As we wind down the final few days of 2012, it’s time to take a look at a few things and perhaps see what 2013 may have in store.
The Cardinals. We were one game away form another World Series in a season that was a new day with a new manager.
I thought the season would be a good one for one reason. The Hall of Famer is back. Yes, Ozzie Smith, who elected to not be involved with the Cardinals as long as Tony La Russa was around, was part of Cardinal Nation in the way he should have always been, from Spring Training to just being at the ballpark. The Wizard and La Russa saw things differently. I have great respect for both as they have taught us all the game at a level you cannot get everywhere.
As for the season, the Redbirds were not far off. A healthy Rafael Furcal would have been a difference-maker in the post-season. This team will not be hurting for a lot in 2013. They have so much young pitching that they can survive an injury or two and still compete.
The Rams. Jeff Fisher should be at the top of the list for Coach of the Year in the NFL. Think about how lousy this team was at this time last year. Now they go into Seattle this weekend with a chance to finish above .500. The Seahawks have a history of trying to run up the score and embarrass their opponents. It will be a scuffle that may lead to a real fistfight somewhere.
Now for the bad news: Stan Kronke. The Rams owner has been silent about his plans for the team. There has been some talks on what next as the city should not go on the hook to fund a new facility. Is there middle ground here to keep the Rams in St. Louis? Yes.
The Blues. Too bad that local ownership is involved with most embarrassing entity in sports: the National Hockey League. Twice in the last eight years someone thought it was a good idea to lock the players out. The owners broke the players’ union last time out. They won in every category. This most recent deal was supposed to save the league. Now these same idiots want to call a time out and change the rules again?
As for the players, they need to understand that this league and its puny TV deal do not generate enough revenue to pay guys the same that they are paid in the other sports.
I wish David Steward and his group could have waited one more year where the carpetbaggers who owned the team before them would bleed more. This venture has already started off in the red, and it will take work, luck and prayer to get out of the penalty box.
Mizzou. Please allow me to introduce you to the SEC. Best conference in the country to play in by far. Mizzou football knows what they have to do now in order to be better. Frank Haith and the basketball program is poised to make this an interesting first season for the Tigers. I have almost forgotten about Norfolk St. and the tournament earlier this year. I will keep in my mind to remind myself that it can happen to anyone.
St. Louis U. It has been a trying year for the university. The loss of Rick Majerus was difficult although they knew he was not coming back well before the season started. Interim Head Coach Jim Crewes can coach for me any day of the week. The question is: will he after this season? Crewes was semi-retired when he took the assistant job. Head coaching is a grind. I hope he stays.
As for the rest of the university, after surviving a coup at the top, one only wonders how the athletic department survives. They passed on hiring the best coach in the area again, and will soon wonder why no difference-making girls will commit to playing in St. Louis.
My Colleagues. Demetrious Johnson, Earl Austin Jr., Maurice Drummond, Maurice Scott, Rene, Knott, Bernie Miklasz and, yes, the Great Charlie Tuna. These gentlemen have great passion in what they do.
If it’s high school, who better to give you the real scoop than DJ, Earl or Mo Scott? I trust them, unlike those in this market who give you one side or to help their political cause.
Bernie has been a friend for years and he gets it with no agenda. He inspired me to write this column after reading a few of his and understanding that there does not always have to be an ax to grind.
As for DJ, I am somewhat surprised that his name is never mentioned for being in the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. He has done everything one would expect of a Hall of Famer, both on the field when he could ball and in his diligent work in our community.
As for Tuna, his shows and involvement are much needed. He has seen it all and yet still shows up.
Mo Drummond and Rene Knot have given credibility to TV sports anchors. They never get outworked and yet are well thought of and respected without going the ESPN route of “Hey, look at me … Boo ya!”
The Gateway Classic. Yes, it is back this year with a game. The vision and dedication of Rich Gray and his super staff should make us all motivated to get behind this cause and what they are trying to do in our own back yard. This is not just about a football game. This is about a legitimate entity in St. Louis that is helping people. Throw in Demetrious Johnson’s foundation and you you have two of the most worthy and credible organizations to throw in with. 2013 will be big for both.
Finally, You the Readers of this column. Your words, be it kind and in some cases critical, are always appreciated. I have come to appreciate the passion you the readers have when it comes to what is said here. The conversations and emails have been enlightening and thought-provoking. Keep coming, as will I. Have a safe and prosperous New Year.
