Brandon Belt Makes San Francisco Giants Opening Day Roster

According to Andrew Baggarly of the San Francisco Chronicle, the San Francisco Giants have decided to add Brandon Belt onto the 2011 Opening Day roster and start him at first base against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday night.

To be honest, this is a shock to everyone and anyone who has been involved in Giants baseball through the last several years.

All signs were pointing to Belt being called up by the earliest May and most definitely by June or July, but obviously the Giants see that this young prospect can make this team that much better.

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San Francisco Giants: Starting Brandon Belt Is An Issue of Money, Not Talent

I don't care if he hits five home runs tomorrow, Brandon Belt is not starting on Opening Day for the San Francisco Giants.

It just doesn't make sense from a Giants' front office perspective.

Sure, Belt is ripping up Spring Training and has all the necessary tools to be a legitimate ballplayer right now.

He could make the Giants' line-up better from top to bottom.

Cody Ross is hurt and this is as good of a time as any for Belt to be entered into the line-up.

Yet, the Giants will not start Belt at first base on Opening Day.

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2011 NL West Season Preview & Predictions

Last season, the National League West went from one of the worst divisions in baseball to arguably one of the best.

The San Diego Padres came out of nowhere last season, only to crumble down the stretch and fall to the eventual World Series Champion San Francisco Giants who finished at 92-70.

Still, the Padres finished 2010 at 90-72, and even the Rockies, who finished third in the West, were 83-79, giving the NL West three teams over .500.

2011 may be a different story for the NL West. On paper, the division is much worse than it was last season.

The Padres lost Adrian Gonzalez and Miguel Tejada, who were the big bats at the center of their line-up last season and fueled the Padres to the NL West lead for the majority of the season.

The Dodgers lost manager Joe Torre, but still have the young nucleus of James Loney, Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp, and also gained Juan Uribe from the Giants. In the full picture, it seems as though the Dodgers lost more with the loss of Torre than the acquisition of Uribe.

The Rockies stood fairly still in the off-season, but it is last year's road worries that still haunt them. But a healthy Troy Tulowitski and another year for Carlos Gonzalez should fix that.

The Diamondbacks did nothing to fix a disappointing 2010 season. They're hoping some young prospects could fuel their team this year.

The Giants won the World Series in 2010 and close to nothing has changed with their timely offense and nucleus of pitching.

The good thing about the NL West is that every year it is something new.

Expect the NL West to be represented well.


5. Arizona Diamondbacks
2010 Record: 65-97

Pitching

The D-Backs will be a three-horse rotation with Ian Kennedy, Daniel Hudson and Joe Saunders. It depends if Hudson can sustain his incredible 2010 if the D-Backs can thrive on their pitching.

Line-Up

No significant change has been made to this D-Backs line-up. The focus still remains on Stephen Drew and Justin Upton, and if Kelly Johnson can have another break-out season. But it will take more than those three to help this very weak line-up in 2011.

X-Factor

Justin Upton needs to decide whether he wants to be a superstar or just another moderately good baseball player.

Prediction

70-92 (5th in NL West)


4. Los Angeles Dodgers
2010 Record: 80-82

Pitching

Clayton Kershaw and Chad Billingsley are the core of this rotation, but it will depend on what Ted Lilly, Hideki Kuroda and John Ely can do that will decide whether this rotation can match up to the others in the NL West. Kershaw and Billingsley have all the tools, it is just a matter of carrying them through an entire season.

Line-Up

The Dodger line-up is fueled once again by Loney, Kemp and Ethier, which aren't a bad three to build on. Although, they do lack a significant big bat, newly acquired Uribe can fit that role from time to time. I'm just not sure the Dodgers have enough depth in the offensive category.

X-Factor

Matt Kemp needs to improve on a fairly mediocre 2010. This needs to be the year Billingsley and Kershaw have break-out seasons if the Dodgers are to make a push for the NL West.

Prediction

78-84 (4th in the NL West)


3. San Diego Padres
2010 Record: 90-72

Pitching

The Padres will have to have another big season out of their rotation that surprised and impressed everyone last season. They even added Aaron Harang from the Reds to bolster it. Although everyone expects them to be just as good as last season, I'm not sure Mat Latos, Tim Stauffer and Clayton Richard can sustain such break-out seasons as they had in 2010.

Line-Up

The Padres lost the heart of their batting order, including powerhouse and Padre-fixture Adrian Gonzalez. Although they did add youngster Cameron Maybin, Jason Bartlett and Brad Hawpe, they did not replace Gonzalez as their big bat in the line-up, but not sure how you can replace him.

