Something has to change, starting with the top line

June 18, 2013

The Bruins are pounding the Blackhawks physically.

Captain seriously needs to score

June 17, 2013

If the Blackhawks plan to win the Stanley Cup like they’ve said, then Jonathan Toews ought to start scoring because they aren’t winning it if he can’t.

Three worst words in finals: Blackhawks power play

June 16, 2013

How many times do we have to tell the Blackhawks that their power play stinks?

Yo, Hawks, a little less adversity, OK?

June 13, 2013

I thought the Blackhawks had blown Game 1. Just blown a great chance to take control of the Stanley Cup Finals.

Be first kid on your block to hate Bruins' Marchand

June 11, 2013

Tip to Blackhawks fans awaiting the start of the Stanley Cup Final:

Cutler's 'dreadful' communication issues a concern

June 10, 2013

While the Blackhawks were working their way back to the Stanley Cup Final at the end of last week, there was some Jay Cutler news.

From excruciating to ecstasy

June 9, 2013

Game 5 was looking like a killer.

Quenneville's line changes -- it was Two-Fer Thursday

June 7, 2013

Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville changed lines.

Keith turns stupid, but have rest of the Hawks wised up for Game 4?

June 6, 2013

The worst part of the Blackhawks’ performance in Game 3 in Los Angeles arguably was Duncan Keith’s whacking Jeff Carter in the face with his stick, a selfish and undisciplined move.

Tip to the Hawks -- bad and soft is no way to win a playoff game

June 5, 2013

I expected the Hawks to come out strong and outskate the Kings in Game 3 of the Western Conference finals on Tuesday night, no matter the Kings’ 7-0 record at the Staples Center this postseason.

Hawks plan on the road? Make themselves at home

June 4, 2013

Among the many ways the Blackhawks pantsed the Kings in the first two games of the Western Conference finals, this might be the most amazing stat that blew up supposedly impenetrable goalie Jonathan Quick:

Physical Kings can't roll with Hawks' punches

June 3, 2013

For all the talk of the Blackhawks facing a destructive, physical Kings team in the Western Conference finals, it was the Kings who were missing players because of big hits.

Hawks impose their game on Kings

June 1, 2013

So many shots, so few rebounds.

Kings have a real goalie, Hawks have a real problem

May 31, 2013

The trendy note going around the NHL says the four teams remaining in the Stanley Cup playoffs won the last four championships.

Your Hawks' three-star selections: Skill, depth and heart

May 30, 2013

The Blackhawks were the better team entering their second-round playoff series against Detroit.

Toews, Kane, Sharp, Hossa: Big names must play big

May 29, 2013

Detroit Red Wings coach Mike Babcock says he loves Game 7’s, even if it sounds like he loves whistling past the graveyard.

Who had Handzus, Bickell and Frolik in a 'Saved the Hawks' Season' pool?

May 28, 2013

I was going to write about which players the Blackhawks should trade, and I still might.

Been waiting for those Hawks

May 25, 2013

The power play showed up.

Thanks, Captain Self-Inflicted Mess

May 24, 2013

Jonathan Toews lost it.

Urlacher's game of legends

May 23, 2013

Full marks to the Arizona Cardinals.

Urlacher's greatness x 2

May 22, 2013

Brian Urlacher retires as two of the greatest linebackers in NFL history.

Garza is still here? Why is Garza still here?

May 22, 2013

Me, I’d have traded Matt Garza after the first inning in Pittsburgh when he survived a one-out walk and got a magnificent catch from Julio Borbon.

Looking for Jonathan Toews

May 21, 2013

The Blackhawks might have the better talent in their second-round playoff series against the Detroit Red Wings, but they’re failing to take advantage of it.

Inconsistent Hawks facing first playoff adversity

May 20, 2013

The Blackhawks won the first shift of Game 2 of their Western Conference semifinal series, and that was pretty much it.

Rosenbloom: 'Phil, what's it like to be engaged to a woman who posed nude for Playboy?'

May 17, 2013

Phil Jackson pulled off the greatest sales job in sports history:

The word on the Bulls season? Wasted

May 16, 2013

These crippled Bulls were not going to beat the Heat.

Prime spot for Kane to show he's a primo goal-scorer

May 15, 2013

This has been a different Patrick Kane this year, and this is the series to underscore that.

In lieu of flowers, the Bulls request ...

May 14, 2013

The crowd arrived late. The Bulls didn’t arrive at all. Ba-bum-cha!

Dear Stupid (and you know who you are, Bulls)

May 13, 2013

If you were worried the Bulls might’ve wised up after their many stupid acts cost them the last two playoff games, then here’s some good news:

Trying to figure out why Bulls decided stupid was a good idea

May 9, 2013

Why?

Dwyane Wade: sommelier for Miami's whine country

May 8, 2013

Is Dwyane Wade still whining to the refs from Game 1 or has he launched an early crybaby offensive for Game 2?

LeBron? Did anybody see LeBron when it mattered?

May 7, 2013

Everybody waited for LeBron James to take over Game 1 of the Bulls-Heat Eastern Conference semifinal series.

Just when you thought it couldn't get worse for Rose ...

May 6, 2013

Don’t look now, and Derrick Rose apparently isn’t, but the Bulls franchise player’s image could become a five-alarm fire in the next two weeks.

Susannah Collins: From silly 'Shoot The Puck' duty to growing folk hero

May 4, 2013

Susannah Collins ought to thank the Blackhawks. They made her a folk hero, and folk heroes never die.

Injury, illness and in need of Derrick Rose

May 3, 2013

Yes, people, Game 7 of Bulls-Nets would be a great time for Derrick Rose to return, but the Bulls say they are comfortable with everything that Rose absolutely refuses to do.

Only fools believe Ricketts played a big-boy move card

May 2, 2013

Wait, did someone mistake Tom Ricketts’ statement to a group of business wonks Wednesday morning as a big-boy threat to move the Cubs out of Wrigley Field?

Cubs 'restoration:' Dollars and nonsense

May 1, 2013

Whose turn was it to watch Crane Kenney?

Briggs' mysterious tweets send misguided message on Collins

April 30, 2013

I don't know Jason Collins. I wish I did. Bravo for the NBA center's courage in becoming the first male athlete in a major North American league to declare he's gay.

Emery isn't dumb enough to sign Tebow, right?

April 29, 2013

Just say no. There’s your answer, Phil Emery.

Excruciating and epic, maddening and miraculous

April 27, 2013

Game 4 of Bulls-Nets should’ve been over early in the fourth quarter when the Nets had a 14-point lead with 3:45 to go. It never should’ve required overtime.

Emery has another What The Football draft moment

April 26, 2013

Am I high? Or is Phil Emery seeing things that others aren’t?

Memo to Emery: Draft starters. Plural.

April 25, 2013

My issue isn’t that Bears General Manager Phil Emery has fewer draft picks than he has positional needs. Every GM has fewer picks than he has needs. Just ask them.

'It's in the hole!'

April 24, 2013

Let’s talk about the most famous call at The Masters.

Question for Bulls fans: How much ugly can you take?

April 23, 2013

If you have any basketball sensibilities, then don’t watch a Bulls playoff game

Tip to Bulls: Stupid and heartless is not a playoff strategy

April 22, 2013

I want to say the Bulls quit in Game 1 of their playoff series against the Brooklyn Nets, but you have to show up first.

Bulls' playoff plan: Wait till Nets turn stupid

April 18, 2013

In NBA playoff parlance, we call this a gift.

O'Callahan finds comfort in Tribune's Boston tribute

April 18, 2013

I got a lot of emails Tuesday. I was being thanked for the powerful cover of our sports section that extended an open hand and heart to Boston teams in the wake of the horrific bombing during the Boston Marathon on Monday. 

How come Derrick Rose doesn't get it?

April 17, 2013

Derrick Rose doesn’t get it.

That's your $500 million Cubs news conference?

April 16, 2013

We know what a happy Tom Ricketts looks like: Day One of family ownership.

How come Tiger didn't know how to do the right thing?

April 15, 2013

Arguably, we just witnessed the greatest Masters finish ever. Because it didn’t involve Tiger Woods.

Jay Cutler, meet Ashton Kutcher

April 11, 2013

You know what I’m talking about when I refer to “Jay face,’’ right? That pouty look that Jay Cutler flashes when things go badly?  The one that every director of every televised Bears game has dedicated a camera to?

The puck stops where exactly?

April 10, 2013

No, no, no, you people have it all wrong. You’re using the wrong description. The Blackhawks do not have a goalie controversy. They have a goalie competition.

Cubs tradition: Throwing out ceremonial first discussion of fans' patience

April 9, 2013

If you believe the 2013 Cubs were built to stink -- spoiler alert: they were -- then you had to like Edwin Jackson’s miserable start in Monday’s home opener and Starlin Castro’s aggravating last out that was a wind shift from turning into a game-winning grand slam.

An odd sound coming out of the Marmol mess

April 8, 2013

Cubs manager Dale Sveum finally made the move he never should’ve had to make: yanking Carlos Marmol as closer.

Bulls anatomy: Rose's ACL connected to Gibson's MCL

April 4, 2013

Taj Gibson got hurt again, and you watch, it will delay Derrick Rose’s return.

No. 2 center still the Hawks' No. 1 need

April 3, 2013

If I were a betting man, and I am, I’d wager the Blachawks will let today’s trade deadline pass without acquiring the true No. 2 center they’ve needed since they won the Stanley Cup.

Quick, someone wake Theo and tell him to dump Marmol

April 2, 2013

Dale Sveum must be trying to get fired.

Forget playing better, Cubs need to trade better

April 1, 2013

Cubs manager Dale Sveum and team president Theo Epstein believe the Cubs will take a big step forward this season, and I’m thinking, I guess losing only 90 games would be a big step.

Cubs, city both full of it in dispute over Ald. Thomas Tunney's Wrigley Field

March 29, 2013

Spoiler alert: Both sides in the Cubs’ dispute with the city regarding improvements at Ald. Thomas Tunney Wrigley Field are full of manure. 

Is there meaning to Bulls' streak-busting win over LeBron? (Spoiler alert: no)

March 28, 2013

The undermanned Bulls ended the Heat’s 27-game winning streak Wednesday night, and of course the 1972 Miami Dolphins popped champagne. Or something like that.

Derrick Rose we used to know would make tonight 'The Return'

March 27, 2013

Greatness comes to the United Center on Wednesday night. LeBron James will be in concert. He will be backed by the Miami Heat symphony.

Big question regarding Hawks' struggles

March 26, 2013

Remember when the Chicago Blackhawks outskated everybody?

Emery puts Bears in a risky spot

March 25, 2013

Phil Emery had been moving along pretty well in changing a Chicago Bears teams that missed the playoffs five of the last six years.

Bears' idea of respecting Urlacher looks disingenuous, deceitful

March 21, 2013

It’s not so much that the Chicago Bears parted ways with Brian Urlacher, a surefire Hall of Famer robbed of his greatest asset by injuries.

