When someone mentions New York, the first image that comes to mind is New York City. And why not? It’s our nations largest city. It’s the financial capital of the world. Most of our ancestors passed through the city at one time when migrating to this country.
Because of this, the city has so many diverse cultures. As you pass through the city, it’s like taking a tour of the world, with different sections of the city representing different countries and cultures. Because of this, its one of the only places that you can find any type of authentic world food, and its readily available.
Because there are so many choices, like California, I will have to submit a number of choices for New York.
So lets step out of the city, and take a look at what the whole state has to offer.
It’s been a while (not that long!) since grade school and our exciting geography of the United States class. So here is a reminder of some of the fascinating facts about New York.
The first capital of the United States was New York City. In 1789 George Washington took his oath of office there.
Alexander Hamilton established the oldest running newspaper, “The New York Post”, on 1803.
There are numerous inventions that have come out of New York. Many have become commonplace in our country and the world including the first Steamboat. And yes, lets not forget toilet paper.
One of the most amazing facts is a great trivia answer. Did you know that Adirondack Park is larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, and Olympic parks combined? Wow!!
When I was trying to decide which food would truly represent New York as far as American Cuisine is concerned, it was very difficult at first. So many choices! But then it hit me. There is one food that we have all had, and probably love. A food that is one of the most popular dishes in America that can be found in every state, yet originated in New York in the 1960’s in..
Buffalo, New York
Well that probably gave it way, but if you haven’t guessed yet, we’re of course talking about..
Buffalo Chicken Wings
OK, OK…Maybe not the most sophisticated dish, but no one can argue that fact its one of the most popular foods in America, and one of the best tasting. Whether in Restaurants, Parties or even Tailgating, it’s the one food you will always see served.
So where did this idea come from?
It’s pretty much agreed on, that this American staple was first prepared at The Anchor Bar, located in Buffalo New York. Whether it was created on the fly because of a late night visit by the owner’s son and his college friends, or because of a mistake in a food delivery, its believed they were first served on Oct. 3 1964.
There is another story of a man supposedly served chicken wings in a special “mambo” sauce at his restaurant in the mid 60’s. Because of the popularity of the wings, he named and registered his restaurant John Young’s Wings and Things at the courthouse before leaving in 1970.
I like many, give credit to The Anchor Bar.
Some people shy away from Buffalo Wings because they associate the words “Hot” with Wings. I like my wings with a little spice but I promise you, these are not over bearing. This recipe is so easy to adjust to your preference, that you can kick up the heat, or sweeten the chicken with out missing a step.
The original version of Buffalo Wings was served fried. Today many people love them served this way. In a small effort to make these a little healthier, this recipe calls for the chicken to be baked.
Up until a couple of years ago, I prepared Wings in a very simple way. I cooked the wings, and then just added the bottled wing sauce and served. They were great.
Then a friend turned me on to a little twist to prepare the sauce, and I’ve never gone back. Apparently this recipe has been around but I had never tried it. I’m sure you’ll love it as well.
Before the recipe, I wanted to make a couple of comments about the sauce. There are hundreds of versions of Wing Sauce on the market. In this recipe we use one of them. It might sound like a good idea to make your own sauce from scratch but it is so much work and takes so much time, for very little sauce.
If you have a favorite, feel free to use it, but I prefer Franks Red Hot. Don’t let the name fool you; it’s just a brand name. Like other brands, it comes in Hot, Medium and Mild.
I use Medium.
So lets get to it. This is so easy!
RECIPE
12 oz Bottle “Franks Red Hot” Wing Sauce
¼ Cup Brown Sugar
1 Stick Butter
1 Tablespoon Minced Garlic (3 Cloves)
2 Tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
4 – 1lb Packages Chicken Drumetts (40)
1 Teaspoon Salt
1 Teaspoon Ground Pepper
PREPARATION
Pre Heat Oven to 350 Degrees
Place all Chicken directly onto Lightly Greased Large Cookie Sheet.
Do not wash chicken. I do not use foil as the chicken will tend to stick and it’s easier to turn without the foil.
Season Chicken with Salt and Pepper and place in Oven
Pour all of Bottled Wing sauce into a small Sauce Pan.
Slice up whole stick of butter and place in Sauce Pan with Wing Sauce
Add Garlic to mixture
Add Brown Sugar to mixture
If you would like your sauce a little more sweet add a little more Brown Sugar. If you like it a little hotter add less.
