. 

My Thoughts - Both teams have a lot of young talent, and could be positioning themselves for a run in years to come. This will be a highly competitive game that will be worth the price of admission. 

Can Huntingdon exploit Somerset's lack of size?  The Bearcats made Johnstown pay in round one with their lack of size, and if they can work the post, it could be a tough match up for Somerset.

Can Huntingdon run with the Golden Eagles?  It seems like the Mountain League has a lot of slow and deliberate offenses, and Somerset is definitely an up and down offensive minded team. It is not always the best idea to get in a shooting game with Somerset.

I actually like what Huntingdon is bringing in this one. I like their combination and make up of their team. They blend a veteran point guard with some solid post players.  I think Somerset certainly has the ability to take this one, and it will be fun to see some new times vie for the championship. 

District Six Boys Baksetball A Playoff Primer

Jim Hammett
D6SN Sports Editor
Follow me @JimHammett @D6SN

22-0 Bishop Carroll

The Favorite - Bishop Carroll - 22-0, LHAC Champions, and ranked third in the state. Those are the facts, and they make for an easy pick to make Bishop Carroll the favorites to win District Six. The Huskies rolled through their regular season schedule, and only played in two games that were settled by single digits. Bishop Carroll is coming off two impressive wins with a 16 point road win over AAAA Hollidaysburg, and a 33 point dismantling over Bishop McCort to wrap up the school's first ever LHAC Championship.  Carroll's up-tempo style, strong guard play, and the play of big man Marcus Lee make them the overwhelming favorites to win their first District title since 2011.



The Challenger -  Bishop Guilfoyle - If there is anyone that can take down the Huskies, it is Bishop Guilfoyle. The Maruaders took Carroll to overtime once, and lost by four the second time around, and those were Carroll's only two true tests all year long. Bishop Guilfoyle is also the defending champions, and will not go away quietly.  They have a great group of athletes that play sound defense, and will be out to defend their title.  BG is paced by two solid seniors, CJ Fulare and Damon Rickens, and some great underclassmen athletes like Sam McCloskey, Brandon Chadbourn.





The Dark Horse - Juniata Valley - I think it is understood that Homer Center is the top team behind Carroll and Guilfoyle, it would come as no surprise if they make a run to the championship. Junaiata Valley on the other hand, could maybe surprise some people. The Hornets are coming on strong of late, and had a big time win in the ICC Championship over Northern Bedford. JV has a very balanced attack, with three players averaging double figures. Their versatility could give Carroll some trouble in round two.


New Kids on the Block - St. Joseph's is a newer school, and will be making their first trip to the District Six playoffs this year with a very young team. Prep is a tough team to figure, but it appears they played better basketball down the stretch. They have some blowout losses to teams like Penns Valley and Juniata Valley, but handed 20-2 Cameron County of District 9 one of their losses.  It may be too early for them to be serious contenders, but playing in the playoffs should be a learning experience for this program.


Balanced Bucs - Williamsburg comes into the 2014 playoffs with a unique attack on offense. The Blue Pirates do not have one player that averages 12 points a game, but they have seven different players averaging 4.9 or more.  With seven different people contributing, it can open up the offensive side of the ball and keeping the defense guessing. It will take a complete team effort for Williamsburg to take down Guilfoyle, but if everyone comes to play they can make things interesting.


Slumpin' Stangs - Portage got off to a great start this year, and really surprised a lot of people. Since then, it has been rough. Portage is entering the playoffs losers of four of their past five games. All four of those losses were to playoff teams, but it still can discouraging heading into the postseason, especially with a tough draw against Juniata Valley.

Chasing more Gold - Homer Center locked down a football district championship back in November by defeating Bishop Guilfoyle in a snow covered Mansion Park. The snow is still on the ground, and perhaps another impressive run is in order, only this time on the hardwood. Homer has a very sound 20-2 record, with both losses coming to AA playoff opponents.  The hype will be surrounding a potential Carroll-Guilfoyle rematch, but nobody should sleep on this squad either.

