Thursday, December 19, 2013

Cowboys Are In Trouble



Everyone is waiting for the glory days to return.  When will the Cowboys finally dominate again?  Don't expect that anytime soon.  This dysfunction starts with the pizza rapping GM/Owner and Its only going to get worse before it gets better.  I know the running joke is "when is Jerry Jones the Owner going to fire Jerry Jones the GM".  Well that ain't happening so lets move on.  Jerry though has creatively hamstrung his team with his personnel decisions, signing aging players to contracts that are so impossible to dispose of not even a mafia hit man would have trouble.  I look at these contacts and I scream.  I wonder why we are locked up with Miles Austin for a bunch of money. Doug Free, who hasn't been absolutely horrible this season, is still not worth a $6.5 million hit to the cap.  Jay Ratliff should of never happened. Jerry signs the players and then a year later they have regressed and have to ride out player not worth his contract.  There is also no way out because if you want to release a player it would hurt the cap even more.  Its as if Jerry won't be able to find another player like the one he has, so what does he do?  He locks him up so no one else can have him. Jerry also interacts too much with his players and develops relationships and has a hard time letting go.

I remember watching players who were there from the 90's Cowboys who carried on to the late and should of just been let go.  Now we have instead of Jimmy guys, we have Bill's guys over staying their welcome.  Tony Romo, who I've been his biggest supporter, should be having his last year of his contract this year.  Well Jerry Jones doesn't have contingency after Tony, so he locks him up to make more room in the cap to sign Sean Lee.  I'm not a business specialist but I'm a huge fan of the GM mode on Madden, you have turn your roster over.  Cowboys are traditionally the worst in roster turnover.  Instead of letting a player leave 1 year early, Cowboys keep a player 1 year late.

Do I want to see the Cowboys rise back to prominence? HELL YEAH! We all want to see the Cowboys in the playoffs.  The reason I don't believe the Cowboys will do anything.  THE DEFENSE.  I was watching the NFL Turning Point on NBC Sports Network (check it out) and during that recap, that is a fluid offense that should win ball games in the league.  Defense is the one breaking records this year for giving up the most yards.  Its pretty laughable, yeah the injuries suck.  Maybe stop putting injured guys on your team.

Cowboys are my least favorite team to discuss because it all leads back to one man.  Talk about Garrett, it goes back to Jerry.  Talk about the linebackers, It goes back to Jerry.  Jerry Jones will keep this team hand cuffed financially. These 8-8 seasons.  Enjoy them.  I think the 5-11 seasons are coming.  I'll leave you with this, I believe Jerry Jones the Owner......Just kidding.

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Twit's End


So I did something very foolish. I gave Richie Whitt $4.95.  Well here is what I found.  Not exactly the riveting stuff.  I'm apart of some pay walls and they provide insight and even inside info. The only thing that was "inside" was the ratings which can easily be found.

Richie talks about a radio show or something that he heard from a "friend" that heard it sometime Sunday I guess.  I have never heard of this show and if someone can give me some insight let me know. I don't know if they aired an episode of the Broadcast as a trade off. Whatever but Richie said, " For a rabid fandom that constantly trashed The Fan for having the audacity to give air time to the likes of Sybil and Jane Slater and Jasmine Sadry, surely this type of show - even as a weekend time-filler - won't be embraced. Right?"  


Did the Ticket trash chicks on the radio, yeah probably. Mostly because most of them are awful at it. Well that was worth it right.  Hearing that he heard from a friend that The Ticket was playing a "chick show".  I'm sure glad I paid for that, and that was his great big tease. 

Richie then quote some Mandela quote which I don't have the interest to even quote. I paid for that. Richie then leaves you a link to check out his FREE blog on NBC 5.  Then write two sentences about defending the ban of tailgating at the Superbowl. He then commented on the throwing contestant that threw like a jerk wad. He's being topical guys.  He also wants the ice to melt, which I actually tend to agree with him.  Thanks Richie for all that. I'll leave you a quote from him.

"Today? Let's all thaw out. And hopefully chill out. Maybe some quiet time in the sauna. I mean, if I had a sauna. Don't be a stranger."

I also wanted to talk about his ratings blog which revealed the poor ratings of The Fan and the complete dominance of The Ticket. 
            
             October/ November
Morning
Ticket6.87.1
ESPN3.32.6
Fan2.52.1
Mid-Morn
Ticket8.17.9
ESPN3.54.2
Fan2.82.4
Midday
Ticket6.76.6
ESPN4.85.5
Fan3.32.8
Afternoon
Ticket6.96.8
ESPN4.74.1
Fan2.42.1
 courtesy of DFW Sportatorium

"Meanwhile, 105.3 The Fan and its bozo of a boss failed to capitalize on the Cowboys' dramatic season or the Oct. 7 departure of ESPN's Randy Galloway. From October to November The Fan suffered ratings losses across the board, including its new midday show, GBag Nation."

Real interesting to see a slight drop in ratings by The Fan even by G-Bag Nation.  Its crazy that Ben & Skin hasn't been able to gain steam.  I'm still rooting for those guys. 

Sunday, December 8, 2013

How's That Pay Wall Working Out??

No worries, guys I'm not putting a pay wall on Luke Warm Sports Opinions.  I would never. Nor would anyone pay for this crap.  Well Richie Whitt, former writer for the Star Tele-gram and Dallas Observer and failed radio host on 105.3 The Fan, he had other plans.  Whitt came out last week with a pay wall for his site, DFW Sportatorium.  If you were wanting to read little quick hits about radio rumors or what he heard from his Cowboys sources, you gonna have to pay.  I just want to start off telling you I have no problem with anyone charging for content, everyone has the right.  If you have ever gone to his site, its full of advertisements from that bless your heart guys, a strip club, Richie's own pizza joint and I think a moving company.  Not sure exactly the amount you can charge to advertise on Richie's sports website and I'm not sure how much it cost to keep a site like that running. Well apparently he was operating at a loss, so he decided the best way to bring in some money is to charge readers $4.95 a month. (by the way you have to have a google account)

Here is my opinion on the situation.  It ridiculous to pay for this website.  He offers opinions and some "rumors" and that is content you can receive for free on numerous websites.  I believe this won't last, only from reading the readers in the comments section, which Richie Whitt replies with a snarky remark.  He are some of my favorites.