Add Worcestershire Sauce to Mixture
Place pan on Low to Medium Heat. Stir frequently.
** Watch carefully as you do not want to burn
Bring to a low boil continuing to stir for 1 minute
Remove from Heat and cover
After 45 Minutes remove Chicken from Oven.
Turn Chicken and place back in Oven
Cook for another 45 minutes.
Remove Chicken from Oven.
With a spatula or large serving spoon, remove Chicken from Cookie sheet to a Large Mixing Bowl
Pour Sauce Mixture over Chicken and Toss
Let Stand for 5 Min
Heat oven to Broil
Place Sauced Chicken back onto Cookie Sheet and Place back in oven 3-5 Minutes
Remove Chicken from Oven and Place directly into Serving Dish.
Serve with Celery and your favorite Blue Cheese Dressing.
Enjoy!!
Be sure to vote your opinion of this recipe in the top left hand corner. Your comments are always welcome.
Next Week we will not be heading to a specific state as we need to mix in some vegetables. I'll have 4 great recipes for you as well as a couple of salads.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
In Search of American Cuisine - Maryland
I’ve been to Maryland a few times in my life. The first time was when I was 10 years old. Of course at that age, I was not able to experience all of the great things about the state. Maryland’s largest city is Baltimore. In 1814 the British attempted to capture Baltimore. While the British bombarded Fort McHenry, a man named Francis Scott Key observed, and was inspired to write the words of “The Star Spangled Banner”. Maryland is also the home of the U.S. Navel Academy, located in Annapolis, Maryland. Our nations Capital is located on land that was ceded by Maryland.
Maryland also has one of the largest waterfronts of any state. This is pretty amazing considering the size of the state. Baltimore ranks as the nations second largest port. Maryland’s eastern and western shore surround the Chesapeake Bay, which produces more seafood than any other comparable body of water. Whether it’s oysters, crabs, clams, or Fin fish, this area is a Seafood Factory.
As I got older, I was able to visit Maryland a few more times. These times I was able to experience amazing food that I missed out on when I was 10. As my eyes began to open or I should say my taste buds, I realized that this particular type of food group is readily available throughout the country, and is very popular. Talk about living in a cave!
When people think of foods from Maryland, they of course think of Seafood. But there is one type of Seafood that is synonymous with Maryland. More important the way to prepare this type of seafood has become the trademark of the state, when it comes to food.
This food of course is….
CRAB CAKES
If you like Crab, you probably have had a Crab Cake. If you haven’t, you are missing out on one of the most delicious items ever put on a plate. That being said, if you have been fortunate to have tasted this wonder, chances are its been in a restaurant. Depending on where you live in the country, this could really make a difference in your impression of this very simple, but very tasty treat.
You see, unless you’re in Maryland, with the exception of a few restaurants in the country, the importance has become what is mixed with the crab, instead of the crab itself. Whether it crackers, big chunks of onions, or any other filling, the focus has become all the other ingredients besides the CRAB!
The reason for this is simple. Crab can be expensive, unless you live near the source. But don’t worry. This recipe, is not only economical, but is true the standards that made this creation so great.
The secret is your selection of crab. But more importantly, how you prepare it. Obviously, anyone’s first choice would be to use fresh crab. Another real challenge is deciding what type of crab to use. Sounds like a lot of decisions to make for such a simple dish. So lets keep it simple.
I actually like Dungeness Crab, but because we want to stay true to the region, we are using Lump Crab for this recipe. You’ll notice that I didn’t say Blue Crab. That’s because 95% of all Blue Crab Americans consume, don’t originate from this country anymore. If you live in Maryland, feel free to use Blue Crab. The rest of us will look for Lump Crab, which is basically the same thing. This Crab can be found in many Major Super Market chains. The Crab- meat comes in one pound cans, found in the refrigerated Seafood Section. I know that Fresh Crab would always work best, but the chore involved cooking and then removing meat from crab shells can somewhat be over bearing… And to be honest, that is a lot of work for not that much more reward.
In the preparation the real big secret is to not over stir your crab. You don't want shredded crab.
I mentioned that for this recipe we are focusing on the crab. You’ll notice that there aren’t as many ingredients as you would think. This is great as it keeps the recipe really simple, and that’s what we’re looking for. I’ve come across a few recipes for Crab Cakes that I just love. I took the best of each, experimented, and came up this recipe, which is pretty good.
