3 Key Factors of the Yankees Recent Struggles

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The past week has not been kind to the Yankees as they have dropped 5 consecutive games and find themselves in last place in the division. Though many attribute it to typical early season struggles, others expected the team to get off to a much better start after the way things ended last year (a hapless 3-0 loss in the wild card game to Houston). Here are 3 problem areas that I feel are most glaring during this tough stretch.

RISP 

The Yankees have a dismal .197 batting average with runners in scoring position, a telling statistic when looking at the club's overall performance in April. To make matters worse, the Yankees have left an average of 15.36 runners on base per game. If the team's situational hitting does not improve drastically, there will be no choice but to make big changes to the line up to spice things up.

Inconsistent Starting Pitching

This may seem unfair when considering the struggles of the offense, however the Yankees starters have had difficulty going deep into games. In fact, the starters average innings per game have been among the lowest in baseball for the past three seasons. The Yankees can ill-afford to overwork their talented bullpen as it would spell disaster for them in the latter part of the season, so it is imperative that the get much more from the rotation than they are currently getting.

Poor Performance from the Heart of the Lineup

Teixeira (.170), Rodriguez (.156), and Headley (.189) are each having less than stellar start to 2016. The Yankees were really counting on them to be integral parts of the offense, but so far none of that has come to fruition. With $55.5 million between them this season, there is sure to be a growing level unrest that will fall upon them from if things continue to go this way.

SSnow's New York Giants Mock Draft

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Round 1: Vernon Hargreaves III CB Florida

The additions of Olivier Vernon and Damon Harrison, along with the re-signing of Jason Pierre-Paul will most likely alter the Giants first round plans, especially if a Defensive lineman comes off the board early. Hargreaves is a great alternate choice when considering the current state of the secondary. Adding his prowess as corner to the likes of Rodgers-Cromartie and Janoris Jenkins could really shake things up and create a more than formidable pass defense.

Alternatives: Deforest Buckner DE Oregon, Joey Bosa DE Ohio State, Ezekiel Elliott RB Ohio State

Round 2: Reggie Ragland LB Alabama

Despite signing two players in the offseason, the Giants still don't have a long term answer at linebacker. Ragland has great play recognition and big hit ability; qualities you want out of a skilled middle linebacker. Considering there has been a carousel of underwhelming LB's moving through the Giants for quite some time, it would be nice to finally get a player talented enough to hold down that spot for a few years.

Alternatives: Chris Jones DE Mississippi State, Tyler Boyd WR Pittsburgh, Noah Spence DE Easter Kentucky

Round 3: Landon Turner G North Carolina

The Giants still lack depth at guard so they'll need to make certain that they take care of it. Turner has a big body that can overpower smaller lineman pretty easily. Though there is concern about his lateral movement, which could make him vulnerable to pass rushers, I see no problem with Big Blue selecting him as insurance for an often injury prone position.

Alternatives: Christian Westerman G Arizona State, Deion Jones LB LSU, Vonn Bell S Ohio State

Round 4: C.J. Prosise RB Notre Dame

Andre Williams has been underwhelming as the backup running back and the Giants will need to find someone that will provide a little more pop behind Rashad Jennings. Prosise brings a skill set that is comparable to Shane Vereen, quick direction change, downhill speed, and excellent hands. Seeing the success Vereen had the offense last season, there is no doubt Prosise could have the same impact right alongside him.

Alternatives: Kevin Seymour CB USC, Austin Johnson DT Penn State, Scooby Wright LB Arizona

Round 5: Jayron Kearse S Clemson

This one is simple, there is a glaring hole at the safety position that need to be filled ASAP so the Giants should take the best player available to them. At 6'4" Kearse is pretty tall for a safety, which works in his favor when it comes to jumping and tackling, however there is a concern that with that length comes a lack of speed and motion. Despite this, he could be very versatile if given the right direction ad motivation.

Alternatives: DeAndre Houston-Carson S William & Mary, Connor McGovern G Missouri, Keanu Neal S Florida

Round 6: Kolby Listenbee WR TCU

Adding another receiver is something that has been talked about off and on for a few months now. It is likely the team will look into this earlier in the draft, but there is no guarantee a receiver will worth taking earlier will become available. With no 7th round pick to play with the Giants will have to take a chance on a potential diamond in the rough in Listenbee, who has the big play ability that has made both Beckham and Cruz famous in New York.

