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: 56 | Download | Duration: 00:00:00

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: 140 | 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: 292 | Download | Duration: 00:00:00

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: 346 | Download | Duration: 00:00:00

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: 305 | 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: 265 | 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: 331 | 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: 472 | 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: 338 | 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: 345 | 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: 366 | Download | Duration: 00:00:00

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: 256 | Download | Duration: 00:00:00

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: 215 | 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!

Played: 1553 | Download | Duration: 00:00:00

UP NEXT:
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.
The NOR CAL Blog:

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

Don't forget to add us on  — go now! Join in our heated discussions, and don't forget to share with your friends...

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! 

        

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 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 brand new NOR CAL Report! This week, erstwhile Raiders linebacker Thomas Howard joins the lads for a firsthand tour of Raider Nation. Plus, with baseball and soccer in the rearview and football and hockey hitting full steam, there's plenty to chew on. Namely:

The Raiders pull off the stunner of the season, riding Mr. 53 and a staunch defense to a victory over the front-running Phils. Is it possible, just possible, that the Raiders' new togetherness means better times ahead?

The 49ers have two new additions: a contrite Michael Crabtree on the practice field, and a blazing "L" inscribed by the Atlanta Falcons. Which one truly indicates the team's new direction?

The Sharks roll on, featuring improved play on defense. But wait, there's more — the Sharkies also outscored both Bay Area football teams in the last week...

The Earthquakes earn a pair of road points, and look to end their season with a bang as they square off with the Gals of L.A.;

And the Giants re-sign two guys they hope can't be blamed for their putrid offense, while firing one guy who can. Jess is on the hot seat: do these moves aid, or kill, their upwardly mobile ways?

We're movin' on up, on the West side — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT: The gridiron gangs try to beat recent history, and storied foes. Meanwhile, the Sharks heat up the ice while NOR CAL's NBA squads hope to squelch expectations.

Played: 437 | Download | Duration: 00:52:53

The NOR CAL Blog:

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

Trivia time. Q: What 49ers player has been with the team longer than any other? (Answer below.)

Good news from the Warriors' preseason finale: the Wa's outscored New Orleans by 43 points with rookie Steph Curry on the floor. The bad, and the ugly: after almost two years of flogging the "Monta at point" idea, Don Nelson picked a strange time to confess, "A lot of people suspect it anyway, but it might be better to just let (Ellis) play the 2... Maybe asking him to play point guard was too much..."

The verdict is in, and the Raiders' Tom Cable-Randy Hanson battery case is ruled — in the football parlance — incidental contact. Attorneys say that won't keep Hanson from filing a civil suit. What's left appears to be a desperate man (Hanson) acting in the good graces of a desperate man (Al Davis.) Can you imagine being Cable, and inheriting this shrill bumpkin as a part of your one and only shot at the big time? It won't happen, but if Cable pulls this team over .500, ever, he deserves a medal...

Giants fans, have you been following the turmoil at the top of the L.A. Dodgers? With the McCourts going through a nasty divorce they couldn't keep out of the postseason papers, that makes two teams in the 5-team N.L. West being torn asunder by marital unrest...

Amidst the anniversarial fiddle-faddle over the 1989 Loma Prieta / Bay Series Quake, S.F. Mayor Art Agnos sets the record straight about Commissioner Fay Vincent stopping, re-starting, or even moving the Fall Classic...

Speaking of the Giants losing out, Henry Schulman explains why the timing of Tim Lincecum's call up — May 6, 2007 — drains the Giants' pocketbook... and didn't provide the boost it appeared on the field. Short version: one week's impatience is about to cost the Giants ten, or tens of, millions of dollars...

Remember, technically, Michael Bush was starting over Darren McFadden even before McFadden's knee  betrayed him. If you're looking to make a little long-term hay in Vegas, what are the odds on Bush, who's done nothing but produce when given the chance, having the more successful NFL career?

You heard him shout it out on the show, but the website for Thomas Howard, a.k.a. Mr. 53, is worth pointing out again. So far, he beats out Jeremy Affeldt for the Webby, "pro athlete" division...

It's official: NOR CAL fan favorite Adonnal Foyle is going to the Hall of Fame! Okay, maybe not the NBA Hall of Fame. But this HOF might be just as important...