The best way to prepare this recipe, is to use a food processor. If you don’t have one don’t worry, you can use a whisk. It’s a little more work but you come out with the same great tasting Crab. You will also need a large rubber spatula and 2 mixing bowls.
So lets get to it.
RECIPE
1 Pound can of Lump Crab Meat - I use “Phillips”
1 Egg Yolk
1 Tablespoon “Old Bay” Seasoning *
1 Teaspoon Lemon Juice ( ½ Lemon Squeezed)
1 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
1 Tablespoon Onion Powder
2 Stalks Celery ( Diced ¼ inch)
1 Teaspoon Cider Vinegar
½ Cup Peanut Oil ( Canola Oil can be substituted)
¼ Teaspoon Salt
¼ Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
¼ Teaspoon Worcestershire
1 Stick Unsalted Butter
3 Cups Seasoned Bread Crumbs
2 Lemons
1 Prepackaged Bag of Mixed Greens
1 jar of your favorite Red Cocktail sauce
PREPARATION
Drain and Crab Meat and place in Large Mixing Bowl. Carefully pick through meat for any shells. You can Break up crab slightly but not too much. You don’t want your crab to be shredded. Set aside
In a small or medium sized Food Processor, add Egg Yolk, Old Bay Seasoning, Onion Powder, Lemon Juice, Dijon Mustard, Cider Vinegar, and Worcestershire. Blend until smooth.
Once smooth, add Oil to Food Processor while running. Blend until it begins to look like a mayonnaise. Add Salt , and Pepper to mixture.
Transfer Mixture to a bowl and carefully FOLD in the Crab Meat and Celery using a rubber spatula. This is critical. DO NOT over stir the Crab Meat into the mixture. This will cause the mix to break apart when forming the cakes.
In a separate casserole dish Add 2 Cups of Seasoned Bread Crumbs
Once Mixture is combined, form 8 - 3 inch wide cakes with mixture. About ½ to ¾ inch thick.
Place Cakes in Bread Crumbs.
Add remaining Bread Crumbs on top of Crab Cakes.
With your hands carefully make sure all sides of the cakes are covered and then cover dish with Plastic wrap.
Place container in refrigerator and leave for at least one hour. This is important to firm up the cakes. The longer you can leave the container in the refrigerator the more firm the cakes will be.
*Be sure not to leave the container in refrigerator for more than 12 hours, because of the raw Egg Yolk
When ready to cook, heat up a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add ½ stick of butter. Once melted, place 4 crab cakes in pan. Fry until each side is brown and crispy. About 2-3 Minutes on each side . Only turn once.
Transfer fried crab cakes to lightly greased cookie sheet. Add remaining butter to skillet and repeat process with remaining Crab Cakes.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Once all cakes have been fried and placed on Cookie Sheet, place in oven for 3-5 minutes. Do not over cook.
Remove and serve over mixed greens with lemon wedges and Cocktail sauce.
Many people like Tartar Sauce but because there is already mayonnaise in the Crab Cakes, Cocktail sauce is a nice contrast and really brings out the all the flavors.
Makes 8 and Serves 4.
Enjoy!
Please be sure to Vote your opinion up in the left hand corner of the Web page. As always, if you have a Crab Cake recipe to share, please forward along and I’ll be sure to post it.
Next Week we head to the State of New York.
Maryland also has one of the largest waterfronts of any state. This is pretty amazing considering the size of the state. Baltimore ranks as the nations second largest port. Maryland’s eastern and western shore surround the Chesapeake Bay, which produces more seafood than any other comparable body of water. Whether it’s oysters, crabs, clams, or Fin fish, this area is a Seafood Factory.
As I got older, I was able to visit Maryland a few more times. These times I was able to experience amazing food that I missed out on when I was 10. As my eyes began to open or I should say my taste buds, I realized that this particular type of food group is readily available throughout the country, and is very popular. Talk about living in a cave!
When people think of foods from Maryland, they of course think of Seafood. But there is one type of Seafood that is synonymous with Maryland. More important the way to prepare this type of seafood has become the trademark of the state, when it comes to food.
This food of course is….