Rosemont makes a play for Cubs, but they'd rather play the clown

March 20, 2013

I’m still waiting for confirmation from the Elias Sports Bureau, but I believe that Tom Ricketts now leads the Chicago Owners League in negotiating errors.

NBA officiating joke (and arrogance) is on the Bulls

March 19, 2013

It’s time for another round of “Why I Hate the NBA’s Handling of its Officials’’ and why they should leave the arrogance to us pros.

If Bears actually respected Urlacher, they'd have made a decision already

March 18, 2013

It’s this simple: If Brian Urlacher can play, then the Bears should sign him. If he can't, then they shouldn’t. Any questions?

When will Thibodeau learn and will it affect Rose's return?

March 14, 2013

Tom Thibodeau had a chance to prove he isn’t crazy, but no.

Emery gives Cutler more Bears toys and fewer excuses

March 13, 2013

Last year, Jay Cutler got a Pro Bowl receiver in Brandon Marshall and a newly signed Pro Bowl running back in Matt Forte.

Hoping Bears play 'What's My Line?' in free agency

March 12, 2013

Now comes NFL free agency, or as it’s known at Halas Hall, “Where my offensive tackle?’’

What are Bulls doing to Derrick Rose?

March 11, 2013

The Bulls said the decision to return from ACL surgery on his left knee is up to Derrick Rose.

Does anyone really have to ask who's first-half Hawks MVP?

March 7, 2013

So, I’m up early Thursday morning, reading another dramatic and sparkling edition of My Chicago Tribune and logged on to My Chicago Tribune’s digital presentation, the only local news source you’ll ever need.

Trading Marmol could fill a couple of Cubs holes

March 6, 2013

Reports say the Tigers are looking to trade for a closer. Hang loose, Carlos Marmol.

Third line a big part of Blackhawks' streak

March 5, 2013

Ever since unloading Kris Versteeg and Andrew Ladd shortly after they won the Stanley Cup in 2010, the Chicago Blackhawks have been looking for a third line that can check, score and annoy opponents.

Good news: You can't pick one win that sums up Hawks

March 4, 2013

A friend had a question: Which Blackhawks game during their record 19-0-3 start sums up this team the best?

Is Bulls' lack of hustle a sign they've tuned out Thibs?

February 28, 2013

Have the Bulls stopped listening to Tom Thibodeau?

Q gets an A for Hawks' season

February 27, 2013

One of the underappreciated parts of this record start by the Chicago Blackhawks is the job that Joel Quenneville has done.

What do NFL combine drills have to do with actual NFL?

February 25, 2013

I still don’t get the NFL scouting combine.

A pre-emptive request to stop the stupid

February 21, 2013

You watch, the Bulls will beat the Heat tonight and there will be a major run on insanity.

Dear Stupid (you 7th-inning stretch people know who you are)

February 20, 2013

The Cubs say they will update the fun at the ol’ ballpark this season, although I don’t know how you do that with Ian Stewart at third base.

Learning the Campana and Soriano lessons

February 19, 2013

Two of the biggest stories in Cubs camp Monday involved Tony Campana and Alfonso Soriano. The former is leaving, while the latter would do so only grudgingly, and both represent object lessons for Cubs fans and management.

By not saying much, Bears coaches say a lot about Cutler

February 18, 2013

Maybe it’s just me, but members of the Chicago Bears new coaching staff sound like they don’t have a clue.

Have a seat for rest of season, Derrick

February 14, 2013

If Derrick Rose is fine with missing the rest of the season, then so am I.

You'd think $28 million would buy Hawks a better power play

February 13, 2013

What part of “shoot’’ doesn’t Brent Seabrook understand?

Spurs' JV team exposes joke that is Eastern Conference

February 12, 2013

The Choice (and remember, death is not an option): The NBA’s regular season or the NBA’s Eastern Conference?

The Kane blog you've been asking about (spoiler alert: I'm right)

February 11, 2013

Friendly and thoughtful Twitter followers and emailers have been wondering where I’ve been while Patrick Kane has gotten off to the best start of his career.

America dislikes Cutler more than A-Roid? You're idiots, America

February 7, 2013

This Forbes list continues to be all the talk, but I still don’t get the hating on Jay Cutler nationally.

Crawford gives Hawks a different kind of goalie win

February 6, 2013

It would’ve been easy for Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville to yank goalie Corey Crawford shortly after the opening faceoff in San Jose on Tuesday night.

Bears soap opera: All My Hesters

February 5, 2013

Jay Cutler and Devin Hester: Can this marriage be saved?

Will Cutler ever have Flacco's season?

February 4, 2013

You know what the worst thing is about watching the Super Bowl?

Keep the NBA play, give me the trash talking

January 31, 2013

I figured out what I hate about the NBA’s legendary trash-talking:

In trying to support Hester, Drake indicts him

January 30, 2013

I don’t think Darryl Drake meant to expose Devin Hester as mentally and emotionally weak, but the former Chicago Bears wide receivers coach just gave the Bears' fake wide receiver something else to mope about.

When Rose returns, Bulls will be back to same killer problem

January 29, 2013

It never should’ve been that difficult, but the Bulls finally put away the dogbreath Charlotte Bobcats at home Monday night.

Try this for a Super Bowl 'X factor'

January 28, 2013

Raise your hand if you believe the Harbaugh family storyline has been exhausted.

If the phone doesn't ring, Sammy, it's the Cubs

January 24, 2013

Sammy Sosa said during a video website interview that he thinks the Cubs should retire his number.

A story to love

January 23, 2013

Sit down for this, people: I came across a touching story this week.

Rosenbloom: It's Ricketts' money, so let him spend it

January 22, 2013

Tom Ricketts might not believe it or care, but I’m with him on this one.

Notre Dame calls that an investigation?

January 21, 2013

Manti Te’o will tell the truth about his lies to Katie Couric.

Now playing in the banana republic of South Bend: Te'o and the Lying Irish

January 18, 2013

You could choose to believe that Manti Te’o was duped in the dead fake girlfriend story.

Selling Cutler on Trestman's offense

January 17, 2013

Interesting sales job for Phil Emery: The head coach chosen by the general manager to lead the Chicago Bears into the modern NFL hasn’t coached in the modern NFL for eight seasons

Trestman's big problem: Cutler isn't the only big problem

January 16, 2013

Is Marc Trestman the right guy to coach the Bears?

Not that Phil Emery cares, but ...

January 15, 2013

Did Jimmy Johnson tweet anything else today?

Bears' offense is light years from what I saw last weekend

January 14, 2013

You know what happened last weekend?

Talking up Thomas and Maddux while slapping down Sosa

January 10, 2013

So, I guess 12.5 percent of the Hall of Fame voters actually believed Sammy Sosa’s cockamamie Flintstones vitamins story.

The Hall truth: The change it must make

January 9, 2013

History, it has been said, is written by the winners.

With Singletary's candidacy, Emery is clowning himself

January 8, 2013

It’s official: Phil Emery has hit stupid time.

Lockout ends, so Kane trade talk can begin

January 7, 2013

Now, where was I before Gary Bettman unanimously captured the “Moron of the Millenium’’ championship?

Special teams coaches are the hot NFL thing, so what about Dave Toub?

January 3, 2013

Phil Emery put a couple special teams coaches on his list of coaching candidates, and that’s only the two that we know about. The Bears general manager might have more names on his LinkedIn account, and it can’t be just to comply with the Rooney Rule.

Rosenbloom: Bears must aggressively pursue Holmgren

January 2, 2013

If Mike Holmgren is interested in coaching, then Phil Emery had better be interested in talking to him.

Emery's first hire might be Cutler's last chance

January 1, 2013

"Change isn’t always bad," Jay Cutler was saying Monday shortly after the Chicago Bears whacked Lovie Smith.

Hey, Bears, here's your new coach

December 31, 2012

It’s not that difficult: Identify what’s wrong with the Bears and find a coach who can fix it.

Later for Lovie

December 30, 2012

The Chicago Bears' season is over. Same goes for Lovie Smith’s run as Bears coach. Has to be.

Perfect suckers for the Bears

December 27, 2012

If the Bears can’t play the Cardinals again, then they get perhaps the best opponent for their half of a must-win/then-pray Sunday to decide their postseason fate.

Lovie said he hasn't changed, which is the problem

December 26, 2012

If you have to ask what it will take to save Lovie Smith’s job, then haven’t you already answered the question?

Did that look like a playoff offense to you?

December 23, 2012

What we learned in Arizona on Sunday was the Chicago Bears are back to beating stiffs and the defense is back to scoring.

Big-talkin' Marshall didn't talk big enough

December 20, 2012

After another miserable performance against the Packers on Sunday, Brandon Marshall said everyone on offense must be accountable, “even if that means jobs.’’

That stench? Oh, that's the Bears' best players

December 19, 2012

If the Bears are going to make the playoffs, or even win another game, it’s pretty basic:

When do we start blaming Cutler?

December 18, 2012

Here’s the thing about Jay Cutler’s throw that was sort of aimed at Devin Hester during yet another miserable Cutler performance in yet another aggravating loss to the Packers:

There's no crying in football

December 17, 2012

So, let me get this right: The Bears are supposed to follow a guy reduced to tears?

It's Lovie's list, so, it's Lovie's failure

December 14, 2012

The Choice (and remember, death is not an option):

Opening act for a closed show: 'Bettman and the Boneheads'

December 13, 2012

NHL muckamuck and Gary Bettman sock puppet Bill Daly said last week he was out of ideas for saving this locked-out season.

Naming names: Changing the loser ways of Bears coaches

December 12, 2012

In trying to pare down the list of coaches who should replace Lovie Smith, I have two top choices, and neither is Bill Cowher.

Bears defense is failing, and that's on Lovie

December 11, 2012

There’s a lot of vitriol aimed at the Bears offense after Lovie Smith’s team embarrassed itself against a bad Minnesota bunch. I get it. Mike Tice’s offense ranks worse than Mike Martz’s, and how stupid is that?

You can fire Lovie right now

December 9, 2012

Lovie Smith has to go.

Finally, a use for Bears tight ends

December 6, 2012

The more Bears receivers who go down with injuries and struggle to return, the more embarrassing Lovie Smith looks with his Kellen Davis nonsense.

Urlacher hurt, but offense feels the pain

December 5, 2012

Isn’t this where we came in with the Bears almost six months ago?

Is Seattle the game we start Lovie's firing countdown?

December 4, 2012

Will we look back at the Bears’ embarrassing home loss to the road-pathetic Seahawks and identify it as the game that marked the beginning of Lovie Smith’s end as coach?

If this isn't a complete Bears disaster, it's close

December 2, 2012

This might not be a full-blown disaster, but you can see it from here.

'Slap Shot' night: We're bringing our (bleeping) toys with us!

November 29, 2012

The NHL and the players association are going to federal mediation. Forget them.

