With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report isavailablethroughthe iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutletsfromPodbean to Technorati— with special features found only at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

It's the dog days of summer on The NOR CAL Report! But we're barkin' up the right tree — as Giants top dog Barry Zito joins the dynamic duo for chat about all things baseball, musical, and more. Plus:

The Earthquakes shake things up by signing their first-ever "Beckham rule" player, the stellar Brazilian midfielder Geovanni. Could this move mean instant playoffs for the 'Quakes?

The Giants go from the brink of first place, to the brink of out of the race. There's still time, of course — but there's also room to debate the merits of bats like Jose Guillen...

The A's plug onward, riding a recipe of stellar pitching and flaccid batting to an even .500 result.  But where will it land them at year's end? If the A's go 25-16 for the final 41 games and the Rangers go 17-24, the A's win the West by one game does that mean a single offseason can make them a force again?

We're always a force to be reckoned with — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT: Football training camps heat up — and hoops lurks just around the corner, too. Plus, the Giants hit the crucial stretch drive, while the A's hope to sneak up on reigning Texas.

Played: 94 | Download | Duration: 00:37:13

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

Looking to catch up quick on the exploits of new 'Quake Geovanni? Ignore the cheese in this video, and focus on the amazing strikes to all corners of the net from this exciting player. (Not sure the nuances of the designated player rule? Check out all you need to know on its history, here ...)

This week's Report guest isn't the only Giants player with musical chops . Recent guest Aubrey Huff can belt out a tune. But don't take my word for it — you can hear both Zito and Huff yourself...

Meanwhile, Lex might have a point — critics say the Giants' new sluggers' gloves will cause as many runs as their bats will (ESPN login needed)...

Remember, this is your show, too — so let us know if you want more on Raiders preseason camp, the Warriors' personnel merry-go-round, or what! 'Til then, I'll just assume you love us to pieces as is.

And we you. Thanks for joining us again — on The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report isavailablethrough the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutletsfrom Podbean to Technorati— with special features found only at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

Welcome back to The NOR CAL Report! This week on the Report, Giants wallbanger Aaron Rowand joins the boys for a punishing trip through the centerfield lifestyle. Plus, plenty more from around the Bay:

The A's continue to surprise, hanging out over .500 and holding tight in the Rangers' rearview. Is it true, that a playoff berth is now more likely than a relocation?

The Giants head home from Hotlanta dissapointed, yet still in position to make their move. But should their biggest move have been Adam Dunn?

The Earthquakes come back to Earth after a strong run after the Cup. But Jess and Lex know they have at last one thing to cheer about.

We always look on the bright side of life — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT: Another guest from the Orange and Black weighs in, as the Giants look to hit the stretch drive hard. The A's hope to sneak up the A.L. West ladder. while the 'Quakes see tough action on the pitch, and training camp heats up the gridiron.

Played: 195 | Download | Duration: 00:31:14

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

How good is the A's Trevor Cahill? He's the best player in the American League, at least for one dominating week...

The Monte Poole piece Lex mentions on this week's show is right on. Keeping the A's in Oakland? Hey, it's always the last place you look...

It's not so much that ex-Warriors big Anthony Tolliver announced he's leaving for cooler climes. It's how he did it that got some raised eyebrows and more than a few yucks — though probably not from the Fresh King of South Beach, Lebron James...

49ers training camp update: Given how delicate offensive line vibes can be, Eric Heitmann's 6-8 week leg injury is definitely not good. Meanwhile, the reporters have figured out that, for the first time, Alex Smith is not the big story — and that's a big story. Finally, two young road graders have officially been named a big part of the Niners' present...

The Raiders have a new Colt in town, and he could contribute behind center. And what used to be a tough, crowded house behind QB suddenly seems like a very sensible, NFL-style two-headed running back. And as Lex points out, the Raids already had a winning record just last year — in games not including one JaMarcus Russell, anyway.

Thanks as always for coming back to us. And we'll always have something more to give — on The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report isavailable through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutlets from Podbean to Technorati— with special features found only at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

Thanks for checking the latest NOR CAL Report! This week, Giants slugger Aubrey Huff joins the lads for a look inside his unique approach to the game. And there's a lot of news all over Nor Cal sports this week.

The Warriors' sale is being finalized. Who, exactly, are the new owners? Who cares? Loyal fans know times are about to change, and with new bigs David Lee and Ekpe Udoh already hurting, it can't come soon enough...

The Giants climb through the N.L. West, and hope their new offense is for real. Does their recent tear mean playoff time by the Bay?

And the A's have shown a lot, too — even with stopper Brett Anderson and Mr. Perfect, Dallas Braden, lately on the shelf. But with so many division games left, can they catch the Angels and new power Texas?

There's lots to tell — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT: The lads get some more air time with your favorite Giants. (A's? Hey, write your congressman — or Lew Wolff!) Plus, there's plenty to sort out about the Warriors situation, and the 'Quakes and Kings' recent fortunes.

Played: 271 | Download | Duration: 00:34:42

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

The biggest news this month is the Warriors sale — will it make the team relevant again? Is the timing of the new-old logo an omen? Can the playoffs come to the Bay Area and not seem... weird?

The good news is, Peter Guber comes off as a sound business guy, with just enough passion for the hoops game. (Just what he'd want to you think? Hey, everyone deserves a honeymoon.) The bad news? Forget about the injuries — those last only months. The David Lee sign-and-trade, alone, ccould negate ould negate a lot of the Wa's good luck — in getting out from under Corey Maggette (who never worked out ,) Mike Dunleavy, and others. It's like Larry Riley actually wants the Warriors adrift in the wilderness, whether he's around to drift with 'em or not...

Finally — what about the 24 hours or so when everyone thought Larry Ellison had bought the team? Apparently, he's already plotting his revenge — in a big way...

You've heard Lex mention I work Giants home games. One thing we've heard a lot of this year: How'd they get this many fans for the Orioles? The answer: dynamic ticket pricing. (In short: the same seat costs different amounts nightly, based on factors like opponent, pitcher, weather — almost anything.) Yes, it's revolutionary — and, like it or not, be assured dynamic pricing is the future . For now, what's remarkable is that right here in Nor Cal, the Giants and Sharks are both already on board...

What do JaMarcus Russell, the words Purple Drank, and an arrest sheet have in common? I don't fully understand it, but the news item was clear enough...

Getting that feeling that after the recent vote, the 49ers to Santa Clara story is a done deal? Ray Ratto tells us the Niners paid $360 per yes vote across the county. That change your mind any?