GREEDY BASTARD
Wait, so you want me to provide you with daily content? And then you want it for absolutely free? But I'm the greedy one. Do I have that right?
um yeah, because media is based on advertising, if you have a million page hits you sell that to your advertisers and get them to pay, not your consumers...the business model is to make it so good that traffic comes to you and you monetize that with ad buys, cmon you know this
Not that's great but maybe this one is better. 
I wouldn't pay 5 cents for life to read this blog. This proves once and for all that your are the shithead I always deemed you to be. Hit the pavement and get some more advertisers you lazy SOB.
Wait, because I want to be paid for my work makes me a "shithead"? You may refuse to join my site and that's cool. But a "shithead" seems a tad strong.
Wanting to get paid doesn't make you a "shithead". Thinking you will get paid for the level of content you provide for the price you are asking makes you a "shithead". http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=shithead&defid=5232203
The friggin guy actual sent him a link to urban dictionary so he knew what "shithead" meant. 
Just what I have been waiting for! A poorly designed "blog" where I get to pay a monthly fee for some exclusive HSO's from some schmuck that works at a struggling pizza joint!
I find it amusing that when my content is free you visit daily and comment and are generally satisfied. When my content costs 25 cents a day suddenly I'm a "schmuck who works at a struggling pizza joint" and my content is flatly unreadable. Ah, perspective.
Here is one of my favorites and I'll end you with this. 
Me too, I've liked the RW for years. May not agree with everything he sees right, but everyone has their own opinions. But I feel like a friend kicked me in the nuts and now wants my lunch money. Good riddance RW

(Sybil, better reconsider...)
The comments in here will always be free. And, yeah, you're probably right, Sybil's reconsidering marrying me because I'm profiting from my blog. Deal-breaker.

Again I'm not mad at the guy, I just think its funny that he believes his content is something someone would pay even $0.25 a day for.  I hear Richie is actually an extremely cool in person but even some of his former Fan buddies are cutting him lose.  Probably stemming from his "reporting" on radio station rumors that aren't apparently true.  Richie is obsessed with breaking news instead of providing actual insight.

Saturday, December 7, 2013

Texas Rangers Pre Preview

Right to left: GM Jon Daniels, New 1st basemen Prince Fielder, Manager Ron Washington

Right now the roster is still being constructed so I know everyone is wondering why I would even start looking.  It's because I can. I hate predicting who might or might be on the team.  I just want to have a preview of what the team might look like.  I will preface this with saying, I think I will be completely wrong about this.  Let's just go base by base and see what our red shoed Rangers will look like in 2014.

I want to start with the Catcher position because I believe that this position is set.  Rangers signed JP Arencibia on Friday and Geovany Soto has been pretty much named the starting catcher. Soto in my opinion had a pretty decent year backing up AJ Pierzenski.  Soto's numbers as far as OBP and SLG were pretty respectable.  Yes the sample size is a little small, he was pretty productive.  Behind the plate, he is no gold glover, he is pretty decent at throwing base runners out.  His high marks are for the way he deals with the pitching staff.  Pitchers respond well to him and I think it shows.  JP is a different story.  His bat took a severe hit this year with Toronto.  He batted a whopping .194 with an OBP of .227, holy crap man, how do you let it get this bad? I would say in most baseball minds, he would be considered a complete bust.  His best year he hit 23 home runs and was able to crack .233 BA.  He is going to be a back up catcher for the rest of his career.  He is just a gap until Jorge Alfaro, Rangers number 1 prospect is ready to come up.


First base is going to be a little easier this year finally after the trade of Ian Kinsler for Prince Fielder.  I'm going to admit at first I didn't like this because of what Kinsler has done in the past.  I finally came to the realization of the regression of Kinsler and that it was in the Rangers best interest to move on from Kinsler.  Prince Fielder wasn't exactly my first choice because of his stature and his poor season last year.  Prince has been known for that in the past.  He has had some killer years with a WAR over 6 but as low as 1.7.  Its hard to say he hasn't been consistent but he has for sure  been reliable.  Yes he doesn't get injured or miss games.  Yes he is fat, slow on the base paths and pretty crappy at first. Mitch Moreland is Mitch.  He will be a bat off the bench and will be great to have at first when we give Prince a DH day off.

Second base, barring any crazy ass trades involving Elvis Andrus,  Jurickson Profar will be the opening day second basemen.  Profar is going to give the line up some pop on occasion.  Profar its time to put up or shut up.  Kinsler has been shipped out to give him a full season at one position.  My expectations are actually pretty low for the kid. I think Profar has been slightly over rated and I was never a fan of getting rid of Andrus so Profar could play shortstop.  Profar should do fine this season but don't be disappointed if he runs into some problems against major league pitching.

Shortstop with Elvis Andrus.....Need I say more? Well I probably should calm some people who feel uneasy about Elvis's performance last season.  The glove, no one has a problem with, the best in the game. Andrus had a pretty inconsistent season in 2013. He was up and down and at times mostly down.  At the end of the season he had a career low OBP.  I know what he has done and at 25, I'm not seeing any type regression.  Its just a run of the mill "down year".  I'm expecting Elvis to get on base at a more regular pace and hitting more extra base hits.  His OPS should should be at around .700 instead of where it was last year at .659.  Elvis is 25, so lets relax. 

Third Base we have Texas Rangers's most consistent player. Adrian Beltre.  He had another stellar year at the plate hitting 30 home runs, 88 runs scored with an OPS of .880.  What you want from your top guy.  Now this is something people don't wanna hear and I can tell you Adrian doesn't want to hear it either.....he could possibly be regressing.  Actually I'm pretty certain he is. Adrian will be 35 at the end of the 2014 season so there is no shame in not being as good as you were the season before.  It happens. I'm looking at his batting and it doesn't look like it has stats have dropped dramatically there, even though I believe we could see a slight drop this next season.  The significant drop we are seeing in his defense.  I know that may seem crazy but he just isn't the man he use to be.  Adrian's UZR (Ultimate Zone Rating in runs above average (Arm+DPR+RngR+ErrR) has been hovering around 10-13, his 2013 season he had a -1.2.  What brought it down so much?  I'm thinking his range was significantly cut down because of his injury.  Is Adrian Beltre a below average fielder like UZR shows, hell no.  I believe he just had an off year with his reduced mobility.   Adrian is not a guy I like to bet against. I thought his career was on a down fall when he left the Mariners.  Adrian has two years left on his contract with a vesting option.  Don't be surprised if you see a slight drop in production from Adrian.

Outfield should be a lot of fun this year, good coverage all around the field.  Right now from what I'm seeing,  the opening day outfield should be newly acquired Michael Choice in left, Leonys Martin in center and Alex Rios in right.  I'll start with Michael Choice,  who I've heard and read a little on the guy so there is a little insight on what we are getting.  Choice has a decent arm and has average speed in the outfield. He is a big guy and he will hit for power.  Time will tell, he is very young in the league and needs to get his at bats in. He will struggle at times but it should be fun to see how he develops. Alex Rios had a pretty standard year for himself.  His OPS was .772 which is pretty respectable.  Rios is going to be a plus defender which the Rangers right field hasn't seen in quite a while.  Rios isn't going to be All Star material and isn't going to hit a ton of homers.  He is going to hit extra base hits and get on base, that's all you can ask.

Leonys Martin, oh Martin.  I'm very interested in seeing what kind of full season Leonys can have.  I pegged him last year to have a break out season and I would like to say I WAS FRIGGIN' RIGHT! Leonys showed us he had power, he could slap the ball around, he could run the bases efficiently and that he had an arm better than anyone in the league.  Some will miss Craig Gentry in center and I believe he was slightly better when tracking down balls, but in the end Leonys will be much better all around.  I'm not sure how great he will be at the lead off spot because last year he wasn't great at getting on base.  He is right now between average to below average in OBP last year.  I think he should do better in his 2nd full season.  But if this persist, they should start looking for an alternative in Elvis or maybe even Alex Rios. (Shin Soo Choo too if they Rangers sign him)  

While saying all this, I'm not sure if the Rangers get Shin Soo Choo or resign Nelson Cruz.  Right now I think their outfield is pretty decent but we all know that just won't cut it around here. I'm not sure what the Rangers do to add another piece.  Another bat will be welcomed though. We might not want to be stuck with watching Michael Choice figure MLB pitching out.  A bat will be welcomed by this guy.

