Buzzmaster

  (9:34 AM)

Amy Nelson will be here at 10 a.m. ET for another edition of "Your Take" where your comments could end up on this morning's First Take broadcast! Amy will be here throughout the show! Send your best comments and questions now!

Amy Nelson

  (9:43 AM)

Hi Guys, We'll start this in about 20 minutes. SOme topics to consider: the Lakers and will they win the west? Tiger, did the knee cost him the masters? And how will his surgery affect him? And please send in any baseball thoughs or questions you have for me, since I cover the sport for ESPN.com

Amy Nelson

  (10:01 AM)

Ok guys we're ready to get going here today...so let's start.

Christian, New York

Steve Nash won the MVP two years straight not only because of great numbers but also because he joined a team and it improved ten-fold. Kobe? Well they couldn't do it with him until Bynum got better, Odom was healthy...OH and they got Pau Gasol (conveniently). THEN, the Lakers got better. So shouldn't Pau Gasol be MVP? Not Kobe?

Michael (Connecticut)

Morning Amy. I think the Lakers will not go past the 2nd round in the West. They'll struggle against the Suns or Spurs

Willie (Bowling Green)

Indians bullpen?????

Amy Nelson

  (10:04 AM)

not in trouble as much as Atlanta's right now...

Paul (Indianapolis, IN)

Chris Paul is hands down the MVP, where were the Hornets before they drafted Paul, you can't deny his numbers, and without Paul the Hornets wouldn't be a playoff team let alone the 2nd best record in the best conference.

mike, kansas

who will win NBA mvp? I have CP3 winning it.

Jeff (Ohio)

Finally someone else realizes that Kobe was ready to quit on the team before the youngsters blossomed and they traded for an All-Star.

Ryan (Greensboro, NC)

Even with all the excitment in the west this year, I still can't get pumped up for the nba playoffs - which watching them feels more like competing in a marathon than sports entertainment.

tim (stl,missouri)

the cards are 11-4.stl is back on top.oh yeah!

Amy Nelson

  (10:05 AM)

Still don't believe that will last...

Chris (East Lansing)

Christian, any team needs a #2 to succeed. Even Kobe couldn't do it alone, so of course he couldn't do anything until Bynum got better/Gasol was gifted to the Lakers. Kobe is MVP. His team won the west.

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

I'm a big fan of CP3 for MVP...but why is Kevin Garnett being left out of most discussions? He led a team to the best single-season turnaround in NBA history!

Paul (Lorain, OH)

Why can't my Indians beat Boston? ... Man this is frustrating.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

The Lakers might lose in the first round if they aren't careful. The eight seed in the West is as good as the 3-8 seeds in the East.

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

I'm a Laker fan. But who is to say they won't get bounced out in the first round again? Didn't an 8 seed shock a 1 seed out West last year?

David (Syracuse, NY)

Don't get me wrong, Kobe Bryant is having a great season, but so is Chris Paul and I think he deserves the MVP. I was wondering if the fact that a future hall of famer like Kobe that has never won the MVP may waver in him winning the MVP.

Cory (Akron)

I know that the Laker's locked homecourt advantage, but Kobe should not will MVP. Since when is this award based on TEAM achievements? LeBron is obviously the "most valuable" player to the Cavs and would be on any other team. James for MVP and everyone knows it.

Scott, Colorado

Hey Paul, Frustrating is being a Tigers fan right now, don't worry about your Indians.

Arin, San Antonio

Kevin Garnett didn't lead his team to the best turnaround in NBA history. Garnett, Peirce, and Allen did. Chris Paul deserves the MVP.

Brian (OHIO)

amy who do you think should be the MVP of the NBA

Amy Nelson

  (10:09 AM)

Chris Paul, and I couldn't be more sure of it. I will be angry if he doesn't win it. My little brother lives in New Orleans and what Paul has done for that franchise, and more importantly, for that city, is well worth the award, And the stats back it up.

Michael (Connecticut)

Yes, but that was based on matchup Adam. This is far different! Kobe v.s. Carmelo & AI

Jeff (Ohio)

If the Lakers play the Nuggets I don' think they'll be worried. The Mavs might actually give them a series.

daniel ( daytona beach, FL )

Can the Orlando Magic get any respect at all. Hedo Turkaglu and D-12 are having career years. Rashard Lewis is exactly what we paid for. WHat about S. Van Gundy for Coach of the Year?

Kevin (Arlington, VA)

The Lakers record is much better w/ Gasol in the lineup. When Pau was hurt recently, they dropped two concecutive home games to Memphis and Charlotte. That has to hurt Kobe's case for MVP.