Finally: love him, hate him, laugh at him or with him, but George Steinbrenner was a visionary businessman, a charismatic villain, and a great champion. Perhaps it's fitting that he and legendary P.A. man Bob Sheppard went out together. The world will miss them.

We missed you, too. Thanks for standing by The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati— with special features found only at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

It's time for an all-new show, on The NOR CAL Report! This week, Giants phenom Buster Posey joins the boys for a repeat appearance. Of course, just a year ago, Buster was three levels from the majors — and now he's not just up there, he's hittin' .400. Hear the latest "future" player on his arrival. Plus more:

The Giants have a lot to talk about in the crowded NL West; most of it pitching. But where did Tim Lincecum, the Baby-Faced Assassin, put his famous fastball?

The A's mirror the Giants, with strong pitching, a jigsaw puzzle lineup, and a tangled field of competition. But hey, when you've had this many surprises, and are playing over .500 in a Western division, you've got a lot going for you...

The 49ers got a vote passed in Santa Clara. What's it mean for the team — and how bad is it, exactly, if the 49ers drop their S.F. roots?

Our roots go deep — here at  The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
The Report chugs toward 50,000 downloads — and NOR CAL's biggest personality, Pablo "The Panda" Sandoval, waits to join Jess and Lex for this special celebration. Plus, a special dispatch from the NBA Draft, and plenty of hardball news to come.

Played: 316 | Download | Duration: 00:30:23

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

That's right, it's World Cup time. If you've ever wondered how and when Americans will watch the beautiful game, Slate Magazine's put together a hilarious take on exactly what that would look like...

Think the Niners were floored by the Santa Clara vote last Tuesday, ushering in a new southern stadium era (and ushering out a five-ring tradition)? Then maybe you didn't see their new-look web page , which was up by the end of the day...

To be blunt: A's offseason splash Ben Sheets is simply, to quote Stone Temple Pilots, half the man he used to be. His curve hasn't had that famous bite all year, and the new two-seamer doesn't do much but "ball two." Sheets will gain some arm strength, and win his share, and probably a ticket to a contending East Coast team. But I'm thinking Billy B. and the A's may have missed their one big bet this year...

Amazed at how far this week's guest, rookie sensation Buster Posey, has come in a year? Tell us about it. Listen to him joining us last year as a Single-A San Jose Giant; his interview skills have evolved tremendously. You can say what you want about the skills of those interviewing him (by emailing norcalprosports@gmail.com).

And you may be surprised whom the Giants are plugging for All-Star status. After last year's Panda-based campaign — and since Aubrey Huff plays the wrong three positions — the much-maligned Freddy Sanchez heads the G-Men's wish list this season. I won't say whether he's deserving — but I will say, he's the best bat-control two-hitter since Billy Mueller...

We're always under control — on The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store(search: NOR CAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati— with special features found only at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

There's so much going on in NOR CAL sports today! Grizzled NHL vet Dan Boyle chats with Jess and Lex about his unique leadership style, including insight into why hockey's the sport of choice in May. With apologies for the long hiatus, the lads have some catching up to do. So away wego!

The Sharks got tossed around the Tank in San Jose.But can they take it to the Hawks on their home ice, and finally grab that trip to Lord Stanley's doorstep?

The A's have surprised plenty of people — and might have some room to improve. The question remains, is the division there for the taking?

The Giants continue their storyline from last year, mixing in awesome pitching with flaccid bats, all with a dash of quirky left-coast optimism. But is this motley crew really enough to supplant the Dodgers and Rocks? And why can't they beat the Priests, anyway?

The Raiders say goodbye —or good riddance to one quarterback, and welcome another as spring campresumes. 2010 in Oakland may be the season we finally find out how important the QB position really is!

And the 49ers introduce two new road-graders to a roster of developing veterans. Does Alex Smith's elevated comfort zone, and Kurt Warner's swan song, mean playoff football for the red and gold?

The chips are down, and we're almost out of dip — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
Jess and Lex make up for lost time, visiting with the Giants' Aaron Rowand and other fan favorites in the coming weeks. Plus, more on the Sharks' playoff dreams; hardball hits the dog days; and the NBA draft looms large.

Played: 281 | Download | Duration: 00:47:48

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

Oh, yeah. Think the A's don't pony up for talent? Oakland's own Mr. Perfect, Dallas Braden, has 27 gems that say otherwise...

For an enjoyable four minutes, no matter who's your team, check out Braden on Letterman . It's clear both that Braden is having a good time, and that he doesn't give a good gosh darn about the whole thing...

More on the A's: one writer says the obstacles to that SanJo move are mostly myths ...

You heard it on the show; click and judge for yourself: JaMarcus Russell can and should land good work in the NFL. Okay, I'm not saying it — but at least one guy is... For the moment, though, Russell's just another name on a long list of Raiders first round busts, misses, and underwhelmers...

49er fans, still think Santa Clara is a pipe dream? If this vote passes, it could be just about a done deal. And if that happens, looks like the Super Bowl — if not the trophy — will be back in Nor Cal...

Warriors fans arguing incompetence over the past decades will get no argument from me. But you can also argue bad luck. A look at their lotto history shows that, while they've "earned" 13 lottery picks in the last 15 years, they've moved up exactly none times.(When they did, it was in '95 to pick the underwhelming Joe Smith #1.) Of course, in the lottery's first year, 1985, the Warriors, in line forthe #1 pick, dropped six spots — and got franchise great Chris Mullin...

Meanwhile, check out ESPN's draftnik pages.Says there that DeMarcus Cousins projects to the best NBA player of thebunch. And, oh-by-the-way, that Cousins will be drafted fifth, by the Sacramento Kings.So, although the Kings dropped two slots as well, they still get the player who projects as a great fit for them — or the Warriors.

Warriorites, check out a more complete list (than just "Larry Ellison") of who might own the team in a year. (Hey: what if the Giants bought 'em?) Happy hunting.

We're are Warriors — and so are you — for stickin' with The NOR CALReport!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati — with special features found only at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

Check out a once-in-a-lifetime NOR CAL Report! First, Nor Cal sports legend Will "The Thrill" Clark joins Jess and Lex for an exclusive look inside the Giants of yesterday — and today. Plus: amazingly, all eight Nor Cal pro teams are in the news this week — so let's get to it!

Will's Giants show promise again this year, locking up the heart of the team, and praying someone figures out how to put bat on ball...

The A's have a lot to be hopeful about this spring, as their young pitching's taken major strides since a year ago. But are speed and defense really the new OBP?