Should be another fun season, with some added pop.  There is still speed but the only thing that should be alarming is there is no serious on base guy since Kinsler left. 

Possible opening day line up*:
  1. Leoyns Martin CF
  2. Elvis Andrus SS
  3. Prince Fielder 1B
  4. Adrian Beltre 3B
  5. Alex Rios RF
  6. Michael Choice LF
  7. Geovany Soto C
  8. Mitch Moreland DH
  9. Jurickson Profar 2B

*not actually opening day line up. I'm just screwing aroun, so I do not wanna hear it.

Friday, December 6, 2013

Why Today Didn't Suck.

 This is truly great. Well my Dad's birthday was yesterday and my wife's birthday was Saturday so I decided to blend them both together.  I also really wanted to hear Norm and Gordo fight.  Here it is.  Also I'm really looking forward to writing more. Its very therapeutic.  I have no formal training in writing and I'm working off a public school education so I'm not sure how great its going to be.  Give me time and I might surprise some people.  Thanks to everyone.


Thursday, December 5, 2013

White Elephant Day Reviewed


I will just say I of course didn't get to listen to every minute of White Elephant.  I listened to some of the morning show, most of Ty's show, just about all of Bob and Corby's and All of the Rhyner and Gordo's show.   I enjoyed most of what I listened to. Wheels off moments and added comedy.  Its The Ticket's one day to take off.  They will discuss Cowboys but most the day is the interactions that don't usually happen on a regular shift.  Listening to see how some Ticket host interact.  Are you going to get much info from the Tickers? Not a chance.  The Ticket has a full day of recess essentially.  And in all honesty, I don't know another station that can do the same thing and make it work. The Fan has done it before but it was pretty boring and they just talked sports like usual.  This day is very different.

Well I caught the 8 o'clock hour of the morning show.  SPORTS DUCK IS SPARE. That's all I have to say about that.  The Tickers from Sean Bass was pretty entertaining and I think he was pretty happy to not have to do the same ole boring tickers.  He did Tickers from the past which was great, also he had some audio I haven't heard before.  He even had a special guest Leila Rahimi, former Ticker chick who brought us one the most memorable meltdowns ever on the Ticket. She even got to redeem herself.  Norm played the Gordo and did his Nose in the News and Norm's Corner.  He even surprised everyone with a Ticket Mouse which was...meh. It wasn't awful, it just wasn't very good but if it meant having the magic of the 3-7 shift, it was fine.
Grade: C-
Segment to listen to: All Sean Tickers.....I think that's it. 

Ty Walker's show was much better than anticipated. I haven't heard anything from anyone but I believe Cat or someone told Danny Balis and Donovan to help Ty. Ty talked wrestling (cool), baseball I think and Star Wars (which wasn't as boring as I thought it would be)  I had some time to kill during that show and it seemed to go pretty fast listening to that show. So thanks Ty for not sucking.
Grade: B
Segment to listen to: Wrestling and Star Wars are both decent.

Next was Bob and Corby which is a show that could totally be a regular show and be pretty popular. I think they have great chemistry.  Bob talked about his run in with Ian Rapoport on twitter which was pretty great.  Having trouble remembering many of the segments but no complaints here. (I did got back and listen, they did talk some college football and it wasn't bad.)
Grade: A-
Segment to listen to: Bob Sturm getting into a fight with Ian Rapoport

The 3-7 shift was the show I was looking forward the most.  Mike Rhyner and Gordon Keith would be taking care of the hosting duties and Junior Miller would be the Yuk Monkey.  Dan McDowell delivering his give up Tickers with time wasters and jokes and actually bringing back Alexis Smith for a cameo.  Rhynes and Gordo have really interesting chemistry, Gordo takes it far and Rhyner instead of deflecting, actually takes it further. I was picking my daughter up from school and I actually had to turn it down during part of it.  Maybe it was the part about auto-errotic asphyxiation.   Junior did E-News and Community Quick Hits, did a fine job.  In my opinion, Mike and Junior with Gordon Keith as a third wheel would of been a fine show.
Grade: A+
Segment to listen to: ALL OF THEM! 

White Elephant Day is a true example of "We can do what they do, but they can't do what we do."  Any other station and any other city, no one would understand or even get White Elephant Day.  They would most likely just scream at their radio wishing for more sports talk.  The Ticket wins and they will continue to win.

SIDE NOTE! I received a call from 1310 The Ticket today to tell me I have won tickets to the live show on KTXD Ch47.  My friend Jacob and I will be attending so get ready for a full report. 

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Best Day Of Radio For The Ticket

White Elephant 2013
Tomorrow (Wednesday Dec. 4th 2013 depending on when you read this) is WHITE ELEPHANT DAY!  This my favorite day of the radio year.  Mix and matching of host and shenanigans will ensue.  Host doing awful tickers or doing fun bits and other stop down moments.  I for the most part try to catch every second of White Elephant Day.    Here is the line up: 




5:30-10am
Rich & George - Hosts
Norm - Yuk Monkey
Sea Bass- Ticker Anchor
Tom- Producer

10am-12n
Ty Walker - Host
Donnie - Ticker Anchor 10a-3pm
Danny - Producer

12n-3pm
Bob & Corby - Hosts
Fernando- Producer

3-7pm
Rhyner & Gordo - Hosts
Junior - Yuk Monkey
Dan - Ticker Anchor
Sirois- Producer

I can tell you right now, I'm not waking up super early to catch the morning show.  Rich is a host which will be awful.  George is great but only with the right partner. Norm is Norm.  I bet there will still be moments but that's not a really stellar cast. 

10-12 should be slightly better only because I hope to hear Danny kick Ty Walker in the nuts.  Donovan is always good for a laugh when it come to a ticker and he has the long shift.

12 to 3 should definitely be good. I enjoy Bob and Corby, they hosted together I believe a few years back.  Fernando will say and do just about nothing so who really cares. 

3-7 is the basically what I'm calling the main event.  Rhyner and Gordo are hosting with Junior "Junez" as the Yuk Monkey.  Dan will be delivering the tickers and hopefully butting in with greatness.  Sirois is producing which I'm sure he will just stay out of the way and let the greatness happen.

Should be a fun time, too bad Kevin Turner won't be there to help with the Tickers. Oh well. 

Sunday, December 1, 2013

Sports Radio Spares

Left to Right: Kevin Turner, Some Old Guy, Jake Kemp and Mike Marshall
Did you know I love sports radio? Did you know I love radio in general?  I really enjoy the current guys on the radio but I actually really enjoy the "young" talent on the radio.  I feel like I relate to them a little more than maybe Mike Rhyner or Randy Galloway. I'm 26 years old so its good to relate to guys my age.  I've compiled a list and its not a top 10 its just list, no particular order.  I have taken guys from all sports radio stations.  These guys are not currently hosting and in all honesty, pretty spare. 



