With only 5 more days to wait until the 2010 tourney, the bookies have released up-to-the-second odds for the 6th championship title in tournament history. Here is everything you need to know about the contenders for this chance to walk among the gods of the game:
Snap, Crackle, & Pop (3 to 1): By reaching the finals the past 2 years, the media darlings of 2010 have raised expectations to unparalleled heights. Headlined by superstar Ryan Gomes, they are the trendy pick to take home the hardware. They came painfully close last year, only to lose to Doom in an epic pitcher’s duel that broke every ratings and attendance record in history. However, with the added hype also comes added pressure. A third straight finals appearance without a win would put them in 1990’s Buffalo Bills territory. If they want to avoid a reputation as a talented team that can’t win the big one, they have to finish the job.
Biffle Wallers (6 to 1): After back to back semifinal appearances this squad is trying to take the next step. Southpaw Aram Hamalian wins the Jamie Moyer award for “pitcher most people think they can crush until they step in the box against him.” The veteran junkballer has sent many an aggressive hitter back to the bench with tears in his eyes. These 4 veterans have taken out some serious competition in past years, and they are keeping the roster of Shea, Keane, Litchfield and Hamalian together for another run at immortality. Their chemistry is unmatched and if a few breaks go their way don’t be surprised to see them doing the talk show/Disneyworld circuit next week.
Milkmen (10 to 1): This 2010 Dream Team is the bastard child of 2009’s Green Street Elite and Dead Baby Mammoths. They are aging quickly but with a combined 6 championships they cannot be counted out just yet. They are counting on their decorated veterans to keep notorious malcontent Dan Westerman in line, and in fact “win a ring for Double D’s” has become their unofficial rallying cry. He won a silver slugger in 2008 and knows this may be his last chance at a ring, so expect him to bring the calcium and leave his troubled past in the rearview mirror.
Sleeper Teams:
1. Skeletor and Beastman: The younger Hennesseys step out of big bro’s shadows and try to create their own legacy.
2. Fresh Catch: Always a threat to go on a winning streak, they can mash with the big boys.
3. Take a Wiff of This: Up and comers made a deep run in last year’s tourney and are only now hitting their prime.
Awards Predictions:
MVP: Ryan Gomes. With a devastating arsenal on the mound and a Griffey like swing, he brings the complete package every time he steps on the field.
Gold Glove: Lamarr Monterio (aka Willie Mays Hayes). His blazing speed and superior backpedaling ability allow him to track down any ball you hit.
Cy Young Award: Ryan Hennessey. Towering mound presence and an intimidating glare make him nearly unhittable.