The Sharks continue to confound, putting together some convincing wins after some bedeviling losses. What does this mean for the postseason?

The Warriors make a huge splash, announcing the team is for sale. Jess and Lex have some insight into the fabled move to the City — plus, what folks aren't saying about Nellie's impending wins record...

The Kings try to make mediocre sound good after a long season of step-forward, step-back. But you can't deny Tyreke Evans anything, including the ROY — or can you?

With the draft approaching, the 49ers and Raiders both make other news, as the Raids flirt with Donovan, while the 49ers say a sudden goodbye to their top brass...

And the Earthquakes start their season with a dud — but hey, at least they managed to start their season. It looks like champion Real Salt Lake is for real, but what about the Quakes themselves?

Spring has sprung, so pick your poison — 'cuz it's all here on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
Stay tuned for a special San Jose Sharks interview you won't want to miss. Plus, the Giants and A's blast into the season, while the Sharks swim straight for playoff glory. The hoops teams wind down, while the soccer pitch heats up.

Played: 377 | Download | Duration: 01:01:24

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

                                                      

One thing about this week's guest, Will Clark: his gritty, whoop-it-up style made his many young fans immune to the preposterous "finesse team" Bay Area monicker, back when Nor Cal sports were the class of the nation...

Thing no. 142 you've gotta love about Will: he retired in style, hanging 'em up after a spectacular .345, 12 homer, 42 RBI performance over two magic months in baseball-crazy St. Louis. Reminds me of when now-ESPN analyst John Kruk walked off the field, never to play again, after a third-inning single raised his career average to .300...

One local pundit is ready to throw caution to the wind, and peg the Oakland Athletics for the top of the A.L. West — the top portion, anyway...

If you hadn't heard about the Warriors sale, I promise you: it's the biggest story here in two decades. Yes, bigger than C-Webb, Mully's return, or even We Believe. Why? Because fans can finally say adios to the guy who put all those things together — then sued everyone involved — current owner Chris Cohan...

This piece in the Merc profiles one of the most interesting potential buyers — no, not Larry Ellison, but Oakland's own homegrown billionaire Mark Mastrov...

Here's the original McNabb to Raiders piece. What we're trying to figure out: is the story stranger if it happens, or as a mirage? Let's ask Richard Seymour...

We're kickin' it old school — on The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report isavailable through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutlets from Podbean to Technorati — with special features found onlyat NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

The puck stops here — on The NOR CAL Report! This week, top NHL goalkeep, 2010 Olympian, and Sharks stalwart Evgeni Nabakov joins the lads for a special peek between the pipes. Plus, updates from the land of the hoopsters, as the boys debate NBA ROY and MLB fortunes to come.

The Sharks come back flat from Vancouver, having dropped a weekend set to two pedestrian squads. With the postseason finally in view, is this dry spell worse than it looks — or just some Sharkies playing with their food?

The Warriors feature a lone win against a deadening Toronto squad, but at least Monta and "rookie" Steph Curry are learning to share floor space...

The Kings win some, lose some, and generally seek out the left-handed compliment of passing the Clips in the standings.

There's no compliment too small, and flattery will get you everywhere — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
More Sharks weigh in on the Report, as they swim toward Lord Stanley. Plus, a special look at baseball season, 2010 version — and the MLS, barring the dreaded work stoppage. By this time next year, will there be any leagues left?

Played: 299 | Download | Duration: 00:41:00

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

Sadly, there's no photo available online; no way for me to embed the video. All I can say is, click here to see double-Cy Tim Lincecum gaily model a wizard-print Snuggie...

Speaking of the G-Men, if your complaint is that their lineup is constantly in flux — keep complaining...

That explains it: JaMarcus Russell is seeking treatment for a lethargy addiction. Okay, so the original story's a joke — but hit close enough to the mark that some news outlets ran with it, straight-faced. Admit it, you read my first sentence and weren't sure...

It looks like Bobby Crosby's back in Oakland. He's not... but it looks like he is. (To quote dear, departed NOR CAL friend Jules Tygiel, scouting Ozzie Canseco, identical twin to Jose: "Looks like a ballplayer...")


Looks like a ballplayer.

Where are the A's on new ballpark details, you ask? A piece by the reliable John Shea says this: (1) the league is laying the groundwork for cramming San Jose down the Giants' throats (not to mention A's fans;) and (2) they're nowhere near ready to do that. In other words, with viable sites rotting by the Oakland waterfront: same old, same old...

And what's this about the Niners and Raiders NFL teams sharing a Santa Clara stadium? It's no sure thing S.C. citizens want even one of them. But Oakland says it can house both — assuming, of course, the Raiders can still prove they're in the league...

You've always got a home, so thanks for hangin' your hat — on The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati — with special features found only at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

It's time for a hot new NOR CAL Report! This week, even the ice heats up, as Canada and the U.S. throw down in Vancouver. Plus, the Warriors and Kings look to keep pace, while spring warms the locals in Arizona.

The Warriors wonder if Steph Curry's rapid emergence is enough to make up for Andres Biedrins' sudden cliff dive...

The Kings have one game to hang their hat on, even after a tough stretch that shows just how young they are...

The A's and Giants have a lot to talk about, now that spring is springing...

And despite the break in the schedule, the Sharks are getting a lot out of this year's tight Olympics tourney — not counting one key cog who's falling down on the job.

Stand up and be counted — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
The lads welcome back the Sharkies in person! Plus, more on the Olympics, the NBA, and the coming MLB and MLS seasons.

Played: 347 | Download | Duration: 00:41:39

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

Did I really say that only one of the Giants' eight projected batters managed a league-average OBP last year? Yep, they sure did...
                                                         

Next thing you know, they'll be making Admiral Ackbar a mascot at a major NCAA program. Oh, wait — that's actually true, too?!

Seriously, now I've heard it all. They should just have the Niners give up this whole Santa Clara thing and play at Al Davis's house. Oh, no — you can't be serious...

Speaking of the gridiron (and now that each squad has franchised it's D-lineman like I told you) it's definitely time to weigh in on the Niners' and Raiders' draft prospects on the Bleacher Report...

Saw something I liked there recently: a chance to vote for which player would best renew the Raiders' missing "criminal element:" Vick; Tank; Plax; Pacman; you get the idea. Gee, there seem to be so many of these guys floating around the NFL! (My vote? The Joker for team owner, first.)

 

It all starts at the top — and trickles down to The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati — with special features found only at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

With the Olympics full swing, the action's still heavy on the local scene. On this week's NOR CAL Report, Lex's own Grandpa, Irwin Gopnik, joins Lex for a walk down memory lane — back when more than one present-day Oakland squad called Philly home.