Bears' game plan is simple: Get off the gurney running

November 28, 2012

The Bears' offensive line is messy.

Tillman's injury would hurt Bears the most

November 27, 2012

Charles Tillman was having himself a game against Minnesota, and it wasn’t even half over.

As bodies fall, Bears stand up

November 25, 2012

A response was demanded.

We're puttin' on the foil, and you can join us

November 21, 2012

Look, I’m as bummed by the NHL lockout as you are. You hockey fans, anyway.

What would a 'Slap Shot' night be without a Hanson Brother?

November 21, 2012

Here’s the thing about a “Slap Shot’’ night like the Tribune is sponsoring: You can’t stage that kind of evening without a Hanson Brother. Not in my world, anyway.

Bears exposed as fake contender

November 20, 2012

Some people say the worst thing you can call a football player is soft.

Bad week for Bears to forfeit TE spot

November 19, 2012

Bears coach Lovie Smith likes to say that Kellen Davis can do all the things the good tight ends can do.

Big changes for Bulls' big man

November 15, 2012

Joakim Noah was taking one of those shots.

How much is Cutler worth now and who do you blame?

November 14, 2012

Jay Cutler was the last of three quarterbacks to get knocked out of a game because of a concussion Sunday, which brings trouble and questions.

Does Bears offense know enough to be embarrassed?

November 13, 2012

How long before the Bears offense finally punishes an opponent for the insulting squib kicks?

Can't any Bears quarterback run an offense?

November 12, 2012

You go into a game with the chance to own a piece of the best record in the league, and you come out of it with a concussed starting quarterback.

Losing Tillman wouldn't be biggest loss for Bears defense

November 8, 2012

Coming off a game in which he forced an incredible four fumbles, Charles Tillman’s absence Sunday night against Houston would be a big loss -- bigger still considering he has forced seven fumbles in eight games and returned two interceptions for touchdowns.

It's never too early to talk about Toub's head-coaching prospects

November 7, 2012

Sherrick McManis came off the end to block a punt and Corey Wootton came up the middle to return it for a touchdown in Tennessee, and I’m thinking, Dave Toub might be one more Devin Hester touchdown return away from getting a head coaching job.

Is Tillman changing the position?

November 6, 2012

Is Charles Tillman changing the cornerback position?

The Bears like you've never seen them

November 4, 2012

I’ve never seen the Bears play a first quarter like that.

Attention, Bears offense: This is your last bad defensive foe this year

November 1, 2012

Jay Cutler was asked to explain his NFL-best fourth-quarter ability.

Trying to figure out point of Bulls season

October 31, 2012

I know there’s a point to this Bulls season that starts without Derrick Rose.

For starters, Hahn off to a good start

October 31, 2012

Rick Hahn, executive of the year.

Don't let Cutler's offense hog all the criticism

October 30, 2012

If it was only the offense that was killing the Bears against a bad Carolina team, it would’ve been just a continuation of what we’ve unfortunately gotten used to.

Do Bears have an incentive clause for aggravation?

October 28, 2012

The Bears were supposed to beat the dogbreath Panthers.

Cubs will do their own ticket scalping, thank you

October 25, 2012

Sometimes the Cubs can be as sanctimonious off the field as they are inept on it.

Want to protect Cutler? Run the stinkin' ball

October 24, 2012

One good thing about Jay Cutler’s near-Super-Bowl-dream-ending injury: The Super Bowl dream remains alive, even if it now might be wrapped in Kevlar and popping Vicodin.

Saluting the Bears defense

October 23, 2012

I can't describe how spectacular the Bears defense was in nearly shutting out the Lions. I don't know if anybody can. But running down that unit's heroics Monday night should be stunning enough.

Football 101: Good teams beat bad, stupid teams at home

October 22, 2012

This seems to be pretty simple:

Sorry Charlie: Weis still a loser, on and off the field

October 11, 2012

Charlie Weis’ football team stinks at Kansas the way it did at Notre Dame.

No reason for Bears to extend Smith now

October 10, 2012

Bears coach Lovie Smith can be a spinner of fairy tales at times.

Here's how I'd have sentenced Sandusky

October 9, 2012

Jerry Sandusky got 30-60 years in prison. It wasn’t enough.

Any time the offense wants to play a first half, fine by me

October 7, 2012

Who figured it would be this painful to watch the Bears' offense after the season-opener against the Colts?

Cubs can only improve in 2013 (but don't bet on it)

October 4, 2012

The Cubs were built to lose 100 games, so what was with the obsession to avoid it?

The Cutler Rule: Winning is the only thing and anything goes when you do

October 3, 2012

As long as the Bears win, Jay Cutler can do what he wants.

At least Cutler's latest dis comes during win

October 2, 2012

Jay Cutler’s behavior always seems to be a story, so I guess it’s good that all you really need to know about the Bears’ “Monday Night Football’’ tilt in Dallas is that the supposedly creaky defense outscored Tony Romo’s supposedly talented Dallas offense.

Hey, look! An offensive line worse than the Bears'

October 1, 2012

You know what’s worse than the Bears’ offensive line? The Cowboys’ offensive line, that’s what.

Real refs get their deal, owners get pantsed by their lackey Goodell

September 27, 2012

Now we know what the NFL’s embarrassment level is: Getting pantsed on national television.

A plan to end Goodell's clown college of refs

September 25, 2012

The NFL is a joke. A disgrace. An embarrassment.

Wood's thinking sounds as destroyed as a famous boombox

September 24, 2012

Kerry Wood got his day at Wrigley Field on Sunday, and he spent part of it lobbying for the Cubs to bring Sammy Sosa back to the organization as something.

Waiting for Cutler's offense ... and waiting

September 23, 2012

In the middle of a contentious week, Jay Cutler was saying there is criticism even when you win.

Rios: From bad to best

September 20, 2012

For the longest time, it appeared that Adam Dunn was a lock for Comeback Player of the Year, and he still might win it as he heads to another 40-homer/100-RBI season after last year’s 11-homer/42-RBI disaster.

Cutler making it harder to believe in Cutler

September 19, 2012

I want to believe Jay Cutler.

Now starting at quarterback for the Bears: Jay Zambrano

September 18, 2012

Jay Cutler, meet Carlos Zambrano.

What exactly was new with the Bears offense?

September 14, 2012

The new-look Bears totaled 47 yards of offense in the first half Thursday against the Packers, but that was good considering they had zero in the first quarter.

The grudge report: Benson drops the ball again

September 13, 2012

Funny thing from Cedric Benson.

New math: Better Bears offense + worse Packers defense = revenge

September 12, 2012

Maybe it’s just me, but I was totally unimpressed with the Packers defense. Completely and absolutely unimpressed. It was bad last season. It looked bad to start this season.

If you thought Bears fans sounded dumb Sunday . . .

September 11, 2012

Dear Stupid (and you know who you are, Bears fans):

Welcome to the Bears' buffet of big-boy offense

September 9, 2012

Mr. Negative would focus on Jay Cutler’s pick-6 and the offensive line’s ineptitude on the first two series against a bad team’s new 3-4 defense.

Uh-oh: Cutler can't block out questions about blocking

September 6, 2012

Jay Cutler was speaking honestly. Maybe that’s why it was so jarring.

Not the end of the world, but Sox fatalists can see it from here

September 5, 2012

If you are a White Sox fatalist -- one of the 30,000 or so who were smart enough not to fill the Cell for Tuesday night’s joke against Minnesota -- then you have good reason to warm up the car and close the garage door on this season.

Fake NFL officials in real games? A real embarrassment

September 4, 2012

The NFL and its officials aren’t talking this week. That means we’re talking fake officials in real games.

Pinkett's right: Crime pays in college football

August 30, 2012

You want to win in college football, you have to recruit some criminals.

Best part of Castro's deal is Cubs still can deal him

August 29, 2012

From no-trade clauses to eminently tradable contracts.

Former MLB VP: 'I doubt the umpires really care about Harrelson'

August 28, 2012

In a blog Tuesday morning, I speculated about Hawk Harrelson’s rants on umpires.

Do Hawk's umpire rants hurt Sox?

August 28, 2012

Maybe it’s me, but listening to the sounds of silence during the sixth inning of the White Sox game in Baltimore on Monday night sounded like Hawk Harrelson was called into the principal's office again.

Remember when the Bears used to rush the passer?

August 27, 2012

Any time the Bears want to rush the passer, fine by me.

Tillman cornered the market on bad

August 24, 2012

If Charles Tillman had been playing for a job, he’d have been on the street by halftime of the Bears’ practice game against the Giants on Friday night.

Sorry, Cubs fans, but this is worse than you thought

August 23, 2012

Sorry, Cubs fans. My condolences.

Seeing Yankee holes and Sox hope

August 22, 2012

Maybe it’s me, and maybe I’m alone on this one, but sorry, I’m not impressed with the Yankees.

Is it just me who's worried about the Bears' run defense?

August 21, 2012

Everybody’s watching left tackle, especially against the Giants’ Super Bowl-devastating pass rush and fearing for Jay Cutler’s life in New York this Friday when the Bears play their one moderately important practice game.

So much good stuff, and then there are the Bears safeties

August 20, 2012

The Bears’ passing game? Just like big-boy offenses.

What is Tom Ricketts' number?

August 16, 2012

As Carlos Marmol rolled through this week with an earned-run average under 1.70 in his previous 12 outings, manager Dale Sveum said he expects Marmol to be the Cubs closer next year.

Castro -- rhymes with disaster (or close enough)

August 15, 2012

Starlin Castro was supposed to be a jewel in the middle of the Cubs order.

Tice, Smith, Emery -- who gets the blame for this tackle mess?

August 14, 2012

The Bears' actual problem at offensive left tackle is protecting Jay Cutler.

Bears big problem isn't Urlacher's injury

August 13, 2012

Stephen Paea is injured. Of course he is. It’s what he does, occasionally finding a spasm of health and talent to rush the passer.

Watch this: Cutler to Marshall

August 9, 2012

I know that the first exhibition game doesn’t mean much to the starters because, as Tribune football columnist Matt Bowen writes, that first game is about basics. Yes. Well. Fine.

Who fills the Urlacher void? Cutler, that's who

August 8, 2012

If Brian Urlacher can’t play this season, then Jay Cutler ends up with even more pressure, and I’m not talking about another missed block by J’Marcus Webb.

The Urlacher plan (my plan, anyway)

August 7, 2012

Listen up, it only matters if Brian Urlacher misses a real game.

Truth is, Epstein and Hoyer appear truth-challenged

August 6, 2012

Epstein played nice with Dempster, and here's why

August 2, 2012

The more I read Theo Epstein’s alleged defense of Ryan Dempster’s killing the aborted Atlanta deal, the more I think the Cubs president comes back to blaming Dempster for the aborted Atlanta deal.

Ranting about the mentally weak Cubs

August 1, 2012

The Cubs traded pitchers and one regular, so how did they almost get no-hit on Tuesday night?