X-Factor

It all rests on their starting rotation. If Latos, Stauffer and Richard can even come close to the seasons they had last year, the Padres will have another chance at the NL West.

Prediction

82-80 (3rd in NL West)


2. Colorado Rockies
2010 Record: 83-79

Pitching

Ubaldo Jimenez was a stud for almost three quarters of the season and then he tapered off. But a Jimenez, De La Rosa, Chacin pitching core sounds very attractive for 2011. Can Jimenez surge through an entire season? Will Chacin get better with another season under his belt? Questions that need to be answered if the Rockies want to improve on last year.

Line-Up

2010 was a season of good and bad for the Rockies' offense. They lost Tulowitski for a good while, but saw Gonzalez bloom into a star in the making. If Gonzalez can build upon the season he had last year and Tulowitski can stay healthy, I don't see any reason why this isn't the best line-up in the NL West.

X-Factor

Two things: The Rockies will need to improve their record away from Coors Field, and Jimenez must be as dominant as he was in the first half of the season for an entire season.

Prediction

88-74 (2nd in NL West)


1. San Francisco Giants
2010 Record: 92-70

Pitching

This is where this team's bread is buttered. This may be the most solid rotation in all of baseball, and there are not many questions about any of them. Check their World Series Champion rings if you have any. If they can stay healthy, which they have a history of, then this team can run on their pitching alone.

Line-Up

GM Brian Sabean's changes to the 2010 Giants' line-up mid-season proved to be the push they needed to go all the way. With most returning, this line-up looks pretty close to the same one that won the World Series last season. But a fit Pablo Sandoval can make this line-up even better, as well as the first full season for Buster Posey.

X-Factor

The Giants' pitching rotation has shown no signs of any health problems since they have been in the MLB. That doesn't mean it can't happen. With such a dominant, young staff, the Giants better hope having the good fortune of good health these last couple of years doesn't finally come back to bite them.

Prediction

90-72 (1st in NL West)

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The Nastiest Pitch in Baseball for 2011

The 2010 baseball season was the closest we have come to The Year of the Pitcher since 1968, when it was custom to win more than 20 games, and batting averages just barely slid into the .200's.

In 2010, it was crazy how many no-hitters and perfect games were thrown.

We, as fans, are blessed to be witnessing such talents on the mound these days. Not just talent, but young talent.

I'm talking guys like Tim Lincecum, Felix Hernandez, Ubaldo Jimenez, David Price, etc. The list goes on and on.

But what all these pitchers have is what makes them unique. They have that one signature pitch.

It could be the one they rely on to get strike one, or the one they rely on to get strike three.

The bottom line is every one of those signature pitches are straight filthy.

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Brian Wilson's Opening Day In Doubt; Is His Beard Okay?

The likelihood of Brian Wilson appearing on Opening Day at Chavez Ravine is doubtful after he was yanked from a bullpen session today.

Reports are he felt a little discomfort and was told to stop.

Is this a setback?

Who are you asking?

According to Wilson, no, but then again this is Brian Wilson, and rarely do we see him stress publicly about anything. Especially something as lowly as a strained oblique. It just doesn't fit his lumberjack persona.

Of course the Giants don't feel that way. Jeremy Affeldt was held out of 23 games last summer for a strained oblique.

But Wilson is better than that, right? Fear the Beard?

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When The Jersey Comes Off, Nobody Cares

Barry Bonds is in trouble. With his perjury trial underway, Bonds faces a maximum of ten years in prison, as well as his public appearance and legacy tarnished. As if it wasn't already.

For three years we have waited for this. The date was March 2011, and everyone in San Francisco and anyone who had grown up with Bonds in their life would remember that date. The day is finally here.

Evidence is stacked up against Bonds. The prosecution has witnesses, trainers, mistresses, everything you can hope to put, as bashed a public figure as there is, away for some time.

This is what the public wants to see, a hated man like Bonds, who has yet to tell the alleged truth, have the odds finally against him and get what he finally deserves.

But as I sat and watched the full coverage and analysis of the Bonds perjury trial on ESPN and every other station the other day, I couldn't help but think.

I don't care.

What does this have to do with sports anymore?

Bonds isn't in a San Francisco Giants uniform, so unless he is hitting home runs into McCovey Cove, how does this affect me?

The truth is it doesn't.

I have grown up with Bonds. I've watched him hit collosial home run after collosial home run my whole life. He is one of the great entertainers in sports of my generation, and possibly ever.