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Lakers fans beware: Home Court throughout the playoffs means nothing if you can't get out of the first round. See Dallas last season for your example.

Zack Brownfield (englewood ohio)

Kobe deserves the MVP this year. He makes everyone around him better. Yes Pau helped alot alot but the Lakers if the Lakers had Pau and not Kobe they would barely if at all make the playoffs.

Jeff (Michigan)

Chris Paul for MVP, still. But of course he won't get it, so it doesn't matter.

Dylan(racine,wisconsin)

Kobe is the mvp. everyone was ready to give it to Paul when the hornets had the best record in the west, now that the lakers have it its Kobe's award.

Drew (Baltimore, MD)

If you're going head to head, Kobe has had the better SEASON, but it is called the MOST VALUABLE PLAYER AWARD. To me, Chris Paul has been the MVP because if you take him away from NO, they don't make the playoffs. In my opinion, if you take Kobe away from the Lakers, they still have a shot to make the playoffs.

Amy Nelson

  (10:10 AM)

exactly.

Christopher (San Antonio)

Paul, Indians can't beat the Red Sox because they now have the mental problems that the Red Sox used to have with the Yankees. It's in the head, get ending to both games, Manny being Manny and the Captain saving the ship!

Chris (East Lansing)

Scott, Tigers fan's aren't frustrated! We're a patient breed. We know those gooseeggs on the scoreboard won't last forever.

Jeff (Michigan)

Chris Paul for MVP. Nothing can beat the turnaround he, Chandler and West have made. Plus Peja hasn't been too bad.

Disgruntled Janitor (Hartford, CT)

It's obvious they will give it to Kobe.

Tom (Chicago)

While I do respect what KG helped Boston do (with Ray Allen, a healthy Pierce, a more experienced Rondo and a deeper bench) , most of their wins came against the weaker Eastern conference, and look at their division! It's pathetic. It's a two man race between Kobe and CP3, and both are deserving.

MIke (bryon mn )

Gasol is the reason in myy opion that the lakers finnished where they did . while kobe is great without gasol they dont make the 8th seed

Willie (Bowling Green, OH)

All chris paul is dish the ball to really good shooters.

Amy Nelson

  (10:12 AM)

Willie are you serious?

Justin Princeton, TX

I really want to comment on the Mavs vs. Hornets but I can't let my Cardinals roots go, the Tony Larussa/Dave Duncan duo is showing its brilliance once again, and the Troy Glaus signing might have been severly under sold. I think Glaus and Shumacher make a huge difference for Pujols.

Amy Nelson

  (10:12 AM)

I still dont' think this will hold for the entire season

Cal (St. Paul, MN)

Drew, using that logic, Kobe should have won the MVP two years ago when he led a group of CBA talent players to the playoffs.

MIke (bryon mn )

well lets hope it goes to a tru mvp i would not give it to kobe. other players have been better teamates .

Jeremey ( Louisville, KY.)

Kobe is the MVP! He has been the best player in the league at least the last three years, all the analysts said whoever wins the west is MVP! Can Kobe finally get what he has been deserving?

Scott Colorado Springs

I am pretty sure Tiger's knee had nothing to do with the masters, I am sure it brothered him but he didn't lose because of it. His putting cost him the masters. He came in 2nd place that is awesome!

Cory Banks New Orleans,LA

I think Chris paul is the MVP this year because he took the hornets to the playoffs and he smash steve nash mvp seasons this year. He leads in assists and steals, Kobe leads in nothing and i mean nothing. Kobe is the best complimentary player in the league and he should not win the MVP because you think he is the best player in the league.

Mike, Amelia OH

Knowing now that Tiger had surgery on his knee, this might just explain why he played so poorly in the final round of the Masters this past sunday. He will be missed at the TPC but he'll be back and better than ever at the US Open.

Cal (St. Paul, MN)

I don't think Tiger's knee cost him the Masters. I would be willing to bet that he would be the first to admit it. Sometimes you don't perform to the best of your abilities and real champions never blame injuries for poor performance.

henry (jackson height, ny)

i dont know about you but i think paul has to win the mvp over kobe... kobe has way much better help than chris paul

justin houghton lake michigan

kobe for mvp, cp3 deserves accolades for what he's done for his team but kobe is the best player of this decade and deserves to be finally recognized, this should be his year

Cory Banks New Orleans, LA

What makes Kobe the best player in the league? He is not the best shooter, ray allen is. He does not have the best defense and is not the most feared guard in the league, iverson is especially after micheal jordan got his signature crossover ban... think bout it

Chris (Utica, NY)

Tiger doesnt play for 2nd place

nick (coal region PA)

if chris paul can get another star on that team then they will win the championship for years to come.

