Ok I'm back and it's time to lay down the iron dry joy. I haven't had much time to think about my picks and my ranking has suffered. Today starts the turnaround. WHO'S WITH ME!?!?!?!
Now that I have my braveheart speech out of the way, let's talk some golf. Last week Kenny Perry won The Memorial (our local event), and with the US Open looming, we have a sort of in between'er event this week in the Stanford St. Jude Classic.
Without further adioueuaou (as if I care how to spell it), let's get to the picks...
Group A
Studs
Vance Veazy - Ok this guy is a total stud and if you haven't heard of him, then you better keep reading because neither have I (I see that he finished 10th last year but that is all I know). Ok, just a little joke to get things started.... (I wonder how many people just read the names and don't look at my comments??)
Sergio Garcia - He played great golf at the Players and may have turned a corner once and for all. The putter will tell the tale. He didn't fair terribly well last year, but this is a new Sergio.
Vijay Singh - Without a lot of other big names in the event, you have to consider Vijay. This is generally the type of event that he wins. Think about it, how many times has Vijay won an event you've never heard of? Lots, so this week might be his week.
Duds
Woody Austin - Defending champ will have a lot more on his plate this week as far as media stuff and the pressure to defend. Combine that with the fact that he is a streaky player and I say, he isn't worth the pick
Ernie Els - Despite winning early in the year. Ernie just doesn't have it any more. I don't know if it's injury or lack of interest or what, but he just isn't the contender that he once was.
Sleeper
David Toms - Toms finished third last year but has had a relatively quiet 2008 season. Horses for courses seems to be the rule, and he obviously likes this one so he is a threat this week.
Group B
Studs
Brian Gay - Brian is quietly having a great season. Already over the $1 million mark in earnings and sporting a shiny fourth place trophy from last year's event, should be reason enough to have him in your lineup.
Robert Allenby - I get really tired of using Allenby because he never wins but generally scores decent points. Don't be suprised if I pull him late for a schnazzier option.
Camillo Villegas - Still hoping he will continue the good play he started a few weeks ago. And hoping he won't pull out at the last minute and hose my like he did last week.
For the record, I'm also playing Charlie Wi on a hunch but I would hardly call him a stud.
Duds
Stuart Appleby - Missed the cut last year and didn't play particularly well last week. Double wammy.
Sleeper
Matt Jones - He has missed 5 straight cuts now since his hot start to the season, but all on really tough courses. This should be a nice break for him to start turning things around. He is going to get it figured out at some point, and this week seems likely to me.
Group C
Studs
Kenny Perry - Still hot, still playing. I'd like to stay on the train until it stops...
Brian Davis - Runner up last year and has shown flashes of greatness this season. Ok maybe not greatness exactly. How about almost-won-edness?
Duds
John Merrick - Missed the cut last year and opened with an 80 last week. Triple wammy.
Troy Matteson - Decent finish last year but shot 76-81 last week. Not good...
Sleeper
Bill Haas - This guy is going to have a breakthrough at some point. He's too good of a player not to, and these types of events are the perfect place to get it done. I like his chances to be a solid competitor this week.
Good luck!
6.02.2008
5.29.2008
Things Settling Down
Ok we are finally moved and have our house sold so life can start to get back to normal. So sorry for the last three weeks but life has been a bit crazy. I will be back to my usual self next week.
Shane
Shane
5.14.2008
No Time
Sorry but there won't be a preview this week. I'm right smack in the middle of trying to do all the stuff to sell one house and buy another plus pack and try to fit in some work for my actual job here and there so I just have no time, sorry.
5.07.2008
The Rules of Golf Gone Overkill?
I'm reading a book right now called Tales from Q School: Inside Golf's Fifth Major by John Feinstein. It's a decent book but it tends to focus a little too much on the depressing stories if you ask me.
One passage is about a player named Pat Bates that makes it all the way to the finals and then withdraws. During the second stage of Q school, he had placed his coin to mark his ball on the green and then as he stood up, dropped the ball and it landed directly on top of the coin. Not wanting to hold up play for a ruling, and unsure as to whether or not the coin had actually moved, he putted out and continued on. Later, he discovered that in that instance that there are two rules. 1) That the benefit of the doubt goes to the player if there is uncertainty about whether or not the coin moved, and 2) that if it did move, it is a one stroke penalty.
Pat was crushed and withdrew from the tournament on the grounds that he felt he had signed for an incorrect number at second stage. Call me crazy, but I have to wonder how he justified feeling so guilty given the first rule. If there was doubt, and there certainly was, then he should have been fine.
What would you have done? Is there more to this that I'm not seeing?
One passage is about a player named Pat Bates that makes it all the way to the finals and then withdraws. During the second stage of Q school, he had placed his coin to mark his ball on the green and then as he stood up, dropped the ball and it landed directly on top of the coin. Not wanting to hold up play for a ruling, and unsure as to whether or not the coin had actually moved, he putted out and continued on. Later, he discovered that in that instance that there are two rules. 1) That the benefit of the doubt goes to the player if there is uncertainty about whether or not the coin moved, and 2) that if it did move, it is a one stroke penalty.
Pat was crushed and withdrew from the tournament on the grounds that he felt he had signed for an incorrect number at second stage. Call me crazy, but I have to wonder how he justified feeling so guilty given the first rule. If there was doubt, and there certainly was, then he should have been fine.
What would you have done? Is there more to this that I'm not seeing?
5.06.2008
Yahoo Fantasy Golf Week 19 Preview
It's nice to see Anthony Kim finally get his first win. I wasn't able to watch the tournament because our house is finally under contract and we are really busy trying to get things done. As of now, we aren't even sure where we are going to move to. That's a little unnerving but I know that God has a plan, and it will all work out for the best.
Time for the 5th major. Last year Sean O'Hair went for it all on 17 and lost it.
Group A
Studs
Phil Mickelson - He is the defending champ and despite a mediocre outing last week, has to be considered a top pick this week.
Adam Scott - None of the top players are having great years right now, but Adam has won recently and is a former champ here.
Duds
Sergio Garcia - He had a great finish last year, but I think that that was more a product of his "show up and play well for no reason at random" abilities, than a product of the course.
Sleeper
KJ Choi - He had a respectable finish last year and has played well for most of this season. Don't be surprised to see him at the top of the leaderboard.
Group B
Studs
Robert Allenby - He played really well last week, and is generally a pretty reliable player. If he is starting to get on a roll, I want on board.
Jeff Quinney - Had a good finish here last year and is playing pretty well this season. Plus I'm trying to be a little unconventional because I feel like I've used the same players a little too often.
Sean O'Hair - He hasn't had a great year but I've heard too many of the "almost won, then comes back and wins the next year" type stories to not have him in my lineup.
Stewart Cink - He played really well last year and puts himself in contention a lot. Thankfully, winning isn't the only way to score points in fantasy golf.
Duds
Kevin Sutherland - Missed the cut last year and didn't really show up at all last week. Not a good option.
Chad Campbell - He is struggling right now and his appearance last year was terrible. His name might catch your eye, but he shouldn't be your pick.
Sleeper
Miguel Angel Jimenez - He has played pretty well the couple of times he's teed it up this year on the Tour and a veteran like him will be a solid player for the week.
Group C
Studs
Steve Marino - He is playing really well this season and I'm looking for a consistent pick.
Peter Lonard - Played really well here last year and has had some really good moments this season. His game is close, so I think he is worth a shot.
Duds
???? - I don't really see anyone in this group that someone might actually choose that I have a bad feeling about. Unless you were thinking about Jose Maria Olazabal, but you weren't, were you?
Sleeper
Tom Pernice Jr. - Played pretty well here last year and tends to show up as a contender here and there. Sounds like a sleeper to me.
Good Luck!
Time for the 5th major. Last year Sean O'Hair went for it all on 17 and lost it.
Group A
Studs
Phil Mickelson - He is the defending champ and despite a mediocre outing last week, has to be considered a top pick this week.
Adam Scott - None of the top players are having great years right now, but Adam has won recently and is a former champ here.
Duds
Sergio Garcia - He had a great finish last year, but I think that that was more a product of his "show up and play well for no reason at random" abilities, than a product of the course.
Sleeper
KJ Choi - He had a respectable finish last year and has played well for most of this season. Don't be surprised to see him at the top of the leaderboard.
Group B
Studs
Robert Allenby - He played really well last week, and is generally a pretty reliable player. If he is starting to get on a roll, I want on board.
Jeff Quinney - Had a good finish here last year and is playing pretty well this season. Plus I'm trying to be a little unconventional because I feel like I've used the same players a little too often.
Sean O'Hair - He hasn't had a great year but I've heard too many of the "almost won, then comes back and wins the next year" type stories to not have him in my lineup.
Stewart Cink - He played really well last year and puts himself in contention a lot. Thankfully, winning isn't the only way to score points in fantasy golf.
Duds
Kevin Sutherland - Missed the cut last year and didn't really show up at all last week. Not a good option.
Chad Campbell - He is struggling right now and his appearance last year was terrible. His name might catch your eye, but he shouldn't be your pick.