I've watched the controversy he has gone through, and I cannot deny the evidence set against him, as much as I want to believe my childhood hero isn't guilty of cheating the game of baseball.

Still, I could not care what the outcome of this trial will be.

It goes the same for other former players as well.

I don't care what happens in July with Roger Clemens, or that Mark McGwire took steroids and finally came clean and all is good in the world now.

We knew these players took steroids, otherwise there wouldn't be federal cases against them. The evidence on both Bonds and Clemens is enough to put them away for a long time.

It's Bonds' and Clemen's word against there's, and that won't be any fun, I can guarantee that.

You cannot mistake that both Bonds' and Clemens' physical growths are tremendous. Their head, feet, you name it, it's grown. And you can bet the prosecution will be using all that.

But what does it matter? Everybody already knew.

How does it affect me now?

Bonds isn't playing in San Francisco anymore. He isn't hitting home runs, and isn't being a douche in the clubhouse.

Whatever the outcome is for his trial, and I stress that the evidence is largely stacked against him, I hope it finally ends here. Constant analysis and coverage on something that has zero affect on the game of baseball today, other than to see someone who was a major jerk to the media finally get what he always had coming on national television, is ridiculous.

It's sad to see reporters like ESPN's T.J. Quinn and Mark Fainaru-Wada, former San Francisco Chronicle reporters before their big break, who originally broke the BALCO phenomenon, continue to make a living off of Bonds' misfortune, albeit misfortune he deserves.

With Bonds' trial heating up, and Clemens' trial coming to a television near you in July, this is just the start.

I hope they are either put away, or everyone forgets about it forever.

It would benefit baseball's image a whole lot.

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San Francisco Giants: Brian Wilson To Miss Opening Day

With Opening Day right around the corner, the San Francisco Giants got the news on Sunday that bearded closer Brian Wilson has a mild oblique strain that could keep him out for Opening Day and then some.

Although Brian Wilson vows to be ready for Opening Day, the reality is an oblique strain is nothing to take lightly, and don't think the Giants don't realize this.

Giants reliever Jeremy Affeldt went throught the exact same thing last summer when he strained is left oblique. Affeldt would be held out of 23 games.

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San Francisco Giants: The Competition In Left Field

It's not a bad problem to have, but Bruce Bochy has admitted it, the San Francisco Giants have a competition for the starting spot in left field.

This is something the Giants haven't experienced in some time, what with Barry Bonds being the left fielder in the past.

But the Giants should be happy with this. Bonds is gone, and they have three viable contenders to start in left field with each bringing their own unique pros and cons to the line-up.

For the sake of the argument, I am going to eliminate the Brandon Belt possiblity from the equation.

No matter how hard he tears up Spring Training the rest of the way, all signs point to the Giants starting Belt in AAA-Fresno and not San Francisco, just like they did with Buster Posey, Madison Bumgarner, Pablo Sandoval and the rest of the gang.

The system has proven to work. So why change it?

Come mid-season, or whenever the Giants decide to call-up Belt, this argument never happened.

Aubrey Huff moves to left field and Belt starts at first base. It's a done deal.

Until then, we may have a game of musical chairs going on in left field.

Here are the three main players to be considered for the left field starting job.

3. Mark DeRosa

The biggest role DeRosa played last year in their World Series Championship run was in the dugout.

He was essential to the team's chemistry even though he sat out virtually the entire year with a wrist injury (Ya, let's go with that...).

The good thing is DeRosa isn't hard to replace, as their World Series Champion rings prove.

Yet, DeRosa is in the mix to start in left field.

DeRosa isn't going to get you big numbers. At his age and where he is at in his career, DeRosa is a utility player, but efficient if called upon. And he may be called upon.

He is injury-prone right now, and that may hold the Giants back from giving him a starting spot in left field.

The plus is that he will contribute when called upon and be efficient in the field, and that may be argument enough for the Giants to start DeRosa in left field.

2. Aaron Rowand

Whether they are prepping him for trade or just want him to be more of a utility tool, Rowand's stock is clearly dropping in the Giants' eyes.

Rowand is just another contract the Giants have regretted and will have to eat if they decide to move him elsewhere, which appears to be the plan.

Rowand can still contribute, but not in the same fashion he once did, or that his contract says he once did.

Hence the move to left field.

Rowand is not going to hit for average or give you consistent numbers, but Rowand brings two things to the table, that is he can play the field well and provides at least a bit of a hitting threat in the line-up. At least compared to DeRosa, who we have no idea how he will hit coming back from missing a season with injury.