CRAB CAKES
If you like Crab, you probably have had a Crab Cake. If you haven’t, you are missing out on one of the most delicious items ever put on a plate. That being said, if you have been fortunate to have tasted this wonder, chances are its been in a restaurant. Depending on where you live in the country, this could really make a difference in your impression of this very simple, but very tasty treat.
You see, unless you’re in Maryland, with the exception of a few restaurants in the country, the importance has become what is mixed with the crab, instead of the crab itself. Whether it crackers, big chunks of onions, or any other filling, the focus has become all the other ingredients besides the CRAB!
The reason for this is simple. Crab can be expensive, unless you live near the source. But don’t worry. This recipe, is not only economical, but is true the standards that made this creation so great.
The secret is your selection of crab. But more importantly, how you prepare it. Obviously, anyone’s first choice would be to use fresh crab. Another real challenge is deciding what type of crab to use. Sounds like a lot of decisions to make for such a simple dish. So lets keep it simple.
I actually like Dungeness Crab, but because we want to stay true to the region, we are using Lump Crab for this recipe. You’ll notice that I didn’t say Blue Crab. That’s because 95% of all Blue Crab Americans consume, don’t originate from this country anymore. If you live in Maryland, feel free to use Blue Crab. The rest of us will look for Lump Crab, which is basically the same thing. This Crab can be found in many Major Super Market chains. The Crab- meat comes in one pound cans, found in the refrigerated Seafood Section. I know that Fresh Crab would always work best, but the chore involved cooking and then removing meat from crab shells can somewhat be over bearing… And to be honest, that is a lot of work for not that much more reward.
In the preparation the real big secret is to not over stir your crab. You don't want shredded crab.
I mentioned that for this recipe we are focusing on the crab. You’ll notice that there aren’t as many ingredients as you would think. This is great as it keeps the recipe really simple, and that’s what we’re looking for. I’ve come across a few recipes for Crab Cakes that I just love. I took the best of each, experimented, and came up this recipe, which is pretty good.
The best way to prepare this recipe, is to use a food processor. If you don’t have one don’t worry, you can use a whisk. It’s a little more work but you come out with the same great tasting Crab. You will also need a large rubber spatula and 2 mixing bowls.
So lets get to it.
RECIPE
1 Pound can of Lump Crab Meat - I use “Phillips”
1 Egg Yolk
1 Tablespoon “Old Bay” Seasoning *
1 Teaspoon Lemon Juice ( ½ Lemon Squeezed)
1 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
1 Tablespoon Onion Powder
2 Stalks Celery ( Diced ¼ inch)
1 Teaspoon Cider Vinegar
½ Cup Peanut Oil ( Canola Oil can be substituted)
¼ Teaspoon Salt
¼ Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
¼ Teaspoon Worcestershire
1 Stick Unsalted Butter
3 Cups Seasoned Bread Crumbs
2 Lemons
1 Prepackaged Bag of Mixed Greens
1 jar of your favorite Red Cocktail sauce
PREPARATION
Drain and Crab Meat and place in Large Mixing Bowl. Carefully pick through meat for any shells. You can Break up crab slightly but not too much. You don’t want your crab to be shredded. Set aside
In a small or medium sized Food Processor, add Egg Yolk, Old Bay Seasoning, Onion Powder, Lemon Juice, Dijon Mustard, Cider Vinegar, and Worcestershire. Blend until smooth.
Once smooth, add Oil to Food Processor while running. Blend until it begins to look like a mayonnaise. Add Salt , and Pepper to mixture.
Transfer Mixture to a bowl and carefully FOLD in the Crab Meat and Celery using a rubber spatula. This is critical. DO NOT over stir the Crab Meat into the mixture. This will cause the mix to break apart when forming the cakes.
In a separate casserole dish Add 2 Cups of Seasoned Bread Crumbs
Once Mixture is combined, form 8 - 3 inch wide cakes with mixture. About ½ to ¾ inch thick.
Place Cakes in Bread Crumbs.
Add remaining Bread Crumbs on top of Crab Cakes.
With your hands carefully make sure all sides of the cakes are covered and then cover dish with Plastic wrap.
Place container in refrigerator and leave for at least one hour. This is important to firm up the cakes. The longer you can leave the container in the refrigerator the more firm the cakes will be.