Sleeper
Miguel Angel Jimenez - He has played pretty well the couple of times he's teed it up this year on the Tour and a veteran like him will be a solid player for the week.
Group C
Studs
Steve Marino - He is playing really well this season and I'm looking for a consistent pick.
Peter Lonard - Played really well here last year and has had some really good moments this season. His game is close, so I think he is worth a shot.
Duds
???? - I don't really see anyone in this group that someone might actually choose that I have a bad feeling about. Unless you were thinking about Jose Maria Olazabal, but you weren't, were you?
Sleeper
Tom Pernice Jr. - Played pretty well here last year and tends to show up as a contender here and there. Sounds like a sleeper to me.
Good Luck!
4.28.2008
Yahoo Fantasy Golf Week 18 Preview
What's that I hear? Is it the sound of a bandwagon starting up? Just you wait, the experts will be out in force touting the greatness of their one true love, Adam Scott. Sliced bread has nothing on ole Scotty, let me tell you.
Ok, I suppose that's enough "Adam Scott is overrated" babbling for one week. This week we have the Wachovia. Tiger is home nursing a bum knee so he won't be defending his title. Who will step up and take the trophy?
Group A
Studs
Phil Mickelson - Phil finished third here last year, and has played well enough in recent weeks to be worth a shot. I don't see anyone else that I'm willing to stake my trust in this week. Plus I still have plenty of Phil starts to work with.
Steve Stricker - Steve finished second at this event last year and has shown signs of being ready to make a move. He still needs to put 4 rounds together but he could do that at this event.
Duds
Adam Scott - He has done his deed for the year. Expect him to pack it in from this point on. He's done enough to keep the analysts talking about him so don't expect him to be a factor this week. Once a year is about all he's good for.
Rory Sabatini - He played great here last year but hasn't been doing well lately. Maybe that giant skull belt buckle that he wore at The Masters is throwing his swing off. That thing had to weigh 5 pounds.
Sleeper
Sergio Garcia - He came close to getting into the mix last week, and you never know when the fairway jumping Sergio is going to show up.
Group B
Studs
Kevin Sutherland - Kev played really well for 3 rounds last week and has been a pretty consistent player this season. I think he is good for another week.
Stewart Cink - I'm not too confident that he could win, but he has scored well enough to be a solid starter.
Anthony Kim - He has been coming on lately and had a good finish two weeks ago at the Verizon and held his own in bad weather last week. I think he is due for a solid finish given that he finished 5th at this event last year.
Camillo Villegas - He played well last week for a while. His game is picking up steam and I think he is worth a roster spot.
John Senden - Played well here last year but I have some questions about his game right now. he could prove me wrong however.
Duds
Stuart Appelby - See you in Hawaii in January. He won't be a factor again this season.
Charlie Wi - A great putter that can keep himself in contention. Assuming he can get to the green in a reasonable amount of shots. Which he apparently hasn't lately.
Sleeper
Billy Mayfair - Good finish last year and has a respectable year going. Sometimes the veterans are the best sleepers because even if they don't win, they at least score some points.
Group C
Studs
John Merrick - I had the feeling that he was due this week. The last time I thought that, I didn't use him and he finished 3rd. I won't make that mistake this time.
Steve Marino - I had Steve in the lineup until this morning(wed) and decided to throw Immelman in there. We'll just have to wait and see if that is a smart choice.
Duds
Luke Donald - He did make the cut last week but he hasn't done anything noteworthy in several weeks. He was a non-factor last week on a course that he has torn up in the past. Time to let him sit on the shelf
Fred Couples - Too much of a gamble given the amount of times he was shown stretching his back at The Masters.
Sleeper
Trevor Immelman - From Dud to sleeper. I think Trevor is feeling a little embarrassed at his start last week. I mean, wouldn't you if you had just won The Masters and followed it up with a 78-75? I think that that was the sobering wake up call he needed to get refocused. Expect him to be ready to prove a point this week.
Good Luck!
Ok, I suppose that's enough "Adam Scott is overrated" babbling for one week. This week we have the Wachovia. Tiger is home nursing a bum knee so he won't be defending his title. Who will step up and take the trophy?
Group A
Studs
Phil Mickelson - Phil finished third here last year, and has played well enough in recent weeks to be worth a shot. I don't see anyone else that I'm willing to stake my trust in this week. Plus I still have plenty of Phil starts to work with.
Steve Stricker - Steve finished second at this event last year and has shown signs of being ready to make a move. He still needs to put 4 rounds together but he could do that at this event.
Duds
Adam Scott - He has done his deed for the year. Expect him to pack it in from this point on. He's done enough to keep the analysts talking about him so don't expect him to be a factor this week. Once a year is about all he's good for.
Rory Sabatini - He played great here last year but hasn't been doing well lately. Maybe that giant skull belt buckle that he wore at The Masters is throwing his swing off. That thing had to weigh 5 pounds.
Sleeper
Sergio Garcia - He came close to getting into the mix last week, and you never know when the fairway jumping Sergio is going to show up.
Group B
Studs
Kevin Sutherland - Kev played really well for 3 rounds last week and has been a pretty consistent player this season. I think he is good for another week.
Stewart Cink - I'm not too confident that he could win, but he has scored well enough to be a solid starter.
Anthony Kim - He has been coming on lately and had a good finish two weeks ago at the Verizon and held his own in bad weather last week. I think he is due for a solid finish given that he finished 5th at this event last year.
Camillo Villegas - He played well last week for a while. His game is picking up steam and I think he is worth a roster spot.
John Senden - Played well here last year but I have some questions about his game right now. he could prove me wrong however.
Duds
Stuart Appelby - See you in Hawaii in January. He won't be a factor again this season.
Charlie Wi - A great putter that can keep himself in contention. Assuming he can get to the green in a reasonable amount of shots. Which he apparently hasn't lately.
Sleeper
Billy Mayfair - Good finish last year and has a respectable year going. Sometimes the veterans are the best sleepers because even if they don't win, they at least score some points.
Group C
Studs
John Merrick - I had the feeling that he was due this week. The last time I thought that, I didn't use him and he finished 3rd. I won't make that mistake this time.
Steve Marino - I had Steve in the lineup until this morning(wed) and decided to throw Immelman in there. We'll just have to wait and see if that is a smart choice.
Duds
Luke Donald - He did make the cut last week but he hasn't done anything noteworthy in several weeks. He was a non-factor last week on a course that he has torn up in the past. Time to let him sit on the shelf
Fred Couples - Too much of a gamble given the amount of times he was shown stretching his back at The Masters.
Sleeper
Trevor Immelman - From Dud to sleeper. I think Trevor is feeling a little embarrassed at his start last week. I mean, wouldn't you if you had just won The Masters and followed it up with a 78-75? I think that that was the sobering wake up call he needed to get refocused. Expect him to be ready to prove a point this week.
Good Luck!
4.23.2008
Off And Running.....and stumbling a bit
Our weekly golf league finally started this week. Boy it was good to be back out there hitting the ball around again after watching the pros do it for 16 weeks. Unfortunately, with the new baby, and the house repairs I've been doing to try to get our house on the market, I haven't been able to get in a single hole of practice. I hit some wedges in the yard on Sunday and that was it for my preparation.
Given that, I can't be too disappointed. I'm not a great golfer but I'm getting better. Right now I have a 10 handicap for 9 holes. I actually worked my way down to that from a 14 last season, so I have improved a lot. So have my expectations.
I was standing on the 4th tee 1 over par, having missed three straight birdie putts. (I actually 3 putted one green which accounted for the bogey). Despite the putting woes, I was feeling pretty good about my game. My irons and my driver were on fire.
Unfortunately my confidence got a bit too high, because I played the next four holes in 9 over par. On one par 5 I took 2 shots to cover the first 400 yards, and 5 to cover the last 100. I was leaking shots all over the place.
I pulled it back together on the last two holes and finished with a 48. I was pretty disappointed after the good start I had. Last year I would have been thrilled to start with a 48, but I have higher expectations now. I really hope that I can improve on last year's gains and not revert. I really feel like my swing is great shape, I'm just not that consistent. I guess I have to expect that when I play 9 holes a week.
I'm already looking forward to next week. The back 9 is tougher but a patient player can score well. I had a lot of good rounds back there last year. I just need to play within myself and not take too many chances.
I hope all of you are getting out there and playing. The weather here has been great. Hit 'em straight!!!
Given that, I can't be too disappointed. I'm not a great golfer but I'm getting better. Right now I have a 10 handicap for 9 holes. I actually worked my way down to that from a 14 last season, so I have improved a lot. So have my expectations.
I was standing on the 4th tee 1 over par, having missed three straight birdie putts. (I actually 3 putted one green which accounted for the bogey). Despite the putting woes, I was feeling pretty good about my game. My irons and my driver were on fire.
Unfortunately my confidence got a bit too high, because I played the next four holes in 9 over par. On one par 5 I took 2 shots to cover the first 400 yards, and 5 to cover the last 100. I was leaking shots all over the place.