Not to say Rowand should win this left field battle. He has shown no life in Spring Training and the Giants' decision to try him out in left field has sent a clear message to him.

But it is not a bad problem if you have Aaron Rowand in the discussion for left field. The Giants could do a lot worse.

1. Pat Burrell

World Series stats aside, Burrell is the best player to start in left field for the Giants.

Of course, it is hard to put Burrell's World Series production on the back-burner. He was abysmal.

But Burrell brings more to the table than both DeRosa and Rowand.

Burrell isn't going to hit for a very good average, he never has. And he will be a defensive liability in left field.

But what Burrell brings to the table is what the Giants lack, and that is power, or at least the threat of it.

All the Giants want is the threat of the homerun. They'll take more, but the threat is what counts as of now.

Burrell has proven he can provide timely hits and timely homeruns, but everything else he does turns everyone, including the Giants, off. Which is why there is a competition.

Burrell brings more to the line-up than anyone else in the left field competition, and right now is the Giants best option for the time being.

Like I said, there are three viable contenders for left field. The good news is that if one doesn't cut it, then the next one steps in, which is how I think it will ultimately play out.

But Burrell should win this battle based on the fact that he just brings more to the plate than the others.

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San Jose Sharks: 3 Questions That Need To Be Answered Before The Playoffs

With only 11 games left in the 2010-11 NHL season, the San Jose Sharks sit in third place in the Western Conference behind the Detroit Red Wings and Vancouver Canucks.

Despite that, the Sharks still do not sit in such a comfortable position. In fact, no team in that conference does, except maybe Vancouver. The Sharks are just eight points away from the 9th spot in the conference and not making the playoffs.

With three weeks to go, the Sharks sit pretty, but not too pretty.

Still, there are questions surrounding this team.

Not because the NHL world thinks they are not good enough; they have proven that, especially in February, and not too bad either in March.

The same questions arise every year about this time.

Is this the year for the Sharks? Will they choke again?

History says yes.

And until the Sharks hoist the Stanley Cup, the answers to these questions will continue to be the same every year.

3. Will Antti Niemi Stay Hot?

History would say 'yes,' and even Niemi's play in these last few months would say 'yes' as well.

After posting a 10-2-0 record with a 1.89 goals against average in February, including 25 straight starts, Niemi has vaulted the Sharks into third place in the Western Conference and turned around the mediocre season the team was having.

Add that to the fact that Niemi was the key reason for the Chicago Blackhawks winning the Stanley Cup last season, and the answer to that question could not be disagreed with.

Niemi rises to the occasion in the playoffs.

Until he put on a San Jose Sharks jersey.

Sharks playoff hockey has been mired in unsuccessful appearances, missed opportunites and poor goaltending. With emphasis on that last one.

This will be the Sharks first playoffs without Evgeni Nabokov in net in some time.

But still the question looms.

Can Sharks goaltending get it done when it matters?

2. Will The Defense Hold Up In The Playoffs?

Every since the retirement of defenseman Rob Blake, things on the defensive side just haven't seemed right.

The Sharks lost a leader and a legitimate blue line defenseman.

Some would argue that the Sharks have yet to replace Blake, although new acquisition Ian White has had his moments.

But the main question about this Sharks team centers around their defense.

Are they deep enough? Are they experienced enough? Are they talented enough?

Those questions have yet to be answered.

Can't say they haven't tried to answer them.

Ian White was a nice pick-up and getting Dan Boyle back from injury was much needed. But some would say that something is missing.

Until they find out what that is, questions about their defense will continue coming.

1. Will the Big 3 Play Well Into The Playoffs?

As with question number one, this question has to do with the history of the Sharks in the playoffs.

It seems like every year the Sharks are favorites going into the playoffs because of players like Joe Thornton, Dany Heatley and Patrick Marleau.

Except it seems like every year those three fail to show up in the playoffs.

Why would this year be any different?

We have seen sparks from each of them over the course of this season, but nothing too special, as we may seen in past seasons.

Thornton and Heatley have shown inklings of breaking out in these last couple of weeks, and Marleau has been stellar for the last month or so.

Still the questions remains. Can they deliver when it matters?

We will have to see something out of these guys in these last 11 games.

The constant turnovers and sloppy play from these top tier offensive minds is enough to write them off as no-shows in the playoffs already.

Prove me wrong.

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San Jose Sharks Roll In Big D; Keep Dallas Stars At Bay

Just when you thought the San Jose Sharks were going to take a turn for the worst, they beat down their division rival 6-3 Tuesday night.