Cubs now worse; but organization better, at least in theory

July 31, 2012

Liriano deal is a for Sale sign

July 31, 2012

There are a lot of ways to look at the Chicago White Sox’s surprising trade for Minnesota Twins left-hander Francisco Liriano, and all of them seem good.

Waiting for a deal, Theo. Waiting. Wait--ing.

July 30, 2012

Maybe you blame Cubs team President Theo Epstein for failing to take every step required to execute the trade of Ryan Dempster to Atlanta.

Rosenbloom: If Bulls have a plan, it seems worse than Milicic's offense

July 19, 2012

As Omer Asik moves closer to wisely taking all that money the Houston Rockets are stupidly offering, the Bulls reportedly are interested in Darko Milicic, who played for the Timberwolves last season.

Youkilis triggers a Valentine's week massacre

July 18, 2012

Four words about Kevin Youkilis: I had no idea.

How versatile: Zambrano apologizes in Wrigley no matter who he plays for

July 18, 2012

Carlos Zambrano returned to Wrigley Field, but he won’t be pitching.

Rosenbloom: Here's the deal: Williams needs to make a trade

July 17, 2012

There is a rumor the White Sox are interested in trading for Milwaukee starter Zach Greinke. I believe the rumor was started by Gavin Floyd’s right forearm, the one with tendinitis that likely will land him on the disabled list and scream for the White Sox to trade for a starter.

Wait, the Bears did what with Forte?

July 16, 2012

The NFL is a passing league.

Dear Cubs fans, don't be suckers

July 16, 2012

The Cubs have won 12 of their last 16 games.

Paterno = fraud

July 12, 2012

Joe Paterno was a fraud.

The Hall truth: Eddie O deserves it

July 12, 2012

One of the best ambassadors a sport could ask forjust earned one of his sport’s highest honors.

Tip to Bulls: It's not the bench, it's the starters

July 11, 2012

On the Wednesday that many NBA rumors can become fact, the Bulls appear to be breaking up their beloved “Bench Mob.’’

All-Star Game 'counts' only if you're counting stupid

July 10, 2012

Listen up, stupid (and you know who you are, Bud Selig), using the All-Star Game to determine home-field advantage for the World Series  becomes more idiotic every year.

Now let's see Epstein perform as well as Dempster

July 9, 2012

It’s as if Ryan Dempster wants to get traded.

Waiting for Bowman to make the Hawks better

July 5, 2012

OK, so the Wild gets both Zach Parise and Ryan Suter, but remember, the Blackhawks beat them to Sheldon Brookbank.

Sale's All-Star experience? Take a seat, kid

July 3, 2012

Chris Sale was named to the All-Star team.

NHL reduces Torres' suspension and its own credibility

July 2, 2012

Remember how bad the officiating and supplemental discipline were during the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs?

'Omer Asik' is Turkish for 'Rockets are on crack'

July 2, 2012

I don’t know why the Bulls are even bothering to think about it. Learn how to say “goodbye’’ in Turkish and be done with Omer Asik

Just great: Samardzija too lousy to trade

June 28, 2012

The bigger question now is, can Anthony Rizzo pitch?

Rizzo's opening act

June 27, 2012

Roger Waters. Brad Paisley. Finally, Anthony Rizzo played Wrigley Field.

Travis Wood crashes Anthony Rizzo's beatification

June 26, 2012

This one is too easy: Anthony Rizzo finally got called up from the minors and will make his Cubs debut after going 0-for-his-last-9 in Iowa. So, yeah, he’s a perfect Cub.

Williams buys a Kevin Youkilis lottery ticket

June 25, 2012

Ken Williams was smiling Sunday afternoon. The White Sox general manager seemed revved up, if not totally revived, by the Kevin Youkilis trade.

New face for Sox's game of 'Who's on third?'

June 24, 2012

When you go to extra innings scoreless twice in three days, you need offensive help.

Good time for Cubs to leave and Rizzo to arrive

June 20, 2012

The Cubs will leave town and then figure to call up Anthony Rizzo, and that’s the right order.

Here's hoping Hawks' Bowman can count to 6

June 20, 2012

I hope Stan Bowman is lying about this. I hope he’s just doing what smart, truth-challenged general managers do.

Finally, Wood gets a win as a Cub

June 19, 2012

Cubs starting pitcher Travis Wood wants home plate umpire C.B. Bucknor to know there’s an inside corner.

Dempster lesson: Trade Garza now, Theo

June 19, 2012

I don’t know what Theo Epstein is waiting for.

Cubs win a game big, but maybe lose a big deal

June 18, 2012

The crosstown blog for people who don’t have all day to read blogs:

No good reason to pull Quintana

June 18, 2012

There was no reason to mess with success.

Rosenbloom: Drawing a line with Cutler

June 14, 2012

It still makes no sense that the Bears ignored their starting offensive line in the first phase of free agency or the draft.

Quintana is Spanish for 'Decision time, White Sox'

June 13, 2012

Something has to give, and it ought to be Philip Humber.

Rosenbloom: Hatin' on the Heat

June 12, 2012

Whatever hurts the most.

Sveum's plea for hope reveals more hopelessness

June 11, 2012

Not only are the Cubs bad enough to blow past the single-season franchise record of 103 losses, but they might be just as bad next year, and management better figure out how to make it better ASAP.

Sox need Peavy to pull a Sale

June 7, 2012

Don’t look now, but first place could become second place for the White Sox by Thursday night.

Sveum: Big talk and double-talk

June 6, 2012

Did somebody get to Dale Sveum? Specifically, did somebody in Cubs management tell the manager to stand down after his comments about threatening to bench Starlin Castro because of exasperating mental mistakes in San Francisco?

Geez, Dale, at least send Castro to his room without dessert

June 5, 2012

Being a rookie manager is like being a new parent in a lot of ways. And right now, Dale Sveum seems to be doing the wrong thing with a shortstop who’s going through the “terrible twos.’’

Perfect: Big week for Cubs, big nothing for fans

June 4, 2012

Welcome to the most important days of the Cubs’ season.

Wegner tosses out Quintana, Ventura and any clue he might've had

May 31, 2012

The good thing about a sleepy, half-empty domed stadium like Tropicana Field is that everybody got to hear Hawk Harrelson go off on Mark Wegner.

Not even a close call: Baseball needs more replay

May 30, 2012

Cubs TV analyst Bob Brenly, take note: Now Dodgers first baseman James Loney is calling for as much video replay as possible.

Sale's arm is still attached today, right?

May 29, 2012

I love what Chris Sale did to Tampa Bay on Monday. I have no idea how the White Sox let him do it.

The more Kings play, the worse Hawks look

May 24, 2012

I stayed up late Tuesday night so you didn’t have to. I watched the Los Angeles Kings-Phoenix Coyotes go overtime so you didn’t have to.

The more I know about Howard, the more I appreciate Rose

May 23, 2012

The Orlando Magic fired coach Stan Van Gundy and general manager Otis Smith this week. And now, Magic center Dwight Howard will trade himself.

Sorry, Cubs fans, no Rizzo for you

May 22, 2012

As much as the Cubs’ lineup needs a jolt, I’m all for the long-term benefits of leaving Anthony Rizzo in the minors until the team ensures maximum control of his arbitration rights.

Is it time for a new Ricketts to run the Cubs?

May 21, 2012

Tom Ricketts needs to do something. Even in hiding from everyone except one reporter he believed he could use, Ricketts needs to order something done.

Everything's Jake with the Sox

May 20, 2012

During spring training, Jake Peavy said he wouldn’t try to become a pitcher who relies on guile after surgery robbed him of the power he used to have. Peavy lied, and good for him. He has become as smart as he is good. When he lost the plate in the fourth inning, Peavy managed a bases-loaded situation instead of trying to overpower it.

Danks gets it right

May 19, 2012

Cubs manager Dale Sveum helped out the White Sox, and John Danks did the rest on Saturday night.

I'm happy for Wood, but what are the Cubs doing?

May 18, 2012

Kerry Wood was going to retire.

Sox fans' worst enemies: Selig, Cubs

May 17, 2012

I got an email Wednesday that protested my shredding of the Cubs-White Sox series this weekend.

Protesting Cubs-Sox

May 16, 2012

Dear Mr. and Mrs. NATO protesters,

Cutler sees what Lovie misses

May 15, 2012

Jay Cutler apparently is fed up with being run down. And thrown down. And beaten down and beaten up.

Who might want Kane traded? Only everyone

May 14, 2012

The Blackhawks have said nothing about Patrick Kane’s latest photo spread. Do they care what their highest-profile player does? Do they care that their ticket-buyers might have questions?

Over and ouch

May 10, 2012

The 76ers tried to give away the game.

Any chance Bulls' plan for Game 6 won't embarrass NBA?

May 10, 2012

So, I’m reading that Luol Deng and Carlos Boozer will have to put up another combined game of 40-plus points and 20-plus rebounds if the Bulls are going to win Game 6 in Philadelphia on Thursday night to force a deciding game at home.

Bulls extend the pain

May 9, 2012

Game 1 was called the saddest win of the Bulls season.

10 reasons to root for a Bulls loss (chant with me: 'Am-nes-ty, am-nes-ty, am-nes-ty')

May 8, 2012

With the Bulls on the brink of elimination, Richard Hamilton said they have to make it personal, and I’m wondering, why didn’t that start after Game 2?

Anytime the Bulls want to play a fourth quarter, fine by me

May 6, 2012

At times, I don’t know how either of these teams could win a game, much less a playoff series.

And it only gets uglier

May 5, 2012

Tom Thibodeau said the Bulls have to play to their strengths, and I’m wondering, do they have any left?

Is Marmol stupid or uncoachable? Either way, he's untradable

May 4, 2012

When does Tom Ricketts say no?

Don't be ascared, little Bulls

May 3, 2012

The blog for people who don’t have all day to read blogs:

Help, I'm kinda defending Boozer

May 2, 2012

I’d like to beat up Carlos Boozer for the Bulls embarrassing loss to Philadelphia in Game 2 of a playoff series that is useless in the big picture and even the small picture. I’d like to beat up Boozer because Boozer is responsible for every Bulls loss, right?

No Rose, no second half, no chance

May 1, 2012

Derrick Rose drew a standing ovation from the United Center crowd as he hobbled to midcourt to present the game ball to the officials.

How Evan Turner exposed the Bulls

May 1, 2012

The story of Game 1 between the Bulls and Sixers was, duh, Derrick Rose’s shredding the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, plummeting to the floor, and taking the Bulls’ title hopes with him.

Boozer's 'Quiet The Haters' Tour starts Tuesday

April 30, 2012

Tomorrow is the first day of the rest of Carlos Boozer’s “quiet the haters’’ life.

Before you blame it all on Thibodeau...

April 28, 2012

I’m with Tom Thibodeau on this one.

Wonder why Marmol is still a Cub

April 26, 2012

I don’t know why Carlos Marmol is still a Cub.