I pulled it back together on the last two holes and finished with a 48. I was pretty disappointed after the good start I had. Last year I would have been thrilled to start with a 48, but I have higher expectations now. I really hope that I can improve on last year's gains and not revert. I really feel like my swing is great shape, I'm just not that consistent. I guess I have to expect that when I play 9 holes a week.
I'm already looking forward to next week. The back 9 is tougher but a patient player can score well. I had a lot of good rounds back there last year. I just need to play within myself and not take too many chances.
I hope all of you are getting out there and playing. The weather here has been great. Hit 'em straight!!!
4.22.2008
Yahoo Fantasy Golf Week 17 Preview
Time for the EDS Byron Nelson. Scott Verplank returns as defending champ to a course that has made some changes. Will he be able to adapt and defend?
Group A
Studs
Rory Sabatini - He played well at this event last year and is playing well this year. Hard to pass him up.
Adam Scott - He has played better than expected this year but still not much to write home about. This is the kind of event that he could win, however, and get all the experts excited again. If he does, be prepared to hear them comparing him to Tiger and Phil for the next few weeks...
Duds
Carl Petterson - Good track record here but not much to show for this season. I just don't see how his performances coming into this week could point to a good finish for him.
Sleeper
Scott Verplank - The defending champ a sleeper? Sure, when he hasn't played well all year. It's possible he could wake up at this event and contend. He certainly has the talent level.
Group B
Studs
Kevin Sutherland - Playing really solid of late. This kind of event suits him well as a lot of the heavy hitters are still licking their Masters wounds. Expect a good finish from him this week.
Chad Campbell - Same story here really. He has played well of late and is on pace to contend this week.
Ryuji Imada - Different story with these next two. Both have cooled off a little but have good finishes at this event last year. I'm betting that his talent combined with the good memories will wake him up this week.
Ken Duke - See above
Justin Leonard - I've already used him 5 times but he is definitely playing well right now. He would be worth a start if I had one to spare. Gotta save some for the second half!
Ian Poulter - Good showing at The Masters and is a consistent player.
Duds
John Senden - Playing well all year but cooling off of late. He was hot and cold last week and couldn't really ever get into contention.
Anthony Kim - Don't expect him to back up his second place finish from a week ago quite this soon.
Sleeper
Tim Wilkinson - I still feel like this guy is going to surprise everyone at some point this season. Maybe this is the week.
Group C
Studs
Troy Matteson - I go on my gut a lot in this game and my gut tells me that Troy is due. Plus he played well here last year. Will my gut have my back? (that's a weird mental picture)
Luke Donald - I'm out of first half starts for him so he'll start on the bench and I hope I don't have to use him, but I have to have him in the lineup given his track record here.
Duds
Trevor Immelman - No way is he down from the mountain yet. Still too early for him to be ready to grind again. I see that Vara disagrees with me greatly on this one. We'll see...
Sleeper
Brian Davis - He is still looking for that first win on tour and this is the kind of week that he could do it. He came close early in the year so I know his game is pretty solid.
Good Luck!
Group A
Studs
Rory Sabatini - He played well at this event last year and is playing well this year. Hard to pass him up.
Adam Scott - He has played better than expected this year but still not much to write home about. This is the kind of event that he could win, however, and get all the experts excited again. If he does, be prepared to hear them comparing him to Tiger and Phil for the next few weeks...
Duds
Carl Petterson - Good track record here but not much to show for this season. I just don't see how his performances coming into this week could point to a good finish for him.
Sleeper
Scott Verplank - The defending champ a sleeper? Sure, when he hasn't played well all year. It's possible he could wake up at this event and contend. He certainly has the talent level.
Group B
Studs
Kevin Sutherland - Playing really solid of late. This kind of event suits him well as a lot of the heavy hitters are still licking their Masters wounds. Expect a good finish from him this week.
Chad Campbell - Same story here really. He has played well of late and is on pace to contend this week.
Ryuji Imada - Different story with these next two. Both have cooled off a little but have good finishes at this event last year. I'm betting that his talent combined with the good memories will wake him up this week.
Ken Duke - See above
Justin Leonard - I've already used him 5 times but he is definitely playing well right now. He would be worth a start if I had one to spare. Gotta save some for the second half!
Ian Poulter - Good showing at The Masters and is a consistent player.
Duds
John Senden - Playing well all year but cooling off of late. He was hot and cold last week and couldn't really ever get into contention.
Anthony Kim - Don't expect him to back up his second place finish from a week ago quite this soon.
Sleeper
Tim Wilkinson - I still feel like this guy is going to surprise everyone at some point this season. Maybe this is the week.
Group C
Studs
Troy Matteson - I go on my gut a lot in this game and my gut tells me that Troy is due. Plus he played well here last year. Will my gut have my back? (that's a weird mental picture)
Luke Donald - I'm out of first half starts for him so he'll start on the bench and I hope I don't have to use him, but I have to have him in the lineup given his track record here.
Duds
Trevor Immelman - No way is he down from the mountain yet. Still too early for him to be ready to grind again. I see that Vara disagrees with me greatly on this one. We'll see...
Sleeper
Brian Davis - He is still looking for that first win on tour and this is the kind of week that he could do it. He came close early in the year so I know his game is pretty solid.
Good Luck!
4.17.2008
My Apologies...
Sorry I didn't get the preview done this week. It's been a crazy week. It will be back next week.
4.09.2008
This Funny Game
Today I'd like to hear from you guys. What's the funniest golf story you know? I'm sure we all have some good ones and it's always fun to share. Just leave a comment on this post with your story so we can all get a good laugh. I'll start...
I was out with some guys from work and wasn't playing that great. We got to the last hole and I was determined to hit one good drive that day. I didn't, so like any other guy trying to get my money's worth, I teed up another ball and gave it one last shot. My swing felt off, as it had all day, and when I looked up, I saw the ball going straight down the middle of the fairway, but I also immediately noticed a couple of problems. First, the shot was very low and clearly wasn't going to get very much distance, and second, the ball looked an awful lot like the head of my driver...
I was out with some guys from work and wasn't playing that great. We got to the last hole and I was determined to hit one good drive that day. I didn't, so like any other guy trying to get my money's worth, I teed up another ball and gave it one last shot. My swing felt off, as it had all day, and when I looked up, I saw the ball going straight down the middle of the fairway, but I also immediately noticed a couple of problems. First, the shot was very low and clearly wasn't going to get very much distance, and second, the ball looked an awful lot like the head of my driver...
4.07.2008
Yahoo Fantasy Golf Week 15 Preview
The Masters. This is my favorite sporting event of the year. There is just nothing like the mystique of Augusta. It would be great to win a major, but I bet that deep down inside most tour pros would tell you that this one means more than all the rest. Just the idea that if you win, you will be a part of this tournament in some way for the rest of your life. Even if you can't get a tour card, you can play here. That green jacket is special, and so is the level of talent that gets in to take a shot at it. The winner of this event has all the bragging rights.
Last year the dry turf led to some really high scores. There was plenty of roll but no one could get a ball to stop anywhere near the hole. I've heard that the course isn't that dry this year which means that the long hitters are licking their chops, but it also means that the ball strikers will be able to hit it close and get it to stick. Don't expect an over par winner again this year. Something around 8 under seems likely to me.
Now for the preview....
Group A
Studs
Tiger Woods - Seriously, you have to be crazy not to think Tiger is going to be jacked up for this one. Watch for the slow start though. He typically doesn't shoot lights out in round one. (He has shot 72 or worse in every opening round since 2002, and only shot 70 in '00 and '01.)
Geoff Ogilvy - Which gives you a chance to get Geoff in there before Tiger gets going. I would be very surprised if Geoff doesn't get bonus points this week. He's playing great and could give Tiger a run.
Duds
Padgraig Harrington - So much for the 3 week lead up. He wasn't a factor at all this past week, and given that the course was set up to look and feel like Augusta, you have to wonder.
Phil Mickelson - He switched putters twice this past week and missed a lot of short putts. Despite his confidence in his post tournament interview, his game isn't good enough right now.
Sleeper
Justin Rose - Rose always seems to play well here, but he hasn't won. It would be really tough to justify using him but if it's finally his year, it could be worth it.
Group B
Studs
Retief Goosen - The top choice from group B. Played really well last year and has the mentality for majors. He could be a serious contender this week.
Stewart Cink - This group is really weak. Cink is the next best option? He has played really well most of the year but his mental game will ultimately get in the way. I'm just hoping for a few good rounds out of him
Robert Allenby - Consistency is the name of his game. He won't win, but he will make the cut and score decent points. Unfortunately that is the best group B has to offer this week.
Sean O'Hair - A gut feeling here. He just feels like he is in the same sort of situation that Zach Johnson was last year. He has won this season already so his game is in good shape.
Duds
Vaughn Taylor - He has done ok here in the past but his game has been really terrible all year. I can't see how one of the hardest courses on tour is going to bring out his best game.
Stuart Appleby - No Aussie has ever won the masters and Stuart has really taken a step back from his fast start. I just don't see him playing well enough to warrant a start.
Sleeper
None - I can't justify a real sleeper from this group. It's total slop from top to bottom.