The Sharks can't carve up the NHL any more for the moment, but their eyes are on an even bigger prize — Olympic gold;

The Warriors hand the Kings a dose of humility on the court, then decline to part with their biggest star;

While the Kings make a major splash, dishing top man Kevin Martin in favor of some chips for the future.

The future is now — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
What does the Kings' big move — and the Warriors' big no thanks — mean in the wake of a wild NBA trade season? Both teams look to move ahead with the squad they've chosen. The Sharks look to reunite at the Tank — and on the podium.

Played: 496 | Download | Duration: 00:52:40

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

Trying to remember whom to cheer for this Olympics? There's a list of Nor Cal Olympians right here...

No matter what happens in the wake of the Kevin Martin trade, the Kings have shown two things — they're not afraid to make the big move, and they like their current direction a lot more under Paul Westphal...

Meanwhile, should O.J. Mayo have been enough to talk the Warriors out of Monta Ellis? Some say yes. What about scoring, you say? Just remember that Mayo's younger, cheaper, and plays better defense — and hoops is a team game...

From Steph Curry, after his third straight double-double since Monta's injury: "We play different [without Monta], I don't know if it's better. We pass the ball, everybody is spreading the floor and the ball movement is always there." Sounds like better to me. Speaking of Curry, here's that list again:

35-10-10 games as an NBA rookie:
Michael Jordan
Oscar Robertson
Jerry West
Elgin Baylor
Jason Kidd
Stephen Curry

Looks like the Niners plan on using their franchise tag, and the Raiders too — and both on the D-line. Let that be a lesson come draft time, when you're begging for another wideout...

Don't think of wiry Tipping Point author Malcolm Gladwell as a gridiron buff? Maybe not. But one article he wrote suggests the Niners should be giving some serious eyeball to Nate Davis...

                                                          

Finally: why should recent signee (and MLB's most hittable pitcher in 2009,) Todd Wellemeyer, be the Giants' fifth starter? Because Wellemeyer (a solid 13-9, 3.71 in 2008) has been there before; because the fifth starter is never anything more than damage control; and because young phenom Madison Bumgarner still has a lot of questions surrounding him. Bum's only 20; his velocity dipped suspiciously last year; and I'm an advocate of the Francisco Liriano - Phil Hughes method: let 'em learn in the bullpen.

We're willing to learn on the job — and we'd  happily do it for free! On The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store (search: NORCAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati — with special features only available at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

It's the biggest day of the year — on The NOR CAL Report! This week, the boys analyze Indy v. Big Easy — with a special twist for NorCal fans. Meanwhile, the local squads try to scramble up Mount Trophy:

The Sharks hit a bump, dropping a seesaw contest to the 'Hawks and a downer to the Wings. Luckily, Lex has a cure for what ails them;

The Warriors' losing streak lingers, even as Monta has his best outing ever;

And the Kings continue to surprise, impressing even in losing battles, as Martin's return to prominence means all things to all people.

We always know who we are — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
Anall-new brings a special dispatch from the NBA's vaunted All-Starweekend. And even with no locals on that scene, there's plenty to talkabout by the Bay as well!

Played: 409 | Download | Duration: 00:33:52

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

Some major media outlets have picked up on Andrew Baggarly's story on the cloak-and-dagger implications of Tim Lincecum's impending arbitration hearing. Conventional wisdom is saying, correctly, that the Giants'submitted figure of $8 million (compared to Timmy's $13M) seems low.Bags suggests the Giants may be working extra hard to keep the figureunder Ryan Howard's record-setting $10M arbitration award, inorder to please league owners, who would then back the Giants in theSan Jose territory squabble against Lew Wolff's A's. (Owners, painted not for the first time as Bud Selig's waterboys, would have to approve rescinding the Giants' current territorial rights to Santa Clara County by a three-fourths vote.)

There'sno doubt $8M is low for a man of Lincecum's achievements. And whileHoward's a fine player, the G-Men had to know Lincecum stands apart —and would be smart enough to ask for, and get, more thanHoward. You want a real conspiracy theory? Okay: S.F. submitted anumber they knew would lose. (Lincecum could have filed for $15M, maybe$18M, and still won.) Why? Total barstool speculation: the Giants nolonger have to shoot to kill in the hearing, and set aside any mentionof Tim's pot citation. And when the owners try to point out the Giants'advanced (and the A's anemic) revenue streams, the orange and black cancounter that they've recently been forced to double the A's payroll...

Back on Earth, Ray Ratto writes that the Giants-Lincecum fiesta, while pricey, is just another dollar-sign showdown — and no story for you back page types...

Speaking of Lincecum, there's a head-thumper of a debate on ESPN right now, asking which pitcher you'd build your franchise around: Felix Hernandez, Zack Grienke, or Justin Verlander. Question: who is the best pitcher in baseball right now?Forget up years, down years, or projectability (and with apologies tothe amazing Roy Halladay.) Hint: whose nickname is actually TheFranchise?

Write in now: does red-hot Warrior Monta Ellis deserve that final All-Star berth? George Karl knows Ellis beats Chauncey Billupsup and down the stat sheet, yet calls Billups' election "something of ano-brainer." Why? Team record, of course. I guess if you're theWarriors, you can't so much argue, as beg...

With the Hall of Fame knocking on his door, ESPN's asking whether 49ers great Jerry Rice was the best ever. No, not the best receiver — other than maybe Terrell Owens, who would argue that? The best football player...

Speaking of the gridiron, did you peep JaMarcus Russell'sappearance on TNT during a recent basketball game? I won't post thelinks — due to copyright issues — but you can find it for yourself.As commentator Kevin Harlan put it — on the air! — "Ifhe spent as much time in the film room as he did in the jewelry store,he'd be a much better quarterback." My favorite piece? Thequarterback-shaped Diamond pendant, emblazoned with a "2," aroundRussell's neck. (Yes, Russell wears "2" and plays quarterback. And yes,we would all find this merely amusing if Russell didn't stink so badlyon the field. As Crash Davis put it: You'll never make it to the bigs with fungus on your shower shoes... If you win 20 in the show, you canlet the fungus grow back and thepress will think you're colorful. Untilyou win 20 in the show, however,it means you are a slob...)

We're always laced up and ready to go — so thanks for peepin' our sneaks... on The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report isavailablethroughtheiTunesstore(search:NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutletsfromPodbeantoTechnorati—with specialfeatures onlyavailable at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

Welcome back to the NOR CAL Report! Thisweek features a center ice showdown, along with two hoops teams lookingto get well against each other — plus, a bolt from the blue for thegreen and gold.