Predictions

9. Saint Joseph's over 8. Saltsburg

1. Bishop Carroll over 9. St. Joseph's

4. Juniata Valley over 5. Portage 

3. Homer Center over 6. Claysburg-Kimmel

2. Bishop Guilfoyle over 7. Williamsburg

1. Bishop Carroll over 4. Juniata Valley

2. Bishop Guilfoyle over. 3. Homer Center

Bishop Carroll over Bishop Guilfoyle

District Six AA Boys Basketball Playoff Primer

Jim Hammett
D6SN Sports Editor
Follow me @JimHammett

Just a quick note.... I am back on my original blog until our site's issues get resolved, and by that I mean D6SportsNetwork is still 100% business, but the site itself is totally down, and we do not quite know the issue is. So until further notice, my original content like recaps, rankings, and other special features can be seen here.

Credit: TyroneEagleEyeNews.com

The Favorite - Tyrone - Tyrone comes in with an impressive resume, and they seem to be the team to beat. The Golden Eagles are experienced and battle tested. The brunt of their attack stems from a pair of senior guards, Brandon Gripp (25 PPG) and Jordan Miller (12 PPG). The two sharp shooters are supported by a sophomore, Anthony Politza (8 PPG). Tyrone has two glue guys in Erik Wagner (6.2 rebounds per game) and Tristan Lingafelt (4 rebounds, 3 assists per game).  If you put that altogether, you have a team that brings scoring, rebounding, and some intangibles.

Nemo Trexler

The Challenger - Bishop McCort - The bracket could set up for a colossal semifinal game with Tyrone and McCort. The Crushers have had a hot hand through much of the second half of the season. McCort's push has been fueled by Nemo Trexler. The senior standout has been scoring in a variety of ways, and his 6-4 athletic frame makes him difficult to defend for just about anybody. Nathan Neiderhiser provides a good secondary option by averaging 11 points, 5 rebound, and 3 assists a night.  The Crushers are built a lot like Tyrone with senior role players like Tyler Rugg (6 points 5 rebounds) and Stephen Ingram (3 assists 2 steals) always making things happen. Trexler was a driving force in two district titles, and many of these seniors have played in big games. Despite the loss to Bishop Carroll, McCort is as dangerous as anyone in the field.


The Dark Horse - Bald Eagle Area -  Can the three seed be a dark horse? I am going to say they can, and here's why. Bald Eagle came in last year as the top seed, but had a less than ideal showing in the district playoffs.  Bald Eagle has two wins over the favorite Tyrone. Yet, still have some doubters out there, but take away an awful 0-3 week for the Bald Eagles, they have played some great basketball all year long. The doubt in this team obviously starts with how the postseason went for them last year. Can Bald Eagle make some more noise this time around? We will see, but by the looks of it, I think they can.


Mountain Madness - Four of the top seven call the Mountain League home, and it has been quite a ride this season. It seemed like the quadruplet of Tyrone, Bald Eagle, Penns Valley, and Central played in some magnificent battles. It also seemed that on any given night, one of these teams could beat the other. Each team managed some big wins against one another, and it will make for an even more exciting playoff run with the potential of a third, much more meaningful meeting between any of these schools.

Opening tip from Richland's 51-50 win

Rubber Match? -  Richland and Bishop McCort are on opposite sides of the bracket, but maybe a third instant classic could be on the way. Richland went down to Osborne Street and won for the first time in ten years, by a score of  51-50, and that came down to the buzzer.  McCort returned the favor against the Rams in their gym. McCort had a nice comfortable lead throughout, but Richland stormed back and took the lead eventually in overtime, but Nemo Trexler hit a three to tie, and a pair of free throws to ultimately win game.  Two games decided by three points, we can only wonder what a possible third meeting could bring.

Credit: Blairsville Facebook

What about us? - Blairsville enters with a gaudy 18-3 record, but are they for real?  The Blairsville strength of schedule is not much to speak of, but they did take care of business for the most part of this season. Blairsville has an impressive double digit win over Homer Center to their credit, but have lost two of their last three games coming into the tournament. It is still hard to get a full read on this team just yet. Junior Troy Williams is quite an athlete, and is one of the better players in the field. His running mate, Coltan McMillan is a solid senior guard as well. We will find out soon enough what they will do in the postseason.