Group C
Studs
Fred Couples - Given that he has made 22 straight cuts at the masters and that he played out of his mind last week, you have to have him on your team. I was wrong about him last week. His game is as good as it's been in years, and with a little luck, he could contend this week.
Luke Donald - A great player that will probably step it up for this event. Rarely does a guy win this tourny that isn't already a great player, so it's a good idea to fill your lineup with these kind of players.
Duds
Jose Maria Olazabal - He's coming off an injury and I don't feel like he is going to be able to contend.
Sleeper
Tim Clark - He has had some good finishes here in recent years, and his game might wake up this week. He's had some good weeks this season so you never know.
Good Luck!
Last year the dry turf led to some really high scores. There was plenty of roll but no one could get a ball to stop anywhere near the hole. I've heard that the course isn't that dry this year which means that the long hitters are licking their chops, but it also means that the ball strikers will be able to hit it close and get it to stick. Don't expect an over par winner again this year. Something around 8 under seems likely to me.
Now for the preview....
Group A
Studs
Tiger Woods - Seriously, you have to be crazy not to think Tiger is going to be jacked up for this one. Watch for the slow start though. He typically doesn't shoot lights out in round one. (He has shot 72 or worse in every opening round since 2002, and only shot 70 in '00 and '01.)
Geoff Ogilvy - Which gives you a chance to get Geoff in there before Tiger gets going. I would be very surprised if Geoff doesn't get bonus points this week. He's playing great and could give Tiger a run.
Duds
Padgraig Harrington - So much for the 3 week lead up. He wasn't a factor at all this past week, and given that the course was set up to look and feel like Augusta, you have to wonder.
Phil Mickelson - He switched putters twice this past week and missed a lot of short putts. Despite his confidence in his post tournament interview, his game isn't good enough right now.
Sleeper
Justin Rose - Rose always seems to play well here, but he hasn't won. It would be really tough to justify using him but if it's finally his year, it could be worth it.
Group B
Studs
Retief Goosen - The top choice from group B. Played really well last year and has the mentality for majors. He could be a serious contender this week.
Stewart Cink - This group is really weak. Cink is the next best option? He has played really well most of the year but his mental game will ultimately get in the way. I'm just hoping for a few good rounds out of him
Robert Allenby - Consistency is the name of his game. He won't win, but he will make the cut and score decent points. Unfortunately that is the best group B has to offer this week.
Sean O'Hair - A gut feeling here. He just feels like he is in the same sort of situation that Zach Johnson was last year. He has won this season already so his game is in good shape.
Duds
Vaughn Taylor - He has done ok here in the past but his game has been really terrible all year. I can't see how one of the hardest courses on tour is going to bring out his best game.
Stuart Appleby - No Aussie has ever won the masters and Stuart has really taken a step back from his fast start. I just don't see him playing well enough to warrant a start.
Sleeper
None - I can't justify a real sleeper from this group. It's total slop from top to bottom.
Group C
Studs
Fred Couples - Given that he has made 22 straight cuts at the masters and that he played out of his mind last week, you have to have him on your team. I was wrong about him last week. His game is as good as it's been in years, and with a little luck, he could contend this week.
Luke Donald - A great player that will probably step it up for this event. Rarely does a guy win this tourny that isn't already a great player, so it's a good idea to fill your lineup with these kind of players.
Duds
Jose Maria Olazabal - He's coming off an injury and I don't feel like he is going to be able to contend.
Sleeper
Tim Clark - He has had some good finishes here in recent years, and his game might wake up this week. He's had some good weeks this season so you never know.
Good Luck!
4.06.2008
Wagners East!
Ok, I watch a lot of golf, but even I had never heard of Johnson Wagner prior to this week, despite the fact that he apparently contended at this event last year. It really is amazing how some guys can play with the best on one specific course but can't do it week in and week out. JB Holmes is another example of this. Two wins on tour but both on the same course and very little else in the way of great play.
Having said all that you can't help but feel good for Wagner. He played great down the stretch and finished off a wire to wire win for his first on tour. Plus he gets to play at Augusta this week to boot. It will be interesting to see if he can make the cut. If I were him I would try to get down there asap and start putting. He putted very well this week and if he can keep that going he can play the weekend. I do think that his lack of length off the tee will be more of a problem at Augusta. You just can't hit a precise enough shot into some of those greens from 200+ yards out.
I've already started scanning the history books for this week's tournament. My last two weeks of fantasy golf haven't been great and I really need to have a good week. From what I have learned already, they have made very little in the way of changes to the course. I know the tourny officials don't want another over par winner this year though. The Masters is supposed to be about the best players making great shots down the stretch, not a war of attrition like the British and US Opens. I'm sure the officials will find a way to keep that from happening again this year.
Only two more weeks until my weekly golf league starts! My partner and I hope to defend our regular season title from a year ago. I dropped 4 strokes off of my 9 hole handicap last year and I'm hoping to continue to get better. It will be nice to get out there and hit it around a bit.
Having said all that you can't help but feel good for Wagner. He played great down the stretch and finished off a wire to wire win for his first on tour. Plus he gets to play at Augusta this week to boot. It will be interesting to see if he can make the cut. If I were him I would try to get down there asap and start putting. He putted very well this week and if he can keep that going he can play the weekend. I do think that his lack of length off the tee will be more of a problem at Augusta. You just can't hit a precise enough shot into some of those greens from 200+ yards out.
I've already started scanning the history books for this week's tournament. My last two weeks of fantasy golf haven't been great and I really need to have a good week. From what I have learned already, they have made very little in the way of changes to the course. I know the tourny officials don't want another over par winner this year though. The Masters is supposed to be about the best players making great shots down the stretch, not a war of attrition like the British and US Opens. I'm sure the officials will find a way to keep that from happening again this year.
Only two more weeks until my weekly golf league starts! My partner and I hope to defend our regular season title from a year ago. I dropped 4 strokes off of my 9 hole handicap last year and I'm hoping to continue to get better. It will be nice to get out there and hit it around a bit.
4.02.2008
Houston, We Have Experience
I forgot to mention a couple of things in my preview yesterday.
KJ Choi lives in Houston. Yet another reason to have him in your lineup if you don't already, and Anders Hansen went to the University of Houston.
That kind of local experience should be big for both players.
KJ Choi lives in Houston. Yet another reason to have him in your lineup if you don't already, and Anders Hansen went to the University of Houston.
That kind of local experience should be big for both players.
4.01.2008
Yahoo Fantasy Golf Week 14: Preview
Wow that was a terrible week. I dropped almost 2,500 places in the overall rankings and was nearly booted from my elimination league. Thankfully 1 other person had a worse week. That's golf for you. DQ's and rain delays always play havoc with your lineup and who would have thought that both Furyk and Stricker would miss the cut?
This week we have the Shell Houston Open. 7500 yards of the Redstone course. Needless to say, only long hitters need apply.
On to the preview...
Group A
Studs
KJ Choi - I have been itching to use KJ all year and finally he is playing a course where he has had success. He is having a great year and is a very solid pro and should be a great choice this week.
Adam Scott - Winner here last year, and he played really well last week. Personally I've always thought of Adam Scott as a poser, but he seems like a pretty good pick this week. Having said that, if I see some other experts picking Harrington over him. I'll be likely to change.
Padraig Harrington - He said that he peaks in his third week. This is week two of that set, and if week 1 was any indication, his game is rounding into form. If he plays well again this week, it will be hard not to have him riding the pine behind Tiger next week.
Duds
Phil Mickelson - He hasn't played that well lately, and I'm just not feeling like he is due for a good week. He is probably just using this as a practice week for The Masters and as a fantasy player I want guys that are really trying to win now.
Sleeper
Geoff Ogilvy - Not much of a sleeper I know, but here is the thing. He hasn't played well here before, but given his start this season, his is a pretty solid pick.
Group B
Studs
Robert Allenby - The safe pick. A solid player that will probably play well but not contend. I'm all about taking the safe picks after last week.
Bart Bryant - Bart has had a really good start this year and I just feel like he is a long enough hitter and consistent enough player to be a solid pick this week.
Stuart Appleby - Risk alert!! Stuart has a tremendous track record at this event and is having a really solid year. Unfortunately his last outing was less than stellar. Will he pick up where he left off or turn things around this week?
Kevin Sutherland - A decently long hitter that is having a good year. Another guy that I see as a safe pick to make some good scores.
Bubba Watson - The longest hitter on tour is always an option this week. I considered him for a long time, then took him out, and now he's back in.
Duds
Justin Leonard - His year is tailing off pretty quickly. He still has plenty of time to get back on track but I can't see him bouncing back this week.
Anthony Kim - Great finish here last year and a long hitter makes him seem like an attractive pick. Personally I'm tired of waiting for him to step up and earn the reputation he has gotten by getting a win. He hasn't played too well this season and I don't want to waste a roster spot on him.
Sleeper
Tim Wilkinson - Not a huge hitter but long enough to survive. He finished 3rd last week and looks to be rounding into form.
Group C
Studs
Anders Hansen - A Euro that is having a great season across the pond. He finished 12th at Doral, proving that he can play in the states.