The Kings once again get the better of another Nor Cal battle. But does Kevin Martin's lackluster return mean "trade me," or "save me?"

The Warriors drop another series of games, as no-name fill-ins have become the norm. Thequestion of the moment: will Cap'n Jack get love back at Oracle?

The Sharks,comfortably atop the NHL, battle the up-and-coming Blackhawks for supremacy. So with the regular season feeling like preseason, is this finally a playoff preview?

And the A's make asingle-season splash with stud thrower Ben Sheets. But who will Sheetsremind fans of more — Dan Haren, or Matt Holliday?

Speaking of the A's seeing the light: did you hear the one about Oakland's top prospect who figured, if he wanted to score some real points, he should just retire and become a priest? Um, yeah, that's a real one.

We always know who we are — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
TheSharks look to stay on top, while the hoopsters try to claw away fromthe bottom. Plus, pitchers and catchers are warming up for spring training! Don't forget to write your favorite ball team and get us those choice interviews...

Played: 363 | Download | Duration: 00:30:08

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

Sound familiar? Oracle's Larry Ellison says he wants to buy the Warriors. Sound familiar? Despite the rumors of financial worries, Chris Cohan hasn't said he's selling. (What's stranger: check out the article, in which Warriors President Robert Rowell appears to admit such a takeover is inevitable.) As listener Tobias emailed us, it doesn't much matter; extricating the franchise from the remants of Don Nelson's career (and Chris Mullin's departure) would take years for any owner...

If you missed it in the show — yes, the Rockies' Troy Tulowitzki credits none other than Jason Giambi for Tulo's team-carrying turnaround last season...

Think Lew Wolff can't build a stadium in San Jose? The Earthquakes are not only entrenched with a loyal fan base, they're adding a $1 million-plus training facility to their new stadium plan.

Before the show, I was ribbing Lex a bit about Ben Sheets being the next Matt Holliday — and not in a good way. (I'll stand by this: you can believe the A'sdo Sheets's jersey giveaway in April, so you actually have a few monthsto wear the thing.) But Sheets isn't as fragile as his free agent sagamakes it seem, and a 31-year-old power arm with a 4-to-1 K/BB ratio forhis career is nothing to sneeze at...

You always know where to go for the best take on Nor Cal sports: The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report isavailablethroughtheiTunesstore (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutletsfromPodbeantoTechnorati —with special features onlyavailable at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

It's time for an all new NOR CAL Report! This week, storied NHL star Mike Ricci joins Jess and Lex for a look at the Sharks' young guns. Plus, the hardcourt heats up even as the MLB teams solidify their lineups.

The Kings are familiar with the tune: one step forward, one step back. But which does the retyrn of Kevin Martin mean for Tyreke's team?

The Warriors continue to wallow in injury misery, even as Monta and Maggette break out, and Steph Curry enters the trivia HOF...

The Sharks go on a spree against Calgary and the Kings, and appear even more the overdog than last year — so...

The A's shore up the O with another add; does their depth mean they're a player in the beefed-up West?

The Giants say hello, again, to Benjie Molina. Meanwhile, Molina will catch a far wealthier Franchise this year...

Time to tune on in to The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
The Sharks loom large, as the basketball squads look to regain some ground.

Played: 297 | Download | Duration: 00:57:00

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

Strange but interesting rumor: SI's Peter King lays out a great argument for Tim Tebow, 49er (at the bottom of this piece.)

As for A's fans, ready to pick a fight with ownership over stadium woes: Insidebayarea's Garth Kimble's got your back. In a nutshell: three good choices equals no good choices (i.e., for new downtown digs) if the team itself refuses to get on the train...

And speaking of new arenas, there's great news this week in the Kings' camp, where the ADD Maloofs are back again, and lending support to a new stadium proposal...

ESPN Insider has both Tyreke Evans and Steph Curry among their Top Five Rookies. The most encouraging sign? They're ranked 1-2 in steals (Curry 1.8 spg, Evans 1.5.) They're also 2-3 in assists, behind the Bucks' Brandon Jennings...

What does the Correy Maggette renaissance mean? Two things. For him: he's a true pro, a veteran of the league with cred. For the team: maybe not too little, but definitely too late.

Thanks for stayin' on board. The train keeps a'rollin — on The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report isavailablethroughtheiTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutletsfromPodbean toTechnorati —with special features onlyavailable at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **


Welcome back to a brand new year of The NOR CAL Report! We promise to keep on rollin' through the decade — if you do! This week, a look back at the confounding NFL seasons, and the career of Randy Johnson. Plus, hear what to expect for the new year and beyond for all the local squads.

The Raiders  put the capper on another stinker of a year. Has JaMarcus played his last down for the silver and black? Or do the Raids' recent ravings tell us all we need to know?

The 49ers, meanwhile, can finally crow about .500. Bad sign: they beat just one winning team all year. Good sign: it's the one team left to beat in the broke down NFC West...

The Sharks have nothing left to prove after an eight-game streak — except that pesky loss to a foe that feels eerily familiar...

The Giants look to rescue the Panda, and Mark DeRosa is the first volley. Do Giants fans still have the satisfaction of dissing the entire infield?

The A's sign Coco Crisp, and while it's easy to ho-hum the move, Jess sees it reshaping the team...

The Kings play like they do have something to prove — and, led by rookie Tyreke Evans, they're proving it...

The Warriors, meanwhile, stink up the Bay even while throwing in a W against the Celts.

It's time to turn over a new leaf — or resolve to keep comin' back to The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
The Warriors and Kings look to creep up the standings, while the Sharkies look forward to a rematch in L.A.

Played: 341 | Download | Duration: 01:12:59

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.
  
                                                            

What to make of the Randy Johnson retirement? (Yes, the Giants could now use an arm.) We ran out of time on the show, but I wanted to point out the brilliant memories — John Kruk in the All-Star Game; the spring training bird explosion; the 1995 and 2001 postseasons, plus the thrill of interviewing the legend with Lex for the show — he ushered permanently into our collective mind. I don't want to say that "anyone" could win five Cy Youngs, overthrow the Yanks' dynasty, hurl two no-nos, and strike out nearly 5,000 — no one has ever put together that resume. But Randy managed to do it all, in style. As unfathomably great as Greg Maddux, Pedro Martinez, and Roger Clemens were, Randy is THE iconic, dominant pitcher in a hitter's era...