It seemed like the perfect time to strike for the Stars. The Sharks had lost three in a row, two of those coming in a shoot-out, including a thrashing by the Chicago blackhawks on Monday night.

Just like that, the Sharks led the Pacific Division by just one point over the Los Angeles Kings.

It seemed like the perfect opportunity for the Stars, right?

Evidently not.

After no goals in the 1st period, things got going in the 2nd period.

Two early goals by Stars' Mike Ribeiro and Toby Peterson (shorthanded) gave Dallas a two-goal lead.

And we thought: Here we go again. Sharks treading water.

But two crucial goals by Joe Thornton and Dany Heatley put the Sharks back in business and tied going into the 3rd period.

The Sharks would storm out of the second intermission with a goal by Ryane Clowe just 1:51 into the period, followed by another goal by Torrey Mitchell just two minutes later.

The Sharks wouldn't look back.

After a Jaime Benn power play goal for the Stars, the Sharks would tack on two empty net goals for the 6-3 win.

It was a good sign for the Sharks because this was a big game, believe it or not.

It seemed like the Sharks were reeling after back-to-back defeats in shoot-outs, and then a meltdown in Chicago. Add that to the fact they were playing the second game of a back-to-back on Tuesday to the rival Stars, and this one didn't seem like it would go San Jose's way. That was especially true when Dallas scored the first two goals of the game.

Give the Sharks credit, though. They haven't had many meaningful games since their surge up the Western Conference in February (by the way, every game is meaningful in the Western Conference).

A good win in the second game of a back-to-back on the road is nice no matter how you get it.

It was also nice to see a large contribution from Thornton and Heatley.

Two goals apiece from both of them seemed to set the tone for the Sharks and goalie Antti Niemi, who had a bit of a rough night in Chicago on Monday, but seemed to rebound, at least a little, on Tuesday with 34 saves.

It was a good way to get the team back on track. A good bounce-back win against a challenging opponent looking for blood.

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San Jose Sharks: Top 5 Biggest Goals In the 2010-11 NHL Season (With Video)

The San Jose Sharks are one of the hottest teams in the NHL right now. They currently sit in third place in the ultra-competitive Western Conference and just three points out of the second spot.

But it has taken a lot to get this team going. After a slow start to the season, it has been the big plays and game-winners that has driven this team to the elite of the Western Conference.

It has been the Devin Setoguchi goal February 19th when he split the Avalanche defense, faked the fore-hand and went backhand top-shelf.

It was the Torrey Micthell goal just a few nights ago against Vancouver.

And it was the multiple highlight reel goals by rookie Logan Couture.

But it was the game-winners and game-changers that has this team where they are now.

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San Francisco Giants: 5 Question Marks Heading Into The 2011 Baseball Season

With Spring Training now in full swing, the San Francisco Giants have unofficially began their journey to repeat as World Series Champions.

After their improbable run to become baseball's 2010 World Champions, it is hard to say whether this team has yet to come down from that high.

A pretty mediocre and quiet offseason from the Giants' front office has this team against the odds once again.

Until you look at their pitching staff, when you quickly remember why this team won it all last season.

Still, there are question marks aplenty for this team.

Can they repeat? Will Brian Wilson's beard rule the world? Who is 'The Machine?'

Here are my 5 biggest question marks for the San Francisco Giants heading into the 2011 MLB season:

5. - Barry Zito

It was a pretty quiet offseason for Barry Zito, that is until the first week of Spring Training when reports were he was going to released by the team. Other than that it was pretty quiet...

Reports of Zito coming into Spring Training out of shape turned out to be false, and so did any reports of him being let go.

Still, Zito is under scrutiny entering this 2011 baseball season, as he always is. He is getting paid $126 million.

But after years of Zito showing sparks of brilliance in one half of the season and not the second half, or vice-versa, fans can get a little antsy.

The questions: Is this the year Barry Zito lives up to his contract? Will he let the offseason rumors of him being released affect him? Will he crumble under the pressure yet again?

Zito has yet to prove anything as a Giant. His inconsistency is aggravating, and his contract isn't helping anyone.

As far as I'm concerned, Zito has nothing to live up to. He's the number four starter on this team, and many cities would be happy with a .500 record from their number four pitcher. Until you look at his contract.

4. - When Will Brandon Belt Get Called Up?

The kid has skills. We've seen it so far in Spring Training, and we've heard about it, at least from someone. He's the second coming, right? Well, we'll see.

They compare him to Buster Posey and what not, but hopefully these fans don't expect the next Buster Posey.