Jeff Cavanaugh
First up is Jeff Cavanaugh, he the producer and on-air personality for the G-Bag Nation on 105.3 The Fan.  I know some people will roll their eye seeing someone from The Fan on this list, especially first.  Jeff is funny, loud and almost obnoxious.  Jeff is an acquired taste but one thing I really like about him is that he is fearless.  Everyone is wanting to do safe and clean radio.  Jeff wants to be different and bring something more than box scores to the table.  For all the people looking at this still wondering why they should give a crap about Jeff, well he is an original listener of 1310 The Ticket and you can really tell while listening to him. Jeff makes people uncomfortable and is not afraid to mess up. I can really respect that and that is something I enjoy.  I realized he was something special when he asked the great and almighty Mickey Spagnola a question.  Jeff asked him a question about Mickey basically contradicting himself. Mickey twisted off!  Jeff backs away from the mic and looks over at his other co-workers.  They look in concerned, as if, "what have you done Jeff?"  Jeff looked back and said "who cares".   The Fan needs more uncomfortable moments like this instead of trying to pull off flawless boring radio.  Jeff Cavanaugh may not be perfect in his sports mind, but I believe he is a shining star with The Fan.  Don't let him know that I said that, if he hears that make sure he knows that I said he sucks.

Not Actually Landry Locker
Next is Landry Locker.  This one is quite controversial.  Out of all the people on my short list, this is the one that listen to the least.  Landry is young guy with a good amount of knowledge of sports.  He is not a conventional thinker.  He does make me bang my head against the dash a little but I guess I appreciate his courage.  He is pretty enjoyable on twitter and I thought he was in radio there for second with ESPN/Cumulus take over.  He has managed to come back on air at some capacity. Not exactly sure what he is doing. I haven't had the time to flip over to that channel lately.  But the amount that I have listened to and read on twitter, I think there is something there.  Keep an eye out for Landry.

Left: Kevin Turner  Right: Mike "The Machine" Marshall
Kevin Turner aka KT aka @KTfuntweets.  The producer for the Ben & Skin Show on 105.3 The Fan and former spare on 1310 The Ticket.  Kevin Turner is something of an enigma.  I swear there are joke he tells that only me, Kevin and one other person are laughing at.  KT is out side the box when it comes to comedy.  I've listened to KT for quite a while going back to listening to a dumb podcast with him and Mike "The Machine" Marshall.  KT was on The Ticket as a spare for Sirois brothers show and an actual hand picked successor for Gordon Keith.  KT left for greener pastures over at The Fan, when I mean greener, I mean they actually paid him.  KT was basically working at The Ticket for slave wages.   He was treated like a third class employee like most Ticket employees without a name on a show.  KT is super funny but extremely knowledgeable about sports.  Right now he is playing the Yuk Monkey for Ben & Skin and doing in my opinion a fine job.  He has a good head on his shoulders and I believe he is another young star on that struggling but up ticking station.

TC Fleming or Fat Lesbian?
Now on to America's favorite radio station 1310 The Ticket. I will start with TC Fleming.  Some might think I'm wasting my time with this entry.  Some only see TC as red velvet cake eating nerd.  Some would be correct.   I've been listening to TC for about 3 years now.   Listened to hours and hours of his podcast with Jake Kemp, Its Just Banter. TC seems like a very difficult guy to be around. Seems like he always has to be right and for some reason I think he might be. No doubt he has his moments of being full of shit.  TC is an analytical guy and extremely knowledgeable about sports.  TC in my mind will never amount to much at The Ticket if its true that Jeff Catlin hates him but I believe if given a chance he would succeed.  Check out It's Just Banter podcast to hear more from TC Fleming and realize how talented he really is.

Jake Kemp
Jake Kemp, 1310 The Ticket's board op for BaD Radio and The Hardline. Also one half of The Shake Joint, his Sunday show with Sean Bass.  Jake Kemp thinks space is gay and Tyson Chandler was a good player to pass on. Jake has come up the ranks rapidly lately.  He started his journey as the only known Hardline intern and then a Ticket Spare doing odd jobs and Tickers.  Then his big break came when Chris House decided to leave as The Ticket Top 10 host and Jake took over.  Jake Kemp then was hired on as the board op after Grubes left to go to school but mostly because he was being paid peanuts. Not confirming anything but the rumor is that after Bob and Dan got their contract from Cumulus, Jake was given a significant raise.  Nothing crazy but much much more than a basic board op can make and he should be paid handsomely for the work that he does.  If you didn't know he also has a little podcast with TC Fleming.  I've heard more than enough, again I've listened to almost all of IJB's 216 episodes.

Now who is Jake Kemp?  He is a down to earth guy and an advanced stat advocate.  When he talks sports it is always solid but I think he really comes into his own when he talks about world issues. I learned about Cameron William Todd and the Georgia Guidestones from IJB.  Jake will be a major host on a radio station barring he doesn't get drunk at bar while watching a Mavs loss.

Here is the honorable mention.

Mike "The Machine" Marshall who if I'm correct, is still the producer of the Sirois Brothers show and a fill in producer for Norm Hitzges. I still think he's a funny guy but he has been heard less and less on The Ticket.  I still think he will be okay but I just haven't heard much from him lately. I think he is doing a podcast with Mike Fisher on Dallasbasketball.com

Roy White is the producer for New School for 105.3 The Fan. He is a former Ticket intern and he had done some on air work with the Ticket before he jumped ship.  Not a huge bucket of personality but he isn't bad at what he does.  He was actually there the day TC Fleming got thrown out of the Rangers visitor clubhouse for asking silly questions.

Sean Bass is I guess part of the young crowd and even though he is balding and I think over the age of 30 years old.  He is a Ticker guy from 10-3 on The Ticket and Sunday host with Jake Kemp on The Shake Joint. He is a little sensitive on twitter but all in all a good listen when it comes to talking baseball.

Brenden Smith is a board op for Ben & Skin who followed them from ESPN radio.  He isn't just a guy who plays audio but is actually given his own segment that sounds closely like "Community Quick Hits".  You be the judge.

"Cray" Trey Mitchell does something at the Ticket but I'm just not sure exactly what. He doesn't have a face for radio and almost doesn't have voice for one either. I liked a few bits he did and he is a pretty good follow on twitter.

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Breaking: Non-Sports Post

This just made me giggle. Thank you Mike Sirois


Monday, November 4, 2013

Random Radio Rants

I just had a few thoughts about my radio listening experience lately.  I've started a new job so I've been limited to a few segments a day.  I catch most of The Musers in the morning getting ready and I try to catch BaD Radio for lunch.  I might catch a Hardline segment here and there but not nearly as much as I use to.  Now I also told everyone I was keeping an open mind with The Fan as well.  I hear the New School when I'm not listening to the Musers.  I will catch a G-Bag Nation every now and again. They stay pretty vocal on twitter so if they are talking about something I wanna hear I can find a radio.