Credit: EagleEyeNews

Living by the 3 - We know the old saying, but Tyrone may be good enough to live by the three the whole way through the tournament. Teammates, Brandon Gripp (56  3 pointers) and Jordan Miller (44 3's) have shot the Golden Eagle to a first round bye.  Having two senior guards that have been through the playoffs a few times should help Tyrone's chances. If both kids are on at the same time, it makes them a very difficult team to beat.







Reggie being Reggie - Central is always a tough out, and Reggie Nevins is a big reason why. The Dragons have a confident group, and they are coached very well by this longtime head coach. Some of these players helped Central bring home a football district title, and expect the Dragons to make some noise in the basketball bracket also.



2013 A thing of the past - Last year two veteran teams met for the district six championship, and Penn Cambria dispatched Northern Cambria 63-43. The main thing about that game is that ten of the starters were seniors, and have since graduated. Both teams failed to make the playoffs, and thus a new champion will be crowned in 2014.




Unknown Commodity - Juniata is in the playoff field, and no I'm not talking Juniata Valley.  Juniata High School is very near the District 4 border, and is definitely on the outer reach for District Six.  They have played only two playoff games against District 6 competition this year, and will get to meet 5th seeded Blairsville. Oh, and the distance between the two schools, 135 miles, or a 2 hour 32 minute trip. Luckily for Juniata, District Six uses neutral sites to save some distance.



Nothing Flashy - If there is one thing Penns Valley is known for, it is their defense. The Rams always plays a tough minded, deliberate game that can really frustrate opponents, and this year is no different. Terry Glunt's squad has won many games this season. In fact, 12 games opponents have failed to score more than 40 points against this defense. Penns Valley controls tempo better than most, and they can really take some high powered teams out of their rhythm.

Predictions

8. Marion Center over 9. West Branch

4. Penns Valley over 13. Cambria Heights 

5. Blairsville over 12. Juniata

7. Central over 10. Mt. Union

6. Bishop McCort over 11. Central Cambria

1. Richland over 8. Marion Center

4. Penns Valley over 5. Blairsville

2. Tyrone over 7. Central

6. Bishop McCort over 3. Bald Eagle

4. Penns Valley over 1. Richland

2. Tyrone over 6. Bishop McCort

2. Tyrone over 4. Penns Valley

D6SN: LHAC Championship Preview. Bishop McCort vs. Bishop Carroll

Jim Hammett
D6SN Sports Editor
Follow me @JimHammett



The D6SN is proud to announce that we will be broadcasting the boys basketball championship Saturday night at 8:00 between Bishop McCort and Bishop Carroll LIVE over the web, which can be found here. The D6SN covered one basketball game last season, but we have focused this season on keeping tabs with weekly power ranking updates. We are excited to cover the rematch of last season's championship game in which Bishop McCort defeated Bishop Carroll 53-44, and get back into the broadcast booth for the first time since the football district championships.

The names on the jerseys are the same, but much has changed since last season. Bishop Carroll's postseason run last season fueled this season's 20-0 start and number three ranking in the state wide polls. The Huskies returned four starters from last season's state class A quarterfinal team, and they are playing like they are on a mission.  Bishop McCort reached the state's Sweet 16 in AA, but lost some important seniors, their point guard to a transfer, and their head coach. Still, this resilient Crushers team has found a way back to the championship game behind the play of their strong senior class.

Bishop Carroll

21-0 Overall 16-0  LHAC

Brandon Martinazzi

#23 Brandon Martinazzi 5-9 Jr. Guard.  19 PPG  2.1 Assists  2.9 Steals.  44% 3 point shooting

#12 Marcus Lee 6-6 Sr. Center. 17 PPG 7.4 Rebounds. 1.0 Blocks.  

#11 Scott Lucas 6-0 Jr. Guard. 8.1 PPG 2.7 Steals.  35% 3 point shooting

#4 David Maruca 5-10 Sr. Guard. 5.7 PPG  2.7 Assists.

