Packers to have 9th Pick in 2009 NFL Draft

As the only 6-10 team in the league, the Packers have no tie-breaker situations to worry about. They will have the 9th pick in next year's draft. Some possible names available in that spot are Florida State DE Everette Brown, Virginia OT Eugene Monroe, USC ILB Rey Maualuga, and Texas DE Brian Orakpu.

Tough Projections for UWM's Record

Ken Pomeroy projects UWM going 11-18 this season with a 7-11 conference record. If the projection played out, UWM would be sitting at home during the postseason.

UW's Men's Basketball Projected Record

Ken Pomeroy projects UW's record to be 17-13 after going 7-11 in Big Ten play. If the projections play out, UW would likely be headed to the NIT this year. However, given Wisconsin's success in Big Ten play, it's hard to believe they'll go 7-11 this year.

Marquette's Projected Record

Ken Pomeroy predicts a Marquette record of 18-13 with a conference record of 7-11. If Pomeroy is right, James, McNeal, and Matthews would likely be making their exit in the NIT.

Predictions for Saturday's MU-UW Game

Just as I wouldn't bet on Bo Ryan and the Badgers in the NCAA tournament against a higher seeded team until he proves he can beat one, I won't bet on Buzz Williams and the Golden Eagles until the first year Marquette coach proves he can win a marquee game. The following predictions are more detailed predictions about the game:

-UW will win 67-58.
-MU's loss will be attributable to Lazar Hayward picking up early fouls, exposing MU's lack of interior depth with Fulce and Otule sidelined by injuries.
-Keaton Nankivil will be the biggest positive surprise for the Badgers.
-MU's Wes Matthews will score 20 points against his hometown team.
-UW's Marcus Landry will score 18 points and grab 8 boards in his hometown against his hometown team, which will earn him Player of the Game honors.
-MU won't value possessions enough and won't dig in deep enough defensively against the probability-oriented Badgers.
-The game will have the least fans at the Bradley Center for an MU-UW game since the first MU-UW game of the Tom Crean era.
-"The Ron Burgandy of Milwaukee" will jump around to the delight of Golden Eagles fans while Badger fans will question if MU has the right to play their song... somewhere, Kris Kross won't know that "Jump Around" ever transferred ownership.
-Badger fans will chant something about educational quality, bosses, and McDonalds.
-Golden Eagles fans will chant something about the U.S.S.R. and Stalin.

Big Ten Comes Closest to Measuring Up Since 2005

The Big Ten came the closest it has since 2005 in the ACC-Big Ten Challenge. North Carolina's victory over Michigan St. sealed the deal for the ACC, which won for the tenth time in as many tries. Although Wisconsin, Ohio St., Minnesota, Penn State and Northwestern held up their end of the bargain against Virginia Tech, Miami, Virginia, Georgia Tech, and Florida State, respectively, the Big Ten could not overcome losses by Iowa, Illinois, Purdue, Indiana, Michigan, and Michigan St., against Boston College, Clemson, Duke, Wake Forest, Maryland, and North Carolina, respectively.

Going into play Wednesday, the ACC ranked first in conference RPI, while the Big Ten took the third spot, behind the Big East.

UW @ MU Matchup Breakdown

Saturday's game should be a closely contested game between two programs in transition. MU transitions from Tom Crean to Buzz Williams and is yet to win its first marquee game of the season. UW transitions from leadership in Brian Butch and Michael Flowers to team leaders in Marcus Landry and Trevon Hughes, and also lacks a marquee win thusfar this season. To see which team will get its first marquee win of the season, we're going to break it down.

Point Guard:

Dominic James vs. Trevon Hughes

This is one of the matchups of players who were both top 100 recruits coming out of high school. The slight edge goes to Marquette's Dominic James. Hughes is the more efficient scorer with 1.59 points per shot, compared to James' 1.3 points per shot. However, James has developed into more of a pure point guard with 5.6 assists per game and a 3.5/1 assist-to-turnover ratio compared to Hughes' 2.1 assists per game and a 1.5/1 assist-to-turnover ratio.

Shooting Guard:

Jerel McNeal vs. Jason Bohannon

This is another matchup of former top 100 players coming out of high school. The strong edge goes to Marquette's Jerel McNeal. Bohannon has not lived up to expectations this season. He has only had 1.13 points per shot and a 1.1 assist-to-turnover ratio. McNeal has also struggled this season with 1.21 points per shot and a 1.7 assist-to-turnover ratio. However, McNeal has been the heart and soul of the Marquette team the last couple years. He is one of the best defenders in college basketball and when he is on, the Marquette team is on.

Small Forward:

Wesley Matthews vs. Joe Krabbenhoft

This matchup completes the trio of perimeter matchups of players who were top 100 players coming out of high school. The moderate edge goes to Marquette's Wes Matthews, Jr., son of former UW standout Wes Matthews, Sr. Matthews has been incredibly efficient this season scoring 1.88 points per shot. Krabbenhoft has proven to be an important glue guy, leading the team in rebounding with 5.9 per game and having a 2/1 assist-to-turnover ratio.

Power Forward:

Lazar Hayward vs. Marcus Landry

Landry is another former top 100 recruit coming out of high school. Landry's final two schools were Marquette and UW, and the Golden Eagles wish he would have decided differently. However, this is an even matchup. Lazar Hayward is probably the most important Golden Eagle this year. His 16.7 points per game on 1.44 points per shot only begin to tell the story of his importance. He leads the team in rebounding with 9.7 per game. He is also vital to the Golden Eagles because of the team's lack of interior depth. When Chris Otule and Joe Fulce got injured in the preseason, Marquette was left with much maligned Dwight Burke and infrequently used Pat Hazel as other options in the front court. Until Otule and Fulce return, Hayward staying healthy and out of foul trouble is of critical importance to the Golden Eagles. Landry, the former Vincent standout, fills up the stat sheet for the Badgers. He is efficient with 1.41 points per shot and he contributes an important 4.1 rebounds per game and 2.4 blocks per game.