John Merrick - He is sneaking up on a lot of people with several really good finishes this season. Look for him to continue his stellar play.
Steve Marino - Ok so he finally missed a cut after 9 straight, but he is still playing great. Hard to go wrong with him here.
Duds
Fred Couples - Great history at this event (albeit on a different course) but Freddy isn't good for much more than one round. He might lead after round one, but you won't hear from him after that.
Peter Lonard - Lonard played great last week but he doesn't do that very often. There is no reason to believe he is going to do it twice in a row.
Sleeper
Brett Wetterich - A long hitter that has played well at times. Long hitters will do well this week, so it may pay off.
Good luck!
This week we have the Shell Houston Open. 7500 yards of the Redstone course. Needless to say, only long hitters need apply.
On to the preview...
Group A
Studs
KJ Choi - I have been itching to use KJ all year and finally he is playing a course where he has had success. He is having a great year and is a very solid pro and should be a great choice this week.
Adam Scott - Winner here last year, and he played really well last week. Personally I've always thought of Adam Scott as a poser, but he seems like a pretty good pick this week. Having said that, if I see some other experts picking Harrington over him. I'll be likely to change.
Padraig Harrington - He said that he peaks in his third week. This is week two of that set, and if week 1 was any indication, his game is rounding into form. If he plays well again this week, it will be hard not to have him riding the pine behind Tiger next week.
Duds
Phil Mickelson - He hasn't played that well lately, and I'm just not feeling like he is due for a good week. He is probably just using this as a practice week for The Masters and as a fantasy player I want guys that are really trying to win now.
Sleeper
Geoff Ogilvy - Not much of a sleeper I know, but here is the thing. He hasn't played well here before, but given his start this season, his is a pretty solid pick.
Group B
Studs
Robert Allenby - The safe pick. A solid player that will probably play well but not contend. I'm all about taking the safe picks after last week.
Bart Bryant - Bart has had a really good start this year and I just feel like he is a long enough hitter and consistent enough player to be a solid pick this week.
Stuart Appleby - Risk alert!! Stuart has a tremendous track record at this event and is having a really solid year. Unfortunately his last outing was less than stellar. Will he pick up where he left off or turn things around this week?
Kevin Sutherland - A decently long hitter that is having a good year. Another guy that I see as a safe pick to make some good scores.
Bubba Watson - The longest hitter on tour is always an option this week. I considered him for a long time, then took him out, and now he's back in.
Duds
Justin Leonard - His year is tailing off pretty quickly. He still has plenty of time to get back on track but I can't see him bouncing back this week.
Anthony Kim - Great finish here last year and a long hitter makes him seem like an attractive pick. Personally I'm tired of waiting for him to step up and earn the reputation he has gotten by getting a win. He hasn't played too well this season and I don't want to waste a roster spot on him.
Sleeper
Tim Wilkinson - Not a huge hitter but long enough to survive. He finished 3rd last week and looks to be rounding into form.
Group C
Studs
Anders Hansen - A Euro that is having a great season across the pond. He finished 12th at Doral, proving that he can play in the states.
John Merrick - He is sneaking up on a lot of people with several really good finishes this season. Look for him to continue his stellar play.
Steve Marino - Ok so he finally missed a cut after 9 straight, but he is still playing great. Hard to go wrong with him here.
Duds
Fred Couples - Great history at this event (albeit on a different course) but Freddy isn't good for much more than one round. He might lead after round one, but you won't hear from him after that.
Peter Lonard - Lonard played great last week but he doesn't do that very often. There is no reason to believe he is going to do it twice in a row.
Sleeper
Brett Wetterich - A long hitter that has played well at times. Long hitters will do well this week, so it may pay off.
Good luck!
3.27.2008
Glover
Some of you may be wondering why I didn't pick Lucas Glover this week. It seems that he is the hot pick for a lot of folks and I didn't address him at all. The reason is that despite his great track record here, he has played terrible all year. Last week I tried my luck with a player(Sergio Garcia) that had played bad all year but had a good track record and it was a waste of a roster spot, so I wasn't going to go that route again.
So there you have it. Now Lucas Glover is practically guaranteed to win...
So there you have it. Now Lucas Glover is practically guaranteed to win...
3.25.2008
Yahoo Fantasy Golf Week 13 Preview
It's never a good thing to play Tiger and have him lose. At least my last minute sub Retief Goosen faired well. I still moved up in the overall rankings so I have to call it a success.
This week we have the Zurich Classic. I'm leaving off the duds and sleepers this week because I'm just too busy. I'm sorry, but I AM doing this for free after all. :)
Group A
Steve Stricker - He played really well last week and last year at this event.
Jim Furyk - Same story, great week last week and a good reliable player.
Zach Johnson - Gut feeling. I feel like Zach is going to start rounding into shape very soon so this just might be the week.
Group B
Retief Goosen - Played outstanding last week and looks to be on a roll
Ryuji Imada - Really solid play all year. Not a great finish at this event last year but you have to think he will continue his good play.
Daniel Chopra - Good track record at this event, although I still had a hard time pulling the trigger given his play of late
Anthony Kim - Great talent and good finish last year. I won't play him because his game has been erratic this year but I feel like he could be a contender
Stewart Cink - I think he is playing great golf this year, but after his meltdown a couple of weeks ago I'm not feeling 100% confident. A reliable name but you have to wonder.
Chad Campbell - A big name that is probably a safe middle of the road pick. You just never know when he might have a break out week.
Group C
Tim Clark - Played really well on this course before and good recent play.
Steve Marino - Having a great year. A pretty reliable pick to have a decent week
Kenny Perry - A comfort pick. He won't win but you won't have to worry about him blowing up either.
Frank Lickliter II - Again, good course history and good recent play
Good Luck!!
This week we have the Zurich Classic. I'm leaving off the duds and sleepers this week because I'm just too busy. I'm sorry, but I AM doing this for free after all. :)
Group A
Steve Stricker - He played really well last week and last year at this event.
Jim Furyk - Same story, great week last week and a good reliable player.
Zach Johnson - Gut feeling. I feel like Zach is going to start rounding into shape very soon so this just might be the week.
Group B
Retief Goosen - Played outstanding last week and looks to be on a roll
Ryuji Imada - Really solid play all year. Not a great finish at this event last year but you have to think he will continue his good play.
Daniel Chopra - Good track record at this event, although I still had a hard time pulling the trigger given his play of late
Anthony Kim - Great talent and good finish last year. I won't play him because his game has been erratic this year but I feel like he could be a contender
Stewart Cink - I think he is playing great golf this year, but after his meltdown a couple of weeks ago I'm not feeling 100% confident. A reliable name but you have to wonder.
Chad Campbell - A big name that is probably a safe middle of the road pick. You just never know when he might have a break out week.
Group C
Tim Clark - Played really well on this course before and good recent play.
Steve Marino - Having a great year. A pretty reliable pick to have a decent week
Kenny Perry - A comfort pick. He won't win but you won't have to worry about him blowing up either.
Frank Lickliter II - Again, good course history and good recent play
Good Luck!!
3.20.2008
3.18.2008
How do you spell Retief?
I'm thinking about replacing Stuart Appleby on my B list with Retief Goosen. He played better last week than he has all year. I'm thinking that there may be more upside there.
What do you guys think?
What do you guys think?
More On Wetterich
RotoWorld.com is reporting the following:
Brett Wetterich played in a Pro-Am in Florida on Monday and said his chances of teeing it upat the WGC-CA this week are "70/30," Golf Channel's Tim Rosaforte reported on Monday night.
Brett Wetterich played in a Pro-Am in Florida on Monday and said his chances of teeing it upat the WGC-CA this week are "70/30," Golf Channel's Tim Rosaforte reported on Monday night.
Wetterich added that he feels guilty about returning to a guaranteed payday and won't play unless he's "really ready to go." He also has an open-ended understanding with Dr. James Andrews that if the shoulder (torn labrum) is causing pain, Andrews would perform the surgery, putting Wetterich outside the ropes for the better part of 2008. It's an intriguing situation since the WGC-CA Championship guarantees fantasy points in many formats.
Here is the link
Here is the link
Wetterich Doubtful
An update on the picks below. According to the following article submitted to me by a reader, Brett is probably going to pull out. If he does, I will substitute Luke Donald.
http://www.pgatour.com/2008/tournaments/r473/03/17/ca.pr/index.html
http://www.pgatour.com/2008/tournaments/r473/03/17/ca.pr/index.html
3.17.2008
Week 12: Yahoo Fantasy Golf Preview
Time for the next WGC event. Lots of big names and somewhat limited choices. I'm back to the Studs, Duds, and Sleepers format this week thanks to a couple of requests. I will highlight my choices in blue.
Group A
Studs
Tiger Woods - Clearly it's best to use Tiger when you know he is going to win so as to ensure the 20 point bonus. Anyone want to bet against him this week? I didn't think so...
Sergio Garcia - I know what you are thinking, Vijay played better last week. I hear you, but check this stat out. Sergio has only finished outside the top 12 at this event once in eight starts.