Trivia Answer: Nutrition freak Jeff Ulbrich. However, not only is "Brick" so quiet you might never have guessed him, he's also seriously considering retirement after being placed on the I.R. with his umpteenth concussion. As Brick himself points out, "The game has definitely evolved - players are faster, stronger,bigger. The collisions are definitely more violent. I don't think your skull gets thicker or the brain gets tougher..." Tough break for one of the game's good guys.
I love y'all so much, I'll throw in a bonus question. True or False: The Giants now have a farm team called the Flying Squirrels. Lock in your answers, then click here to find out.

We're all about the love — on The NOR CAL Report!

        

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 isavailablethroughtheiTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutlets fromPodbean toTechnorati —with special features onlyavailable at NorCalProSports.com.

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

Dig in your heels, it's a high, hard one — on The NOR CAL Report! First-ballot Hall Of Famer and Giant among men Randy Johnson joins the lads for an exclusive peek inside his illustrious career. Plus, almost all the NOR CAL pro teams — plus your Cal Bears — are making headlines, so we're covering a lot of ground:

The Cal Bears make their NOR CAL Report debut — and perhaps their swan song, as they take a massive dive against the Ducks. With USC looming, their promising season threatens to end before it's begun...

The 49ers come within two seconds of Brett Favre and Minnesota. But is it true the face of the franchise — unquestioned authority figger Mike Singletary — suddenly is a moral victory kind of guy?

The Raiders stink on ice at home, and are mercifully blacked out. 'Nuff said...

The Giants are fading fast from the pennant chase, but have nothing but some back-slapping to do for this year. Oh yeah: minus a few helpful hints toward fixing their dreadful offense;

And the A's wrap up their best month in three years, thanks to a lot of shrewd development and a little addition by subtraction. So what's the blueprint for next year — and how long before this window closes?

The Earthquakes break a long road unbeaten streak and divide the United in D.C.;

The Kings hire a new head man — but will it make a difference?

Finally, the Warriors make waves as only they can, with Monta one-upping Jack's trade request with a whine all his own. The good news: like the Raiders, no team this bad is in the mood to credential Indies like us, so we can tell the truth on this sorry saga!

We call 'em like we see 'em — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT: Raiders stalwart 'backer Thomas Howard joins Jess for a breakdown of the great, strange land called Raider Nation. Plus, baseball's out, football's in, and basketball is (sigh) just around the corner!

Played: 334 | Download | Duration: 00:00:00

The NOR CAL Blog:

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

Yes! Yes, I know! The 49ers signed Michael Crabtree. What's even more amazing than the speed at which it happened, is the terms of the contract. Here's how to understand it: the sixth year isn't a concession to the young receiver, it's the Niners saying, "if you go from big-time pain in the ass to two-time Pro Bowler, we get to keep you for just $4 million..."

In case you've never seen Randy Johnson kill anyone, here you go. My PC had the strangest tick last week: every time I clicked to listen to the show (it's true, I'm in this to hear the sound of my own voice) rather than hear our Tom Petty intro, I'd get shuttled to this YouTube clip, of Randy Johnson killing a bird. Fastball; BOOM!; feathers... Fastball; BOOM!; feathers... Best virus I've ever had!

Some Giants fans may be forgiven a little confusion, when the home crowd cheers Rich Aurilia like he's Manny Ramirez. (What's wrong with the Giants in a nutshell?) But Aurilia has been through a lot in S.F.. Says a tearful Richie: "I'm proud of the way the team played and the way I handled myself. I'm not going to any Hall of Fame or chasing any records. If it's about to end, then I'm OK with that"...

What's a 52-29 home record worth in today's economy? A rockin' 2.8 million fans, playoffs or no. Apropos of nothing, the Giants have the two best nicknames in baseball: Pablo "the Panda" Sandoval, and Eugenio Velez's new monicker, Count Chocula...