Center:

Dwight Burke vs. Keaton Nankivil

Nankivil is another former top 100 recruit coming out of high school. Like Landry, he had MU in his last few schools, but opted for the Badgers instead. Although neither player has performed well this season, Nankivil's potential is a lot better than Burke's. Therefore, the strong edge goes to UW's Nankivil.

Bench:

UW has an extremely strong edge with its bench. Forward Tim Jarmucz and former top 100 recruit Jon Leuer are very strong players off the bench for UW. The Golden Eagles have considerably weaker options in point guard Maurice Acker, shooting guard David Cubillan, and forward Pat Hazel.

Coaching:

Buzz Williams vs. Bo Ryan

The strong edge goes to UW's Bo Ryan. Ryan has decades of head coaching experience as opposed to Williams' 1+ years of head coaching experience. Ryan has developed and if comfortable with his coaching philosophy whereas Williams is developing his coaching philosophy. In a close game, the coaching could be a major factor.

Home Court Advantage:

The slight edge goes to Marquette. Marquette's home court advantage is mitigated by the presence of Badger fans. As the moderately sized private institution, Marquette struggles to sellout its 18,000 seat arena to Golden Eagles fans. The Badgers, with an alumni base five times as large and the advantage of being the public institution, happily buy the tickets Marquette cannot sell to Golden Eagles fans. However, the edge still clearly goes to the Golden Eagles because the Golden Eagles are more familiar with the arena, such as the shooting background.

Elias Free Agency Classifications

CC Sabathia and Ben Sheets qualified as Type A free agents while Mike Cameron, Eric Gagne, Brian Shouse, and Salomon Torres qualified as Type B free agents. Type A free agents mean that the Brewers will receive a draft pick from the signing team (second half of the first round or first half of the second round) and a compensation pick between the first and second rounds of the draft. Type B free agents mean the Brewers will receive a compensation pick between the first and second rounds of the draft, but no pick from the signing team.

In order to get the compensation picks, the Brewers have to offer arbitration to the free agents and the free agents have to sign before December 1st. As such, it's highly unlikely the Brewers will receive any compensation for Eric Gagne. Also, it is likely the Brewers will pick up a team option on Salomon Torres and might on Mike Cameron as well. However, expect the Brewers to offer arbitration to CC, Sheets, and Shouse.

Brewers Coaching Staff Comes Into Focus

In the last week, the Brewers named Ken Macha manager and announced Dale Sveum would be the hitting coach in 2009. Add them to First Base Coach Ed Sedar and Bullpen Coach Bill Castro who will return to the same roles they had in 2008. The Brewers third base coach, bench coach, and pitching coach are still up in the air. Currently, an offer is out to Mike Maddux who is deciding whether or not to return as the pitching coach.

Manager Ken Macha brings a fresh perspective to a team that has limped to the finish the last two seasons. He looks to fill the remaining roles with quality candidates with fresh perspectives. Also, Dale Sveum's move from Third Base Coach/Manager to Hitting Coach is an important change for the Brewers. Last season, the Brewers were plagued by a poor team OBP and were very reliant on the longball. We'll see whether or not the Brewers will make more contact and draw more walks.

Rundown of Brewers Manager Candidates

Ken Macha-Formerly, Macha was the manager of the Oakland A's. He is high energy and has experience managing a young, low payroll team. However, he was fired. What should make Doug Melvin think he'll do any better in Milwaukee?

Bob Brenly-Former D-Backs manager. What's the advantage of Brenly? Sure, he rode Schilling and Johnson to a World Series title, but he doesn't sound all that intelligent when broadcasting Cubs games.

Davey Johnson-He seems to be a bad fit for the Brewers. The Brewers have a young team and Davey Johnson is an old type of manager. Could the players relate to him?

Mike Hargrove-Same as Johnson. Could the players relate to him?

Willie Randolph-Former Mets manager and Yankees third base coach. Interesting candidate on racial lines. The most African-American baseball club could have an African-American manager. However, Randolph's experience is with big market teams. How does his knowledge translate to Milwaukee?

Bobby Valentine-Former Mets manager and current manager in Japan. Bobby Valentine is a colorful guy. He would likely keep the Brewers loose in a way Ned Yost could not. Also, he comes with a different perspective now that he has had experience in Japan.

MU is Jamil Wilson's Final Four

Jamil Wilson has cut down his possible list to four schools: Michigan State, Marquette, Texas, and Oregon. However, indications are that Michigan State currently leads. Wilson plays for Racine Horlick and was once rated as a top 20 player in the nation. Although his ranking has dropped to top 100, he would augment a tremendous 2009 recruiting class for Marquette. Marquette already has top 100 verbals in wingmen Erik Williams and Jeronne Maymon and point guard Junior Cadougan, in addition to JUCO standout guard Dwight Buycks. Currently, the recruiting class is considered top 10 or possibly even top 5. If MU locks down Jamil Wilson, it could be looking at top 3. Also, MU is still on guard Michael Snaer's radar, which could vault the MU recruiting class to the top in the nation.

A Preview of the Brewers Off-Season

The Brewers will likely bring back Jason Kendall (team option), Prince Fielder, Rickie Weeks, JJ Hardy, Bill Hall, Ryan Braun, Corey Hart, Yovanni Gallardo, Manny Parra, Jeff Suppan, Dave Bush, Seth McClung, Carlos Villanueva, David Riske, and Salomon Torres (team option). The Brewers have a $10 million option on Mike Cameron, which may or may not be picked up. There aren't many great free agent alternatives in CF and the Brewers do not have any internal possibilities unless Hart or Braun is moved to CF.