The truth is he will be starting at first base for the Fresno Grizzlies come Opening Day, not the San Francisco Giants. Let him season, and let him get some consistent at-bats before throwng him into the fire that is the major leagues.

They're going to treat him like Posey and Sandoval, and the young pitchers before them. This is the system the Giants go by, and it works. You can check their World Series rings for proof of that.

But when will we see him?

Well, when will someone get hurt?

Let's not think like that, but it's true. Belt will be the first player brought up if a starting position player gets hurt.

If that isn't enough for you, history would say that the Giants bring up their prospects mid-season. So how about June or July?

I'd like to see him earlier, but I'd also like to see how he hits in AAA with a title of 'future phenom' on his back.

3. - Can The Pitching Staff Stay Healthy?

So far this question has rarely come up. A rotation of 20-something year olds with golden arms and World Series rings may not need that question asked to them.

But after Matt Cain's elbow has started to act up, is this a sign of things to come?

Knock on wood it isn't.

The bottom line is without a healthy pitching staff, the Giants are nothing. We hear it every year and every year they are relatively healthy. But is this the year? The Giants certainly can't afford it.

With still a minimal offense, the Giants will do all they can to keep their pitching rotation in mint condition.

2. - Questions About The Giants' Offense...Yet Again

We hear it every year. Can the Giants score enough runs?

And every year it's the same answer.

No.

Except that last year they won the World Series.

The Giants' line-up is not that of a World Series challenger. The acquisition of Miguel Tejada to replace Edgar Renteria and Juan Uribe certainly doesn't do too much. Pretty much, this is the same line-up as last season.

They need another bat, sure. But with such a dominant pitching staff, they need to score just enough to win. That's how they won the World Series last season, and that will be how this season will go. Prepare for torture.

1. - Can Pablo Sandoval Keep The Weight Off?

One of the biggest topics for the Giants during this offseason was about Pablo Sandoval's physique, or lack there of.

Sandoval was told to go lose weight during the offseason, and when he arrived at Spring Training, he was twenty pounds lighter. A job well done.

Still the question remains: Can he keep it off?

A lighter Panda is a better hitting Panda, is a happier Panda, is a happier Giants squad.

This line-up would be so much more dangerous if the Sandoval from 2009 showed up this season.

Still, a lighter Sandoval cannot help him from swinging at balls above his head or grounding into souble plays, but one thing at a time with this guy.

The first step is keeping the weight off. Everything else will come naturally to this guy.

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With No Dan Boyle, San Jose Sharks Shaking Things Up On The Power-Play

The San Jose Sharks have the third best power-play percentage in the NHL with a 22.1% success rate behind the dominant Vancouver Canucks and surging Chicago Blackhawks. But this recent drought in goals on the power-play by the Sharks has coach Todd McClellan making changes.

The Sharks have scored just one goal in their last 12 power-play chances, something a top-line of Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau and Dany Heatley should never do. But it isn't what the top-line isn't doing, but who is lacking on the power-play that has the Sharks reeling.

Dan Boyle, Sharks defensman and power-play extraordinaire, has been sidelined these last couple of weeks with an upper body injury.

Boyle's replacement on the power-play? Youngster Jason Demers. And since then the Sharks have gone one for 12 on power-plays.

Time to make a change, right?

Well, of course. But McClellan isn't the type of coach to make a small change here and there. If he's making a change, he's going to make sure the change sends a message.

For tonight's game against the Nashville Predators, the Sharks will be splitting up the top power-play line of Thornton, Heatley and Marleau, and making it Thornton, Marleau and Setoguchi.

Doesn't quite have the same ring to it.

Since Demers hasn't cut it, or at least success hasn't come on the power-play while he is on the ice, newly acquired Ian White will be getting the top power-play time instead.

The Sharks acquired White for his offensive abilities on defense, so it is only fitting for him to get his shot at the top power-play unit. He will be the only true defenseman on the ice during the power-play, as Joe Pavelski usually plays both ways.

Boyle is only day-to-day, so the changes should not last long, but McClellan knows his team cannot afford to struggle this much on such an important part of their game.

It will be a good test for White, though, as he has yet to make a significant impact on the ice as a member of the Sharks.

A good opportunity for him, and a good opportunity for the Sharks to get off the power-play schneid.

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San Jose Sharks: Give Antti Niemi A Rest

San Jose Sharks' goalie Antti Niemi made his 21st straight start in net on Saturday, a loss to the Dallas Stars, which snapped the Sharks' 8-game win streak. Niemi was 17-4 during that span of 21 games.