G-Bag Nation is actually the reason I decided to write today.  I was driving to work when I heard a mix between New School and G-Bag Nation where there was an extensive and serious discussion over......Tony Romo being clutch.  Romo had won the game in the last minute and there was still question of him being clutch.  Again like clutch is an actual thing is up for debate.  I believe there isn't really clutch, I think you are either talented or your not.  Regardless I thought it was pretty useless segment. There was so many great things to talk about with that game.  They chose at that moment to talk about an intangible that can't be measure by any kind of metric.

Now everyone thinks I just pick on The Fan but I had a nice little run with Craig "Junior" Miller from The Ticket.  The segment in question was in regard to the Cowboys lack of running game.  They wanted to run more and of course I believe they tried to and it didn't work.  Then Junior decided to poke the "Stat freaks" (his words not mine) which I thought was pretty short sided.  Running less isn't a bad thing, especially when the ability to run isn't there
.  But really who cares, I just think Junior was being an old man who doesn't care to evolve the game he loves. I got into it with Junior on twitter.  He called us stupid or something I dunno who cares really.  I ended the twitter fight by telling Junior that I love him.

I wanted to briefly go over my meet up with The Fan hosts last week.  It was in Fort Worth at Overtime Bar which isn't far from where I work.  I went after work. Ran into RJ Choppy which I have frequent correspondents with.  He bought me a beer and we chatted up radio stuff. We then met up with Jeff Cavanaugh, real funny dude.  If I remember he brought up a hypothetical that I can't discuss...anywhere...but it interesting. Jeff would do anything for money.  We talked a lot about radio business....lots I can't talk about either.  It was very interesting and I would like to say I made some good friends.   The best part I would say was when Ben Rogers came by. I stopped him, he was just telling other people that he was heading home.  I told Ben who I was and he was floored because he was shocked that would ever show my face in front of him. (we've had our history on twitter, some good, some bad...mostly bad)   He sat down automatically and said "oh now I'm staying".  Ben Rogers then proceeded to basically go over his entire career and how he got to where he is now.  Very interesting story and of course....tons of stuff I can't repeat.  For a radio geek like me, this was a great night.

I'll end all of this with you should look through Greggo's twitter pictures. Tons of old photos from back when he was with the Ticket.  I believe someone is feeling reminiscent of the good ole days....

Thursday, October 24, 2013

967 Reasons to Love The Ticket


This Monday I turned the radio on to 96.7 FM which previously was the home of WBAP News Radio and before that was some generic Country Music station.  I wasn't turning it on to listen to Rush Limbaugh, I turned it on to listen to my favorite radio station.  1310 The Ticket has branched out to FM radio (AGAIN).  I live in Aledo which is west of Fort Worth and I can rarely listen to 1310 AM The Ticket in my vehicle in the morning or in the evening clearly.  Power lines: I can't hear a thing.  Under a bridge: I can't hear a thing.  The Ticket hasn't been perfect and its still amazing they have stayed so popular with such an awful signal. I remember that buzz from as long as I could remember.  I lived in Grand Prairie when I was kid and I never remember it being crystal clear.  There was always a little buzz.  For people who didn't regularly listen to it, its extremely annoying, for those who were regular P1's, this is just the way it is.

So I turned to 96.7 FM and Listened to the Musers and I thought I was in a dream.  I listen to The Ticket regularly streaming online but there is something different listening to them on FM.  Its an indescribable thing.  The traffic reports and the Ticket Tickers were even great to listen to.  The Ticket just became a larger player in the DFW radio and will be able to reach a lot more listeners, especially listeners who don't venture off to the AM dial.  Bob Sturm briefly spoke about this being targeted to the younger listeners, I agree.  I'm 26 and I can tell you, my age and younger don't even understand why AM radio exist.  Its for old effs listening to conservative news radio.

Hopefully The Ticket recognizes how much money they opened themselves up to.  Now instead of only advertising for the great Dallas area, now they will be able to branch out further west into my area.  I know The Ticket is awesome, now my neighbors need to recognize.  The Ticket was big before 96.7 FM and now they will become even BIGGER.  105.3 The Fan has to be a little worried (more than usual).   Will you be listening?

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Peace Out Nolan...This is JD's Team Now

I'm a self proclaimed "Saber Idiot" and that means I'm not real great calculating advanced stats nor want to.  I'm not a nerd but I have an immense respect for sabermetrics.   Anything that makes the game that I love better, I'm all for it.  This divide between Nolan and JD has started New School vs. Old School.  RBI vs.  WAR.  AVG vs OBP.  This is my life.  This "feud" is awkward to me but it also has shown me a different side of Nolan Ryan.

Nolan Ryan was a childhood hero of mine.  There are great men, and then there was Nolan Ryan.  He was the best Texas Ranger to ever put a uniform on, and he was at the end of his career.  He made the Rangers half way legitimate. He was a bad ass player and the man was from the great state of TEXAS.  There couldn't of been a better marriage. Nolan was brought in to be the President of the team, he was technically in charge of business aspects of the ball club.  The upgrades around the ball park were Nolan Ryan's doing. He should be commended because I believe they really enhanced the experience at the ballpark (especially for people who really don't enjoy baseball).  

Ryan then bought the team and saved everyone from the Hicks era.  We all had such optimism.  That was in 2010.  The team was formed by JD and his staff and Nolan was still in charge of the business side of the Rangers.  Nolan after the 2010 World Series seemed to be more involved in player personnel. It was pretty prevalent during the offseason he was pushing hard to get Cliff Lee (unsuccessfully I remind you) and he apparently had some input in acquiring Adrian Beltre (which he should be credited with along with JD). Great! Nolan also deserves a lot of credit for extending the pitchers and making them push through when before they were treating pitchers with kid gloves.  I wanted to see the starters go longer to save the bullpen.  

After that, what has Nolan done?  I think his contributions have been highly overrated by the public. Nolan Ryan was not in charge of scouting and he did not have any input in drafting players.  Jon Daniels was your man.  The Teixeria trade.  Hamilton Trade.  And many other signings.  Yes he had a little learning curve.  We remember the Adam Eaton/Akinori Otsuka trade which sent Chris Young and Adrian Gonzalez.  Name me a GM that hasn't made a questionable move.  But for those 2010 and 2011 teams, that was JD's baby.  You want to talk about the last two years and call that a complete disaster, I would absolutely disagree.   

Have the season's been disappointing? Of course they have.  Disaster.  There are a lot of teams in the league that would love to be this "BAD".  Its not that long ago we were out by late July, early August.  All I want for my team is to do one thing...COMPETE.  The Rangers have for the last four years have been in hunt.  I'm not going to be the entitled fan who is disappointed if my team doesn't go deep in the playoffs or win the World Series.  Its stupid.  Not everyone can go.  Is Jon Daniels perfect? No way.  But he has shown to he can build World Series caliber teams and I believe with a few additions, we have one with this current team.   