Due to a combination of raises and salary off the books (Gagne, Sheets, and possibly Cameron), the Brewers look to be around $15 million under this year's payroll if they do not pick up the option on Cameron. Indications are that the Brewers were operating at around break-even this year, so it's questionable whether they'll be willing to increase payroll given current economic conditions.

Maintaining current payroll, the Brewers have about $15 million to work with to fill their needs. One of those needs be be in starting pitching. Although the Brewers bring back six pitchers who started for the team this year, they may look to sign a free agent SP to bolster their rotation. That would leave McClung and Villanueva in long relief, ready to fill in for any injuries in the starting rotation.

Gallardo, Parra, Bush, Suppan, McClung, Villanueva, a free agent SP, Riske and Torres are 9 of the 12 pitching spots on the roster. Look for Mitch Stetter to be a situational lefty and DeFelice to provide middle inning support. That leaves one spot for Capuano and other pitchers GM Doug Melvin picks up off the scrap heap to compete for the last spot in the bullpen.

The Brewers will likely also look at the third base position to see what to do for next season. With a lack of options in free agency, the Brewers could look for a lefty to platoon with Hall.

It should be an interesting offseason. Who is the free agent SP going to be? Owner Mark Attanasio has said he is interested in resigning CC Sabathia, but after his great second half of the season, CC looks to be a $22-25 million per year pitcher. If the Brewers sign him, it could push the Brewers payroll to over $10 million more than this year and CC's share of the payroll would approach 25%. If CC were to get hurt, the Brewers ability to compete would be crippled.

Ben Sheets is another interesting question mark. He almost made it through a whole season without serious injury for the first time in four years before tearing a muscle near his elbow in the last month of the season. It will be interesting to see if he'll have long-term suitors at his asking price given his injury history. It's possible Sheets will agree to arbitration with the Brewers in the hopes of proving he can stay healthy a whole season.

Another interesting impact on the offseason could be the American economy. This year, baseball's attendance was down 1.1%. As a businessman, Mark Attanasio is surely conscious of how more unemployment and rising gas costs will impact attendance. Are people going to be less likely to drive in from Park Falls if gas prices continue to increase? Can the American consumer afford to spend money on game tickets when he or she can watch the games on TV without transportation costs or ballpark prices?

This offseason could be a big turning point in the history of the Milwaukee Brewers. Are they now a middle-market team worthy of a middle-market payroll? Or is it time to keep payroll in check and rebuild through the minor league system like the Minnesota Twins and Oakland Athletics?

NLDS Outlook

The Brewers will be going up against Phillies ace Cole Hamels on Wednesday. The Brewers will counter with Bush or a combination of Gallardo and McClung. Then, the Brewers will ask CC to pitch on 3 days' rest, once again, to pitch game two, likely against Jamie Moyer. Friday will be an off day before the series comes to Milwaukee on Saturday.

Brewers Going to the Playoffs!

It's been a wild ride. On May 29th, the Brewers playoff chances were at a mere 4.8%. At that point, Gallardo had been lost for the season and nothing was going right. The Brewers started heating up and the team traded for CC. As of August 31, the Brewers playoff chances looked great at 93.9%. But then, the bottom fell out. The Brewers played tougher teams, competing teams played weaker opponents, and the Brewers offense went stagnant. By September 20th, the playoff chances were down to 13.4%. However, the Brewers got it together and started picking up some wins. Going into the final game of the season, the Brewers playoff chances were 45.4%. However, after a Brewers win and Mets loss, the Brewers clinched a playoff spot for the first time since 1982.

Brewers Big Underdogs

The Brewers have a 41% chance of winning as Jeff Suppan takes on Ramon Ramirez and the pesky Reds.

Brewers Playoff Chances Look Bleak

After Thursday's catastrophe, the Brewers playoff chances are down to 32.1%. To turn it around, the Brewers are going to have to beat the Reds who have given the Brewers problems all year.

Brewers are Underdogs Tonight

The Brewers have a 49% chance of winning as Ben Sheets takes on Jason Marquis and the Chicago Cubs. Hopefully yesterday's 11 hits are a sign of things to come.

Brewers have a 42.6% chance of making the playoffs

Although the Brewers lost to the Cubs yesterday, the Mets lost to the lowly Washington Nationals for the second straight game. The Mets have four games with the Cubs before the season is over, so it seems the Brewers are fighting with the Mets for a playoff spot. Currently, the Brewers playoff chances stand at 42.6%.

Brewers have 52% Chance of Winning Must-Win Game

The Brewers-Cubs series features matchups of Sabathia-Dempster, Sheets-Marquis, and Parra-Harden. The Brewers need to take two of three in the series in order to not fall too far behind in the wild card race before faceoffs against the Reds and Pirates. Given Parra's recent struggles and Harden's dominance, it looks as though the next two games are must-wins. The Brewers have a 52% chance of winning as Sabathia takes on Dempster. However, when bats are sleeping, it's tough to wake them up against a pitcher the caliber of Dempster.

Brewers Playoff Chances Up by Default

With the Mets unexpected loss to the Nats Monday night, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 46.2%. It isn't going to be easy. Hopefully Yost's firing jolts the team awake.

Chronicling a Disaster

After the sweep by the Phillies, the Brewers playoff chances reduced to 40.1%. What's even more troubling than the current standings and remaining schedules for the teams in contention is the fact the Brewers are ice cold. Their pitching, hitting, and defense all seem to have left for the off-season. If the Brewers are going to make the playoffs, they need to get on a hot steak, which seems highly unlikely.

Brewers Big Underdogs Today

The Brewers have a 32% chance of winning as Manny Parra takes on Phillies Ace Cole Hamels.

Brewers Playoff Chances Slide Again.