                       
We know this team won't be raising payroll much. But since you asked, what does it take to make it a true contender? Pretty simple. Re-sign Brad Penny, and turn Jonathan Sanchez, some spare parts from the farm, and $20 million into Prince Fielder (by trade) and Jason Bay (free agent.) By the way, to all those, like Lex, who thought the Giants missed their window on trading Sanchez last winter — he looks like a guy who's turned the corner. Brian Sabean has made hay trading good looking young pitchers again and again...

Personally, I don't think it's a big deal if cops at a Raiders game are actually Raiders fans — go for it. But when the cop snaps a 49ers fan's elbow without provocation — well, I guess you call that a rivalry...

Regarding the Raiders' attempts to play in the NFL without any media coverage: Scott Ostler can only offer up his own lies and insinuations...

Thanks as always for checking out the blog, and for tuning in to The NOR CAL Report!

        

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 isavailablethroughthe iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutlets fromPodbean 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! **

Check out www.lexxxluthor.com for details on Lex's European tour with German band The Mainstream!

It's all systems go — on The NOR CAL Report! This week, all four in-season squads check in with big victories. And there's more coming down the pipe:

The 49ers have a pair of smashing division wins, and a pristine 2-0 record. They've made a lot of changes, but a big one has come at the very top...

The Raiders flounder, then pull out an unlikely road victory. Could there be two gutty, flawed, smash-mouth winners straddling the Bay?

The Giants are still in this thing — barely. Speaking of flaws, what fun is a hero who's got it all? The Giants are so up and down, it's actually fun to think about missing the playoffs and fixing the roster...

And don't look now, but the A's can't lose, spilling playoff hopefuls in their wake. Are Rajai and the young guns farther along than we thought?

Plus, Lex is back and happy to weigh in on the Sharks' Heatley deal. But he knows one guy that could keep Dany and co. from Lord Stanley — and why does Heatley's dark past remind the lads of a seemy Giants news flash?

The NOR CAL scene is hoppin', and there's always room for more — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT: Future Hall Of Famer Randy Johnson joins Jess and Lex for an exclusive interview, just as he rejoins the Giants for the postseason hunt. Join the lads for their once-in-a-lifetime visit with the Big Unit! Plus, the Giants and A's wrap up the regular season, as the NFL squads look to stay hot on Sunday.

Played: 247 | Download | Duration: 00:00:00

The NOR CAL Blog:

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

Trivia Question: What MLB team's starting lineup features a pair of hitters who backed up current NFL starters at quarterback while in college? (Answer below.)

If you're wondering why, in the midst of a pennant drive, pundits keep complaining about the Giants' offensive futility, bear in mind: their .308 on-base percentage is somehow 35 points lower than the Washington Nationals...

With Barry Bonds on trial, Jim Caple contributes the obligatory Bring Back Barry column. I wouldn't mention it, but for a good line on the S.F.-L.A. rivalry being under-appreciated back east: "Pedro Martinez only shoved Don Zimmer; it's not like he ever hit him over the head with a bat..."

S.I. players poll: the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum is players' tip-top, least favorite place to play in; meanwhile, the Raiders were picked by majority of ESPN readers to be the worst team in football — more than twice as many as 0-16 Detroit. Some good news in Oakland? The A's, long accused of a three-run homer addiction, lead baseball in steals since the All-Star Break...

By the way, Colorado is 45-14 when Carlos Gonzalez starts... And how 'bout the A's 6-man rotation idea? No, it won't last into next season — because good baseball people know pitchers have to actually pitch. Regularly. Don't worry, if your problem is too many quality starting pitchers, you're moving in the right direction...

Yes, one of the most shocking stories of the ball season comes out of the Dominican Republic, where Giants top prospect Angel Villalona is under arrest for murder. I'm honestly not comfortable saying anything more, but here's a teammate of Villalona's who touches on the man in his surprisingly crisp blog...

Trivia Answer: The Colorado Rockies. OF Seth Smith backed up Eli Manning at Ole Miss; 1B Todd Helton held the clipboard for Eli's brother Payton at Tennessee.

That's all for this week. But don't miss next week's gem with the Big Unit! Randy Johnson's best response? I asked him what's been his favorite, proudest moment — World Series MVP, 300th victory, throwing that pitch over John Kruk's head — tune in next week for the answer! And thanks as always for tuning in to The NOR CAL Report.