Vijay Singh - But for a four hole stretch on Saturday, Bay Hill would have been his going away. Vijay is back to playing good golf, so he is definitely an option.
Duds
Phil Mickelson - He said himself that he just couldn't get anything going this past week. Couple that with a mediocre track record at this event and it all adds up to saving his starts for a better day.
KJ Choi - KJ hasn't played in the states now for almost a month, and he has a marginal record here. I'm taking a risk labeling him as a dud this week but I just don't see him contending.
Rory Sabatini - Despite his hot start to the season, his play has leveled off, and I don't see anything in his past accomplishments on this course that warrant using him this week.
Sleeper
Arron Baddeley - In his first start last year he pulled in a 6th place finish. A very risky pick in group A but he has a decent shot to make a move.
Group B
Studs
Justin Leonard - Justin is playing great golf this year and he has only finished outside the top 30 at this event once. There aren't any overwhelmingly great choices in group B but I think Justin is a good bet.
Sean O'Hair - Sean's record here is ok, but after the last two weeks, I don't know how you could leave him off of your team. He is playing great golf.
Angel Cabrera - Not playing particularly well this year, but his record at this course is really good. He steps it up for big events so I expect him to be near the top of the leader board this week.
Stuart Appleby - Wow did he have a bad week at Bay Hill. I'm putting him on the list because he is still having a great year and his track record here is pretty good.
Duds
Stephen Ames - Ok enough already. He has played very mediocre golf the last few weeks and I just am not wasting another start on him.
Nick Dougherty - Terrible track record at this event. Sometimes the Euros can come over and have success, but not him this week.
Ryuji Imada - Bad outing last week, combined with never having played this course before. I'll pass.
Sleeper
Robert Allenby - Finished 6th last year after mostly playing badly at this event before that. Has he finally figured this course out?
Group C
Studs
Niclas Fasth - Finished this past week with a 66 on Sunday and has played pretty well here in the past. Plus, unless you listened to me last week, you haven't used any of his starts yet.
Luke Donald - This might be a good week to save a start on Donald. Although he is still a stud. If you have the starts, use him, if not, take a look at my super sleeper this week.
Duds
Tim Clark - Bad year so far this year, and no good on this course. He finished 63rd here last year.
Heath Slocum - Never played this course before and if it wasn't for the one top 10 finish earlier this year at The Sony, you wouldn't even be considering him.
Sleeper
Brett Wetterich - Two starts at this event, two top 6 finishes. I know it's been a tough year for him so far, but he's worth the risk to save a Luke Donald start. He knows how to play this course.
Good luck!
Group A
Studs
Tiger Woods - Clearly it's best to use Tiger when you know he is going to win so as to ensure the 20 point bonus. Anyone want to bet against him this week? I didn't think so...
Sergio Garcia - I know what you are thinking, Vijay played better last week. I hear you, but check this stat out. Sergio has only finished outside the top 12 at this event once in eight starts.
Vijay Singh - But for a four hole stretch on Saturday, Bay Hill would have been his going away. Vijay is back to playing good golf, so he is definitely an option.
Duds
Phil Mickelson - He said himself that he just couldn't get anything going this past week. Couple that with a mediocre track record at this event and it all adds up to saving his starts for a better day.
KJ Choi - KJ hasn't played in the states now for almost a month, and he has a marginal record here. I'm taking a risk labeling him as a dud this week but I just don't see him contending.
Rory Sabatini - Despite his hot start to the season, his play has leveled off, and I don't see anything in his past accomplishments on this course that warrant using him this week.
Sleeper
Arron Baddeley - In his first start last year he pulled in a 6th place finish. A very risky pick in group A but he has a decent shot to make a move.
Group B
Studs
Justin Leonard - Justin is playing great golf this year and he has only finished outside the top 30 at this event once. There aren't any overwhelmingly great choices in group B but I think Justin is a good bet.
Sean O'Hair - Sean's record here is ok, but after the last two weeks, I don't know how you could leave him off of your team. He is playing great golf.
Angel Cabrera - Not playing particularly well this year, but his record at this course is really good. He steps it up for big events so I expect him to be near the top of the leader board this week.
Stuart Appleby - Wow did he have a bad week at Bay Hill. I'm putting him on the list because he is still having a great year and his track record here is pretty good.
Duds
Stephen Ames - Ok enough already. He has played very mediocre golf the last few weeks and I just am not wasting another start on him.
Nick Dougherty - Terrible track record at this event. Sometimes the Euros can come over and have success, but not him this week.
Ryuji Imada - Bad outing last week, combined with never having played this course before. I'll pass.
Sleeper
Robert Allenby - Finished 6th last year after mostly playing badly at this event before that. Has he finally figured this course out?
Group C
Studs
Niclas Fasth - Finished this past week with a 66 on Sunday and has played pretty well here in the past. Plus, unless you listened to me last week, you haven't used any of his starts yet.
Luke Donald - This might be a good week to save a start on Donald. Although he is still a stud. If you have the starts, use him, if not, take a look at my super sleeper this week.
Duds
Tim Clark - Bad year so far this year, and no good on this course. He finished 63rd here last year.
Heath Slocum - Never played this course before and if it wasn't for the one top 10 finish earlier this year at The Sony, you wouldn't even be considering him.
Sleeper
Brett Wetterich - Two starts at this event, two top 6 finishes. I know it's been a tough year for him so far, but he's worth the risk to save a Luke Donald start. He knows how to play this course.
Good luck!
Monday Wrapup
For those of you that got to see the final round yesterday, it was quite a treat. I love to see Tiger pushed and forced to work hard right up to the 72nd hole. I don't think that there was a single person watching that thought he might lose, but it was still nice to finally see someone give him a run for his money. That putt on 18 was something to behold. I still can't quite believe he made it. I mean, you figure he will, but at the same time it's hard to understand how he can continually win that way time after time. You keep thinking there has to be some human frailty in there somewhere, but it just doesn't show itself very often.
Fantasy-wise it wasn't a great week for me until Sunday. I played Tiger early, and should have had Vijay in there. So I got Vijay into the lineup on Saturday in case he ended up winning and, of course, that was the day he shot +3. B Group worked out ok as Ames played mediocre, but Bart Bryant ended up getting second. Fasth tied Tiger for the round of the day on Sunday to get me another cool 20 points. I moved up about 2000 spots in the overall rankings so I won't complain.
This week we have another WGC event to contend with. Look for my preview probably later today.
Fantasy-wise it wasn't a great week for me until Sunday. I played Tiger early, and should have had Vijay in there. So I got Vijay into the lineup on Saturday in case he ended up winning and, of course, that was the day he shot +3. B Group worked out ok as Ames played mediocre, but Bart Bryant ended up getting second. Fasth tied Tiger for the round of the day on Sunday to get me another cool 20 points. I moved up about 2000 spots in the overall rankings so I won't complain.
This week we have another WGC event to contend with. Look for my preview probably later today.
3.13.2008
John Daly, Not Helping His Cause
Time to expand on the last minute departure of Ryuji Imada from yesterday. Apparently what happened, was that John Daly skipped his Pro-Am tee time which made Nick O'Hern and Ryuji Imada (who were both Pro-Am alternates) responsible for playing in his spot. Neither was aware of this until it was too late and were subsequently DQ'd right along with Daly in a chain reaction of events.
Daly seems to be having his problems of late. He was dumped by his golf coach Butch Harmon last week at the Pods and seems to be starting on another of his downward spirals. As a likable guy, you have to feel for him, but these kind of bad choices seem to keep happening.
Clearly he didn't make any new friends with his latest antics, and you have to wonder how much longer John will be able to compete on the Tour with his mindset like this. His game is already out of sorts and his mind clearly isn't on golf. He has always been sort of a cult hero to golf fans but you have to wonder if we are seeing the last of anything resembling competitive golf from John.
Here's hoping he turns things around. Personally, as a Christian, I feel like God is what is needed here more than anything, but it's up to him to want to change.
Daly seems to be having his problems of late. He was dumped by his golf coach Butch Harmon last week at the Pods and seems to be starting on another of his downward spirals. As a likable guy, you have to feel for him, but these kind of bad choices seem to keep happening.
Clearly he didn't make any new friends with his latest antics, and you have to wonder how much longer John will be able to compete on the Tour with his mindset like this. His game is already out of sorts and his mind clearly isn't on golf. He has always been sort of a cult hero to golf fans but you have to wonder if we are seeing the last of anything resembling competitive golf from John.
Here's hoping he turns things around. Personally, as a Christian, I feel like God is what is needed here more than anything, but it's up to him to want to change.
3.12.2008
Ryuji Imada OUT!!
In case you missed the news, Ryuji Imada is OUT this week so please update your rosters or you'll be feeling the pain tomorrow.
Apparently he missed his Pro-Am tee time and was subsequently DQ'd.
I updated my picks below to reflect that Bart Bryant is now in.
Apparently he missed his Pro-Am tee time and was subsequently DQ'd.
I updated my picks below to reflect that Bart Bryant is now in.
3.11.2008
Yahoo Fantasy Golf: Week 11 Preview
I'm going to try a different format this week. Let me know which you like better. This week I will just discuss the players I chose and why. (subject to change of course as this is only Tuesday).