With 15 games remaining, the Brewers lead has been cut to 3 games. Both the Phillies and Astros are charging from behind and have easy schedules down the stretch. The Brewers playoff chances stand at 69.3%, but that percentage could change drasticly by the end of the weekend.

Brewers Underdogs Today

The Brewers have a 49% chance of winning as Ben Sheets takes on Jaime Moyer and the Philadelphia Phillies. The game is very important for the Brewers. The Phillies trail the Brewers by four games in the NL Wild Card race and have an easier schedule down the stretch. If they take at least 3 games from Milwaukee in the 4 game series, the Brewers are in serious trouble. After tonight's matchup, Manny Parra faces Phillies ace Cole Hamels, Dave Bush faces A's import Joe Blanton, and Jeff Suppan squares up against either Brett Myers on three days rest or Kyle Kendrick.

Brewers Playoff Chances Back Up

With Wednesday's mercy win over the Cincinnati Reds and losses by the Phillies and Cardinals, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 77.5%. Joining the Phillies and Cardinals in the hunt are the Astros who are now only 4 games in back of the Brewers.

NL Power Rankings Updated September 10

1. Chicago Cubs

The Cubs remain at the top of the power rankings by default. Between now and the end of the season, every series they play has playoff implications for the wildcard race. After finishing the series with the Cards, they travel to Houston to play the surging Astros, then return home to play the Brewers and Cardinals, before going to New York and Milwaukee to play the Mets and Brewers.

2. New York Mets

The Mets are playing some of their best baseball at the best time of the season to do it. With weak opponents down the stretch, they look to be in great shape to avenge last year's collapse.

3. Houston Astros

That's right, the Houston Astros. While the Brewers have faltered, the throw-away Astros have climbed back into the race. With an easy schedule down the stretch, they look like a serious wildcard contender.

4. Philadelphia Phillies

Although the Mets are getting away from them, the Phillies are still only 4 games back in the wildcard race. With the Brewers collapsing and an easy schedule coming, the Phillies are in great shape to duke it out with the Brewers, Astros, and Cards.

5. Milwaukee Brewers

Why are the Brewers doing this to the fanbase? The offense has disappeared at a very inopportune time. The Brewers need to suck it up and get a split with the Phillies.

6. St. Louis Cardinals

With the Brewers collapse, the Cardinals are right back in the race. Fortunately for the Brewers, the Cardinals don't have an easy schedule down the stretch either. The Cards will struggle keeping up with the easy schedules of the Phillies and Astros.

7. Los Angeles Dodgers

Wrong team, right division. Despite barely being above .500, the Dodgers look like they're about to run away with the NL West. Do they have enough offense to do any damage in the playoffs?

8. Arizona Diamondbacks

The Diamondbacks collapse spanned about 4 months. What looked to be an improved offense and elite team turned out to be a mirage. Can they climb back into the NL West race?

Today is a Must Win for the Brewers

The Brewers have a 68% chance of winning as CC Sabathia takes on Bronson Arroyo and the Reds. Games don't get much more "must win" than this. After today's game, the Brewers travel to Philadelphia to open a four game series in which CC is not scheduled to pitch. The Phillies are currently 3 games behind the Brewers. If the Brewers don't win today, it's quite possible they'll be tied with the Phillies by the end of the weekend.

Brewers Playoff Chances Slipping Away

The Brewers playoff chances stand at 69% according to CoolStandings.com. However, the Brewers have struggled with good teams and the Reds all year. Of the remaining 17 games, 6 are against the Cubs, 4 are against the Phillies, 4 are against the Reds, and 3 are against the Pirates. The Brewers are in serious trouble.

Brewers Favorites Today

The Brewers have a 57% chance of winning as Jeff Suppan takes on Ramon Ramirez and the Cincinnati Reds.

Playoff Chances Sliding

After Monday night's disappointing loss to the Reds, the Brewers playoffs chances reduced to 75.1%.

Brewers Somehow Favorites

The Brewers have a 61% chance of winning as Dave Bush takes on Edison Volquez and the Cincinnati Reds.

Brewers Playoff Chances Drop

The Brewers playoff chances dropped to 82.5% after Sunday afternoon's loss to the Padres.

Brewers Favorites Today

The Brewers have a 66% chance of winning as Manny Parra takes on Chris Young and the San Diego Padres.

Brewers Playoff Chances Climbing

After Sheets' shutout on Saturday night, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 89.1%. There could be a dramatic shift after today, given the Phillies and Mets play two games today.

Brewers Favorites Today

The Brewers have a 57% chance of winning as Ben Sheets takes on Jake Peavy and the San Diego Padres. During Sheets' last start, he left the game early due to tightness. Therefore, it is something to watch for today.

Brewers Playoff Chances Up Slightly

The Brewers playoff chances have increased to 86.7% after a win against the Padres and losses by the Cardinals and Astros.

Brewers Have a Good Chance to Snap Losing Streak

The Brewers have a 73% chance of winning as CC takes on Josh Geer and the San Diego Padres.

Brewers Playoff Chances Slipping

After the series opening loss to the Padres, the Brewers playoff chances slipped to 84%.