#15 Nick Suckinos 6-1 Jr. Forward. 5.4 PPG  33% 3 point shooting

#24 Mitchell Madonna 5-9 Sr. Guard. 5.2 PPG   4.1 Steals  2.9 Assists

Bishop Carroll comes in with the gaudy undefeated record, and it's because of their up-tempo style that forces teams into bad decisions. The Huskies average an impressive 17 steals per game, and it comes from their on-ball pressure and relentless nature. The Huskies' offensive attack starts with their silky smooth junior guard, Brandon Martinazzi. Already a member of the 1,000 point club, Martinazzi finds a lot of his scoring inside the arch for someone who stands only 5-9. Bishop Carroll also relies heavily on their senior center, Marcus Lee. The big man has always been a presence, but has become more assertive and confident down low this season. He is putting up all state numbers, and he can really control the lane with his size and length. Outside of the big two, coach Cosie Aliquo has really found productive roles and niches for the rest of his rotation. Scott Lucas and Nick Suckinos play out on the wing, and really can slash to the basket and cause havoc in their press. Mitchell Madonna and David Maruca are heady, experienced senior guards that are very effective, even when they are not scoring. Nick Burk, a 6-5 senior, provides an extra big body off the bench. This team has not been tested much this season, and have put up some eye popping numbers, including a 26 point victory over McCort earlier in the season. 

Bishop McCort

15-6 Overall  13-3 LHAC

Nemo Trexler

#11 Nemo Trexler 6-5 Sr. Forward. 19 PPG 9.4 Rebounds. 1.2 Blocks. 

#13 Nathan Neiderhiser 6-1 Sr. Guard.  11.9 PPG. 5.7 Rebounds. 3.1 Assists. 38% 3 point shooting.

#23 Tyler Rugg 6-2 Sr. Forward. 6.2 PPG  5.6 Rebounds. 

#32 Karch Helsel 6-3 Jr. Center. 5.7 PPG  5.2 Rebounds

#10 Stephen Ingram 5-7 Sr. Guard. 4.8 PPG.  3.1 Assists. 2.1 Steals

#15 Alex Conahan 6-4 So. Forward. 4.5 PPG  3.3 Rebounds 

Bishop McCort had a slow start, but found their groove after the new year started. McCort feeds off the offense of their senior star, Nemo Trexler, and play solid defense in the half court. Nemo Trexler is closing in on the school's all time scoring mark, and has really opened up his game this season. The senior forward has added a dangerous jump shot to his already wide array of moves, and has been averaging 25 points per game in the second half of the season.Nathan Neiderhiser has made the transition from a role guy to second option without seemingly missing a beat. Neiderhiser provides their top outside shooting threat, but fills the stat sheet in plenty of other ways as well.  Stephen Ingram does not look for the shot much, but his speed and quickness are big part of his game in running the team.  Tyler Rugg provides toughness and versatility, and the two underclassmen forwards, Helsel and Conahan, have different, yet effective games and are capable scorers when they have been called upon this season. McCort may not "wow" a lot of people, but when they are clicking they are a scary team to face, judging by their 25 point victory over a very good Bishop Guilfoyle team.  

Quick Analysis 

Bishop Carroll is a very good team, and the undefeated record is warranted. The Huskies blend a whole arsenal of quick guards with their big time center perfectly. Bishop McCort has been hot down the stretch, and they have really improved since the first meeting between the two teams, and it seems everyone understands their role better now. A few of the things to watch:

- How will Carroll handle the game coming off a game with AAAA Hollidaysburg? Last year, it seemed the Huskies were drained under the same circumstances having played a game the night before. 

- Can anyone stop Nemo Trexler?  The senior forward has always been a big scorer for the Crushers, but has taken it to a new level in recent weeks. Foul trouble always seems to always creep up and be a problem with him, and that could be something to watch during this game. 

- The contrast of BC's quickness against McCort's strength will be something to see. McCort could have problems against the on ball pressure, which could lead to easy Carroll layups. On the other side, if it becomes a half court style of game, McCort has some bigger bodies that can be physical with the smaller Huskies. 

Definitely tune in Saturday at 8:00 on the D6SN.  Our website is having some difficulties, but check back here, Bleachercoaches.com, Our Facebook page, and our Twitter for updates on where the broadcast link will be.  

40 Games and 40 Nights

                    The first half of the 2011 season was a real turning point in the Pirates' franchise. Since then, there have been many "turning points" or stretches of games that will be the biggest and most important "since 92." It's true the 2011 season faded in July, and the 2012 season was an absolute disaster in September. The 2012 Pittsburgh Pirates currently sit with a two game lead in the National League Central on the morning of August 18 with a record of 72-50.  I am not saying there will be a "collapse" or that you should prepare for said "collapse" I am simply pointint out where everything is, and where everything is going. 