*Be sure not to leave the container in refrigerator for more than 12 hours, because of the raw Egg Yolk
When ready to cook, heat up a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Add ½ stick of butter. Once melted, place 4 crab cakes in pan. Fry until each side is brown and crispy. About 2-3 Minutes on each side . Only turn once.
Transfer fried crab cakes to lightly greased cookie sheet. Add remaining butter to skillet and repeat process with remaining Crab Cakes.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Once all cakes have been fried and placed on Cookie Sheet, place in oven for 3-5 minutes. Do not over cook.
Remove and serve over mixed greens with lemon wedges and Cocktail sauce.
Many people like Tartar Sauce but because there is already mayonnaise in the Crab Cakes, Cocktail sauce is a nice contrast and really brings out the all the flavors.
Makes 8 and Serves 4.
Enjoy!
Please be sure to Vote your opinion up in the left hand corner of the Web page. As always, if you have a Crab Cake recipe to share, please forward along and I’ll be sure to post it.
Next Week we head to the State of New York.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Having a Ball- The Baseball Hall of Fame in between Naps
A quick wrap up of Major Sporting Events from the past week and my opinions on a specific topic in the Sports World.
I was thinking over the weekend that this is a really slow time in the sports world. But don’t take my word for it; check out the Home Page of any major sports Website. Major League Baseball is entering the “Dog Days” of the season. The NFL is a week away from starting up Training Camps. Golf is pretty non-existent until the PGA Championship next month. There were a few events in some of the minor sports and we’ll be able to review them since things are so slow.
One event that did occur over the weekend was this years Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Unless one of your favorite major league rs is being inducted, most pass on this riveting event. That being said, every time this event rolls around, it sparks a big debate on one person who many believe should be inducted, but hasn’t. Pete Rose. This week I’ve chosen to share my thoughts on the big question. Should Pete Rose be inducted to the Baseball Hall of Fame?
But first, a quick Sports Wrap up…
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
While many teams are positioning themselves for a playoff run, most of the talk is on Free Agency. The St Louis Cardinals acquired Outfielder Matt Holliday from the Colorado Rockies, which seems like a great move. Since the move, the Cardinal’s have lost 2 of 3 and fallen out of first place heading into a tough series with LA Dodgers who have the best record in Baseball.
Everybody is talking about the Toronto Blue Jays Pitcher Roy Halladay being traded.. The top contenders are the Philadelphia Phillies, LA Angels, LA Dodgers, and Texas Rangers. I’ve heard a lot of talk that the Red Sox and Yankees were in the mix. I think this is a fantasy, generated by fans of these two clubs. There is no way the Blue Jays would trade their best player to a team in the same division. It will never happen!
Taking Charge
LA DODGERS -
Still poses the best record in Baseball and have a 9 Game lead in their division. However they are playing .500 for the last couple of weeks. They are playing like they are bored.
NY YANKEES-
Have been on fire for a month. Still only 2.5 games ahead of the RED SOX but if this play continues, they will take complete control. Many road games coming up, We’ll see.
PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES-
Have quietly taken a 7 game lead in their division. Right where they were last year. In one of the weakest divisions in baseball they should be set for playoffs.
LA ANGELS
Have won 12 of 14 and taken a 4 game lead in their division. This all happening, with 2 of their best hitters on the bench. The lead should grow as the season wears on and they get healthy. Count on them to be back in the playoffs.
On the Edge
EVERYBODY IN THE CENTRAL DIVISION OF BOTH LEAGUES
Except Cleveland, Kansas City, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh
Both divisions are going to be great to watch down the stretch.
TEXAS RANGERS-
Won’t go away. Have given a little ground to the Angels over the past couple weeks. Is the annual nosedive around the corner?
BOSTON RED SOX.-
Can beat the Yankees. Solid Team, but they better be careful , the Wild Card is no Guarantee this year
TAMPA BAY RAYS-
Still a solid shot at making it back , but need to win within their division.
CHICAGO CUBS-
This was a tough one. They are only a ½ game up as I write this. However, they have climbed back in it and are playing the best baseball in the division. Remember, this team held the best record in the NL last year.
COLORADO ROCKIES-
2 and 3 since the Holliday Trade. Lead the Wild Card race, and their competition is in their division… San Francisco. Have been very good since Tracy took over.
SAN FRANCISCO-
Still hanging on but really dropping. Have the best 1-2 punch in baseball starting pitching. Need a bat, but if they can hang on and make the playoffs anything can happen with that pitching.