MU Big East Schedule

Thursday, Jan. 1 Villanova at Marquette, 2:30 p.m., ESPN

Sunday, Jan. 4 Cincinnati at Marquette

Wednesday, Jan. 7 Marquette at Rutgers

Saturday, Jan. 10 West Virginia at Marquette

Saturday, Jan. 17 Marquette at Providence, 9 p.m., ESPN2

Saturday, Jan. 24 DePaul at Marquette, 2 p.m., ESPN2

Monday, Jan. 26 Marquette at Notre Dame, 7 p.m., ESPN

Saturday, Jan. 31 Georgetown at Marquette

Tuesday, Feb. 3 Marquette at DePaul

Friday, Feb. 6 Marquette at USF

Tuesday, Feb. 10 Marquette at Villanova, 7:30 p.m., ESPN2

Saturday, Feb. 14 St. John’s at Marquette

Tuesday, Feb. 17 Seton Hall at Marquette

Saturday, Feb. 21 Marquette at Georgetown

Wednesday, Feb. 25 Connecticut at Marquette, 7 p.m., ESPN

Sunday, March 1 Marquette at Louisville, Noon, CBS Sports

Wednesday, March 4 Marquette at Pittsburgh, 7:30 p.m., ESPN2

Saturday, March 7 Syracuse at Marquette

Brewers Favorites to Bounce Back

The Brewers have a 63% chance of bouncing back as Jeff Suppan takes on Shawn Estes and the San Diego Padres to open a three game series.

Brewers Playoff Chances Down Slightly

The Brewers playoff chances were reduced to 88.4% after the sweep by the Mets.

Brewers Slight Favorites Today

The Brewers have a 56% chance of winning as Dave Bush takes on Oliver Perez and the New York Mets.

Brewers Playoff Chances Down

The Brewers playoff chances decreased to 89.9% after Tuesday's nights loss to the Mets. Not helping were wins by the Cardinals and the Phillies.

Brewers Favorites Tonight

The Brewers have a 60% chance of winning as Manny Parra takes on Jonathan Niese and the New York Mets. Niese is a highly touted prospect who is making his major league debut.

Playoff Chances Decline Modestly

The Brewers playoff chances declined modestly from 93.9% to 93.5% after losing to the Mets on Sunday. The Brewers were helped by losses by the Phillies, Cubs, and Cardinals.

Brewers Slight Favorites Today

The Brewers have a 53% chance of winning as Ben Sheets takes on Johan Santana and the New York Mets in a matchup in which runs will be at a premium. The Mets are hungry to win this game, as the Phillies trail them by only one game in the NL East.

Brewers Playoff Chances Creep

After CC's impressive performance Sunday, the Brewers enter September with a 93.9% chance of making the playoffs. After their loss Sunday, the Cardinals dropped to a 2% chance of making the playoffs, while the runner-up of the NL East represents the Brewers greatest threat with the NL East having an aggregate 4.2% chance of winning the wild card.

Brewers are Favorites Today

The Brewers have a 66% chance of winning as CC takes on Jeff Karstens and the Pittsburgh Pirates, as the Brewers look for the sweep.

Brewers Playoff Chances Above 90% for First Time

The Brewers playoff chances have eclipsed 90% for the first time this season. After beating the Pirates and the Cardinals losing, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 91.9%.

NL Power Rankings Updated August 30th

Playoff Chances in Parentheses (provided by CoolStandings.com)

1. Chicago Cubs (99.8%)

It will be awefully difficult for the Brewers to catch the Cubs in the NL Central race. However, The Wild Card isn't a bad consolation for the Brewers. In fact, the Cubs have struggled against the Diamondbacks this year, so if the Brewers get the Wild Card and win the Division Series, they could be playing the Champions of the West.

2. Milwaukee Brewers (87.3%)

The Brewers are "Turnin' Up the Heat" at the right time. After a solid week, the Cards are 4.5 back while the Phillies are 5.5 back. With no games left against the Cards, the Cards are going to need some help catching the Brewers. Look for this week's series against the Mets to determine whether or not to mortgage the house for playoff tickets.

3. New York Mets (68.3%)

The Mets have been playing tough down the stretch, in stark contrast to what they did last season. With an ignitor in Jose Reyes and big bats that have his back, the Mets look like they might have what it takes to win the NL East, which would pit them against the NL Wild Card winner in the first round of the playoffs.

4. St Louis Cardinals (7.9%)

Right team, wrong division. Albert Pujols and Ryan Ludwick have done a great job of carrying the team. However, without help from the Brewers remaining opponents, their Ruthian efforts will not net a playoff spot.

5. Philadelphia Phillies (35.6%)

Their lineup is great, but their failures go back to the important baseball mantra, "Pitching wins Championships."

6. Arizona Diamondbacks (80.9%)

The Diamondbacks are the beneficiaries of the Dodgers falling fast by losing eight in a row. Look for Webb, Haren, and Johnson to face Zambrano, Harden, and Dempster in an electric Division Series.

Brewers Have a 50/50 Chance of Winning

The Brewers have a 50/50 chance of winning as Jeff Suppan takes on Paul Malholm and the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Brewers offense struggled last weekend against Paul Malholm, but they were able to pull out the extra innings victory.

In other games, the Cardinals have a 51% chance of winning, the Mets have a 43% chance of winning, and the Phillies have a 38% chance of winning.

Can You Feel It?

After Friday night's Brewers win and losses by the Phillies and Cardinals, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 87.3%.

Brewers Favorites Tonight

The Brewers have a 64% chance of winning as Dave Bush takes on Tom Gorzelanny and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Brewers Playoff Chances Rise Moderately

With the Phillies loss on Milwaukee's off-day on Thursday, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 81.4%.

Brewers Playoff Chances Down to 80.7%

After Wednesday night's loss to the Cards, the Brewers playoff chances decreased to 80.7%.

Brewers Underdogs Tonight

The Brewers have a 34% chance of winning as Manny Parra takes on Adam Wainwright and the St. Louis Cardinals.

Brewers Playoff Chances Rise

After Tuesday night's win over the Cardinals, coupled with the Phillies beating the Mets, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 85.7%.

NL Power Rankings Updated August 26

Playoff chances in parentheses (Source: CoolStandings.com)

1. Chicago Cubs (98.8%)

The Cubs would have to have a monumental collapse to not make the playoffs. Will they be resting their players against the Brewers in the last series of the season?