A Players
Tiger Woods - 10 starts isn't going to be enough as usual this year. Last year I made up a lot of ground by saving 3 Tiger starts for the Fed Ex cup events. I have no idea if I am going to be able to do that this season.
Vijay Singh - I thought about Phil here but I need to think about starts. I have already used Phil twice so I went with Vijay. It's not like I'm going to use him anyway...
B Players
Stuart Appleby - Not a great track record at this event but he has played really well all year. Normally a player you forget about once the tour leaves Hawaii but this year he is staying relevant.
Stephen Ames - He played really well at this event last year and has been up and down this season. I'm going with him mostly on his track record and hoping that it pans out.
Rod Pampling - I had Matt Jones in this spot but I just wasn't feeling that confident about him. He has made a lot of cuts which makes him a safe pick, but he hasn't scored many points. Pampling has two straight top tens entering this event and looks poised to do something big. For that reason, I feel like this pick has more upside right now.
Bart Bryant - Ryuji Imada just pulled out. The word on the street is that he missed his Pro-Am tee time. So Bart Bryant is in. He has played well at this event before and is playing decent this year. I'm not 100% sold on him but I'm out of better options.
C Players
Luke Donald - The best and most reliable C player. I have no idea what I'm going to do once I run out of starts for him
Niclas Fasth - A player that is in the top 64 in the world as evidenced by his participation in the Match Play event. I thought about Immelman and Curtis but neither of those guys are playing well right now despite playing well here last year.
Good luck!!
A Players
Tiger Woods - 10 starts isn't going to be enough as usual this year. Last year I made up a lot of ground by saving 3 Tiger starts for the Fed Ex cup events. I have no idea if I am going to be able to do that this season.
Vijay Singh - I thought about Phil here but I need to think about starts. I have already used Phil twice so I went with Vijay. It's not like I'm going to use him anyway...
B Players
Stuart Appleby - Not a great track record at this event but he has played really well all year. Normally a player you forget about once the tour leaves Hawaii but this year he is staying relevant.
Stephen Ames - He played really well at this event last year and has been up and down this season. I'm going with him mostly on his track record and hoping that it pans out.
Rod Pampling - I had Matt Jones in this spot but I just wasn't feeling that confident about him. He has made a lot of cuts which makes him a safe pick, but he hasn't scored many points. Pampling has two straight top tens entering this event and looks poised to do something big. For that reason, I feel like this pick has more upside right now.
Bart Bryant - Ryuji Imada just pulled out. The word on the street is that he missed his Pro-Am tee time. So Bart Bryant is in. He has played well at this event before and is playing decent this year. I'm not 100% sold on him but I'm out of better options.
C Players
Luke Donald - The best and most reliable C player. I have no idea what I'm going to do once I run out of starts for him
Niclas Fasth - A player that is in the top 64 in the world as evidenced by his participation in the Match Play event. I thought about Immelman and Curtis but neither of those guys are playing well right now despite playing well here last year.
Good luck!!
3.03.2008
Yahoo Fantasy Golf Week 10 Preview
This week the tour shifts to The Pods Championship, and the second event on the Florida swing. Rain is expected for the first two days which could play havoc with our ability to pick players for each round. With the "set in stone" deadlines that Yahoo uses, we may be picking blind. That said, let's get to the preview.
A Players
Studs
Mark Calcavecchia - Mark is a streaky player and he is the defending champ which are both normally red flags, but given his history at this event, and the lack of big names available in group A, he is definitely worth considering. Buyer beware, though, because there is no way to know how that bunker shot on Sunday this past week at the Honda will continue to affect his confidence.
Ernie Els - Ernie showed that he could win again this past week, but his swing is still off. He should figure it out and be fine but if not, you could be wasting a pick. That said, it's hard to pass on the pedigree of a player like Els who is coming off a win, and may be getting things rolling
JB Holmes - His last two outings have been pretty good. Tie for 7th at the Northern Trust Followed by a battle royal with Tiger at the Accenture. If you just want to pick the hot hand, you've found it.
Duds
Justin Rose - Justin is not playing well at all right now. Sure he finished strong this past week but I just haven't seen the type of play that I'm used to from him. He could prove me wrong, but until he does, I'm passing.
Geoff Ogilvy - 3 starts 3 missed cuts. Not much else I can add to that. A great player that can turn it around at any time, but it's not worth the risk in the A group.
Sleepers
Steve Stricker - I know, it's odd having the number 4 player in the world listed as a sleeper, but despite his ranking, I just don't think of him as a top contender yet. That said, he does step up and play big more often than not. You might pass a few folks if you take a flyer on him.
B Players
Studs
Matt Jones - This kid is going to win soon. He showed a lot of guts hanging in till the end at the Honda and his swing and demeanor will take him far. He also hasn't missed a cut yet which makes him a solid pick.
John Senden - John is coming off a few mediocre starts but look for him to get it back on track here. He showed last year that he can play well on this course and should be a contender.
Lucas Glover - Same deal here. Lucas hasn't played all that well this season but he's too good of a player to stay in a slump for long. He played well at this course last year and should be a factor again this week. Plus, with rain in the forecast, I'd rather pick proven players than newbies.
Duds
Retief Goosen - Ok fine, so I'm a little mad at him for falling on his face that last time I picked him but the fact of the matter is, he isn't playing well and there are no signs pointing to a turn around.
Sean O'Hair - Last year Sean was a stud nearly every week but he is definitely having an off year. Until he and some others turn things around, group B is slim pickings.
Daniel Chopra - Since his win at the Mercedez-Benz he has missed 3 cuts and finished outside the top 30 the other three times. Clearly he is riding his success and is content that he has kept his card this year. Until he gets the hunger to compete again, keep him on the bench.
Sleepers
Jesper Parnevik - Jesper had a good week last week, and owns the 3rd best 72 hole score at this event at 13 under. I think he has turned a corner and could contend this week.
Tag Ridings - Tag shot a final round 64 here in 2004 and has shown signs of life this season. A risky pick, but it might pay off big.
C Players
Studs
Joe Durant - Joe has handled this course extremely well in the past to the tune of 63. That kind of potential combined with 0 missed cuts this season makes him the top pick this week in Group C
Kenny Perry - All aboard!! The Kenny Perry train is rolling. Kenny is very streaky and I think the streak is revving up. He played pretty well last week, and again, I like the veterans this week with bad weather on the horizon.
Steve Marino - He is still rolling and racking up decent fantasy points every week. No reason to stop milking this cow just yet.
Duds
Tommy Armour III - Don't let a good track record talk you into picking him. His game is way off right now, and no amount of good memories is going to turn him into a contender this week.
Chez Reavie - The honeymoon is over. He made some fantasy owners very happy early in the year but the ride is over. He hasn't played well for a month now and I can't see any reason to believe that that is going to change this week.
Sleepers
Troy Matteson - He ripped this course for a 64 in 2006 so you know he has the potential to do some damage. Two missed cuts in the last two weeks makes him a risky pick though.
A Players
Studs
Mark Calcavecchia - Mark is a streaky player and he is the defending champ which are both normally red flags, but given his history at this event, and the lack of big names available in group A, he is definitely worth considering. Buyer beware, though, because there is no way to know how that bunker shot on Sunday this past week at the Honda will continue to affect his confidence.
Ernie Els - Ernie showed that he could win again this past week, but his swing is still off. He should figure it out and be fine but if not, you could be wasting a pick. That said, it's hard to pass on the pedigree of a player like Els who is coming off a win, and may be getting things rolling
JB Holmes - His last two outings have been pretty good. Tie for 7th at the Northern Trust Followed by a battle royal with Tiger at the Accenture. If you just want to pick the hot hand, you've found it.
Duds
Justin Rose - Justin is not playing well at all right now. Sure he finished strong this past week but I just haven't seen the type of play that I'm used to from him. He could prove me wrong, but until he does, I'm passing.
Geoff Ogilvy - 3 starts 3 missed cuts. Not much else I can add to that. A great player that can turn it around at any time, but it's not worth the risk in the A group.
Sleepers
Steve Stricker - I know, it's odd having the number 4 player in the world listed as a sleeper, but despite his ranking, I just don't think of him as a top contender yet. That said, he does step up and play big more often than not. You might pass a few folks if you take a flyer on him.
B Players
Studs
Matt Jones - This kid is going to win soon. He showed a lot of guts hanging in till the end at the Honda and his swing and demeanor will take him far. He also hasn't missed a cut yet which makes him a solid pick.
John Senden - John is coming off a few mediocre starts but look for him to get it back on track here. He showed last year that he can play well on this course and should be a contender.
Lucas Glover - Same deal here. Lucas hasn't played all that well this season but he's too good of a player to stay in a slump for long. He played well at this course last year and should be a factor again this week. Plus, with rain in the forecast, I'd rather pick proven players than newbies.
Duds
Retief Goosen - Ok fine, so I'm a little mad at him for falling on his face that last time I picked him but the fact of the matter is, he isn't playing well and there are no signs pointing to a turn around.