        

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 isavailablethroughtheiTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutlets fromPodbean toTechnorati —with special features onlyavailable at NorCalProSports.com.

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

Check out www.lexxxluthor.com and follow Lex as he tours with his European band The Mainstream in Germany and Holland.

It's Opening Day, football style — on The NOR CAL Report! And when football season rolls around, and there's still meaningful baseball to talk about — now, that's something special. Plus, the local hockey squad has squeezed into the news in big fashion! To wit:

The 49ers go to the desert looking for a big division win — and get one. But can they be serious about the run-first philosophy after this performance?

The Raiders come oh-so-close to a big division win of their own. Does this game mean they're as improved as they looked - and just how did it slip away?

The Giantscome home to an N.L. West fest, hoping to stay afloat against those hoping to stomp them to the netherworld. When you think they're in,they're out; but when you think they're done, there they are. And the story continues...

The A's can't make their own postseason waves, but they can take some names, including those of the Texas Rangers. The young team is under water, but the periscope shows a bright future, and (shh!) a pretty decent present;

And the Sharks make big waves of their own, finally netting the big fish they swore they'd catch. But can former Sen Dany Heatley lead them to the big water?

UP NEXT: Future Hall Of Famer Randy Johnson joins Jess and Lex for an exclusive interview, just as he joins the Giants for the postseason hunt. Join the lads for their once-in-a-lifetime visit with the Big Unit! Plus: The Raiders and Niners look to ride tough defense to big wins against old foes; and, Lex's take on the big Sharks trade.

Played: 195 | Download | Duration: 00:37:47

The NOR CAL Blog:

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

Wondering about Randy Johnson, who shapes up to be the oldest Giants reliever ever? Yes, he threw that simulated game, and yes, he says he has a torn — not strained — labrum. What's the difference? Medically, it's a matter of degrees. If it's a bad enough strain, with enough fraying, they'll call it torn. Remember, in the same vein, almost every pitcher has a partly torn rotator cuff — throwing a spheroid with an overhand motion is just not natural to the human body. But as a pitcher, I've had surgery to repair a torn labrum, and I can tell you: pitching through one can be mighty painful. It's almost impossible to throw through, not around, that sharp pain. For the moment, the Unit claims he's pain free — and no one's ever dared question his toughness...

Say the Giants do make the playoffs. Is there any historical precedent for a postseason qualifier with an offense this bad?

A's fans, noticed a trend? Not only has Matt Holliday propelled the Cards to the top (48 RBI in 47 games), but the man Oakland traded for him, Carlos Gonzalez, is going crazy in Colorado, hitting .329 with 10 HR since the break. Fluke? Just remember, CarGo also hit .339 at AAA this year, with OPS over 1.000 in both cases...

Raider rooters, forgot exactly where Louis Murphy came from? It was the fourth round in 2009, and if it weren't for a catch overturned by replay, he would have had 2 TDs and over 100 yards in the physical opener vs. San Diego...

Not for nothing, but 39 year-old Mariano Rivera's current streak of 36 straight saves is his longest ever — and in mid-September, the Yankees are simply everyone's pick for best team in baseball. The best team in the National League? The smart money's still on the Colorado Rockies...

Hard to know what to make of the Raiders dumping Jeff Garcia, except for Lex's admonition that "the patient" is in charge, and patient Davis likes the deep ball — ergo, JaMarcus Russell. Too bad, given that Darren McFadden looks like a terrific young receiver. Meanwhile, the Eagles, fresh off the news about Donovan McNabb's ribs, couldn't be happier to have the three-time Pro Bowler...

Ever find yourself in a packed bar at 2 a.m., screaming out Don't Stop Believin'? Then you'll understand why Journey's Steve Perry is p.o.'d at the L.A. Dodgers...

Remember as always, to subscribe — and tell your friends! We never stop believin' — in The NOR CAL Report!

        

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 isavailablethroughthe iTunes store (search: NOR CAL Report) and digitaloutlets fromPodbean 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! **

Check out www.lexxxluthor.com and follow Lex as he tours with his European band The Mainstream in Germany and Holland.

This week, it's a special edition of The NOR CAL Report, as the newest Giant, Buster Posey, joins Jess for a sit down on all things pro ball.