2. Milwaukee Brewers (76.9%)

Last season, the Brewers were just trying to hold on as they were being caught by the Cubs. This season, the Brewers look to be getting better in the second half.

3. New York Mets (55.3%)

The Mets are getting hot again. If they can take care of business against the Phillies, they will likely avenage last year's collapse.

4. Philadelphia Phillies (49.9%)

Early in the season, people wondered why the Phillies were more successful than the Brewers with their poor starting pitching. It looks like those suspicions have come to fruition.

5. St. Louis Cardinals (16.8%)

It's due or die time for the Cardinals. The two game series against the Brewers looks to be the best chance to make up ground. They're helped by facing two of Milwaukee starters who have faultered recently (Sheets and Parra).

6. Arizona Diamondbacks (71.3%)

It's good to be the king of the west.

7. Los Angeles Dodgers (26.1%)

Things aren't looking good in tinseltown. Manny mania has disguised mediocre baseball.

Brewers Slight Favorites in Series Opener

The Brewers have a 52% chance of winning as Ben Sheets takes on Todd Wellemeyer and the Cardinals.

Brewers Playoff Chances Down Slightly

After Monday night's wins by the Cubs, Mets, and Phillies, the Brewers playoff chances went down slightly to 76.9%.

Brewers Playoff Chances Hold Steady

With wins by the Brewers, Cardinals, Mets, and Phillies, the Brewers playoff chances held steady staying at 78.2%.

Brewers have a 70% chance of winning today

The Brewers have a 70% chance of winning as CC takes on Paul Maholm and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Brewers Playoff Chances up to 78.2%

After the Brewers win and the Cards loss on Saturday night, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 78.2%.

Wade Stars in Gold Medal Game

Former Marquette star Dwyane Wade scored 27 points on 9-12 shooting as the Americans captured the gold metal. Also capturing gold was the Milwaukee Bucks' Michael Redd.

Brewers Overwhelming Favorites Tonight

The Brewers have a 74% chance of winning as Dave Bush (7-9) goes up against LHP Zach Duke (4-11) and the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Brewers look to continue their success against lefties. This season, the Brewers are 26-13 against left-handed starters.

Brewers Chances For Playoffs About 75%

The Brewers and Cardinals were both off Thursday. Also, the Cubs and Mets both won. However, after Thursday's losses by the Phillies and Marlins, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 74.6%.

mkesports.com's NL Power Rankings

1. Chicago Cubs
What's to say that hasn't been said before? If the Cubs stay healthy, they are the favorites to represent the NL in the World Series.

2. Milwaukee Brewers
The road to the playoffs will get a lot harder after the series' with the Astros and the Pirates. Will they be able to hang on if Braun is gone for an extended period of time?

3. St. Louis Cardinals
The Cardinals are still within striking distance and now the Brewers and Cardinals schedules are matching up with remaining difficulty. If they can win both remaining games with the Brewers, the Cards could be in good shape.

4. New York Mets
The Mets have put their closer woes behind them the last couple series. Will the closer situation resurface?

5. Philadelphia Phillies
If Chase Utley wins the NL MVP, it will make three different Phillies in three consecutive years. How much of it is the players and how much of it is in ballpark inflating their stats?

6. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers are acquiring Greg Maddux. With Penney, Billingsley, Lowe, Kershaw, and Maddux, the Dodgers may have the deepest rotation in baseball.

7. Arizona Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks offense is blowing the season for the front end of the Diamondbacks rotation. Can they get hot again?

One Day Closer

After Wednesday's win against the Astros, along with wins by the Cards, Mets, and Phillies, the Brewers playoff chances grew modestly to 73.8%.

Milwaukee Slight Favorites Today

The Brewers have a 56% chance of winning as Manny Parra takes on Wandy Rodriguez and the Astros.

Brewers Playoff Chances Stand at 73.6%

After Tuesday night's loss to the Astros, the Brewers playoff chances stand at 73.6%.

Another Note on CC's Pitch Count

Ned Yost says that him being able to do that is "All in the plans." If you read between the lines, it sounds like Yost is eluding to the following scenario: Sheets tonight, Parra tomorrow, Bush Friday, Suppan Saturday, and McClung Sunday. That would leave CC for Tuesdays game against the Cards and Sheets for Wednesdays game against the Cards. CC would be pitching on seven days rest.

Brewers Favorites Again

The Brewers have a 64% chance of winning as Sheets takes on Brian Moelher and the Astros.

My Excuse Got Shot Down by Buster Olney

In this week's chat, Buster Olney talks about CC's pitch count from last night (130). Olney quickly dismisses my explanation that the bullpen was taxed and CC should have gotten out of the inning below 120 pitches for the game.

Brewers Playoff Chances Around 77%

After CC's strong performance Monday night, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 76.7%.

Brewers Favorites Tonight

As with most of CC's starts, the Brewers are overwhelming favorites. According to Accuscore, the Brewers have a 70% chance of winning.

Brewers Playoff Chances Still Over 70%

Despite the Cards success in the last week and the Brewers dropping 3 of their last 4, the Brewers playoff chances are still over 70% at 71.3%.

Brewers Underdogs for Second Straight Game

The Brewers have a 41% chance of winning as Manny Parra takes on Chad Billingsley and the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first game of a three game series.

Brewers Playoff Chances Down Slightly

With Thursday's loss to the Padres, the Brewers playoff chances dropped to 73.9%, which is the third highest percentage of the season, after yesterday and the day before.

Brewers Underdogs in Today's Game

The schedule isn't too easy the next four days. Today, Sheets and the Brewers face reigning NL Cy Young winner Jake Peavy and the Padres. The Brewers have a 46% chance of getting their 9th straight win.

Brewers Playoff Chances Near 80%

After Wednesday night's victory over the Padres, the Brewers playoff chances increased to 79.4%.