                     The Pirates have 40 games remaining, starting with the rubber match against the wild card chasing, Arizona Diamondbacks. Take a look at some breakdowns about the remaining games on the schedule.


- 40 Games Total (18 Home/22 Road)   Pirates Home Record 42-21..Road 30-29

- 12 Series (5 Home, 7 Road)

- 25 Games remaining against the NL Central. ( Reds 6, Cardinals 6, Cubs 7, Brewers 6)

- 12 Games against the NL West.    9-11 record against NL West

- 16 Games against teams over .500 or in playoff contention

- 3 Games with NL West leader Texas. Pirates' interleague record is 12-5

- 13 afternoon game. Pirates have 24-21 day game record. 48-29 Night.

     
                 As you can see, there is no sugarcoating what the Pirates have to do. The Pirates are not a great road team, but they have slightly more games on the road, including a 7 game road trip against the Padres and Giants. Despite the bad records of each team, the Bucs have not fared well against the division overall. The Bucs will also face perhaps their toughest road trip of the season during the September 6-11 span against the Cardinals and Rangers.


               Those points above are simply facts about where the Pirates are, but its obvious what the Pirates need to do, and that is play better than they have the past week. After sweeping the lowly Marlins, the Bucs have dropped 6 of 8, including two tough ones to the team on their heels, the Cardinals.  Through it all, the Pirates still hold a lead over St. Louis and Cincinnati, but heading into the last month and a half, losing 6 of 8 won't fly.


                 The Pirates have some serious concerns heading into these last 40 games.  The pitching is "regressing" a tad.  Jeff Locke has been the one starter that has been around since opening day, and has done better than anyone could have dreamed.  Is he tired, or are some teams starting to figure him out? I'd say a little of both.  Locke's recent trends are disturbing, going 0-1 in five starts, and failing to finish six innings in any of those starts.  He has also allowed 40 hits and 17 walks in his last five outings.  It is probably too soon to make a deal of AJ Burnett, but after his complete game masterpiece on August 4, he has had two poor outings in which he allowed 5 earned runs in both games. Gerrit Cole had an impressive start in his last outing, but how many more does he have left in him?   He has pitched more this season, than he ever has in his life.  Cole is almost assuredly heading for the bullpen eventually. So there it is. The Pirates have a pitching staff in flux heading into the most important 40 games they have had in a while


Is it heading for sudden doom?  I'm not saying that.  An experienced veteran, Wandy Rodriguez, will be back, and hopefully in good enough form to make an impact.  If Clayton Kershaw and Matt Harvey weren't real people, Francisco Liriano would win the Cy Young. He's been that good, and having him around is a great thing moving forward. AJ Burnett had two bad starts, but seeing his role on this team, he's still in line for some big starts.  Jeff Locke should not be written off just yet either, he could be due for a skip in the rotation, and could be good as new.  A lot is to be said about this rotation, but Jeanmar Gomez and Brandon Cumpton could see some starts during September callus, and they have had some big performances this season.


Offensively, nothing has changed. It's inconsistent, and most guys are week to week in terms of being good hitters. Can Cutch carry this team down the stretch, unlike last season? I certainly think so.  For many people saying this was a "down season" for Cutch (something I never understood) the guy looks like an MVP in every sense of the term. Starling Marte makes you want to party or throw your remote through the TV, it just depends on the play. Pedro can mash home runs, and pitchers have to respect him for it. Walker has been dead red hot in August.   But after that is truly concerning.  You can live with Martin and Mercer for the offense they provide for their respective positions. But First Base?  Right Field?    Its ugly, and a rotating door of Jose Tabata, Garrett Jones, Gaby Sanchez, Andrew Lambo, Josh Harrison, Alex Presley, and Travis Snider have all failed miserably thus far.   Jones can still get hot. Lambo deserves a chance, but other than that, it is a real problem for this team.