Season Over
EVERYBODY ELSE
NFL
This is the week Bret Favre gives his announcement on whether he will be returning from retirement, to play for the Minnesota Vikings, Right????? Riiiiiight……….
NASCAR
I heard Jimmy Johnson won the All State 400 at Indianapolis. OK here is the thing. NASCAR promotes itself as the people’s “sport”. They say that’s why it’s so popular, everybody can relate. Recently there has been a big decline in the popularity of the “sport”. They are losing sponsors left and right and I’m sure the economy has something to do with that.
They need to contract a little just like every other franchise that goes through tough times. They race something like 44 weeks out of the year for crying out loud.
I can’t relate.
Here is a great idea to get more viewers. Instead of having the cars drive around in circles, have them race city to city. Maybe have them drive 10 laps around the track when they get there to finish. Every time they need to change tires, they actually have to pull into a service garage. Get out, sit in a smelly waiting room. Be forced to eat a stale doughnut and a bad cup of coffee. Wait two hours and then pay $500 out of their own pocket, on the spot. Same goes for gas! Every time they fill up, they got to get out and pay at the pump with their own credit card. And if any part breaks on the car, they got to order the parts and wait for a teenage kid to deliver it in a pick up truck.
It could be like a Soap Opera for guys. “As the Wheels Turn”
In this weeks episode, Tony Stewart has a melt down as he is told his car won’t be ready for 2 more days and is forced to drive loaner car.
Or…. Jeff Gordon refuses to stop for gas even though he is almost on empty, hoping he’ll find a better price up the street.
Now that’s something I can relate to..
TOUR DE FRANCE
Alberto Contador won the Tour de France over the weekend. This is his second in a row. I know these guys are tremendous athletes, and I don’t want to take anything away from them, but I think we need to rethink following this event as a sport. I mean the guy rode most of the last leg of the event not only carrying, but drinking a huge bottle of Champagne. That’s illegal in most countries, isn’t it?
WNBA
Please……
PETE ROSE AND THE HALL OF FAME
Every year I go back and forth on the issue of whether Pete Rose should be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Pete Rose was a dominant Player when I was growing up. When he played for the Cincinnati Reds, I was a huge Dodgers fan. The two teams were big rivals, and I had a chance to see him play in person a number of times.
It wasn’t until I got older, that I realized what I was fortunate to have seen, one of the best players to have ever put on a uniform in the history of baseball.
Here is a look at some of his accomplishments:
More Hits than any player in the history of Baseball- 4256
More Times on Base than any player in the history of Baseball – 5929
More Games Played than any player in the History of Baseball – 3560
17 All-Star Games
World Series MVP
Rookie of the Year
2 Gold Gloves
2nd All Time in Doubles
6th All time in Runs Scored
Pete Rose is Baseball.
The reason Pete Rose is not in the Hall of Fame is that he has been accused of and later admitted to betting on Baseball. Although the actual betting was legal, ever since the Black Sox scandal in 1919 this offense has carried with it a life time ban from Baseball.
This decision was made to protect the integrity of the game. In 1919, players from the Chicago White Sox ( The best team in the league hands down) fixed the World Series and threw 3 games to Cincinnati. The White Sox shockingly lost the series. Although never convicted, 8 players from the team, including Shoeless Joe Jackson were banned from Baseball for life. Like Pete Rose, Joe Jackson has always been considered one of the best players to have ever played. It has never really been proven that Joe Jackson did anything to throw a game or even a single play, but he is still suspended today.
There are differences between the Black sox scandal and the issue with Pete Rose. The first is that Pete Rose was not a player at the time. He had already retired and became manager of the Cincinnati Reds. The Black sox scandal involved actual players.
The second is that he never bet on his team to lose. He always bet on his team to win. The players involved in the Black Sox scandal purposely lost to collect money on the side.
I understand that even betting on your team to win could somehow adversely effect your teams performance in other games, but there is still a big difference in betting to win or betting to lose.
I think in order to look at this logically we need to look at the playing career of Pete Rose. We need to judge him on that alone. It’s what he did on the field that made him one of the best, and is what should be honored. Lets face it, he was a horrible manager and would never be recognized for his managerial accomplishments anyway.
I hated Pete Rose when he was a player…. because he was so good. And, because he was so good, it’s why I’m rooting for him now. He deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.