Update on Gallardo

Gallardo may be able to return before season's end, but if he comes back, it'll be in the bullpen.

Brewers Favorites Tonight

The Brewers have a 60% chance of winning tonight as CC takes on RHP Josh Banks and the San Diego Padres.

Brewers Playoff Chances Skyrocketing

After the Brewers victory in the first game of the series with San Diego and the Cardinals loss to Florida, the Brewers playoff chances increased to a season high 77.9%.

Brewers have a 50/50 chance of winning tonight

According to Accuscore, the Brewers have a 50% chance of winning as Jeff Suppan takes on RHP Cha Seung Baek and the San Diego Padres.

Brewers Playoff Chances Above 70%

According to Coolstandings.com, the Brewers playoff chances stand at 72%. The only time the chances stood higher was before the terrible week started.

Brewers have a 62% chance of making it 5 in a Row

Manny Parra takes the hill in his first start since the one-sided shoving match with Prince Fielder. He takes on John Lannan and the Washington Nationals looking to make it five in a row for the Brewers. The Brewers have a 62% chance of winning.

Wade Perfect from Field and Line as USA cruises over China

Former Marquette star Dwyane Wade was 7-7 from the field and 5-5 from the line as the USA opened olympic competition with a 101-70 victory over China.

Brewers Playoff Chances up to 63.5%

The Brewers playoff chances were increased to 63.5% after beating the Nats on Saturday night.

Brewers Once Again Overwhelming Favorites

The Brewers have a 72% chance of winning as Ben Sheets tries to shake off a few mediocre starts in a row against RHP Tim Redding and the Washington Nationals.

Brewers Playoff Chances up to 61.5%

The Brewers playoff chances increased to 61.5% after the Brewers win over Washington on Friday night.

Brewers are Overwhelming Favorites Tonight

According to Accuscore, the Brewers have a 73% chance of winning tonight as CC takes the mound against the Nats led by RHP Collin Balester.

Trade Details

Our sources say the Jets are trading a conditional pick. At the worst, the Packers will get a 4th round pick. At best, the Packers will get a first round pick if the Jets win the Super Bowl.

Favre to Jets

Brett Favre has been traded to the Jets. Details to follow.

Brewers Playoff Chances Up Slightly

The Brewers playoff chances were bumped up to 52% after winning the rubber match with the Reds.

Playoff Chances at 50/50

The Brewers have a 50/50 chance of making the playoffs, according to CoolStandings.com.

Expected number of wins: 89.

Brewers Favorites to Take the Rubber Match

RHP Jeff Suppan takes on RHP Homer Bailey and the Cincinnati Reds in the rubber game of the three game series. According to Accuscore, the Brewers have a 58% chance of winning. Although Suppan has struggled on the road this year, Bailey comes into the game 0-7 this year, which tips the scales in the Brewers favor.

Favre headed to Tampa

Inside sources have Brett Favre headed to Tampa Bay, which will be announced later tonight. Check back for details as we get them.

Brewers are Somehow the Favorites Tonight

RHP Dave Bush goes up against RHP Edison Volquez and the Reds tonight as the Brewers try to end their skid. Despite the Brewers fifth starter who struggles on the road going up against one of the top pitchers in the National League, the Brewers have a 51% chance of winning.

Brewers Chances Down to 45.2%

After Monday night's loss to the Reds, the Brewers playoff chances dropped to 45.2%. The Brewers are going to have more difficulty Tuesday night as they face Edison Volquez.

Brewers are Underdogs Tonight

LHP Manny Parra goes up against RHP Bronson Arroyo and the Reds tonight at the Great American Ball Park. According to Accuscore, the Brewers have a 48% chance of winning.

The Favre Has Landed

Let the chaos begin.

Favre Enters Wisconsin

Favre is over Wisconsin. Will he make it all the way to Green Bay? Has he already eaten dinner?

Favre is Now in Air over Illinois

Hopefully he remembers that he hates Bears country.

Update: Favre is Now in Air over Kentucky

Favre is in the air over Kentucky. He'd estimated to arrive at A. Straubel at 6:59pm.

Track Favre's Flight to Milwaukee

Will he land in Green Bay or will he be rerouted?

Brewers Get as Many Lefties in Lineup as Possible

The Brewers have put usual bench players Ray Durham, Craig Counsell, and Russell Branyan into the starting lineup. All three have the ability to bat left handed, as the Brewers try to beat RHP Jorge Campillo who has beat the club two times this season.

Once Again the Favorite

The Brewers are once again the favorite as Ben Sheets goes up against RHP Jorge Campillo. According to Accuscore, the Brewers have a 54% chance of winning.

Back above 50/50

The Brewers are back above a 50/50 chance of making the playoffs. After Saturday's win against the Braves, their chances stand at 54.2%.

Brewers inch towards 50/50 playoff chance

The Brewers now have a 48.8% chance of making the playoffs after last night's win against the Braves.

Brewers have a great chance of winning today

CC Sabathia goes to the mound against RHP Charlie Morton and the Atlanta Braves. According to the folks at Accuscore, the Brewers have a 69% chance of winning.

The Brewers Look to Get Brewers Nation Off the Mat

According to the folks at Accuscore, the Brewers have a 57% chance of winning tonight. The struggling Jeff Suppan faces AAA call-up, LHP Chuck James who has struggled this season with an 8.22 ERA.

Although the matchup looks good on paper, the Brewers have struggled in recent years with little known pitchers. A shining examle of this quirk was last year when Atlanta started former Brewer Jeff Bennett in a rare start for him at that juncture. The Brewers went on to lose that game despite Bennett's lack of credentials. Here's hoping the Brewers figure out a way to give Suppan run support early and Suppan figures out a way to hold the Atlanta offense down for six innings.