Alternatives: DeAndre Washington RB Texas Tech, Luther Maddy DT Virginia Tech, T.J. Green S Clemson

Free Agents the Knicks Should Consider

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As the season winds down, it's time for the New York Knicks to begin looking at the upcoming free agents for 2016. Here are a few players the team should consider signing if they want to have a success in the 2016-17 season and beyond.

Mike Conley

Conley's game has grown tremendously over the past three seasons and would translate well to the Knicks offense. A solid point guard like him would help both Anthony and Porzingis get easier looks at the basket a put a sense of flow and control to a unit that is often stagnant and discombobulated.

Rajon Rondo

His attitude still needs some adjusting, but there is no denying his ability to distribute on the court. Rondo would bring an aggressive, freewheeling style that would create countless opportunities for scorers. Phil Jackson has stated that he wants a guard that can effectively run his patented triangle offense, something Rondo is a bit skeptical of. However, the door is still open for the Knicks to convince him to give it a try.

Pau Gasol

Despite his age (35) Gasol is still a very capable big man with scoring ability. His experience would come in handy for a youngster like Porzingis who would stand to benefit greatly under 14-year veterans wing. His relationship with the Zen Master should make him an easier candidate to pursue, but it will depend on how he feels at this point in his career.

Kent Bazemore

Bazemore has opened some eyes in Atlanta by thriving as a role player. The Knicks could use some extra help off the bench in the form of an effective 6th man, he just might be the guy to do it. He's also a fairly good two-way defender, something sorely needed on a team that has given up so much on the perimeter.

Josh Smith

Smith has suddenly hit a crossroad in his career. Despite having talent, there doesn't seem to be a place that is a definite fit for him. New York could change that by giving him the chance to play a purposeful role. Signing him would require the team to make some roster adjustments, but if there's still any semblance of the former All Defensive Second team member, it's one the Knicks should consider.

Jeremy Lin

This might seem a bit farfetched, but a Lin-Knicks reunion is something that should be looked into. Lin hasn't made his mark on the league quite like he did in the big apple, and if it wasn't for a contested contract situation, he probably would still be in New York. His ability to break down defenses and make plays with the ball are a staple of his game and you have to believe the fans who still remember the "Linsanity" days would welcome him back with open arms.

Kevin Durant

The top free agent to be is a dream acquisition many fans would love to see. While meshing he and Anthony's games would prove to be a task, there's no denying his potential impact on the team. The Knicks have suffered greatly to find a second scorer who can put up consistent numbers each game. Bringing in Durant would not only solve those problems, it would give the Knicks the respect and relevancy that has eluded them for nearly 15 years.

             

Giants Make Big Improvements in Free Agency

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At the opening bell of the NFL's free agency period, the Giants made their mark by adding solid talent that should go a long way in bringing their once proud defense back to prominence. Unlike previous seasons where team general manager Jerry Reese would nickel and dime the roster in an attempt to watch the cap, there was a sense of urgency to do whatever it took to make the team better. There is still bit a money they can spend to add more depth as well as the upcoming draft, but for now things appear to be looking up in Giants Nation.

Olivier Vernon 5 years $85 million

This was by far the biggest move the Giants made, adding a proven pass rusher with great on the ball skills to help their underwhelming defensive line. Vernon not only brings superb tackling to the table, he gives a sense of fear that hasn't been around since the days of Strahan, Umenyiora, and Justin Tuck. ESPN's Dan Graziano believes the Giants may have over spent for Vernon, and in a way he is right, However, considering what they will get out of him as opposed to what they've had, can you blame them?

Janoris Jenkins 5 year $62.5 million

The secondary needed help in the worst way and Jenkins gives the just that. His ball skills and speed are top tier and he provides opposite side help for Rodgers-Cromartie whom had difficulties being the team's only true cover specialists in 2015. Jenkins did admit that he tends to get lazy at the end of games, something that will need to change hastily if he wants to fully earn that large contract. All things considered, this was a great pickup.

Damon Harrison 5 year $46.25 million

The former Jet is a run stopping monster who adds instant credibility and potential to the line. He had 72 combined tackles last season and was often in the backfield stoning running backs for one of the stouter run defenses in the game. The Giants surrendered nearly 2000 yards on the ground last season (1942) and looked helpless against anyone whom had even remotely skilled backs. Harrison should help slow that pace and create hesitation to rush it up the middle.