So Jon Daniels has been branded the man who drove Nolan Ryan out of town.  I'm gonna leave you with this, Nolan wanted the control of team and the owners didn't believe Nolan was the future and that Jon Daniels was.  Jon Daniels has the 1 year, 5 year plans.  He is the man who knows the guys on the farm that will be developed for future. JD has also had great success internationally.  Yu Darvish will not be the last Japanese import and Leonys Martin won't be the last Cuban import.  JD has built this team to be successful for many years to come.  

Before I wrap this up I want to address a really interesting debate I've had with sports media legend Chuck Cooperstein (on twitter, Its not like he and Randy Galloway come over on the weekends).  He has had a problem with the way Jon Daniels has treated Ron Washington.  That JD should just acquire the players and let Ron take care of the rest. I completely disagree.  Wash has to be accountable like anyone else and also should learn & progress. There some techniques in baseball that were used years ago that still work today and there are some that don't.  Wash is so great with dealing with a clubhouse and I think he really motivates his very rich ball players to play to their full ability.  But in one very important aspect I believe Wash has done a very poor job of game management. (I also believe that was a combination of bad advice from Jackie Moore, but that's a post for another day)  JD put together a team and has the right to want those players be utilized to their full potential and correctly.  Bunting Elvis the amount of times Wash did was unacceptable. Trusting aging or regressing players. Bullpen decisions.  Wash will make mistakes and I won't sit here on my couch criticizing him.  One thing we can question is his philosophy. Can that be changed? I doubt it but I guess anything is possible. 

Texas Rangers and their fans should feel good about the future of their team.  This team isn't going to be in the ALCS every year. They might not make the playoffs.  But they will compete, and thats all you can ask of your team.  They will in late September have a chance to be a playoff team.  Big time free agents, they will have a chance.  Big time player that is available before the trade deadline, they will have a chance.  Instead of sellers, they are buyers.  For as long as I could remember, that's all I've wanted.  If you want your Rangers to win or hell attend the World Series, you are going to be disappointed a lot.  If you enjoy the ride and enjoy the success, you will still be disappointed but you will have a sense of pride for your team like I do.  JUST COMPETE! 

Sunday, October 13, 2013

In Defense of The Fan

Gavin, Jeff C and Chris Arnold the "G-Bag Nation"
Anyone who knows me or has read anything I've wrote on here, knows I'm a P1 and I listen to the Ticket way too much.  I wake up in the morning with my phone blaring Gordo and the Musers and I'm constantly trying to check in during the day with BaD Radio.  I've been listener of The Hardline longer than I can really remember.  I love the Ticket and that love will never leave.  Now my enemy of the last 4 years has not been the originator and the ultimate imitator "105.3 The Fan".  From the moment I heard them I knew this could not last, and if you think about it, it hasn't.  I don't really wanna go over the history of The Fan but I will say "stability" isn't their forte.

I do not want this be me just kicking The Fan in the nuts the entire post (and I could) but I actually want this to be a positive post about this station I've had so many issues with.  The Fan is something I think I've secretly rooted for.  I want sports radio to be successful in the DFW area.  It doesn't have to be one or the other.  I can have multiple shows that I enjoy.

Right now in my opinion, The Fan is about as good as its ever been (I know that's a low bar).  Morning show really hasn't changed but I think they have adjusted a lot.  Overall is probably my least favorite show of the three, but it has its moments.  RJ Choppy is very knowledgeable about sports and I think he is fairly interesting.  Shan is someone I have trouble with but he really has toned it down (on the radio, not on twitter. Not that I would really know since he blocked me) lately and has offered some insight.  I wanna say that I haven't completely hated Troy Hughes (producer? yuk monkey?). I think he is pretty funny, I think some of his "bits" need help but quick punch lines, I think he is pretty good. 

Now some changes have occurred recently, Elf & Slater were axed and the G-Bag Nation who were occupying the late night slot were moved to 10-2.  Also they added on Mike Bacsik, who I really love to listen to. I'm glad to see Mike get another shot.   Gavin is Gavin and sometimes I think he is just trying to be controversial.  He is an acquired taste.  Chris Arnold is pretty meh in my opinion, very nice guy but I just don't know what he bring to the table.  I'm not going to get into his plagiarism offense but I just don't think he adds anything real significant to the show or the area.   Jeff Cavanaugh (producer/Yuk Monkey) is loud, douche-like and most likely smells like bong water and booze, and I think the shining light of the station.  I use to bag on this dude pretty bad, I finally got to know the guy and I have a lot of respect for the guy.  Very funny dude and I really relate to his sports outlook.  Gbag was not too long ago one of my least favorite shows, I don't listen much but it isn't horrible. But don't call me a G-Bag soldier cause I think that part is pretty stupid. I can admit I still don't understand the name.  Oh well keep it up.

Last but not least, Ben & Skin.....I have the utmost respect and admiration for those two guys.  Those guys could fill in at The Ticket tomorrow and no one would blink. They are funny guys who mix in with great HSOs.  Ben is prone to the knee jerk and a little sensitive (I've been blocked on twitter numerous times by Ben)
but I really enjoy him talking baseball and football.  Skin is one of my heroes.  He is new school and forward thinking.  He is a good dude and someone I truly respect in sports radio.  Kevin Turner who has joined the fold, he is a funny dude.  Will the mainstream understand him?  Only time will tell. Ben & Skin might not find success at The Fan, a station that is notorious for having a quick trigger. But I believe they are delivering the kind of sports radio I enjoy and most people would enjoy if they actually gave it a try.
(Some would want me to comment on the night time show "K&C Masterpiece", I really haven't listened much and the amount I have, is uninspiring. JUST MY OPINION)

For those who don't know I reside in the small town of Aledo just west of Fort Worth and I got word that the G-Bag Nation was doing a live remote near by.  I took my lunch break and headed over to see the boys.  It was a gas station and they were set up outside.  I got something to eat and then headed over to meet Jeff Cavanaugh, I guess out of those guys, he one I don't have run ins with.  Cool guy.  Then right next to him was the Great Mike Bacsik.  Very nice guy.  Chris Arnold then saw me and said "Brad Calhoun, love your stuff man" and then shook my hand.  Then came my meet up with Gavin who I've had numerous run ins with.  He shook my hand and said "Hey Brad" with that recognizable voice.  I told him it was nice to finally meet and I'm glad we there was zero awkwardness.  Gavin is who he is, but in person he didn't come off abrasive or confrontational.  We talked about some sports stuff and just shot the S.  All in all it was a very pleasant experience and kind of interesting to see the people who came to see them.  I thought it was actually smart of The Fan to do a remote there.  Sometimes they alienate the west side of the metroplex, I appreciate it because it sucks to hear all the remotes on the east side.

Will The Fan succeed? Who knows, but I will say that throughout the short history of this station, they are at their peak (OF COURSE IN MY OPINION).   The reason for this post was a text I received from my friend Jacob about The Fan having an edge on The Ticket in one category: Connecting with their listeners.   The Fan host have always kept themselves out in the public.  I talk to RJ Choppy, Skin, Gavin Dawson and Jeff Cavanaugh on regular basis.  And I know that doesn't really make them any better at radio but I know some people enjoy this interaction.  I've talked to Dan Mcdowell, Mike Sirois and even the great Mike Rhyner but at times most of them aren't available.  I know they have lives and aren't required to talk to S-heads like me.  Accessibility won't win the game but its a nice tool.  Listen don't think I'm jumping of The Ticket ship because I'm far from it.  The Ticket is still a go to.  But maybe one day, we could see a little more competitive sports radio.  Competition only makes things better.