Is it time to get Niemi some rest then?

Not that he needs it. Niemi has been the main reason for the Sharks' surge to the top of the Pacific division and 3rd place in the Western Conference. But isn't it time? It's almost unheard of for a goalie to go 20+ straight starts in the NHL these days.

But why stop someone while he's hot, right? Niemi is 17-4 in his last 21 games, hasn't complained a bit, and still looks agile and alert as if he just had a night off.

The possibility of wearing him out before the playoffs still lingers, and that would be the only reason to give him a night off.

The Sharks have been starting Niemi in so many consecutive starts not because they want to, although if you ask them now they'd agree, but because they have to.

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Giants Frustrated, But Zito's Spot Secure

Bruce Jenkins's column in the San Francisco Chronicle this past week has sent waves throughout the San Francisco Giants community. Jenkins' report? Barry Zito may be released. So now an offseason where the team had no distractions and could focus on repeating, now has turned into a game of 'What If?'

The report, bogus in itself, was that the Giants were frustrated with Zito because they only made the playoffs by one game, and it wouldn't have been that close if Zito had given them a just a few better outtings. Huh?

Jenkins is credible and very respected in the industry, but this isn't supposed to be serious, right?

That's baseball, Bruce.

I don't doubt that the Giants are frustrated with Zito. $126 million and barely any production. Plus, he was left off the playoff roster. Yeah, they should be disappointed. He's not quite the investment they were hoping for. On top of that, he has shown up to Spring Training out of shape and close to no offseason conditioning. Oh, and he botched his spring debut. That may have fueled this fire.

But are the Giants going to release Zito? No, no , no.

From a financial stand-point, why would they?

Zito's $126 million/7 yrs. still has $57.5 million for 3 years left on it. You think the Giants are going to eat that? Doubt it. Not if Zito starts the season 0-10 are they going to eat that. Although, don't quote me on that.

The hefty $126 million contract aside, from a production stand-point, will the Giants release him? Never.

Zito is one of the best 5th starters in the MLB. Although he gets paid #1 starter money, his 4.09 ERA over the last couple seasons is nothing to be released over.

Take him for what he's worth. He is a decent starter who happens to make a ridiculous sum of money that he doesn't deserve.

But he isn't going anywhere.

Bruce Bochy came out and said that Zito is the team's 4th starter, no questions.

Actually I have one. Number 4? Really?

You're telling me Zito is the 4th best pitcher on this team? Jonathan Sanchez or Madison Bumgarner are worse than Zito? Check yourself Boch.

So Zito is their guy through thick and thin. Not because the Giants want him to be their guy, but because he has to be their guy. $65 million through 2013 will remind them of that.

This isn't to say Zito's spot in the rotation will be safe the whole season. He's going to have to earn it whether the team acknowledges it or not.

The leash will be short.

The #5 spot in that rotation is fully functional because the Giants have four pitchers that are horses and they can easily get away with a 4-man rotation of they want to get crazy.

Remember, the Giants do have a farm system, and a decent one at that. They did sign Jeff Suppan in the offseason, and Clayton Tanner from AA may be making some strides and will one day pitch in San Francisco. So Zito's spot isn't fully secure. They'll make him work for it.

It should be that way. Zito coming to Spring Training out of shape is no way to get respect back. It only fuels the fire more.

I don't doubt that Zito and the Giants organization are on the same page from a public relations stand-point, but you have to believe that Zito's act is getting old.

Who knows how long the Giants will let him go before they finally snap?

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4 Reasons The 49ers Need To Re-Sign Alex Smith

Yes, I said it. It would be beneficial for the 49ers to re-sign Alex Smith and make him their starting quarterback for the 2011-12 NFL season. I'll go one step further. Smith gives the 49ers the best chance of winning in 2011-12.

Sure, Smith is getting chance number 2, 3, or 4, I've lost count now, but the 49ers need Smith this season more than ever.

Currently, the 49ers have one quarterback signed, and that is David Carr. Based on that logic, the 49ers don't actually plan on starting Carr, right? I sure hope not, and my common sense would tell me no team in the NFL would want to.

So what's the 49ers' plan then? They must sign someone, and the only logical option is Smith.

That last sentence may have sent some 49er fans' heads spinning at the thought of yet another season where #11 is taking the snaps, but hear my out.

Smith is the only option for the 49ers, and I have four reasons to prove it.

#4 - Jim Harbaugh and Smith Are Getting Along

Take it for what it's worth, but Harbaugh and Smith have become quite cozy with each other. Evidently, they've been throwing the ball around and talking fundamentals, and reports are they have taken quite a liking to each other. It's always important for your coach to get along with his quarterback, so this seems like a positive, right? Well, we'll see.