These 40 games will not only define this season, but it could define a lot of people's career's and tenures and this era of Pirates baseball, like Hurdle and Huntington. We have been at this juncture in the past three seasons many times, as sports writers, fans, radio hosts, and bloggers love to say, "this is the biggest game/series/stretch since 1992." But no, THIS stretch is. THESE 40 games are. The city is riding on it, and baseball has never been so important in this town than it will be over these next 40 games.  The doubters are waiting for a collapse, the fans are hoping for the best, and the baseball world is watching.  Your move, Pirates.

Pitrates mid season awards

                 The Pirates are 52-32. If you do the math, that is over the midseason mark. So yes, I am late, but for all intents and purposes, this is my midseason awards for the Bucs. I'm late, oh well.   I know the Pirate side of my blogging and writing has been lacking, but Cardiac Hill and D6SN duties have outweighed this. Still, I'll try to add some stuff for all seven of my readers on here.....



MVP - Andrew McCutchen - You see this one brought up, and nobody says McCutchen. I totally understand why, but again it all comes down to your interpretation of the meaning of the award. Are other players having great seasons relative to their ability? Absolutely. Are the Pirates 20 games over without McCutchen? Absolutely not.  McCutchen is just that consistent force in the 3 spot every night. He is capable of doing something incredible on offense, defense, or on the bases at any given moment. He is not having a great season that would warrant NL MVP consideration, but quietly he is top 20 in the NL in average, doubles, runs, hits, and stolen bases. Cutch accumulates stats, and is the only hitter in the Pirates lineup sniffing .300 right now. McCutchen is an elite talent in baseball, and one of the few that can make that claim on the Pirates.  Again, its how you interpret the award, but this team needs Cutch far more than any other player.


Best Bat - Pedro Alvarez - Pedro Alvarez is having a tremendous season, and he is right there in the team MVP discussion. Pedro Alvarez can carry an offense for weeks at a time, and he has been doing just that. He may not be what people expected when he was drafted second overall, but he is performing at an All Star level this season. Nobody will ever mistake Alvarez for a batting champ, but his average has been very good thus far, considering his struggles with it earlier in his career. If you double up Pedro's stats from now, you are looking at a  40 HR 110 RBI guy primarily out of the 6 spot in the batting order. Nobody else on this team can do that, Pedro can and should from now on. These are his peak years.  He will take his criticism for strikeouts, even though this whole team strikeouts a ton. He gets unfairly judged by this town, but outside of David Wright, there is not a NL third Basemen I would want on my team. Pittsburgh as a whole should start to realize this.


Best Pitcher - Jeff Locke - There is literally not enough words to say about how well Jeff Locke has second round out of New Hampshire. Do you even begin to realize how talented you have to be to get that recognition? He was always a good minor leaguer right up until last season, but still somehow flew under the radar as a top prospect. I would imagine it is because he is not a 6-5 guy that can throw 97 MPH.  Locke can pitch and locate. 8-1 2.12 ERA?  Those just aren't all star numbers, those are Cy Young numbers.   Now, looking at it through a metric side, Locke may regress a little. He is pitching out of his mind by stranding runners. Its baseball, things will happen. Locke may not pitch like this for a whole season, but I do not see a great drop off by any measure either. He is the one constant this pitching staff has had since day one.
pitched this season. I just realized recently, Locke has almost been portrayed as a guy to come out of nowhere to be here this season, and I bought it.  Locke was drafted in the



Best Free Agent - Russell Martin - Realistically, this team is not all that much different from last year. Sure some players fluctuate, but the same core is in place. Russell Martin is one of the main differences this team holds over last year. Martin has been great defensively, and has been really showing off his arm. In fact, Martin is the best at throwing out runners in the NL. He has also come up with plenty of clutch hits, including a walk off on Sunday against Milwaukee. His average and versatility makes him an option to hit anywhere in the lineup.



Unsung Hero - Mark Melancon - It is just the way baseball is these days. The "Save" is a glorified stat that earns plenty of publicity. Closers make big bucks and come in to end the game. What is the last highlight of a baseball game you see on SportsCenter?  It is likely the closer getting the final out. That sometimes overshadows what a setup man does. Mark Melancon has been just as good, if not better than Grilli this season. Melancon has allowed 4 earned runs in 41.1 innings so far. He has been able to maintain a rapid pace all the way to now, and has really gotten the Pirates out of some serious jams this season, all the while pitching in the same tough leverage situations Grilli has to deal with. Baseball by nature overshadows a good setup man, but the Bucs have a real good one in Melancon, and he has been instrumental to their success.