Incidentally, the Unit raves — for him — about his time with the Giants. He even says Jonathan Sanchez "is a lot like I was at his age. He really has everything. He just needs to put it together." Makes you think Jon-Jon never pitches the no-no without Randy around. Ironic that he threw it as Johnson's replacement...

There's already bad news in the wake of the DeRosa signing: he may play left, with Juan Uribe starting at 3B. Sabean gives Uribe a bloated contract for a sub, after a career year, then convinces himself Uribe's a starter — vintage Sabes. Penny-pinching may have cost the G-Men both DeRosa (the 3B) and Uribe (the fill-in) as useful moves, nullifying their entire winter. Plus, after he helped carry the stretch drive, "Count Chocula" Velez is left to rot. Not enough...

Question for A's fans: if OBP was the Moneyball category for the 2000's, what's the cutting edge metric for the 2010's? Billy Beane is showing us the answer: defense (led by statistics like Range Factor). Lex is right to ask of Rajai Davis: wasn't he adequate in center? Sure. But an adequate CF becomes a plus LF. And Coco Crisp — one of those players, ála Mark Kotsay, you truly appreciate the more you watch him — is an upgrade in the middle. So now, with Jake Fox capable of replacing Jack Cust's bat at DH, Billy not only adds Crisp's offense, but subtracts Cust's iron glove. Such defensive security is a must if you're relying on a young, talented pitching staff — just ask the Giants...

Serious about this week's question: who's your bet for most improved team of 2010? I know you won't be afraid to tell us why. (What's that? Money where my mouth is? Process of elimination says it's gotta be the A's or Niners. The A's are hurt by lack of a salary cap, so I'll put on a smile and take Singletary for Coach of the Year. Right or wrong, some talking heads will follow me...)

Got to keep it brief — I have to look up the weather in Costa Rica! (Follow my travels here.) Hey, it's a tough life — and we always give as good as we get, on The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report isavailablethroughthe iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutletsfromPodbean to Technorati —with special features onlyavailable at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

Welcome back to in this weeks offering of The NOR CAL Report! 

The Sharks Are in a position that Team Teal hasn't been in a while, looking up at the Kings in the Pacific division standings.

The Raiders were fired up to win 2 in a row for the first time in a long time, but JaMarcus Russell killed any chance of that by entering the game for Bruce Gradkowski in the 2nd half. All I have to say is BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

The 49ers make a statement to the entire country on Monday Night Football, but it might be one loss to many as the faithful do their best to manifest a Christmas playoff miracle.

The Warriors lose, while more Dubs look to leave Chris Cohan's joke of  an NBA franchise ...

The Kings continue to play way above expectations, as Tyreke Evans gets compared to some of the biggest names in hoops.

We are gonna take the rest of the year off and enjoy the season you do the same, and lets hope 2010 brings us NorCal Sports fans some more victories.

UP NEXT: We attempt to get back in shape after holiday feasting.  Make sure you check back in the beginning of the year for more of the best On Demand Online media on the net right here on The Norcal Report.

Played: 607 | Download | Duration: 00:34:53

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati —with special features only available at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **


Welcome back to The NOR CAL Report! The number 1 on demand digital media source for all of your Northern California pro-sports squads.

The Raiders get a big win in Steel town. But does that W change the course of the nation?

The 49ers watched as a last second Olindo Mare field goal doomed the faithful's  playoff hopes. Could Mike Singletary really be on the hot seat

The Sharks stay atop the NHL's Pacific division and do Something that team teal fans havn't seen too much of this year. While the boys chop it up with  San Jose Shark's grind liner Jed Ortmeyer

The Warriors beat the New Jersey Nets in Jorsey.  Does it mean the dubs are moving out of the Pacific division basement? Forgeta bout it...

The Kings win 4 then lose 4, then win 4 then lose 4 as they continue to develop around rookie of the year front runner Tyreke Evans. How good could the Monarchy be if King Kevin were in the lineup?


We got some good, some the same, and definitely some ugly— on The NOR CAL Report!

Played: 474 | Download | Duration: 00:34:33

Jesse's away on a vacation trip through Thailand. Keep up with the travels, on his Ratapult blog.

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati —with special features only available at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **



Welcome back to The NOR CAL Report! Hope your done eating leftovers cause there is plenty of fresh home cooking to enjoy  Like:

The Sharks  who  continue to sit on top of the NHL food chain, as they tend to do this time of year. Dany "The Heater" Heatley handles business against the squad he had to get away from, and 2 of the top 3 scorers in the NHL are sporting teal.

The Raiders ruin turkey day for the entire nation by getting roasted  and stuffed by the Dallas Cowboys.

The 49ers still have work to do but look better as they let the D Do what they Do against the 6 and 5 Jaguars and make sure Alex Smith avoids those pesky turnovers...

The Warriors continue to  stay  hurt and lose except for a surprising win at Dallas with a smarter coach at the helm...

The Kings are continuing to surprise the NBA with their stud rookie winning the NBA's rookie of the month award...

Thanks for sticking with us through the holiday season  no gift better then On demand digital media!! make sure you add the Norcal report to your holiday shopping list. We bring the season like no other show — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:Bay area football progresses slowly, the Norcal Hoops squads move in opposite directions, and make sure to listen to the Sharks segment as we  chat with San Jose Shark forward  Jed Ortmeyer, as Los Tiburones de San Jose continue to do what they do in the first half of the NHL season.

Played: 478 | Download | Duration: 00:25:31

Jesse's away on a vacation trip through Thailand. Keep up with the travels, on his Ratapult blog.

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati —with special features only available at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

Baby, baby, it's a wild world — on The NOR CAL Report!

The Sharks still play swimmingly — but wasn't it Captain Hook's alligator that heard "tick, tick, tick?"

The Raiders ride a veteran game manager and a staunch D to a major victory;

The 49ers are outclassed by the organization's biggest ghost;

The Warriors wish their coach well, even as they beat Portland with the pity vote. But where is this franchise going, and under whom?

The Kings plummet to Earth, as inexperience and experience meet them at each hotel. Is the pendulum done swinging already?

It's cold weather time, and they're turning nasty out there. And we've got it all — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
The NBA squads fight to stay atop the seesaw, while the 49ers and Raiders try to remember which teams they're really supposed to be. The Sharks continue to make it happen on the ice, while Jess goes beach hunting and Lex takes center stage.

Played: 497 | Download | Duration: 00:35:30

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

A's fans, looking for a second Jack Cust who played the infield? Good news: there is (maybe) as the green and gold hope to strike again with aging prospect Dallas McPherson. The Giants tried him and found him one-dimensional; of course, the same could be said of Cust. And the Giants haven't given up on former A's hand and positionless wonder Jesus Guzman...