I like the idea of Harbaugh mixing with Smith. Not since Norv Turner or Mike Martz has Smith had someone who legitimately knows something about the quarterback position. Harbaugh could teach him a few things, and Smith is a bright enough guy to where I've got to believe he can take it in and process what is being taught to him.

Look what Harbaugh did with Andrew Luck.

Now, I am in no way comparing the NFL to college football. The NFL is a much bigger beast and we will see how Harbaugh fairs in the big leagues. He has not proven anything yet. But wouldn't it be fun to see what Harbaugh, a legitimate quarterbacks coach, can do with Smith? I'd like to at least take a gander at it.

#3 - No Chance At Trading For A QB

There's no doubt, several quarterbacks are on the public trading block and the 49ers would be smart to take a look at some of them, and reports are they have. I'm talking about names like Carson Palmer, Kevin Kolb and Vince Young. But is it really likely the 49ers have not only the money, but the players to trade for players of that calibur?

Going down the list, Carson Palmer wants out of Cincinnati. He's disgruntled with the franchise and wants out. But it seems like Palmer may be leaning a little further towards retirement than an actual move to a different team. Do I want someone like that on my team? Even if the 49ers were interested, I've got to believe that the 49ers franchise may be just a hair better run than the Bengals. So why the 49ers? Fresh start for Palmer? That would be the only reason.

No one is ruling it out, and it would be a dream situation, but chances are slim.

Kolb is another prized QB the 49ers would love to have. But I can sum it up with 'never ever,' as in the Eagles will never ever give up Kolb, what with Michael Vick's situation and all. It would have to be a trade package above and beyond for the the Eagles to give him up.

Vince Young may be the likeliest of available quarterback possibilities for the 49ers. They've shown interest and they should. But do they really want such a headcase with that type of NFL past to be leading their team? If he throws touchdowns, yes. But why take the chance?

#2 - Nothing In The Draft

We will see exactly what the 49ers are thinking come draft day. Do they take a quarterback at #7 or re-sign Smith? The answer may come quicker than you think. The fact is the quarterbacks in the 2011 NFL Draft are weak. Blaine Gabbert is good and Cam Newton is a hit or miss type of player, but does anyone else strike a chord with you?

We'll look at it this way: Who gives the 49ers the best chance of winning in 2011? Smith, Gabbert or Newton?

Gabbert will not ready be for the NFL just yet, and Newton is too into his ego for him to be on my team. Plus, Newton's scouting combine turned me off, and possibly NFL teams off as well.

Smith gives the 49ers the best chance to win in 2011.

Odds are the 49ers' thinking is the same. Go with what you know, and they know Alex Smith.

#1 - He's The Best Option They Got

Given the previous three reasons, Smith is not only the best option available, but the only option availabe. Carr or Smith?

I've got to believe, hope, pray that the 49ers re-sign Smith. I'm not saying long-term. No, definitely not. But how about one year? That's still a stretch for some resentful 49er fans, I know. 10-day contract then?

Let's see what Harbaugh can do with him because the draft is hopeless, and trading for a QB seems glim.

When all else fails, point the finger back at Smith. We've gotten used to it here in San Francisco.

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Niemi Inks Four More Years In San Jose

"Too legit to quit." That would be the Sharks' answer to why they signed 'hot to the touch' goalie Antti Niemi to a 4-year extension yesterday. He will be property of the Sharks until 2014-15 season.

Maybe a spur of the moment deal, seeing as Niemi went 10-2 in February and has vaulted the Sharks into the 3rd spot in the Western Conference, but is there really anyone disagreeing with this signing? It doesn't hurt, right?

Reports are that Niemi will be getting paid about $3.8 million over the next 4 years (he is getting paid $2 million for this season).

It's an upgrade for Niemi, and, sure, he deserves it. It was shocking to me that a Stanley Cup winning goalie would be getting paid just $2 million per season the year after winning it all.

It's a steal for the Sharks. Compare it to this: When the Sharks had Evgeni Nabokov in net, they were paying him around $6 million per season. $6 million for a goalie that, although his regular season numbers were stellar, could not produce in the playoffs.

Now the Sharks have inked Niemi for much less ($3.8 million) and get a proven goalie who has success in the playoffs. Seems like a winner.

Maybe they jumped the shark a little (pardon the pun), but the Sharks now have a solid net-minder with proven success...for a low price.

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