With Lex in Europe and Jess gearin' up for the stretch drive at the ol'ballpark, it's a short show this week — but the September madnesslends the perfect opportunity to check out some of our greatest material so far! Scroll back just a few days, or all the way back to our Monta Ellis, Joe Thornton, Matt Cain, or Too Short episodes!

UP NEXT: The Giants look to pull ahead, the A's press on, and the Raiders and Niners hope to start off on the good foot! Remember to keep coming back for all the action — on The NOR CAL Report!

Played: 221 | Download | Duration: 00:21:22

The NOR CAL Blog:

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

Trivia Question: Who has the most hits of any active player who's never reached the postseason? (Answer below.)

To say that Brian Sabean and the Giants have reversed course on Posey and Madison Bumgarner may be an understatement. Hey, no hard feelings — this time of year, anything goes. Now Sabean jokes that the Giants "were just waiting until [Bum] turned 20 and we could get around the child labor laws...."

Am I remembering this wrong, or didn't Raiders fans, even in recent years, hold out some hope through the preseason? The biggest news was positive, mostly the promise of high draft picks JaMarcus Russell and Darren McFadden. But after the Hayward-Bey draft, the Cable-Hanson debacle, and now the whole Richard Seymour vibe — even by Raiders standards, it seems like the punch line came way ahead of the joke this year...

Speaking of refusing to report, here's a great article connecting the Michael Crabtree holdout, Deion Sanders, and last year's tampering investigation of the 49ers (here's the vid of Primetime shilling for Crab's agent)... A salary dispute helped the Niners steal a terrific replacement for Marvel Smith at tackle... Word there also that former Niners are promoting a bold new site, www.trenchfantasy.com, which finally incorporates line play into the NFL's fantasy behemoth. Act now, for the real deal...

Is the Crabtree drama a major crimp in the Niners' fortunes, or not? Yes and no. Yes, in that he really could have turned into their #1 WR option within just a few games (and Vernon Davis was a Pro Bowl alternate for his blocking, not his stone hands.) No, because in an offense led by the stalwart but scatterarmed Shawn Hill, San Francisco's success depends more on pounding opponents than floating airy fade passes. Football as it should be.

My thoughts on Prince Fielder and the Brewers' elaborate, pre-planned HR celebration? That's so bush, I can't believe it happened anywhere near the Major Leagues. As a pitcher, would I throw at them for that? Call me old school, but yes, without a doubt — even, as Torii Hunter suggests, as a member of another team. What's next, the portly vegetarian peels his shirt off and does a lap around the field? Yuck...

                          

Not for nothing, but A's (and Giants) fans have probably realized, a team that relies on Brett Tomko to shore up its rotation has given up hope...

When Pedro Martinez downed the Giants in the rubber game in Philly, he moved to 3-0 in his first five starts. Remarkable — because he's got a winning record after five starts for the fifteenth straight year. That's the most... in the history of mankind. The guy who had fourteen: Christy Mathewson, starting in 1901. No wonder Eugenio Velez, who homered off Pedro to lead things off, called him the greatest pitcher he'd ever faced...

Trivia Answer: Randy Winn.

Thanks for sticking with us through another long week! Lex promises fresh strudel for all listeners as soon as he gets back — just write to norcalprosports@gmail.com!

        

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 isavailablethrough 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! **

Check out www.lexxxluthor.com and follow Lex as he tours with his European band The Mainstream in Germany and Holland.

It's Labor Day week, and The NOR CAL Report is puttin' in overtime! This week, the Giants are back from the dead, and challenging for an October surprise, while the A's look to a distant future, and the football and basketball squads hope the future is now. Plus:

The Raiders have the talent to go toe-to-toe with half the teams in the league. So why are the players looking at the cellar, while the head coach stares down jail time? Lex knows; and Jess has a feeling who's for real, and who's a mirage...

The 49ers have a lot to crow about, a few very real fears, and a surprise face of the franchise — while a major media outlet has them pegged for dead last...

The Giants are last week's major miracle, and pray their unlikely sweep against Colorado leads them through a rare successful road trip. And don't look now, but guess who's taken the mantle;

The Earthquakes are just hoping for one step forward, one step back — and they've managed to beat a weak sister for that step ahead...