Monday, June 24, 2013

LWSO Quick Hits

  • BaD Radio will be back Tuesday and they will be addressing all the rumors about "Leaving The Ticket".  Bob Sturm has been active on twitter and I can definitely tell he feels great about his decision and what has happened.  I don't truly know what happened with this whole deal but I think Bob is so relieved to have a deal with Cumulus and The Ticket.  I bet its great to be offered that great deal by The Fan but money can't always buy happiness.  Can't wait to listen.
  • Greggo just jumped on twitter and said he was going to talk all about the Richie Whitt situation. Should be interesting.  No he is not in rehab and thankfully not dead.  Keep in tune to that. 
  • 105.3 The Fan really has to feel like the Mavericks right now not being able to sign these big names from The Ticket.  More money, better equipment and more excess.  The only problem, less control, less fun and less listeners.  This one has to really hurt.  Now the battle for #2 continues. 
  • Richie Whitt was apparently on Fox 4 but I missed it, did he say anything worth a damn? Most likely not. 

Sunday, June 23, 2013

BaD Radio Stays with The Ticket


Bob Sturm and Scott Ferrall

In the 11th hour (not really sure how close it was) Bob Sturm tweets out: We are staying home for years to come. In the end, just can't leave you or our brothers or the special thing we have all built. #1310.  Cumulus decided to match the offer after evaluating the current situation at the station.  Donovan and Rich were not going to be a successful replacement and Shake Joint isn't seasoned enough to be given the permanent spot. Cumulus obviously saw more pros than cons to lock up BaD Radio.

 Bob Sturm tweeted about an hour before the decision. It was very cryptic and almost very telling.  Its almost like Bob and Dan were performing their own "Mad Men" episode in real life.  Leaving little clues and people reading to much into nothing.  It was a wild ride and I think I lost some sleep about this.  Again I think I need help, I should care this much. 


I'm extremely relieved over this decision and I know it was a tough one.  We of course don't know all the ins and outs of this deal but it will be interesting to hear what happened.  If this went the other way, dominoes would have started to fall.  The Ticket for now is out of the woods for now but soon their will be another HARD decision to be made.  


The Summerbash Experience

Ferrell going absolutely nuts. Love him! 


This is very hard to write right now with the current situation at the Ticket but I would love to write about the experience I had at this year's Summerbash.  This is actually my second time to go to Summerbash, last year I went, a complete blast.  I met some of my sports heroes and it was generally a great time.

After work schedules and baby sitters, I arrived at Sneaky Pete's at around 5.  I had a buddy of mine save us a spot near the pool, perfect spot to just put your legs in the pool and watch the action.   Hardline segments were solid but I know what this is all about.  Round tables and on my way to Lewisville I heard the "Ferrell" segment, it was gold!  Ferrell shows up to do 2 segments with the guys. OH MY GOD!! Ferrell is now in
my trust tree,  he is pure entertainment.  Cocky? You gotta when you've been in the business as long as he has.  He was absolutely the highlight of the evening.  If you listened on the radio you didn't know that when he was going nuts and screaming on the radio, he was jumping up and trying to get the crowd into it.  At the end I was entertained and that's all that matters. 

Now after these round tables my memory is getting fuzzy.  It was my buddy's birthday celebration so we had ordered enough buckets to put out a house fire.  I got it together and I think they did start playing music.  I'm not gonna go over the set list but my favorites, Bob Sturm creep parody for the Mavs championship, Mike Rhyner's Alice in Chains and TC and Jake's Sabatoge parody.  The Ticket Timewasters at Summerbash ends almost the same every time with "Keep on Rockin with The Hardline" and "Sweet Hardline".  One note which was a little different, there was some significant language from some people I have never heard curse.  Junior Miller and Donovan Lewis, Donnie Do during the Summerbash song and I think a couple times before.  Junes then curse basically for no reason at all,  "How are you doing tonight Mother Fuckers", it was jarring but also very cool.  It was like going your whole life not hearing your parents curse and then out of nowhere hearing them say, "Cocksucker". 

 I then went over before the set ended to go over to the left side of the stage and see if I could say hello to some of my favorite radio host.  Last year we tried the same thing and I swear some of the host are illusionist.  I blinked and they were gone.  This year I was pretty lucky.  First one I ran into is I guess my Summerbash friend Jake Kemp, its always a pleasure with that guy.  I walked up to him and he saw me and said, "Calhoun!". I had numerous conversations with him, most I can't write in this.

I then ran into my hero, baseball Jesus, Mike Rhyner.  Last year I met him and he was pretty short, he wasn't mean, just short.  Which is fine, I would be beaten meeting a bunch of dumb listeners.  Well this year was surprisingly much better. I went up to Mike and introduced myself, he smiled and said hello. I asked him some asshole question about Greggo.  No reason to reveal that answer.  He took a picture with me and my buddy and he said he was "not going anywhere" when I asked him to not go to The Fan (little did I know the events that would come later).  I also had another interaction with Mike when talking "Darkwing Duck" and he was so very happy.  We also took in the "twerking" contest together. My fandom of this man then grew so much.  I will for some reason in my dumb never forget that night for that reason alone.

I then ran into my favorite black friend, Donovan Lewis, he is always very gracious. I always tell them my name and most say, "okay" and a few might say, "oh yeah from Twitter".  Donnie Do did say he does and we met last year but I wouldn't be surprised if forgot all about it nor would I blame him. Met Gordon Keith briefly, very nice.  Ran into the great Mike Sirois, probably one of the best conversations I had all night.   Of course so little shoopy, Michael Gruber, very nice but also a little shy.  Another great interaction was with Ticker guy Sean Bass, I of course harassed him about RBIs.  He took it well and then I told him to relax, "we are all black friends".  So to summarize my interactions with Ticket guys, nobody was a jerk, so great success.  

Summerbash for my wife and I and my buddy and his significant other, has become a annual tradition and I hope it continues.  Its my one my few nights I can really cut loose and hang out with some of sports heroes.  Who knows, that night could of be historically significant if rumors develop. 

I guess I can briefly discuss this Bob and Dan situation, really not a lot of difference about that night, nobody was even talking about it.  Dan was little quiet last night, he almost seemed a little weird now that I think about. Bob was just as jolly as he ever was.   At one point at the night Dan and TC sat at a picnic table and talked for a significant time. I remember that only because I walked by and they were sitting there and I went by it seemed a good half an hour to an hour later and they were still there. Regardless of what happens, I really enjoy those guys on the radio.  Will follow them to The Fan? I would like to but Bob always tells me to follow the team and not the players, does this include radio shows?