Biggest Surprise - Jason Grilli - I'll be the first to admit, I did not hop on the Grilled Cheese bandwagon last year. He did pitch well, but faded down the stretch. I guess it was the frustration with the whole team, that led to my personal frustration with Grilli. At 36 years old, I thought he was a flash in the pan type guy. I did not expect him to have an all star caliber season at all this year. I guess some people thought he would do a fine job, but personal expectations have been thoroughly exceeded for me by Jason Grilli.


Top Young Gun -  Starling Marte - Marte is not a rookie, but I made this category up so I could

talk about his season.  Marte has been fantastic, and really has helped create this team's identity.  Marte is not a guy you would look to be an ideal leadoff hitter. He has the speed and pop you would like, but he is a free swinger. Still, Marte is going to accumulate a season full of eye popping stats.  Marte is on pace to steal 40 bases and score 100 plus runs. Marte has 8 home runs and 8 triples, and has played an excellent left field. The Pirates will be fine without a prototypical leadoff hitter, because Marte is such a unique talent at age 24. He really impresses me more than Cutch does at times, which may ultimately allow for the two to switch positions at some point.

Looking at where Pitt stands in recruiting for 2014.

                             One month ago, Paul Chryst has exactly one commitment for the 2014 recruiting class. Naturally, most Pitt fans were in panic mode. Was there a reason to be?  Perhaps. Still, one month later he has locked down 13 more commitments. The recent run should silence some critics for now, but the quality of these recruits have raised questions. Sure, Pitt has not nailed down too many elite players, but they have landed some. Other guys have floated under the radar, and it could be a risk. I think until Paul Chryst really gets off the ground here, the comparisons and similarities to Wisconsin must come naturally. Wisconsin rarely landed elite recruits, but consistently found themselves towards the top of the Big Ten.  I think Chryst and his staff trust their coaching abilities and evaluation process, and to their credit it worked in Wisconsin. I am going to look at what Pitt has so far by ranking the 14 players, and look into the future of what they still need.


1. Michael Grimm OT Pennsylvania - Grimm is a massive presence on the offensive line. He is a 3
star by Scout and ESPN, and 4 star by ESPN. Grimm stands at an overpowering 6-6 330 pounds. He chose Pitt over numerous BCS level offers, and is regarded as one of the best prospects out of Western Pennsylvania.

2. Wade Freebeck QB Florida  - You may look at this kid's offer list, and wonder why I think he is a great recruit. There is a story with this player, and he may be the steal of the year for Pitt. He was injured this past offseason and missed Spring evaluations and Summer camps, so that hurt him right there. He also came from a relatively unknown school to transfer to Florida powerhouse, St. Thomas Aquinas this season. The high profile program, and a healthy senior season, and you are looking at a top flight quarterback prospect. Florida did offer Freebeck at one time, so he has elite enough talent for a national power to have offered him. ESPN sees him as a four star, Rivals only a three. It may be difficult to hang on to him, because some SEC schools should, and likely will, offer Freebeck.

3. Elijah Zeise WR Pennsylvania - Zeise started for Pennsylvania power, North Allegheny, since he was a sophomore. Elijah can play either safety or receiver, but Pitt is taking him for offense. He is a big 6-2 185, with room to get stronger. Zeise chose to play at Pitt over Arizona and WVU, and the Ivy League for that matter. He is a bright and talented kid, a good addition for any program.

4. Mike Herndon DT Virginia - I look for Pitt to open up Virginia as their Southern state of choice with the move to the ACC, and Henrdon appears to be their first victory from VA.  He chose Pitt over home state power, Virginia Tech. He is a massive 6-4 325 defensive tackle that is an excellent athlete. He plays middle linebacker in high school, not many 325 pounders can move like he can.

5. Connor Hayes OG Michigan - Hayes is a good offensive line prospect, and fits the Paul Chryst model of players. He is a big 6-4 presence, with room to add weight. Four year starter in the highest classification in Michigan. He chose Pitt over Syracuse, Duke, and Indiana.

6. Shane Roy DE Ohio - Roy is a nice sized defensive line recruit from the Cincinnati area. He had offers from Boston College and Illinois among many MAC looks. Defensive Line is thin for the Panthers, so he can make an impact soon.