Hawks have to look at trading Kane

April 25, 2012

I don’t know what the Blackhawks could get in trade for Patrick Kane, but they have to find out.

Big names, big nothing, big questions

April 24, 2012

The Blackhawks came into this series with the best players.

Short of finding Patrick Sharp, here's how Hawks fans can help

April 23, 2012

The Blackhawks had all kinds of airplane trouble trying to get back to Chicago on Sunday after Game 5 in Arizona.

A night of redemption

April 22, 2012

For most of Game 5 of the Blackhawks’ playoff series against the Phoenix Coyotes, you couldn’t find Jonathan Toews.

Torres gets off easy

April 21, 2012

Raffi Torres got a 25-game suspension for his dirty, despicable, flying hit that knocked out Marian Hossa in the first period of Game 3 of the Blackhawks-Coyotes playoff series.

It's desperation time, so the Hawks should feel at home

April 20, 2012

Now, it’s dire, and there’s dwindling belief the Hawks can do anything to change what seems inevitable.

Forget NBC, the NHL is perfect for Comedy Central

April 19, 2012

Welcome to the NHL Yuk-Yuk Lounge, and remember, there’s a two-drink minimum for customers --- a six-pack minimum for referees.

Where's the consistency, NHL?

April 17, 2012

Blackhawks forward Andrew Shaw hit a goalie. It was obvious and potentially concussive. The NHL said it was cracking down on hits involving the head. He deserved a suspension.

Do the Bulls have a clue about being smart with Rose?

April 17, 2012

Toe, back, groin, ankle and now foot -- that’s Derrick Rose’s starting five.

Unfortunately, Rose has to change his act

April 16, 2012

I never thought I’d lobby for this. I never thought I would advocate for such a change. I never thought I’d cave in. But as much as I hate to say it, Derrick Rose has to be more like Dwyane Wade.

Keep the ending, but change the script

April 15, 2012

The Blackhawks were desperate. Again.

Hawks loss pretty basic

April 13, 2012

The Blackhawks scored in the final minute to send the game into overtime for THAT?

One playoff game, and the NHL loses all credibility

April 12, 2012

Nashville defenseman Shea Weber rammed Detroit center Henrik Zetterberg’s head into the glass at the end of their playoff opener Wednesday night.

Wake up, Cubs fans: Your team was built to stink

April 12, 2012

Late Wednesday night, someone named Tom Hamilton sent me this email with the subject line “And I am a Cubs fan’’:

Take a seat, Derrick (and stay there until the playoffs)

April 11, 2012

It remains hard to take seriously any Bulls games without Derrick Rose. At least, in the context of winning a championship, or at least getting past Miami.

Guillen gives Marlins what they prayed for

April 10, 2012

The Miami Marlins suspended Ozzie Guillen for the exact reason they hired him as manager:

Why it's hard to like the Hawks in this series

April 10, 2012

One of the big problems with the “loser’’ point that the NHL awards to a team that gets beaten in overtime or a shootout is that you can get fooled by some stats.

Pretty good news in bad Bulls ending

April 9, 2012

The Bulls finally had their full roster for Sunday’s game against the Knicks in New York. Fat lot of good it did them.

Nothing new for Sox in new year

April 6, 2012

The White Sox were looking for a hero. Again.

Taking swings at the Cubs' opener

April 5, 2012

Wait, aren’t Kerry Wood and Carlos Marmol supposed to be the proven guys in the Cubs bullpen?

It's time to root, root, root for ...

April 5, 2012

Cubs fans claimed they would be patient and understanding with the idea of sitting through a rebuilding program.

Everything comes back to the Bears

April 4, 2012

Football never has an offseason, and there’s always a way to make it about the Bears, whether the news comes from drugs, fashion or potential litigation.

Thibodeau's biggest risk

April 3, 2012

Tom Thibodeau said his players quit. Ka-boom.

Some Hawks fans need to wise up

April 2, 2012

If the Stanley Cup playoffs started today, the Blackhawks would open against the Kings in Los Angeles.

Groce got at least one thing right

March 29, 2012

The new Illinois coach said he wants to get the “best players who are Illinois guys.’’

The blog for people who don't have all day to read blogs

March 29, 2012

Lovie Smith has to say he likes his group of offensive linemen. Just like we have to slam our palms to our foreheads.

A vote for giving the Bears more help

March 28, 2012

The NFL’s competition committee had an idea that the Bears should like but don’t.

Trying to help the helpless Illini

March 27, 2012

I heard from a bunch of angry Illini fanswhen I said Illinois wasn’t a destination job for anybody you’d want to hire. I said it was a steppingstone job for the guys you’d want to bring in. Bill Self jumped to a heritage program. Bruce Weber had a losing record in the Big Ten.

Wait, that's an apology, Joakim?

March 26, 2012

Quick, someone tell Joakim Noah that he now needs to apologize for his silly attempt at apologizing to an official.

Even against a Sedin, that's a suspension, Duncan

March 22, 2012

Duncan Keith is going to get suspended for drilling Daniel Sedin.

Bears owe Goodell

March 22, 2012

Roger Goodell just gave the Bears a season.

Goodell's message: Don't cheat (and don't get caught if you do)

March 21, 2012

Say this for Roger Goodell: When he goes, he goes big.

Bulls give us some fun, even if it means little

March 21, 2012

Maybe it’s me, but these last two weeks or so have to be one of the most entertaining runs during a post-Michael Bulls season that I can remember.

NU wonks don't make the grade

March 20, 2012

I like Bill Carmody. Classy guy. Well-spoken. Smart basketball man.

Why the Hawks look legit

March 19, 2012

Don’t look now, but some strange and wonderful things are happening with the Blackhawks.

Weber's truth and Thomas' cliches

March 9, 2012

Bruce Weber goes out with a lot of losses and talk of mollycoddling his players. That’s on Weber. He recruited mental weaklings and compounded it by enabling them.

How come Howard doesn't want to play with the MVP?

March 8, 2012

It might be that the best thing for the Bulls on Wednesday night was the worst thing for the Bulls’ pursuit of Thursday's visitor Dwight Howard.

Hawks: No power play, no will, no chance

March 7, 2012

You know what’s worse than the Blackhawks getting beaten by the Blues?

Bulls wait on 'Rip,' should be moving on Howard

March 6, 2012

While the Bulls wait for word on Richard Hamilton’s latest injury, I have two words for them:

It took long enough, but ladies and gentlemen, Patrick Kane

March 5, 2012

Hey, look! Patrick Kane!

Good news: Baseball's playoff plan isn't as stupid as Selig's 2013 idea

March 1, 2012

Baseball wants more money. Fox wants more playoff games.

So, the old Sox failure is the new Sox good?

February 29, 2012

The statement getting all the attention is Paul Konerko’s saying this White Sox season “can be a very successful year without making the playoffs.’’

Hawks get more talk than help from Bowman

February 28, 2012

It’s on the Blackhawks players. That appears to be the central message coming from general manager Stan Bowman at the trade deadline Monday.

Lot of Bull at the break

February 23, 2012

Dribbling around with the Bulls at the break . . .

Who is that masked man for the Blackhawks?

February 22, 2012

Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville called his team’s 3-1 comeback victory against the hated Blues on Sunday a “goalie win.’’

Back to the future with Rose

February 21, 2012

All better.

Why Dunn might not be done

February 20, 2012

I have a theory why Adam Dunn will have a good season.

Illini's Weber honest — and as good as gone

February 16, 2012

After the Illini lost to Purdue on Wednesday night, about the only thing Bruce Weber forgot to say in his concession speech was that he was releasing his delegates to vote their conscience.

Just Lin Time: Knicks phenom saving season

February 15, 2012

David Stern owes Jeremy Lin. Same goes for Mike D’Antoni. The Knicks point guard is saving the NBA Commissioner’s season and his coach’s job.

Appreciating Deng amid ugliness of Rose-less Bulls

February 15, 2012

The Bulls without Derrick Rose have become mostly unwatchable.

Blame Hawks players, Bowman before Quenneville

February 14, 2012

The question of Joel Quenneville’s job security had to be asked.

Rose suffers a pain in Thibodeau's back

February 13, 2012

I think we can understand why John Paxson jumped Vinny Del Negro a couple years ago.

Peavy: lots of talk, little sense

February 9, 2012

Jake Peavy said he doesn’t know if he’s “100 percent (compared) to what I was four years ago,’’ but he’s still collecting 100 percent of that trade-choking salary, you betcha.

Good news: No Cutler F-bombs at new QB coach

February 8, 2012

Jeremy Bates figures to be the Bears’ passing game chief with the title of quarterbacks coach, sort of opposite the way that Phil Emery seems to be the chief scout with the title of general manager.

Hey Blackhawks, think fast

February 7, 2012

I’ve heard a lot of talk recently about the Blackhawks,and all of it will make you suicidal.

Super Bowl champs offer Bears a road map

February 6, 2012

I presume that the Bears’ new so-called general manager watched the Super Bowl, as the Bears traditionally have done for 44 of the previous 46 years.

Why the Bulls' slaughter is good news

February 2, 2012

I wasn’t rooting for the Bulls’ worst effort of the season in Philadelphia, but thank goodness it happened.

Simple for Hawks: Finish or be finished

February 1, 2012

The Blackhawks played the NHL-wide-despised Canucksabout even in the first period of their first game back from an All-Star Game as useful as John Scott.

Doesn't sound like Emery knows how to judge a coach

January 31, 2012

Phil Emery got so revved up that he forgot reality.

Lot of talk from Emery, but not a lot of specifics

January 30, 2012

Phil Emery’s honeymoon period beganwith a lot of talk about, well, talk.

LeBron gets Rose, Bulls get beat, story gets old

January 30, 2012

Same old shift.

Yes, Bulls, that's what an actual NBA game looks like

January 26, 2012

The Bulls seemed pretty mad they lost to the Pacers at home on Wednesday. The Bulls were shorthanded, but they had a big lead they choked in a hurry, and then swore or acted depressed.

Sox sure know how to have a bad offseason only get worse

January 25, 2012

This has been one bad, ugly and stupid offseason for the White Sox,which followed their bad, ugly and stupid regular season, so, hey, love your consistency, guys.

Suddenly, this feels like a big start for Crawford's season

January 24, 2012

Corey Crawford will start in goalfor the Blackhawks against Nashville on Tuesday.

Paterno's legacy? Disgust

January 23, 2012

Joe Paterno’s legacy?

What the Bears should've learned from Sunday (but probably didn't)

January 23, 2012

What I learned about the Bearsfrom the Giants-Niners NFC Championship Game:

Theo, have I got a deal for you

January 19, 2012

Victor Martinez DH’d for the Tigers in 112 games last season.

Tice's exit would just add to the Bears' sitcom

January 18, 2012

If Mike Tice leaves to coach the Oakland Raiders,the Bears would have all kinds of bad news.