Keenan Robinson 1 year $3.5 million

Robinson had a down year in 2015 thanks to missing time due to injuries. That doesn't mean the 4th year linebacker isn't talented. He had 109 tackles in 2014 which shows what he can do when healthy, but the Giants had to play it safe. If he can return to form and stay on the field Robinson could be a quiet free agency steal, but ultimately the Giants are going to look elsewhere for their linebacker of the future.

How to Fix The Knicks

With recent struggles, the Knicks have found themselves in an all too familiar place
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Things have not been going well for the Knickerbockers. After a promising 22-22 start, the team has spiraled to a 3-15 record in their last 18 contests; leaving many to wonder if the team can be fixed at all. Here are four key areas that the Knicks need to spotlight if they want to drastically improve their fortune over the next few years.

Carefully Choose the Next Head Coach

If one wants to be honest, Derek Fisher was not ready to be a head coach in the NBA. After Phil Jackson struck out with Steve Kerr, he became pressed to find someone willing to take the job, and Fisher was his man. However, the Knicks floundered to a 40-96 record under the former 18-year veteran, which lead to the team firing him on February 8 after 1 ½ seasons. It will be imperative for the Knicks to find a coach with experience and a winning pedigree if they want to maximize the talent on the roster and get back on the right track.

Find a Steady and Effective Point Guard

To say it's been awhile since the Knicks had a good point guard would be an understatement. The lack of dribble penetration and an aggressive attack is prevalent on nearly every offensive possession. Although Jerian Grant and Langston Galloway have great potential as point guards, they need a playmaking guard to show them how it's done and Jose Calderon is not that player. If the Knicks want to compete in a guard driven league, they will need big upgrade at this position.

Get Anthony Some Help

Carmelo has hit a wall in his career and it's starting wear him down both physically and mentally. Knowing this, Jackson must find help that would alleviate the burden Anthony currently carries. If the team can add a high caliber player to the roster, it would help increase the team’s overall competitiveness and breathe new life into their star player who seems to be fading with each passing loss.

Begin Building Around Kristaps Porzingis

He's just a rookie, but the Knicks certainly have something when it comes to Porzingis. His size and skill set alone make for a potentially dominant player that could lead this team for years to come. As of right now Anthony is the guy the Knicks are focused with right now, but there's no doubt who the future focus will be, it's all a matter of when they decide to pull the trigger.

5 Players to Watch as Yankees Camp Opens

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Masahiro Tanaka

After offseason elbow surgery, Tanaka may not be ready to go by the start of the season. Despite that, it will be interesting to see how he progresses during rehabilitation. His numbers haven't been terrible in his first two years in the MLB (12-7 3.51 ERA) but when you consider how dominant he was for the first three months of his career, those number look alarmingly pedestrian. Hopefully the procedure will do wonders for his pitching and bring about the return of the phenomenal pitching he displayed in 2014.

C.C. Sabathia

It was a tough end to the year to say the least for the former leading man of the rotation. Not only did his numbers fall off for the fourth consecutive season, the former ace found himself battling his own personal demons when he entered rehabilitation for alcohol abuse. It's been made public that Sabathia will have to compete for the final rotation spot in spring training, so it will be interesting to see what he'll bring to the table knowing that so much is on the line.

Rob Refsnyder

He now has a few major league games under his belt which gives him the chance to earn a spot on the team (though most likely as a backup). It won't be an easy spot to secure as the 24 year old infielder will have to beat out the likes of Pete Kozma, Dustin Ackley, Donovan Solano, and Jonathan Diaz, each of whom have more experience than Refsnyder. If he can carry the momentum he gained from last season, he should be able to win a full time gig. If not, his name could possibly come up in trade talks.

Aaron Judge

He's probably not going to be in the big leagues this season (at least until the 40-man roster call ups in September), but he still has a huge opportunity to show off his skills to Girardi and company. There is no doubt that the Yankees want him to take over the right field duties from Carlos Beltran, who may be retiring at season's end. The 6'7" slugger is sure to have coaches and fans salivating over his prospective talent. 