While the Warriors are up to their old tricks, balancing an imbalanced roster with a disgruntled star — a recipe Wa's fans are oh too familiar with.

There's nothin' like that old home cookin' in the heat of summer — on The NOR CAL Report!

UP NEXT: It's Buster redux, as Giants phenom Buster Posey joins Jess for a chat about life in the pros. Plus, look forward to the Reporters' favorite pieces; guest stars Monta Ellis, Matt Cain, Joe Thornton and co. remind us why The NOR CAL Report is your destination for this season's sports scene.

Played: 183 | Download | Duration: 00:47:14

The NOR CAL Blog:

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

Fans of the invaluable Eli Whiteside: wondering who the next nobody will be who comes along and saves the Giants' season? Among September call ups, Waldis Joaquin stands out. Since posting an ERA over 4.00 in the Sally League just last year, the 22-year-old Dominican has come on strong. When the Giants promoted him to set up at Triple-A, he struck out sixteen (versus seven baserunners) in just 8 games. With their bullpen showing signs of wear, Joaquin is a fresh arm who just might be for real...

Speaking of Whiteside, latest hero Brad Penny says, "There's not a guy who's called a better game for me in my career." With his defense, he could stick for years even hitting .212, ala Brad Ausmus. And with pitch-calling the least advanced of surprise call up Buster Posey's skills, Eli is suddenly in a position to lead...

There's word here that the A's Andrew Bailey not only made an impressive R.O.Y. push in August, he actually did not give up a run — or even a walk. Other relievers, take note: this is how it's done. In the same piece, Erik Karabell says the Giants placed a waiver claim on all-time saves leader Trevor Hoffman, although a trade agreement was never reached...

As for the Rrraiders, their final preseason games highlight problems that promise to outlast Chaz Shillins' injury. Chiefly: when things go wrong at quarterback, who will step up? And if you're tired of hearing us dog the Raiders, well, their underachieving neighbors, the Warriors, have just

released the schedule of the teams assigned to outscore them...

And seriously, write us, or leave a comment: are the Raiders the most penalized team of all time? This is history class; site your sources. Positive reinforcement, I promise, for 'A' students...

I'd love to ease off on the Raiders, really but permit me one more report: it's embedded in a piece on British soccer is an ESPN the Mag poll, in which readers are asked to predict a few events in the next decade. The results? The U.S. is more than twice as likely to win the World Cup as the Raiders are to win the Super Bowl. Unkind? You bet. Inaccurate? Yeah. And in the interest of fairness: pigs flying was not among the choices...

Why is the A's story about Miguel Tejada allegedly tipping pitches to opponents in 2001 suddenly such a big deal? (Why is A-Rod accused of the same thing, around the same time? Is this somehow a performance enhancing drug story spinoff?) But the biggest question: why has the Sac Bee, linked by ESPN.com, now deleted the story?

One man who knows more about October than anyone this side of Mariano Rivera went to a pennant contender for a hundred grand or so. And mark my words — there's an excellent chance John Smoltz, 42 and rehabbing or not, throws some tremendous clutch innings in the playoffs once more...

Scanning the waiver wire for fantasy bargains in 2010? I doubt ambidextrous wunderkind Billy Wagner is finished yet. Yes, he turns 39 next summer. But Wagner's already throwing 96; his career WHIP is lower than Mo Rivera's, and the last time he failed to strike out more than a batter per inning was: never...

Finally, you want my take on the N.L. wild card race? Here's the facts. It's statistically more likely that a team other than Colorado or S.F. wins the wild card — the Braves and Tommy Hanson, probably; even the Marlins or Cubs — than the Giants actually taking this thing. That's just reality. But the fun of it: you can be sure, Giants fans, that more unlikely things have happened. And that, in a nutshell, are why the Giants have already sold out the entire Dodgers and Rockies series. I don't have to tell you, it's been years since this kind of buzz — go drop the dollars and take advantage.

We're all about the comforts of home — but as Lex'll tell you, sometimes it's time to spread your wings. We'll hit you up from all over the globe, and never miss a beat — on The NOR CAL Report!