NFL playoffs reveal more reasons to fire Lovie

January 16, 2012

One thing we learned from this weekend’s NFL playoff games:

Can the Bulls play only the Wizards until Rose comes back?

January 12, 2012

Derrick Rose’s sprained toe, meet Jay Cutler’s thumb. 

What does Kane do for a living? And when?

January 11, 2012

For the Blachawks, it was their first game of the rest of the next month without Patrick Sharp.

Do the Bulls want someone as stupid as Howard?

January 10, 2012

I have an issue with Dwight Howard.

Small trade could be a big move for Hawks

January 9, 2012

The best time to make a big trade in the NHL is when you don’t have to. You’re negotiating with leverage. If you have a weakness you’re trying to fill, it’s either not obvious or not urgent.

Wait, is it Hamilton's groin or brain that's injured?

January 9, 2012

The Bulls are about to start a back-to-back-to-back stretch of games. Thank you, Mr. Lockout.

Forget Ozzie: Z brings real lunacy to Mouth Beach

January 5, 2012

The Chicago Cubs agreed to trade Carlos Zambrano to Miami. Ozzie Guillen manages that team, in case you hadn’t heard, so Zambrano will be taking his talents to what is now Mouth Beach.

Where does Virginia fit in Bears' silly GM search?

January 4, 2012

If I ran a top-down corporate structure and an underling walked into my office with a plan to fire the guy directly below him but mandate that his successor retain the person below that level, I would’ve fired the guy for presenting such a cockamamie idea.

Wanted: A GM who doesn't want to be a real GM

January 3, 2012

The Bears should’ve made their fans happy with the firing of general manager Jerry Angelo on Tuesday.

Angelo wanted a solution, and he got it

January 3, 2012

Jerry Angelo famously said he wanted a few solutions, and Tuesday, the Bears finally opted for one of the smartest: firing Angelo.

Was an Urlacher injury worth finishing 8-8?

January 1, 2012

I wish I could get good and outraged over Lovie Smith’s decision to declare Nathan Enderle inactive for the Bears’ meaningless finale in Minnesota on Sunday, naming the failed, disastrous Caleb Hanie as the No. 2 quarterback behind Josh McCown.

Running back issues in a passing league? So Bears

December 27, 2011

One way that I heard the question was, Did Kahlil Bell run Matt Forte out of a franchise tag with his performance against Green Bay on Sunday night?

No fair letting the Packers have a real quarterback

December 25, 2011

If the NFL really wanted to back up all its big talk about parity, it would’ve made Josh McCown quarterback the Packers.

Deng if the Bulls didn't find a way

December 25, 2011

Many observers feared sloppy play early in a lockout-shortened NBA season, and they got it in Bulls-Lakers.

The lesson from Josh McHanie

December 22, 2011

I’ve been waiting for a “gotcha,’’ but I guess it’s true and official: Bears coach Lovie Smith named Josh McCown to lose to the Packers on Christmas night.

'Rip' and read: The Bulls just got so much better

December 21, 2011

Richard Hamilton just made everybody better. 

Time to hear from the Bears' latest McChairman

December 20, 2011

If ever there was a time for George McCaskey to let everyone know who’s in charge of the Bears, this would seem to be it.

Firing on Bears who need to be fired

December 18, 2011

The part of the Bears’ season with any meaning is over.

Zambrano still doesn't get it

December 15, 2011

Suspended lunatic Carlos Zambrano said he has been “climbing mountains, running on the beach and exercising hard so that I can arrive at spring training in optimal shape.’’

Wait, is Tebow now a political-religious omen?

December 14, 2011

The day after the Bears lost to the Broncos in a game of fake quarterbacks, I got an email with the subject line: "You would not know an NFL quarterback if you saw one.''

Angelo should retire before Hanie's offense gets him fired

December 13, 2011

The Bears’ offensive game plan was nearly perfect against Denver on Sunday.

Looks like Barber and the Bears choke away the season

December 11, 2011

It's not Tim Tebow.

Buehrle's exit feels like Sox have gone from bad to Williams

December 8, 2011

It was inevitable, but it still stinks.

Does Sveum know he's reading from a bad script?

December 7, 2011

Dale Sveum sounded so grounded, so non-plussed, so honest even before he was introduced as the new Cubs manager.

Someone needs to explain to Williams what 'rebuilding' means

December 6, 2011

Ken Williams said trading closer Sergio Santos for a minor-leaguer is the start of rebuilding the White Sox.

Quick someone tell Martz to Hanie-proof the Bears

December 6, 2011

I love the job Mike Tice has done --- has usually done --- but the offensive line coach's blocking schemes and players are absolutely useless against 3-4 schemes.

How hopeless is it when Hanie's your best hope?

December 4, 2011

This was one of the gimmes on the schedule. The Chiefs were one of the three remaining cupcakes that would help get the Bears to 10 wins and a likely playoff spot.

If Martz wants Hanie, he has to go through Cutler first

December 1, 2011

Caleb Hanie was understandably respectful Wednesday. Mike Martz knows better than he does, Hanie said of the plays he is asked to execute, three of which turned into interceptions.

Be afraid, Cubs fans, be very afraid

November 30, 2011

The Cubs reportedly are pursuing Prince Fielder and Albert Pujols, the two biggest names on sale at Free Agents R Us, “sale’’ being a relative term.

Hanie's deal: Wise up or sit down

November 29, 2011

I’d love to pound Mike Martz for arrogant myopia, from that silly throwback screen in the red zone to keeping the backup quarterback out of game-plan meetings.

Hanie killed the Bears, but not all hope

November 27, 2011

Caleb Hanie was bad. Awful. Sometimes egregiously horrible.

Sorry, Caleb, but if Orton shows up, he starts

November 23, 2011

If “A’’ is Caleb Hanie and “B’’ is Kyle Orton, then I’ll take “C’’ --- none of the above.

Hanie still has to make plays, people

November 22, 2011

Brian Urlacher said Caleb Hanie’s athleticism allows him to move around the pocket and even suggested “a little (Tim) Tebow offense maybe.’’

The Bears season in a splint

November 20, 2011

It’s not a question of whether Jay Cutler’s thumb is broken. It’s a question of how badly the Bears’ season is broken.

Here's how the Bears have improved: I expected them to end this one earlier

November 20, 2011

Sorry, but this should’ve been easier.

Good start: Sveum saw the same dogbreath Cubs you did

November 18, 2011

Dale Sveum will not be doing two shows a night at Zanies. That much we know. That much was evident in his introductory press conference as the Cubs’ new manager.

Cubs choose the best 'Who?' available

November 17, 2011

This was never going to be a “Wow!’’ hire.

Isn't Theo supposed to help whoever his new manager is?

November 16, 2011

Theo Epstein and Jed Hoyer are working on a second round of the managerial interviews, which they claim is not really a second round, but what else do you call a second interview with, say, Dale Sveum?

Sandusky wasn't convincing -- more like convicted

November 15, 2011

I don’t know why Jerry Sandusky or his attorney thought it was a good idea to launch a media offensive and submit to interviews on NBC and CNN on Monday night.

Take that, Megatron

November 13, 2011

Charles Tillman stepped in front of yet another horrible pass by Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford, grabbed the ball and raced 45 yards. See ya. Later. Ballgame, even though almost half the ballgame remained.

Pedophilia State University idiots just don't get it

November 10, 2011

It’s about the victims. Joe Paterno isn’t one of them.

The good coming out of the Hawks' awful play

November 9, 2011

The Blackhawks have stunk in a lot of ways lately.

Cutler delivered the way a leader does

November 8, 2011

Jay Cutler wasn't particularly sharp as a passer against Philadelphia on Monday night.

A bunch of reasons Smith called out Melton

November 7, 2011

Lovie Smith almost never calls out a player. That’s a big reason his players love him. He always has their back.

Wait, fans are mad that Angelo has the Forte situation right?

November 3, 2011

You know who wants the Bears to sign Matt Forte to a big-money, long-term contract?

Memo to Theo: Hire Francona

November 2, 2011

If Theo Epstein and his former Boston front-office gang were brought in because they helped end a long World Series drought for a team in an old, revered ballpark in a big city with big pressures, then continue the process with the guy who did it in the dugout:

Sounded like Epstein introduced himself as the new GM (and that's a good thing)

November 2, 2011

Drawing conclusions on the first day can be dangerous, but hey, it’s what we do.

Fielder of dreams for the Cubs?

November 1, 2011

Bodog lists the Cubs at 7-4 to sign free agent Albert Pujols, a bigger favorite than the Cardinals.

Just when the Bears looked stable along the offensive line . . .

October 31, 2011

The Bears point out that this season’s 4-3 record matches last season’s mark at the open week. The implication is they won five in a row and seven of their last nine to win the NFC North last season and feel they can do something like that again.

Quade's done, right? Uh, not so fast

October 26, 2011

There are times when you can out-think yourself. There are episodes where you try to divine a situation and what you are being told begins to sound crazy and idiotic while also believable.

Cubs got the right guy for their office space

October 25, 2011

Just guessing the Cubs staged the first sports presser where one guy referenced Milton Waddams and his red Swingline stapler while also dropping in “paradigm lens,’’ “macro-economics’’ and “parallel front.’’

Here's some of the culture Theo can change

October 25, 2011

Tip to Theo Epstein: Don’t call your new team the “Cubbies.’’

A feel-good victory becomes a feel-lucky win

October 23, 2011

There are few victories that have seemed more exasperating than the one the Bears came away with on Sunday in London.

Ricketts becomes Tom Terrific

October 22, 2011

Tom Ricketts got it done. He got Theo Epstein to the Cubs.

It's not that Cutler cursed Martz, it's what took him so long?

October 20, 2011

Look, Jay Cutler wouldn’t have to use naughty words if offensive coordinator Mike Martz would simply call the game plan Cutler told him to call.

How many GMs does it take for the Cubs to replace Hendry?

October 19, 2011

Maybe it’s me, but it seems silly to hire an interim general manager to replace your interim general manager to hold the spot for your desired and reportedly signed general manager who can’t be your general manager officially because you can’t settle on compensation.

Tip to Ricketts: Finish the Epstein deal now or you're finished

October 18, 2011

Attention, Tom Ricketts: Your legacy is on the line. This is no time to be Baseball McCaskey. 

Attention, yammering Bears: The same record couldn't be more different

October 18, 2011

Excuse me, but I’m sick of hearing hear how the Bears are a victory over Tampa Bay away from having the same record they took into the bye last season.

New Bears offensive line, new results

October 17, 2011

First minute of the game, and it was the Bears’ defense calling a timeout. That’s one fewer timeout the offense can waste, at least.

Raise a glass to the Sox's continued embarrassment

October 13, 2011

The White Sox manager quit because he valued money more than doing his job.

Everybody understands Cutler except the Bears

October 13, 2011

Are they deaf up there at Halas Hall, too?

Theo is perfect -- for a lot of the wrong reasons

October 12, 2011

This seems like the perfect hire.