Sean O'Hair - Last year Sean was a stud nearly every week but he is definitely having an off year. Until he and some others turn things around, group B is slim pickings.
Daniel Chopra - Since his win at the Mercedez-Benz he has missed 3 cuts and finished outside the top 30 the other three times. Clearly he is riding his success and is content that he has kept his card this year. Until he gets the hunger to compete again, keep him on the bench.
Sleepers
Jesper Parnevik - Jesper had a good week last week, and owns the 3rd best 72 hole score at this event at 13 under. I think he has turned a corner and could contend this week.
Tag Ridings - Tag shot a final round 64 here in 2004 and has shown signs of life this season. A risky pick, but it might pay off big.
C Players
Studs
Joe Durant - Joe has handled this course extremely well in the past to the tune of 63. That kind of potential combined with 0 missed cuts this season makes him the top pick this week in Group C
Kenny Perry - All aboard!! The Kenny Perry train is rolling. Kenny is very streaky and I think the streak is revving up. He played pretty well last week, and again, I like the veterans this week with bad weather on the horizon.
Steve Marino - He is still rolling and racking up decent fantasy points every week. No reason to stop milking this cow just yet.
Duds
Tommy Armour III - Don't let a good track record talk you into picking him. His game is way off right now, and no amount of good memories is going to turn him into a contender this week.
Chez Reavie - The honeymoon is over. He made some fantasy owners very happy early in the year but the ride is over. He hasn't played well for a month now and I can't see any reason to believe that that is going to change this week.
Sleepers
Troy Matteson - He ripped this course for a 64 in 2006 so you know he has the potential to do some damage. Two missed cuts in the last two weeks makes him a risky pick though.
Monday Tidbits: The Honda Classic
Monday tidbits is a piece that will focus on some interesting things you may or may not have noticed from the previous week's tournament.
Luke Donald
Donald shot an opening round 64, to start the tournament at 6 under. He would play the next three rounds a combined 1 over. Had he just shot par for three straight days, he would have been in a playoff with Els.
Boo Weekley
Had essentially the same 3 footer on 18 that he had last year. Last year it would have given him the win and he missed it. This year he made it.....for an 80.
Mark Calcavecchia
I'm not sure about the ruling that Mark got on the 15th green after his bunker shot went into the rocks. I'm not a rule book junkie but I was really surprised when he was allowed to drop his ball on the green. I thought for sure that his only options were to go back in the bunker or go directly across the lake in the same direction. The announcers didn't really explain the ruling either, which keeps me wondering.
Matt Jones
Not really a tidbit so much as a thought. He seems like he is well on his way to becoming a star on tour. Of course we all thought the same thing about Kevin Na a few years ago and he has more or less leveled off. Definitely someone to keep an eye on though, especially for fantasy golf as he has not missed a cut yet this season.
Luke Donald
Donald shot an opening round 64, to start the tournament at 6 under. He would play the next three rounds a combined 1 over. Had he just shot par for three straight days, he would have been in a playoff with Els.
Boo Weekley
Had essentially the same 3 footer on 18 that he had last year. Last year it would have given him the win and he missed it. This year he made it.....for an 80.
Mark Calcavecchia
I'm not sure about the ruling that Mark got on the 15th green after his bunker shot went into the rocks. I'm not a rule book junkie but I was really surprised when he was allowed to drop his ball on the green. I thought for sure that his only options were to go back in the bunker or go directly across the lake in the same direction. The announcers didn't really explain the ruling either, which keeps me wondering.
Matt Jones
Not really a tidbit so much as a thought. He seems like he is well on his way to becoming a star on tour. Of course we all thought the same thing about Kevin Na a few years ago and he has more or less leveled off. Definitely someone to keep an eye on though, especially for fantasy golf as he has not missed a cut yet this season.
2.29.2008
Product Placement
I love Tiger. I'm a huge fan and I love to watch him play. A long time ago I signed up for his newsletter on TigerWoods.com. It's actually really interesting and "appears" to actually be written by him, but of course there is no way to know for sure.
I had to laugh a little at this month's installment however. I have to imagine that he gets a little tired of having to slip endorsements into everything he does. Check out the following excerpt:
"When I was in Tucson last week, I did a little shopping and noticed my new "Gatorade Tiger" in a store. Must admit it was pretty cool and weird; first my own video game, and now a sports drink. A lot of personal time went into the creation of this product and I am proud of all three of the initial flavors we have created, especially Red Drive."
First of all, can you really see Tiger just putzing around at WalMart or some equivalent store? That thought alone made me chuckle.
Beyond that, I hope golf never gets to the NASCAR endorsement level. We already have plenty of guys wearing multiple logos on their person and golf bags. I really don't want to get to the point where we have to hear how the "Verizon Wireless wedges felt great today and my NAPA Autoparts caddy made some great decisions out there....."
Somehow I think that that would start to chip away at the elegance of golf, but that's just me.
I had to laugh a little at this month's installment however. I have to imagine that he gets a little tired of having to slip endorsements into everything he does. Check out the following excerpt:
"When I was in Tucson last week, I did a little shopping and noticed my new "Gatorade Tiger" in a store. Must admit it was pretty cool and weird; first my own video game, and now a sports drink. A lot of personal time went into the creation of this product and I am proud of all three of the initial flavors we have created, especially Red Drive."
First of all, can you really see Tiger just putzing around at WalMart or some equivalent store? That thought alone made me chuckle.
Beyond that, I hope golf never gets to the NASCAR endorsement level. We already have plenty of guys wearing multiple logos on their person and golf bags. I really don't want to get to the point where we have to hear how the "Verizon Wireless wedges felt great today and my NAPA Autoparts caddy made some great decisions out there....."
Somehow I think that that would start to chip away at the elegance of golf, but that's just me.
2.28.2008
Update to the PGA Tour cut rule
The controversial new cut rule that was first introduced to the PGA Tour at this season's Sony Open has been updated. Many players complained about the new rule because it allowed for a player to make the cut, but not play on the weekend.
The idea was that if more that 78 players were included in the "top 70 and ties" that typically make the cut, some would receive credit for a made cut and last place money, but not play the weekend rounds.
The PGA Tour's reasons for doing this were to reduce the amount of time needed to complete weekend rounds, but it obviously rankled the players who felt that they should be allowed the chance to improve their position on the weekend.
Tour officials today announced a compromise. All players that make the cut would play on saturday and then another cut would be made at the "top 70 and ties" level. This third round cut will allow players the chance to improve their positions while also allowing for more manageable Sunday rounds.
The new changes will be in effect this week at The Honda Classic. Tour officials also announced that they will consider simply making the cut at 65 and ties in the future to avoid the double cuts.
Two thoughts:
Firstly, all Yahoo fantasy golf participants will need to be aware of third round cuts so as to avoid having players in the lineup that are not playing on Sunday.
Secondly, if the PGA Tour officials have the ability to change the rules mid-season then why not do it right and go to the 65 and ties cuts right now? I'm sure the prize money would have to be updated due to the decrease of final round finishers but it would be far less confusing to the casual fan, especially if they are probably going to go to this model eventually anyway.
The idea was that if more that 78 players were included in the "top 70 and ties" that typically make the cut, some would receive credit for a made cut and last place money, but not play the weekend rounds.
The PGA Tour's reasons for doing this were to reduce the amount of time needed to complete weekend rounds, but it obviously rankled the players who felt that they should be allowed the chance to improve their position on the weekend.
Tour officials today announced a compromise. All players that make the cut would play on saturday and then another cut would be made at the "top 70 and ties" level. This third round cut will allow players the chance to improve their positions while also allowing for more manageable Sunday rounds.
The new changes will be in effect this week at The Honda Classic. Tour officials also announced that they will consider simply making the cut at 65 and ties in the future to avoid the double cuts.
Two thoughts:
Firstly, all Yahoo fantasy golf participants will need to be aware of third round cuts so as to avoid having players in the lineup that are not playing on Sunday.
Secondly, if the PGA Tour officials have the ability to change the rules mid-season then why not do it right and go to the 65 and ties cuts right now? I'm sure the prize money would have to be updated due to the decrease of final round finishers but it would be far less confusing to the casual fan, especially if they are probably going to go to this model eventually anyway.
Welcome!
Welcome to The Back Tee!
Here I will be discussing issues that golf fans care about. I'll talk about the PGA Tour, fantasy golf (specifically yahoo for now), and equipment, as well as anything else that comes up in the world of golf.
Please feel free to post comments and make suggestions as I want this to be the place golf fans come to read about the things that matter most to them.
For now, look for weekly tournament analysis, yahoo fantasy golf previews, and even some anecdotes from my own golf game and league.
Thanks for stopping by!
Shane
Here I will be discussing issues that golf fans care about. I'll talk about the PGA Tour, fantasy golf (specifically yahoo for now), and equipment, as well as anything else that comes up in the world of golf.
Please feel free to post comments and make suggestions as I want this to be the place golf fans come to read about the things that matter most to them.
For now, look for weekly tournament analysis, yahoo fantasy golf previews, and even some anecdotes from my own golf game and league.
Thanks for stopping by!
Shane
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