7. Jalen Williams S New York - Williams got the ball rolling on the run of recruits in mid June. He is a Safety with some talent from New York. Rivals sees him as a 3 star, and he picked Pitt over in-state teams, Buffalo and Syracuse

8. Connor Dintino DT Connecticut - Dintino is looked at on recruiting services on offense, but Pitt is taking him for defense. A rare pickup from Connecticut, Dintino is a big player that will be able to plug the middle.

9. Adam Bertke QB Ohio - Bertke may be considered the second option at quarterback for this class, but he won't see it that way. Bertke is a confident player that has won two state championships in his career already, albeit in the smallest classification in Ohio. ESPN likes him much more than Rivals, as he is regarded as Pitt's second best recruit. He has big time size (6-5 210) and has a winning pedigree, could be a steal for Pitt. He had some big ten offers in Purdue and Illinois.

10. Avonte Maddox CB Michigan  - Speed is the name of the game. A reported 4.3 40 time is impressive, although he lacks ideal size. A college weight room should do him wonders. You can't turn down speed. He has a Cincinnati offer to go along with a variety of MAC offers.

11. Patrick Amara DB Pennsylvania - Amara seems like an athletic player from Philadelphia powerhouse, West Catholic.  He should end up on defense, and I think he can be a really good safety down the line. Not a huge recruit, but you still need versatile guys like this in every recruiting class.

12. Brian O'Neill TE Delaware - O'Neill is a big 6-6 tight end prospect. Pitt has loaded up on some talent in this spot in recent seasons, so it may not be the worst idea to take a project mixed in there.

13. Dennis Briggs RB Pennsylvania - A local back that has some ability, but lacked exposure. He does not come from a football powerhouse, and flew under the radar. I think Pitt will take two backs in this class, and the other one will be more highly regarded than Briggs.

14. Quintin Wirgins LB Pennsylvania - Wirgins is another local prospect, and seems like a fallback option already. Pitt missed on some of their top linebacker targets, and Wirgins has some ability. Temple was his only other division one offer, so you have to question that a bit. He is a productive player in AAAA and has size in his defense.

    
That is how I see things to date, but here is what Pitt should look to add before February position by position.

QB - Pitt should be done here. They need to battle some teams to keep Freebeck aboard, but I think he sticks with Pitt.

RB - Briggs is a nice start, but they would like to add another higher profile player. Shai McKenzie from nearby Washington, PA is priority one. Still Chris James from Illinois or Qadree Ollison from New York would be excellent additions. Strange enough, all three of these players have named a top 5, and Pitt is in all three of them.

WR - Pitt added 4 receivers last year, and have Zeise already this year. Still, adding a few more would be ideal. Jamil Kamara and Juwann Winfree are two four star prospects that have wvisited Pitt recently, and have them making their initial cuts. Pitt may be in good standing for both. Saeed Blacknall and KJ Williams are two other four star players that don't appear to have Pitt at the very top of their list, but they have not dismissed them completely. Dorian Baker from Ohio and Steve Ishmael of Florida are 3 star guys that Pitt will also monitor closely. Local athlete, Malik Hooker, would be an excellent addition also.

TE - I expect Pitt to be done with O'Neill.

OL - Pitt added five last season, and they will probably add 4 this season. Grimm and Hayes are a good start, but they would love to add local linemen, Alex Bookser. Brady Taylor from Ohio could also come into play. I think it is hard to pinpoint any other names at this point.

DT -  Ricky Walker from Virginia is a four star to keep an eye on. Two local guys, Brock Boxen and Jaleel Fields, also hold Pitt offers. They have two commits with Dintino and Herndon already, so look for one more defensive tackle, if any, to be added to the class.

DE - Pitt already has Shane Roy, but I could see them going for one more End.


LB -  I think Pitt should consider adding one, maybe two more. Jawhaun Bentley of DeMatha would be an ideal addition.

CB - Maddox is their only corner, but they will add one or two more if necessary. Jaquan Davidson is a local product that could commit eventually.

S - Dravon is the main target here. Also have to think they will go hard after Nicholson as well. Still,
Rasaan Stewart from Eastern PA will be mixed in there also.