Holding the Bears accountable (because they won't do it themselves)

October 12, 2011

Remember last year when it was all about accountability at Halas Hall?

This entire season has become a false-start

October 11, 2011

They can’t stop the run. They can’t pressure with their front four. They can’t get home on the blitz. They can’t get their safeties to play safety.

If it's Starlin for Theo, who really makes that call?

October 6, 2011

As we wait for white smoke out of Fenway Park, one of the swirling Cubs issues is this:

Here's what Ricketts needs to do

October 5, 2011

If Theo Epstein is Tom Ricketts’ top choice as Cubs general manager, then fine. Epstein presided over Boston’s historic collapse this year, which makes him very Cub, but he also has a couple World Series titles, which makes him a god around the North Side.

Wait, I think the Bears just wasted another timeout

October 4, 2011

I think I know why the Chicago Bears blow so many timeouts on offense:

Bears depend upon the ineptitude of strangers

October 2, 2011

The Bears played a bad game.

No, wait, balance doesn't mean a bad passing game and a bad running game

September 25, 2011

Brian Urlacher created another turnover with another spectacular diving grab of an Aaron Rodgers pass. Miraculously, the Bears still had a chance.

What's worse than Bears wideouts? Their coach's pity party

September 22, 2011

I have an answer for Darryl Drake: Because we’re tired of being served dung and then told it’s dinner.

Who's on third? It's the new Abbott and Cubstello act

September 21, 2011

Wilson Betemit will be available.

As if Lovie didn't have enough sideline gaffes

September 20, 2011

And now we come to Lovie Smith’s newest sideline brain cramp:

For those of you pining for last year's utterly futile Bears offense...

September 18, 2011

The Bears’ offense had one -- count it, one -- drive. It came on their second possession.

Guillen says Sox players quit, or were they just following their leader?

September 15, 2011

Ozzie Guillen accused White Sox players of quitting, and he meant even before Wednesday’s regularly scheduled choke against Detroit.

The bigger the game, the smaller the Sox

September 14, 2011

That’s three times in three years that the White Sox have faced the team they were battling for the AL Central in the second half and three times they got pantsed.

On your Martz, get set, go!

September 13, 2011

The Choice (and remember, death is not an option): Mike Martz’s end-around to Dane Sanzenbacher with the game still in doubt or Mike Martz’s bootleg for Jay Cutler with the game already decided?

Rush hour for Bears' defense: The Ryan is a mess

September 11, 2011

The Bears defense took one look at the new and improved Falcons’ offense, and then destroyed it.

Doesn't sound like Roy Williams gets it

September 8, 2011

Bears starting wide receiver Roy Williams said he knows “if I mess up or anything, it’s going to be blown out of proportion.’’

Are you bleepin' kidding me?

September 7, 2011

This is such a bleepin’ joke.

Something else about the Bears' signing of Meriweather

September 6, 2011

Word is, safety Brandon Meriweather is a Bear because Bill Belichick believes he freelances too much on the field. It also has been said that Meriweather piles up hangers-on the way he piles up interceptions, perhaps to the point that his posse has a depth chart.

Ricketts found a new way to mess up Cubs GM search

September 4, 2011

Hello, and sorry to bother you on this holiday weekend. I don’t usually show up here today, and certainly not during a long weekend, but Cubs Fanboy Owner Tom Ricketts just did something so dumb that I couldn’t control myself.

Does Ricketts understand what Epstein is really saying?

September 1, 2011

Theo Epstein didn’t say no to the Cubs’ job.

Ozzie just wants cash, Kenny just wants silence, Sox fans should want smarter decisions

August 31, 2011

The Ozzie Guillen-Kenny Williams relationship is irretrievably broken.

Bears players and management competing for Village Idiot crown

August 30, 2011

The Choice (and remember, death is not an option): Bears wonks’ ongoing public stupidity or Bears players’ ongoing public money-grubbing?

Uncovering the Bears' coverage problems

August 29, 2011

So, it’s official: Neither Tim Jennings nor Zack Bowman can cover.

Tip to Briggs: Guys who whine about payday can't afford mistakes on game day

August 29, 2011

Every time Lance Briggs misses a tackle, someone will think he’s pouting over his contract.

Big mouth, little production -- WIlliams just doesn't get it

August 25, 2011

Muhsin Muhammad said famously that Chicago was where wide receivers go to die.

Castro's embarrassing walkabout helps Cubs regain lead in the Idiot League

August 24, 2011

I suppose the Cubs should be thankful that Starlin Castro didn’t just drop down and start doing dirt angels on the Wrigley infield while actual baseball was about to commence, but there are plenty of embarrassing aspects of Starlin Castro’s national TV lollygagging.

Cutler stays up, but Bears' offense a downer

August 23, 2011

On his first chance in the exhibition season, Roy Williams dropped a third-and-10 pass that would’ve picked up 16. While he gets into football shape, can he also get into catching shape?

Throwing the book at Ricketts

August 22, 2011

Wait, Tom Ricketts is handing out books to the new Cubs on the pride of the most futile team in sports.

What Tom Ricketts should have said

August 19, 2011

It's not so much what Tom Ricketts said, but what he didn't.

Anytime Martz wants to help Bears blockers get better, fine by me

August 18, 2011

Bears interim offensive coordinator Mike Martz said Jay Cutler will play more against the Giants on Monday night than he did in last week’s exhibition opener, blocking permitting.

You want to believe, but remember, these are the White Sox

August 17, 2011

The White Sox finally got over .500.

Village idiots rejoice: Another Zambrano apology tour

August 16, 2011

I believe Carlos Zambrano.

Wait, J'Marcus Webb said what?

August 15, 2011

First-and-long:

Cubs must quit on the quitter

August 14, 2011

The Braves knocked Carlos Zambrano’s jock off. So, Zambrano did the only thing a professional could do:

The stupid gas is pumping out strong at Wrigley

August 12, 2011

Just some quick aggravation to vent about the Cubs:

Warning: Martz is talking

August 11, 2011

Jones-Drew defends his right to sound stupid on Cutler

August 10, 2011

Whatever might have changed in the NFL after the lockout, it’s comforting to know that Maurice Jones-Drew remains an idiot.

Why Tice sounds crazy

August 9, 2011

J’Marcus Webb has yet to play 16 NFL games. He’s the Bears’ starting left offensive tackle.

Forte has to shut up and block

August 8, 2011

If a healthy Matt Forte sits out the opening exhibition game Saturday the way he has been talking, then the Bears have to fine him or maybe suspend him. Or maybe demote him.

Bring me the head of Alex Rios

August 4, 2011

Yankees 18, White Sox 7, Someone fired.

Quade wakes up, now who's next? Hello, Tom Ricketts

August 3, 2011

Mike Quade came to the conclusion that the Cubs are no longer contending. Quite the epiphany when you’ve hovering around 20 games under .500 for months, huh?

What the Bears' cornerback 'competition' really means

August 2, 2011

It sounds fair when the Bears claim there’s a positional battle in battle in training camp. But don’t be fooled.

Here's why Kreutz wouldn't matter

August 1, 2011

I loved the way Olin Kreutz played.

Rios continues to embarrass Guillen and Williams -- and himself

August 1, 2011

You can get mad at White Sox general manager Ken Williams for not making a trade Sunday to improve a team that claims to be in a race but plays like it’s lying about that.

Doesn't anyone like Jay Cutler anymore?

July 28, 2011

Be afraid, Jay Cutler. Be very afraid.

If you're going to showcase Zambrano, then really make it a show

July 28, 2011

Carlos Zambrano is pitching well enough to get traded.

Sox trade brings more questions than answers

July 27, 2011

The Choice (and remember, death is not an option): The White Sox making a trade aimed at reducing payroll or the White Sox trading a starting pitcher they couldn’t afford to trade?

Count this loss against Ozzie

July 27, 2011

Jake Peavy wasn’t good enough. Ozzie Guillen was worse.

No, it's the Bears' drafted players who really matter

July 26, 2011

People are talking up the Bears’ assault on undrafted free agents on Tuesday, and I hope some of those scouting reports offered by Trib football master Dan Pompei are right.

We knew Ozzie was crazy, but calling Peavy his ace?

July 26, 2011

The Detroit Tigers, who collapse worse in the second half of Jim Leyland’s seasons than the White Sox do in Ozzie Guillen’s, will start their Cy Young candidate Tuesday night.

Congratulations, Sox: You've made Edwin Jackson untouchable

July 14, 2011

As the White Sox come out of the All-Star break, two things seem certain:

The truth about Sox honesty and Cub delusions

July 13, 2011

The White Sox are five games out of first place in the AL Central and just lost five of seven at home against divisional opponents. Paul Konerko says his Sox don’t look like a division-winning team right now. Rank honesty about a team playing pretty rank baseball.

Why Cutler should root for a longer lockout

July 12, 2011

Me, I’m rooting for the lawyers in this one. If you are a Bears fan, a Bears player or a Bears wonk, I suggest you do the same, and here’s why:

Rios stinks, but still starts, and that stinks, too

July 11, 2011

Can the Cubs out-stupid Zambrano?

July 7, 2011

Who’s dumber, the Cubs or Carlos Zambrano?

Hello, is anybody home at Ken Williams' place?

July 7, 2011

No batting practice. No videos, No coaching. No nothing. White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen went old-school before Wednesday’s matinee against the awfulRoyals.

Isn't it time someone important became alarmed over Cubs' arm injuries?

July 5, 2011

It wasn’t that Carlos Marmol threw a wild pitch to lose Monday’s game inWashington. It wasn’t that Marmol had no idea there was a runner on base and did nothing to stop Jayson Werth from stealing third to set up the aggravating ending. It was that Marmol relieved an injured pitcher.

Balls and strikes from Cubs and Sox

June 23, 2011

What we learned from City Series, Part One:

And Peavy makes six

June 23, 2011

Jake Peavy can dominate opposing hitters as well as he can dominate the disabled list.

Addressing Soriano's boos problem

June 22, 2011

I read where Alfonso Soriano said Chicago fans are the worst when it comes to booing slumping players. He would know. He has stunk for long periods. He has heard it from Cubs fans for playing left field like it’s Whack-A-Mole. Come to think of it, he has also heard it from fans for playoff at-bats that also resemble Whack-A-Mole.

The more saves for Santos, the more what-ifs for the Sox

June 22, 2011

Sergio Santos came on to get a four-out save against the Cubs on Tuesday night, and you couldn’t help but play what-if.

Here's an idea if Ozzie talks his way out of town

June 21, 2011

Ozzie Guillen says a lot of things, or at least is quoted as saying a lot of things.

Wait, Zambrano's the poised one?

June 21, 2011

Before the first game of this year’s White Sox-Cubs series, I asked a question that I’d like to revisit now that we have a result.

Taking batting practice before Cubs-Sox

June 20, 2011

Some early BP before this week’s oil spill of a City Series:

Is there any truth in what Ricketts has to say?