The Commissioner of Baseball, Bud Selig has recently been contemplating reinstating Pete Rose, making him eligible for induction to the Hall of Fame. He’s prevented this for 20 years because he says it would hurt the integrity of the game. But what hurts Baseball more? Pete Rose not being in the Hall of Fame? Or me not being able to share memories of the greatest player I ever saw take the field with my 5 year old son?
We’ve already erased 10 years of the game because of the steroid scandals. Lets not lose another 20.
Pete Rose should be in the Hall of Fame.
I was thinking over the weekend that this is a really slow time in the sports world. But don’t take my word for it; check out the Home Page of any major sports Website. Major League Baseball is entering the “Dog Days” of the season. The NFL is a week away from starting up Training Camps. Golf is pretty non-existent until the PGA Championship next month. There were a few events in some of the minor sports and we’ll be able to review them since things are so slow.
One event that did occur over the weekend was this years Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Unless one of your favorite major league rs is being inducted, most pass on this riveting event. That being said, every time this event rolls around, it sparks a big debate on one person who many believe should be inducted, but hasn’t. Pete Rose. This week I’ve chosen to share my thoughts on the big question. Should Pete Rose be inducted to the Baseball Hall of Fame?
But first, a quick Sports Wrap up…
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
While many teams are positioning themselves for a playoff run, most of the talk is on Free Agency. The St Louis Cardinals acquired Outfielder Matt Holliday from the Colorado Rockies, which seems like a great move. Since the move, the Cardinal’s have lost 2 of 3 and fallen out of first place heading into a tough series with LA Dodgers who have the best record in Baseball.
Everybody is talking about the Toronto Blue Jays Pitcher Roy Halladay being traded.. The top contenders are the Philadelphia Phillies, LA Angels, LA Dodgers, and Texas Rangers. I’ve heard a lot of talk that the Red Sox and Yankees were in the mix. I think this is a fantasy, generated by fans of these two clubs. There is no way the Blue Jays would trade their best player to a team in the same division. It will never happen!
Taking Charge
LA DODGERS -
Still poses the best record in Baseball and have a 9 Game lead in their division. However they are playing .500 for the last couple of weeks. They are playing like they are bored.
NY YANKEES-
Have been on fire for a month. Still only 2.5 games ahead of the RED SOX but if this play continues, they will take complete control. Many road games coming up, We’ll see.
PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES-
Have quietly taken a 7 game lead in their division. Right where they were last year. In one of the weakest divisions in baseball they should be set for playoffs.
LA ANGELS
Have won 12 of 14 and taken a 4 game lead in their division. This all happening, with 2 of their best hitters on the bench. The lead should grow as the season wears on and they get healthy. Count on them to be back in the playoffs.
On the Edge
EVERYBODY IN THE CENTRAL DIVISION OF BOTH LEAGUES
Except Cleveland, Kansas City, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh
Both divisions are going to be great to watch down the stretch.
TEXAS RANGERS-
Won’t go away. Have given a little ground to the Angels over the past couple weeks. Is the annual nosedive around the corner?
BOSTON RED SOX.-
Can beat the Yankees. Solid Team, but they better be careful , the Wild Card is no Guarantee this year
TAMPA BAY RAYS-
Still a solid shot at making it back , but need to win within their division.
CHICAGO CUBS-
This was a tough one. They are only a ½ game up as I write this. However, they have climbed back in it and are playing the best baseball in the division. Remember, this team held the best record in the NL last year.
COLORADO ROCKIES-
2 and 3 since the Holliday Trade. Lead the Wild Card race, and their competition is in their division… San Francisco. Have been very good since Tracy took over.
SAN FRANCISCO-
Still hanging on but really dropping. Have the best 1-2 punch in baseball starting pitching. Need a bat, but if they can hang on and make the playoffs anything can happen with that pitching.
Season Over
EVERYBODY ELSE
NFL
This is the week Bret Favre gives his announcement on whether he will be returning from retirement, to play for the Minnesota Vikings, Right????? Riiiiiight……….
NASCAR
I heard Jimmy Johnson won the All State 400 at Indianapolis. OK here is the thing. NASCAR promotes itself as the people’s “sport”. They say that’s why it’s so popular, everybody can relate. Recently there has been a big decline in the popularity of the “sport”. They are losing sponsors left and right and I’m sure the economy has something to do with that.