 I guess if anything, I fear for the end of the line up of 1310 The Ticket.  Hardline is rumored to be done after the end of Mike Rhyner's contract (which ends 2014).  There was talks of BaD Radio taking over that spot but now who knows.  Things could all look very different for sports radio in the next 6 months to a year.  I will say I'm visibly shaken by the news and I don't know what to do really.  I guess at the end of the day, BaD Radio will be on the air in the DFW area (well maybe after 6 months if its true). 
Left to Right (Me, Mike Rhyner, Jacob Sailors

Saturday, June 22, 2013

BaD Radio join 105.3 The Fan??

Last time we see BaD Radio broadcasting on 1310 The Ticket?
Just yesterday I was at Sneaky Pete's in Lewisville watching my sports radio heroes performing and shaking hands with dumb listeners like myself.  Today the rumor goes up that Bob Sturm and Dan McDowell are on their way to the rival station 105.3 The Fan.  Richie Whitt former awful radio host reported that BaD radio had came to terms with The Fan and that Cumulus would have till Monday to match the offer.

My thoughts?  I really believe this is a leveraging move by BaD radio to get the best possible deal from Cumulus.  BaD Radio won't leave their situation to deal with the management and instability of CBS radio. Could it happen? Absolutely! Bigger budget and better signal.  I'm sure that is a factor no doubt. This isn't the first time this has happened, Mike Rhyner was tempted with the offer to take The Hardline to The Fan. At the last minute Cumulus came through and kept the HL.  This situation is similar but not exactly the same.  The other rumors are that Cumulus is cutting across the board.  I  heard about it a while ago that the lineup at The Ticket could change very soon. I brushed it off and said, "Whatevs man! BaD Radio forever!".  I could be severely heart broken but at the end of the day, BaD radio won't be dead, just on a different channel.  It won't be the same but I respect the brain of Bob Sturm too much to just turn my back on him.  My respect for Skin is the reason I check in on B&S on The Fan. The Fan will then change their line up even more drastically in the last 6 months than The Ticket.  Interesting to see what happens.

Replacements have been talked about.  I've heard Black and Quack (Donovan Lewis and Rich Phillips) taking over temporarily until they find a full time replacement.  I think some other viable replacements might include Cirque Du Sirois who have filled in at times. I've heard people suggest The Shake Joint (Sean Bass and Jake Kemp) but for some reason I don't see Cat giving them the job. I would love to hear them but there is just not a long track record as a show. We shall see. Everyone relax (I'm only saying this to calm myself down.) at the end of the day we will still have BaD Radio and they will still be the same guys.  Better signal, I'm down.  Will they be able to handle The Fan's management?  STAY TUNED.......

UPDATE: Not really an update but I did forget to say that Bob and Dan have the same agent as Ben and Skin....so there's that.  I don't think that really matters. 

Friday, June 21, 2013

Richie v. Greggo: Hit the Road RaGE



Wow is that title stupid, but guess what? I don't do this for a living.  I have an honest job, I come home to my family and I'm basically as normal as you can get.  I'm also as spare as I can be. I'm an awful writer, not formally educated and my grammar are awful (see what I did there?). A lot of that is because I'm completely ADHD or whatever is to be completely scatter brained, I basically just write what is on my mind.  This isn't about me at all but I just wanted to start that off to tell everyone that when Richie started his "Sportatorium" blog, I was completely intrigued.  I love seeing the behind the scenes of radio stations (yes, I know I'm weird).  Starting Monday he has posted a new entry about his saga with the "Evil Greggo" and more and more I read I realized one thing.  Richie Whitt is an awful human being and a big dumb ass.  Richie ended his blog with "In the beginning, I got Greggo hired. And in the end, Greggo got me fired."  If you come away from that feeling sorry for Richie, you are a bigger dumb ass than Richie.  He wanted to "clear his name" and all he did was make himself look like a POS.  

Now just like Richie, I have evidence that he is an awful person.  He logged into Greggo's twitter and took those DMs screen shots. Wow, how big of asshole do you have to be to do that?? I'm not taking any blame away from Greggo, that definitely incriminates him but good god you are a really bad friend.  For those of you who forget in his wonderful blog in 2008 about the Hardline completely turning his back on Greggo and not supporting him. Over a long period of time the Hardline after many attempts of trying to help Greggo threw there hands up and decided he was lost cause.  Mike Rhyner wasn't going to have Greggo ruin all that they had built for the last 15 years and decided it was best that he go.  Richie made Mike Rhyner out to be the bad guy and now Richie faced with the same situation, DID THE SAME FUCKING THING!  Richie did worse, he then ran his partner in the dirt and now Greggo might be done with his efforts of trying to make a living.  Richie wants to clear his name and completely run his partners name over and over.  Greggo is already completely done in this town, we all don't trust him, we don't believe him. Why do this??  

Richie also says in the end that he didn't write this to dog CBS and that he just wants everyone to see the truth.  I will make this prediction right now, Richie will never have a major radio gig ever again, no way in hell.  Richie would be lucky to find a writing job.  Do you really believe some company would hire him knowing that he wrote a tell all blog because he got fired?  He is completely oblivious to how things work in the world.  Richie will tell you that he will have radio offers and that it wasn't the right fit, bullshit.  In another shocking note, he actually posted him texting an "advertiser" and the "advertiser" telling Richie that CBS wants to have him back.  He then tells the "advertiser", no friggin way they I'm going back, they are lying.  WOW!  I can't believe radio stations aren't just knocking his door down to sign him! Greggo wrote his tell all blog because he knew he was completely done with DFW sports radio.  Greggo was already dead, Richie basically hung himself.  Richie also believe that CBS fired the group so they wouldn't be sued by Greggo, didn't you just say he had numerous fireable offenses? Why would he sue??  I'm confused.  

I'm so glad Richie wrote this blog, no doubt.  I really thought I might come away respecting him, I walked away actually have less respect for the guy.   What did I get from this blog?  Greggo is still Greggo and he won't change.  Richie is a self absorbed ass hole who is only worried about himself. Which isn't a bad thing but when you write about someone else turning their back on someone and in turn do the same damn thing, you're a fucking joke.  Richie knew what he was getting into bringing in Greggo.  He thought Greggo had changed and I think for a little bit he had but there is always a chance for a relapse.  To sit there and act friggin shocked, then crush your partner and say "look at all the good shit I did!", pathetic. Richie might have a different opinion and there is no doubt he does.  I'm just done with that dude. I've had some many run ins with him, he has always talked to me like I'm an idiot.  Well now we know who the real dumb ass is.  I really tried to keep a objective opinion about this whole situation and for the most part I have.  

Hear is what most likely happened.  Management wasn't going to fire Greggo without a solid replacement.  They weren't going to fire Greggo and leave it to the "Rich and Fish Show", they had an idea they would see a significant ratings drop.  I know I've heard both sides that Ben and Skin had no agreement with The Fan, I think the Fan put all their eggs in their basket.  When they finally had the idea they could possibly get them,  RaGE was done.  Greggo absolutely to blame, but Richie wasn't going to be given the reigns.   Richie tries to sheepishly take some blame and then rattled off all the "great things" he had done.   After all this, I'm unfollowing the under whelming account of Richie Whitt and I won't step foot into the "Sportatorium".  What a friggin joke he is. Richie was the one who got Greggo hired and he was the one who got fired with Greggo.