June 16, 2011

It has gotten to the point where you hope that Tom Ricketts is just getting some bad advice in delivering his message.

Vancouver fans as stupid as the Canucks --- gotta love it, eh?

June 16, 2011

Eternal hockey question: Do the Canucks’ many moronic acts on the ice spark their fans’ city-wide moronic acts off it, or vice versa?

For starters, Peavy can't think about relieving

June 15, 2011

Thanks for the offer, Jake. Now shut up and make a rehab start in the minors.

Big contributions from the little guy

June 14, 2011

It was around this time last year that we realized the key to the White Sox’ turnaround was a guy originally thought to be window dressing.

If you're dumping on Wrigley, you're missing the point

June 14, 2011

Stop me if I’m wrong, but it’s not Wrigley Field’s fault that the Cubs are bad or that they ultimately choke when they’re good.

Baseball can't fix divisions until it fixes the DH

June 13, 2011

I don’t know why it came up now, maybe because we’re less than a week away from interleague play, but there talk of baseball realignment.

Heat choke is the feel-good story of the year (unless you're the Bulls)

June 13, 2011

Thank you, Dwyane Wade. It’s good therapy for America that your over-celebrating Heat have nothing but regret and embarrassment today.

Here's why it looks like Hendry is safe

June 9, 2011

The Oakland A's fired their manager. The Florida Marlins fired their hitting coach. Can you imagine? Whoever heard of such a thing -- firing somebody for failing?

The answer for Dunn

June 8, 2011

Hang on, Adam Dunn. Don’t do anything stupid, don’t say anything stupid, don’t do anything a Guillen kid would do.

Hawks fans know the act: Cheap, gutless Canucks at it again

June 7, 2011

In the Stanley Cup Finals, the greatest showcase of all playoff rounds, the NHL is stuck with despicable biting and now a frightening blindside hit that resulted in a player being stretchered off the ice to the hospital.

The embarrassing thing? The Cubs don't know enough to be embarrassed

June 7, 2011

Carlos Zambrano apologized for telling the truth. Carlos Marmol said everything's fine.

Ricketts plays Cubs fans for stupid

June 2, 2011

Tom Ricketts was asked what was wrong with his team that ranked among the worst in baseball, and he answered -- are you sitting down? -- “Nothing. Just a lot of injuries.’'

Oh, snap: Zambrano, not Quade, managing just fine, thank you

June 1, 2011

Mike Quade must hate this. The guy from a Chicago suburb who worked his way up the Cubs’ chain finally gets a shot at his dream job, and his best starter is an idiot.

Danks for nothing

May 31, 2011

Stop John Danks before he starts again.

Bulls find out what great is all about

May 27, 2011

Now the Bulls know what great looks like when great is required.

LeBron is calling Derrick names: 'MVP'

May 26, 2011

Have you been listening to LeBron James lately? I haven’t heard everything he has said, but what I’ve caught sounds like he’s refusing to use Derrick Rose’s name.

Remember when Rose used to own the fourth quarter?

May 25, 2011

Derrick Rose, fourth quarter. Fourth quarter, Derrick Rose. Why don’t you two kids get reintroduced.

Bulls can't run the pick-and-roll, so why are they running the pick-and-roll?

May 24, 2011

Derrick Rose would appear to be facing the most important fourth quarter of his career tonight.

Bulls will be finished if Rose can't finish

May 23, 2011

Most of the time, it has been Carlos Boozer in foul trouble or just shooting badly that brings Taj Gibson into the game and jazzes up the Bulls’ attack.

Heat coach talks, Nonsense Alert Level raised

May 19, 2011

For all the stuff that would make you sick as a Bulls fan from Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals, the pathetic attempt at self-importance by Heat valet Erik Spoelstra would be on the list.

Wait a minute, I think the Bulls just missed another shot

May 19, 2011

The Bulls couldn’t hit from the floor and couldn’t hit from the free-throw line. What else you got? Nerf basketball, anyone?

Cubs players pants their manager

May 18, 2011

Consider Mike Quade “Cubbed.’’

Heat can't run, Bulls make them hide

May 17, 2011

Dwyane Wade said the Bulls’ aggressive defense in the second half of Game 1 made sure “we weren't comfortable in offensive sets," and I’m wondering, the Heat have “sets’’?

Heat has no chance against Bulls' second-chance points

May 15, 2011

It’s not the prettiest thing. But it might be the most important.

A perfect game, a perfect way to take their talents to South Beach

May 12, 2011

Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau probably will hammer his team for allowing 73 points. Heck, he’d hammer his players for allowing two.

Wait a minute, how did the Heat get there before the Bulls?

May 12, 2011

Wait a minute, wasn’t the whole idea of finishing first in the Eastern Conference precisely because the Bulls would avoid playing Boston AND Miami?

Quick, someone get Gibson to sign that fourth quarter

May 10, 2011

Individually, the Hawks came into this series with more scorers than the Bulls, more players who could get their own shots. But Atlanta’s problem was, the Hawks usually played like a bunch of individuals.

D-Rose math: Take over the game early = end the game early

May 10, 2011

It wasn’t all the shots Derrick Rose took at the end of Game 4. It was all the shots he didn’t take at the beginning.

Short story: Rose, Bulls endure a long fourth quarter

May 9, 2011

Derrick Rose fell apart at the end. The Bulls fell apart in the fourth quarter. That’s the Twitter version of how the Bulls’ playoff series with Atlanta is tied at two.

Portrait of the artist as a young man

May 6, 2011

This was a virtuoso in concert.

Are we done with the awards already? Bulls apparently hope so

May 5, 2011

The Bulls spent most of the last week being told how great they were and receiving hardware as evidence.

Bulls connect the dots: Get a first quarter, get a win

May 4, 2011

Derrick Rose looked like he was so hating the MVP trophy presentation before Game 2 of the Bulls’ playoff series against the Hawks. He appeared to be hoping Commissioner David Stern would shut up already so he he could play. So he could avenge that mess known as Game 1.

Here's your MVP, Derrick, now don't stink it up again

May 4, 2011

Derrick Rose thanked everybody as he collected his MVP award Tuesday. His teammates. His coach. His organization. His trainer. His agents. His fans. Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. Anyone with a working alarm clock.

Mendenhall sounds ridiculous (again)

May 3, 2011

Reading Rashard Mendenhall’s Twitter feed sounds like a guy who has taken a dangerous number of hits to the head.

Injured Boozer helps Bulls almost as much as an injured Hinrich

May 2, 2011

As the Bulls prepare to end the Atlanta Hawks’ season in the next week or so, I’m still not sure which helps the Bulls more:

The Sox are done, so Williams had better get started

May 2, 2011

It doesn’t do any good to fire Ozzie Guillen. It doesn’t do any good because he’s not to blame. The White Sox players are.

Bulls should root for Hawks to beat Dwight Homicide, er, Howard

April 28, 2011

I don’t need the Orlando-Atlanta series to go seven games so the winner supposedly will be too tired to challenge the Bulls. No, I just need Atlanta to win so Dwight Howard doesn’t show up and play ever dirtier on Derrick Rose than Indiana goof Jeff Foster did.

Bad and injured is no way to go through playoffs, Carlos

April 27, 2011

I was sorry to hear about Carlos Boozer’s injury.

Wait a minute, where did the Hawks' season go?

April 27, 2011

I can’t believe it’s over.

Depth before dishonor for Hawks

April 26, 2011

Don’t look now, but the Blackhawks have some offensive depth. No lie. True thing. The area that nearly ruined the defending Stanley Cup champions after the salary-cap slaughter has saved them in their miraculous comeback against Vancouver.

NHL too concussed to use common sense

April 25, 2011

I got a calm Twitter message from someone in Vancouver on Monday. Sweetheart, get me rewrite.

Hawks say, 'Thank you sir, may I have another shot at Luongo?'

April 25, 2011

Chicago, delirious.

Bulls lose this one early

April 23, 2011

In the end, it’s a loss. Close, exciting, a gritty showing by a Bulls team with a hobbled Derrick Rose, yeah.

Hawks making Canucks scream 'Mommy, make it stop!'

April 22, 2011

The Blackhawks will not practice today. The Vancouver Canucks, I believe, were being tended to by all the king’s horses and all the king’s men.

From bad to worse for Boozer

April 21, 2011

Is Carlos Boozer so weak that he can’t come up with a good game after a bad start?

Bulls will face Pacers' trap, so recognize it already, OK?

April 21, 2011

Derrick Rose said the Bulls were surprised by the Pacers’ double-teaming in Game 2 of their playoff series, and I’m wondering, how is a Tom Thibodeau team surprised by anything?

Hawks make Canucks roll over

April 19, 2011

The last two springs, the Blackhawks would’ve made Vancouver melt down.

Bulls lucky Pacers are like White Sox: No closer

April 19, 2011

Wait a minute, the Bulls needed a 37-win team to lose its itty-bitty point guard, and still only won by six at home? 

Torres delivers the cheap shot, NHL gets a concussion

April 18, 2011

The NHL reportedly has decided not to suspend Vancouver idiot Raffi Torres for his gutless hit to the head of Brent Seabrook in Game 3 of the Blackhawks’ first-round playoff disaster against the Canucks.

Win four games in a row? The Hawks haven't won two periods in a row yet

April 17, 2011

Do we have to summon the Flyers? Is that what we're reduced to? Summoning up the team that made last year's playoffs on the last game of the season and eventually overcame a three-games-to-none deficit to make the Stanley Cup Finals?

Bulls defense, at last

April 16, 2011

The Bulls played 82 games to claim homecourt advantage, and then spent 45 minutes of their first playoff game against Indiana on Saturday trying to give it away.

Is that the best that the Hawks' best players can give them?

April 16, 2011

Ben Smith, hero.

Solving Ozzie's closer problem (I'm a pleaser, not a teaser)

April 14, 2011

Chris Sale? Next.

Anytime the Hawks want to be ready to start a playoff game, fine by me

April 14, 2011

The Vancouver Canucks have won Game 1 of their playoff series against the Blackhawks each of the last three years after a 2-0 waste of time Wednesday. We know how the first two turned out. This time? Not so sure. Not so sure at all.

The Luongo and winding road: Hawks in 6

April 13, 2011

Vancouver goalie Roberto Luongo was talking about his favorite former Blackhawks nemesis:

Thornton becomes the Welcome Matt thanks to 'Pierror' and Guillen

April 12, 2011

Blame everybody. Just spread it around like fertilizer after the White Sox choked another home win Monday night.

Johnny on the spot

April 7, 2011

It would appear that I need to figure out how to provide closed captioning for some of these RosenBlogs.

Captain Serious is seriously letting down the Hawks

April 6, 2011

I can understand  Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews’ anger over his questionable tripping penalty in overtime that led to Montreal’s winning goal. 

Bad NCAA title game is part of the Bulls' good future

April 5, 2011

UConn and Butler gave us such a regrettable basketball game that it’s a shock it didn’t involve a Big Ten team.