They need to contract a little just like every other franchise that goes through tough times. They race something like 44 weeks out of the year for crying out loud.
I can’t relate.
Here is a great idea to get more viewers. Instead of having the cars drive around in circles, have them race city to city. Maybe have them drive 10 laps around the track when they get there to finish. Every time they need to change tires, they actually have to pull into a service garage. Get out, sit in a smelly waiting room. Be forced to eat a stale doughnut and a bad cup of coffee. Wait two hours and then pay $500 out of their own pocket, on the spot. Same goes for gas! Every time they fill up, they got to get out and pay at the pump with their own credit card. And if any part breaks on the car, they got to order the parts and wait for a teenage kid to deliver it in a pick up truck.
It could be like a Soap Opera for guys. “As the Wheels Turn”
In this weeks episode, Tony Stewart has a melt down as he is told his car won’t be ready for 2 more days and is forced to drive loaner car.
Or…. Jeff Gordon refuses to stop for gas even though he is almost on empty, hoping he’ll find a better price up the street.
Now that’s something I can relate to..
TOUR DE FRANCE
Alberto Contador won the Tour de France over the weekend. This is his second in a row. I know these guys are tremendous athletes, and I don’t want to take anything away from them, but I think we need to rethink following this event as a sport. I mean the guy rode most of the last leg of the event not only carrying, but drinking a huge bottle of Champagne. That’s illegal in most countries, isn’t it?
WNBA
Please……
PETE ROSE AND THE HALL OF FAME
Every year I go back and forth on the issue of whether Pete Rose should be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Pete Rose was a dominant Player when I was growing up. When he played for the Cincinnati Reds, I was a huge Dodgers fan. The two teams were big rivals, and I had a chance to see him play in person a number of times.
It wasn’t until I got older, that I realized what I was fortunate to have seen, one of the best players to have ever put on a uniform in the history of baseball.
Here is a look at some of his accomplishments:
More Hits than any player in the history of Baseball- 4256
More Times on Base than any player in the history of Baseball – 5929
More Games Played than any player in the History of Baseball – 3560
17 All-Star Games
World Series MVP
Rookie of the Year
2 Gold Gloves
2nd All Time in Doubles
6th All time in Runs Scored
Pete Rose is Baseball.
The reason Pete Rose is not in the Hall of Fame is that he has been accused of and later admitted to betting on Baseball. Although the actual betting was legal, ever since the Black Sox scandal in 1919 this offense has carried with it a life time ban from Baseball.
This decision was made to protect the integrity of the game. In 1919, players from the Chicago White Sox ( The best team in the league hands down) fixed the World Series and threw 3 games to Cincinnati. The White Sox shockingly lost the series. Although never convicted, 8 players from the team, including Shoeless Joe Jackson were banned from Baseball for life. Like Pete Rose, Joe Jackson has always been considered one of the best players to have ever played. It has never really been proven that Joe Jackson did anything to throw a game or even a single play, but he is still suspended today.
There are differences between the Black sox scandal and the issue with Pete Rose. The first is that Pete Rose was not a player at the time. He had already retired and became manager of the Cincinnati Reds. The Black sox scandal involved actual players.
The second is that he never bet on his team to lose. He always bet on his team to win. The players involved in the Black Sox scandal purposely lost to collect money on the side.
I understand that even betting on your team to win could somehow adversely effect your teams performance in other games, but there is still a big difference in betting to win or betting to lose.
I think in order to look at this logically we need to look at the playing career of Pete Rose. We need to judge him on that alone. It’s what he did on the field that made him one of the best, and is what should be honored. Lets face it, he was a horrible manager and would never be recognized for his managerial accomplishments anyway.
I hated Pete Rose when he was a player…. because he was so good. And, because he was so good, it’s why I’m rooting for him now. He deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.
The Commissioner of Baseball, Bud Selig has recently been contemplating reinstating Pete Rose, making him eligible for induction to the Hall of Fame. He’s prevented this for 20 years because he says it would hurt the integrity of the game. But what hurts Baseball more? Pete Rose not being in the Hall of Fame? Or me not being able to share memories of the greatest player I ever saw take the field with my 5 year old son?
We’ve already erased 10 years of the game because of the steroid scandals. Lets not lose another 20.
Pete Rose should be in the Hall of Fame.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)