Suppan has a lot going for him in this start. In addition to the Braves starting Chuck James, Suppan will face an Atlanta lineup which lacks the traded Mark Teixera and the injured Chipper Jones.

Packers Mull Intra-Division Trade

The Packers are considering an intra-division trade of Brett Favre. I hope Ted Thompson's office is barricaded.

Brewers Fans Try to Forget

Fans of the Milwaukee Brewers will try to forget an unfortunate series in which their team was sweep by the Chicago Cubs. Although the Cardinals are back in the front of the Wild Card race, the Brewers aggregate winning percentage of remaining opponents is around .480, while the aggregate winning percentage of the Cards remaining opponents is around .510. Teams like the Cardinals and Marlins proved in recent years that if you get in the playoffs, anything can happen.

Brewers have a 51% chance of winning tonight

In what will likely be the Brewers best chance at salvaging the series, Manny Parra and the Brewers face Ryan Dempster and the Cubs. According the the folks at AccuScore, the Brewers have a 51% chance of winning. Dempster comes into the game with only one road win this season, so hopefully the Brewers offense can jump on him early.

Brewers Playoff Chances Still Above 50/50

Despite the disappointing losses to the Cubs and Astros, the Brewers playoff chances are at 54.1%. If you can make the playoffs, anything can happen as the Cardinals and Marlins have proven in recent years.

Brewers Have a 57% Chance of Winning Tonight

Ben Sheets and the Brewers take on Carlos Zambrano and the Cubs with the Brewers trying to bounce back from yesterday's loss and even the series at one game a piece. The Brewers have a 57% chance of winning, according to the folks at Accuscore.

Marquette 5-Packs on Sale Today

Marquette 5-Packs are on sale.

Ticket packs start at $45.

Gold Plan: UW, Cinci, DePaul, Seton Hall, West Virginia

Blue Plan: UCONN, Georgetown, St. John's, Syracuse, Villanova

Don't Look Here

A "Don't Look Here" style article about CC and Prince.

Brewers have a 66% Chance of Winning Tonight (7/28)

The Brewers have a 66% chance of winning tonight as CC takes on Ted Lilly.

Brewers playoff chances down to 68.3%

The Brewers playoff chances are down to 68.3% after dropping two of three to the Astros. The new projected number of wins: 91.5.

Brewers have a 65% chance of bouncing back tonight

RHP Dave Bush (5-8) takes on RHP Brandon Backe (6-10) as the Brewers look to even the series at one game a piece. According to the folks at AccuScore, the Brewers have a 65% chance of winning.

I'm looking for Ray Durham to get the start for the Brewers, going against the right handed Backe.

Brewers Playoff Chances Down to 70.6%

Due to the Brewers loss, the playoff chances were reduced from 71.8% to 70.6%. The Brewers were helped by losses from the Cubs, Cards, and Phillies. The new expected number of wins by the Brewers: 92.

Cubs Lose! Cubs Lose!

The Milwaukee Brewers will be facing the Houston Astros tonight with first-place in the NL Central on the line. Earlier today, the Cubs lost.

Amusing Favre Tribute

"Bye, Bye to Our Number One Guy." A parody Favre tribute to the tune of Don Henley's "American Pie."

Brewers have a 58% chance of winning tonight

9-2 Manny Parra takes on 5-3 Wandy Rodriguez as the Brewers try to continue to have success against lefties (21-9 this season against lefties). The folks at AccuScore give the Brewers a 58% chance of continuing their winning streak.

As if the MU-Brewers fans didn't have enough reason to hate the Cubs already...

The Cubs have called up pitcher (and former Notre Dame receiver) Jeff Samardzija.

Brewers Playoff Chances at July 25th

71.8% chance of making the playoffs, with a 39.1% chance of winning the division. Expected wins:92.7.

Melvin doesn't anticipate adding a reliever

According to MLBTradeRumors.com, Doug Melvin does not anticipate adding a reliever this month.

Adding a reliever is very expensive this time of year, and it appears Melvin has confidence a couple of his middle relievers will iron things out.

Brewers have a 55% chance of winning tonight

Ben Sheets goes up against Todd Wellemeyer as the Brewers try to sweep the Cardinals. The Brewers have a 55% chance for a sweep.

Brewers Playoff Chances Skyrocketing

The Brewers now have a 68% chance of making the playoffs, according to coolstandings.com. One week ago, the Brewers chances were at 41.3%. What a difference a week without losing makes.

Milwaukee has a 52% chance of winning tonight

Milwaukee has a 52% chance of winning tonight per the guys at Accuscore.

CC Sabathia goes to the mound as the Brewers attempt to win their 6th straight road game.

Ideas for Brewers Fans

If the rotation holds up, CC Sabathia will be pitching Friday, August 8th against the Nationals. Also, Ben Sheets would pitch the next day and Parra would be going on Sunday. If you're not from the Milwaukee area, it would be a great weekend to come in for a few games. If you're in town, you may want to get tickets for August 8th ASAP before everybody realizes CC will pitch that day. A pair of tickets can currently be purchased off of StubHub for $20 each.

Brewers Playoff Chances Assessment

According to CoolStandings.com, the Milwaukee Brewers have a 64.1% chance of making the playoffs. Of their 62 remaining games, the aggregate winning percentage of their opponents is .484. That compares to the Cubs at .509 and Cardinals at .511.Also, the Brewers overtook the Cubs a couple days ago as top RPI in the NL.

MilwaukeeSportsFan's Inaugural Blog Post

Thank you for visiting mkesports.com. Everybody's support has allowed our website to expand content as readership has increased. In order to provide more content to Milwaukee and Wisconsin sports fans, we are rolling out some blogs. Also, check out our message boards for a more interactive fan experience. Thanks again.