Several sources saying this will be a buzzard's market come January in MLB — and that doesn't mean fresh meat. Although both the locals, to some degree, have the wiggle room for meaningful free agent conversations, if the GMs exercise their habit of wait-and-see, it could be a long winter for the Bay squads...

To the Raiders, the short week could be an advantage. But somehow it never feels like one...

And the 49ers' reporters keep wondering why the spread doesn't rain down. Weigh in by posting a comment; this is their question of the week...

Look, I didn't mean to sound callous in the show regarding Coach Nelson's health. It's certainly interesting that if the Warriors win in Texas with Nelson in California, he still inches toward Lenny Wilkins and that wins record. Nelson himself can't possibly be happy about how that looks, or feels...

Spencer Hawes, along with Jason Thompson, has shown there's more to Sacramento than Kevin Martin. Why did the Monarchs suddenly fold? The Maloofs say they want to focus on Sac's men's town. On the other hand, what does every other team in the Kings' position do? Trade Martin...

You never see it coming — but you feel it when it arrives. On The NOR CAL Report!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati —with special features only available at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

It's an exciting new week on The NOR CAL Report! Thanks to you, we've eclipsed 50,000 downloads — and there's plenty more to talk about. Such as:

        Now, keep up with the latest on The NOR CAL Report — become a fan on Facebook!

The 49ers finally notch that W, a thrilling grinder at home. Their new strategy? Nab more picks than Alex Smith can throw...

The Raiders trot out another stinker, losing an early lead to a weak Chiefs team, and JaMarcus Russell to the bench — again...

The Sharks lose a pair of tough road games, but little ground in the Pacific race;

The Warriors grant Cap'n Jack his walking papers, and make sure it's to a team almost as bad as they are...

The A's and Giants have added some impressive hardware this off-season, as an unlikely star gets rookie of the year recognition; and Timmy "the baby faced assassin" Lincecum gets Cy Young number 2

While the Kings have used last week's NOR CAL showdown to propel them to a 4 game win streak and a .500 record. Have the Sactown stars really found their recipe earlier than expected?

It's time to test that streak — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
The Warriors shift the rumor mill to Nellie, while the Kings hope to remain the surprise of the league. The Raiders pray for redemption, and the Niners for playoff relevance. And the Sharks right the ship and bide their time 'til April.

Played: 264 | Download | Duration: 00:29:52

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

Here on the Report, we're nothing if not worldly — and everyone loves a good blown call. So with apologies tothe locals, check out this alleged goal — in extra time, with a WorldCup berth on the line. Asked postgame if he'd used his hand to steer the game winner, Thierry Henri answered "Oui; oui, oui;" if that's not enough, keep in mind France was also clearly offsides on the play...

                                   

With Coach Cable both making news by starting Steve Bartkowski (oops, Bruce Gradkowski) and topping the ESPN/NFL front page as a possible midseason firing, it's clear the Raiders aren't scared of change. One thing will stay the same: they've extended their Coliseum lease; drunken shouts of "Rraaaaii-durrrrs" will now echo through East Oakland into 2013...

What to make of the Alex Smith - Aaron Rodgers matchup next week? Mike McCarthy, who coached the first NFL starts of both players (as the 49ers' o-coordinator, and later the Packers' head coach) says he's against throwing a rookie QB into the fire for a weak team...

Why are the Kings better than expected, reason numero uno? Second year man Jason Thompson leads all NBA power forwards in rebounding, with an even 10.0...

And why are the Atlanta Hawks suddenly a force? Check out the guy who could have been a Warrior, back when they signed injury-prone, one-dimensional Corey Maggette. This article doesn't exist without Josh Smith's prowess — and it ain't about former Wa's Jamal Crawford or Joe Smith, neither...

Ray Ratto realizes Tim Lincecum's second Cy Young Award — in two full MLB seasons, mind you — spells bad news for the Giants' financial plans. Left almost unsaid, is the notion that this could help wipe away fallout from his pot citation — or not...

Is the Sharks' recent losing streak worth sweating? In a word, no. Chicago in their own building will always be tough, and they lost by a single goal to the Preds, whom they'd just proven they can beat...

Thanks for checking out The NOR CAL Report! Don't forget to Facebook us, and spam all your friends!

        

With over 40,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report is available through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digital outlets from Podbean to Technorati —with special features only available at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

Welcome back to a big new show, on The NOR CAL Report! Thanks to you, we've eclipsed 40,000 downloads — and we've brought in Sharks scorer Joe Pavelski to tell us what it's all about.

        Now, keep up with the latest on The NOR CAL Report — become a fan on Facebook!

The 49ers arrive at a moment of truth at the 'Stick — and the truth is, this team is further away than it looked...

The Sharks enjoy a welcome back game from this week's interview, Joe Pavelski. Could this Sharkie squad be deeper and deadlier than years past?

The Warriors and Kings square off in an early season NOR CAL classic — and while one team looks on the upswing, you'll need to look closer to guess which one!

Our numbers are up, and so are our spirits. It's all 'cuz your fan score is "hardcore" — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT:
The 49ers and Raiders look to reclaim the glory, while the NBA squads get upwardly mobile. Meanwhile, the Fish continue to make an early push toward Lord Stanley.

Played: 221 | Download | Duration: 00:48:32

The NOR CAL Blog:

All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

While the Sharks' season's gone swimmingly, losing their captain to the I.R. is more than just a footnote. This one could end up chomping the Sharkies where it hurts...

Remember, it's called social networking for a reason. Add The NOR CAL Report on — and don't forget to share with your friends...

It seems this week's interview, the Sharks' Joe Pavelski, has caught the fever, scoring in consecutive games since he aired with us. And if you like the Pavelski piece, check out our interview with Jumbo teammate Joe Thornton — our highest-rated show ever...

From MLB's hot stove: Giants fans, are you seeking some names on offense beyond Bay and Holliday, neither of whom will land in S.F.? Here's three that could work: Speedy infielder Chone Figgins and versatile basher Mark DeRosa are free agents, while Tampa Bay triple-threat Carl Crawford could be pried in trade. One thing that bodes well for all, minus Holliday: they've proven themselves in the clearly stronger A.L. What about the crowded outfield? Randy Winn is gone...

Giants' top prospect Angel Villalona's saga takes a strange twist this week — Villalona is free, and his alleged victim's family has $139,000 — and a greatly reduced interest in pursuing the case...