Gary Sanchez

For six years, Yankee fans have been hearing about this top prospect, and now it looks like they'll finally get to see him in action. With the backup role now open, Sanchez is set to fill that spot as the catcher of the future. It also helps that he will have a veteran backstop like Brian McCann around to teach him the ropes. Brian Cashman has set the edict that the team will rely on its youth to build the future, and Sanchez will certainly be the next big test of that plan.

New York Giants: Top Free Agency Targets for 2016

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After making three more roster cuts this week, the Giants are expected to have nearly $60 million in caps space by the start of free agency. This gives them a great chance to upgrade needed areas with top flight talent at almost any expense (emphasis on almost). Who they look to get is up to them, but if Jerry Reese wants to earn back the respect of Giants Nation he will need to make an immediate impact come March. Here are some of the players that could do just that:

Von Miller

The Super Bowl MVP is most likely looking at a franchise tag from the Broncos, but that doesn't mean that he's not looking to cash in on his rising status. For the right price, the Giants could lure him to New York and give an instant upgrade to a position that has been depleted for quite some time.

Muhammad Wilkerson

The lack of pass rushing options was all too prevalent this season and the Giants are desperate for any help they can get. Wilkerson would provide a spark at defensive end with his ability to get to the quarterback. Like Miller, acquiring his services could be a bit pricy, but well worth the effort if he can bring a little noise to the defensive line.

Eric Berry

What a revelation Eric Berry was as he went from fighting cancer to the pro bowl in a little under a year. He could certainly be a big help to a injury prone and lacking secondary that ranked near the bottom of the league. It's obvious Rodgers-Cromartie need all the help he can get and Berry is more than capable of playing on his opposite side.

Bruce Irvin 

Another impact player that would be a staunch addition to the defense. His aggressive style and playmaking ability would certainly give new motivation for Steve Spagnuolo who would jump at the chance to coach him. If he's willing to take the money, the Giants should do all they can to reel him in

Eric Weddle 

He may be on the wrong side of 30 for and athlete but that doesn't mean he's still not one of the better safeties in the NFL. Signing him would be a nice addition to the teams most depleted position in the secondary and give Landon Collins a veteran leader to learn from. He'll be an easier signing since he's most likely just looking for a fresh start, but the team will need to act fast if they want to get him since they won't be the only ones vying for the three time Pro Bowler.

Olivier Vernon

As a power rusher who can disrupt his fair share of plays, Vernon is yet another chance for the Giants to upgrade the defensive line. If they strike out with Wilkerson or Irvin, he could easily step in as the best option. 

Are The Yankees Doing The Right Thing?

Girardi and Cashman have bet on the Yankees future.
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The offseason is almost at its end and the Yankees remain the only team to have not signed a major free agent on the open market. A far cry from their free agency techniques of the past 15 years. There are some who will believe that this is a sign the the team is fully committed to Brian Cashman's plan of building from within. However, doubters will not share these same sentiments, feeling that the lack of initiative will doom the club in the long run. Whichever side one chooses to pick seems to be of little concern to the Yankees brass as they plan how they can compete for a championship in 2016 and beyond.

Despite their firm stance on their payroll ($210 Million for 2016), the Yankees haven't been completely stagnant this winter as they acquired the services of Starlin Castro, Aroldis Chapman and Aaron Hicks in offseason trades. In addition, the club signed veteran pitchers Anthony Swarzak and Kirby Yates to minor league contracts. These moves give the club both stability and options in areas that were a bit problematic last season.

Unfortunately the one area that is probably most concerning to the Yankees and fans alike is starting pitching. There have been talks of having a 6 man rotation to compensate for the potential lack of innings that may come out of the group (considering the health of the staff). While that could be a viable solution, there is no guarantee that if will help each pitcher in the long run. It's understandable that the Yankees did not want to risk putting loads of money into a top or even second tier pitcher whom may or may not work out, especially since they really haven't had one live up to their expectations since Mike Mussina (though one could argue Sabathia's first for years).

Now that it's known that top prospect Greg Bird will miss the season with shoulder surgery (despite the fact that he was set be in minors for the duration of it), things could change on the free agent front. Whether they reach out the Pedro Alvarez or go a completely different route, one has to believe the Yankees will do whatever is deemed necessary to have a successful 2016 season without jeopardizing the future.