More MLB hot stove action: Tim Dierkes has the Giants nabbing Nick Johnson and the A's Miguel Tejada in his Top 20 rumors. Both make good position sense (Miggy as a 3B-SS.) But Tejada means A's brass and fans facing their own steroid-bloated past — an iffy prospect, made no smoother by the Giambi fiasco. In S.F., Adrian Beltre — with averages of 25 HR, 88 RBI, and a pedestrian .325 obp the last three years in Seattle — embodies Brian Sabean's defense-plus-swing-and-a-miss model player. Yes, that makes Pablo the Panda a full-time 1B; they're confident he hits the part...

Meanwhile, 49ers great Joe Montana has put his house up for sale, at a price that would be more than three times the record for Sonoma county. On the plus side, I bet you could get him to throw in a couple autographs...

A day after Steven Jackson's agent produced a convincing bellyache in Don Nelson's direction, Jack obliged by dishing a season-high fifteen assists, leading the Warriors to an NBA-high tally against the lowly Wolves. The prediction here: Nelson doghouse favorites like Anthony Randolph and Brandon Wright have productive NBA careers — but only when Nelson and Jackson have run each other out of town, a mirror image of the Chris Webber saga two decades ago. That was a blow from which the Wa's have never recovered — so it seems Jack's agent's got a point.

We've always got a point — on The NOR CAL Report! Thanks again for helping us reach the 40,000 mark. See you next week!

        

With over 30,000 downloads since 2007, The NOR CAL Report (NorCalProSports.com) brings insightful coverage and exclusive interviews to the savvy Northern California pro sports fan. The NOR CAL Report isavailable through the iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutlets from Podbean to Technorati —with special features onlyavailable at NorCalProSports.com.

** Thanks for making The NOR CAL Report a success. Don't forget to tell your friends! **

It's that favorite time of year, on The NOR CAL Report! Autumn has sprung, and with far away teams battling for the hardball crown, there's still gridiron, footie, and of course, hoops action to drool over!

        {  Keep up with the latest on The NOR CAL Report — become a fan on Facebook!  }

The Warriors start the season on a sour note, as their ex-captain wants out, their guards bristle, and their coach concedes a playoff-less picture. But talent abides. Will the high-octane youngsters prove worth watching?
 
The Kings may have filled long-time holes at point guard and head coach, even as other problems loom. Tough as it seems, could this season be life-or-death for pro hoops in once proud Sactown?

The Sharks once again float atop the Pacific. So why is 2009 the year everything changes — and what aspect promises to be the Fish's Achilles' heel?

The 49ers ride Alex Smith to a near-victory against a near-good team. Now that the Niners have the fresh-faced QB and a host of receiving options, why have they gone a month without winning a game?

The Raiders look far removed from the team that won one game, ever. Hear what the latest drubbing, at the hands of the Jets, means for the beleaguered franchise.

Life is like a box of chocolates — you never know what you're gonna get. But you always know where you can get it — on The NOR CAL Report!

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The lads catch up with revered Sharkie scorer Joe Pavelski. Stay tuned for results from the NBA openers, more surprises from the NFL squads, and a healthy dose of the San Jose icers.
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All the latest info, anecdotes and opinions from the Report's own Jess Zitrin.

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The 49ers are debating moral victories again after the Colts game. One thing's for sure: losing Joe Staley and Nate Clements for most of the year won't help...

We know our fans love baseball. So, since you asked, World Series watchers: Yankees in six. No, I can't stand the Evil Empire either — and the Phillies clearly have what it takes. But this is the Yankees' year, and they're just too good. The key to a possible Phillies win? Somehow winning the battle of the bullpens. No, not Brad Lidge vs. Mariano Rivera — the guys who pave the way for them. If C.C., A.J., and all-time winningest postseason pitcher Andy Pettitte finish what they start, six games may be an insult to the pinstripers...

I've made a lot of the Giants' colorful nicknames this year. Now even their hitting coach has one: they've elevated Hensley "Bam Bam" Meulens..."

In his esteemed baseball archive, John Shea notes the Dodgers' marital stresses, along with some financial ones. He also links the Giants to two splashy free agent pitchers, of the international persuasion. For my money: no chance they lunge for Cuban 100 mph lefty Aroldis Chapman, whom I saw pitch live ("raw" is more like it) at the World Baseball Classic this spring. But the G-Men have made needed inroads into the Asian market, and it's true they might take the plunge for the impressive Japanese high school southpaw, Yusei Kikuchi. Kikuchi, favorite to go #1 overall in the ever-hypothetical international draft, has plenty of M.L. prospects and is actually more refined than the highly touted Chapman. What kind of Cuban name is Chapman, anyway?

The Giants' Jeremy Affeldt, a friend of The NOR CAL Report, is up for an award for his crucial work with the Not For Sale Campagin...

The Raiders coach and primary signal-caller (an outdated phrase if I've heard one) now say they've got an accord. Says I: not unless it's a Honda...

I know, 49ers fans — couldn't they tighten up on defense and win a jaw-crusher in Indy? Sure, they could. But weren't you listening? We've seen the defense play well before. What worries us is the offensive line struggles, now complicated by injury. I repeat what I said on (digital) air: Coach Singletary knows no one does running around like a chicken with his head cut off like Alex Smith. This Ray Ratto piece says Smith starting is Singletary's concession that his team can't run...

The surprise isn't that FX is trotting out a sitcom about fantasy sports, it's that some people like it...

Kings fans, take heart: in his column on '09-'10 potential breakouts, John Hollinger mentions not only Jason Thompson, but also Sean May as consistently productive players looking to nail down their roles. Of course, NOR CAL fans will also recognize Ike Diogu's name, and while it's true he's never had a full crack, it's also an exaggeration to call him consistently productive...

A correction: I stupidly called Giants scouting guru "Bob Barr" on last week's show — a bizarre throwback to my Georgia days. Bob, of course, helped impeach Pres. Clinton, ran against McCain and Obama, and held a mean poker face while donning a pimptastic mustache [below.] The Giants' lead scout, meanwhile, is Ron, of course...

                                                       

Speaking of name games: Until MattytheK pointed it out, I hadn't realized that Dodgers exbroiled exec Frank McCourt shares the same name as the late author. No, the writer who spent most of his life as a New York schoolteacher did not somehow buy the Dodgers — but while we're on the subject, McCourt's fictionalized memoir Angela's Ashes is one of the great tours de force of 20th century.

Thanks for an awesome first two years! We hope to offer many more — so keep that feedback coming — video? college sports? ladies beach volleyball?? — and we'll see you again soon, on The NOR CAL Report!