Matt (GA)

Do the Hawks win a game in the Boston series? Also Al 4 roy, and Josh smith for Defensive player of the year.

Amy Nelson

  (10:17 AM)

Dont think the Hawks will win a game...

Blake (OH)

If Chris Paul played for the Lakers would there be any argument on him being the MVP?

Nathan (York, Pa)

What about co-MVPs, Bryant and Paul?

Amy Nelson

  (10:17 AM)

intersting...has that ever happened before?

Damon (Birlington,VT)

Nick, I think you're not seeing things clearly when you make statemetns like that.

Jordan (NJ)

Btw, the Celtics were like 24-2 or something against the Western Conference. Maybe not as great, but they had no trouble beating the teams in the West. Look it up Tom.

Michael (Connecticut)

Matt, I think the Hawks will win a game

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Skip Bayless is always on the mark when it comes to the NBA. Listen to him. Spurs are dangerous as always. Duncan is the best Player in the Playoffs every year.

Damon (Birlington,VT)

The MVP should be the player that makes his team better. It's alot easier for Kobe to make Gasol better than it is for Chris Paul to make his team mates better.

Tim (Lebanon, PA)

Gotta be Paul

Jack, Boston

I think hawks get swept, sixers win 1 game, cleveland gets upset, magic win in 6.

Rene Jackson (Camden NJ)

you cant give co MVP it will be to conflicting

Johnny (Alabama)

People keep talking about CP3 and koby for MVP what about Kevin Garnett leading the biggest turnaround in NBA history

Jason New York

Corey Banks needs to stop being such a blatant homer. Chris Paul will not win the MVP

Tim (Lebanon, PA)

Tiger's knee injury probably just gave evrybody else a chance.

Michael (Connecticut)

Tiger's knee DID cost him Skip, get a reality check! :-!

Dylan (Pittsburgh)

Best Player in the playoffs? Duncan? right team. wrong name. Robert HORRY HORRY HORRY

josh (la)

there was once a co mvp wit dr j and kareem

jay (dayton ohio)

Kobe is the MVP and im tired of these so called nba experts changing the criteria every year of what an mvp is.

Corey Kutztown PA

Skip is wrong, Kobe and the LA Lakers are the team to beat in the west. San Antonio had their time in the sun and now they are aging and injuries are taking its toll on this "dynasty". In the East, the Celtics will finally shut down the Pistons and we finally get back to the 80's with a LA-Boston final. Look for Rajon Rondo to play great ball in the playoffs with everyone keying on the "Big 3"

Brian (Toledo, Ohio)

amy i see you talking right now lol

Amy Nelson

  (10:25 AM)

yep, i'm on tv for this thing...

Damon (Birlington,VT)

Will you be in the chatroom all day long as Jay suggests?

Amy Nelson

  (10:25 AM)

jsut for the two hours on the show...

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Smashed Steve Nash's season? Chris Paul is good. But I'd still take Nash.

ron (ct)

tiger woods is a cry baby, YOU LOST, GET OVER IT OR DEAL WITH IT! Please NO MORE EXCUSES

Willie (Bowling Green, OH)

Amy, you think if CC has a subpar year, the inidians will be able to resign him?

Amy Nelson

  (10:26 AM)

Willie interesting question ... i say no way. i think cc's gonna get the monet no matter what, and that wont be in cleveland.

Veronica (Philadelphia, PA)

Hey, Amy, Cole Hamels is off to a great start this season for the Phils. Do you think he can sustain it?

Amy Nelson

  (10:27 AM)

ANother good question...i think his talent suggests he should. We need to see him sustain it all year long, though.

mike (shreveport,louisiana)

CC will be at the top of the Yanks rotation

Amy Nelson

  (10:27 AM)

that's what i think...

Cranston (Dallas Tx)

Interesting how the best player in the league for the last three years has not ONE mvp award! What does the public have against KOBE?? Doesn't matter we can discuss it all we want KOBE will win it this year even the majority of NBA players say KOBE is the MVP!

jay (dayton ohio)

To me what tiger did was completly arrogant. It kind of discredits the winner of the masters and i do believe he is using his knee problems as an excuse

Amy Nelson

  (10:28 AM)

Jay, i think that is ridiculuos. I dont think you can question Tiger's passion and ehtusiam and respect for the game. WHy would he do this on purpse? He's a competitor.

Khari (Taylor TX)

Yes Paul is most definitely the MVP. Thereis really no overlooking him unless you decided in September that this was going to be Kobe's year.

Rueben (Ca)

nope. CC is gone. good or bad this year. everyone always leaves for the money.. look at J damon

Amy Nelson

  (10:29 AM)

in fairness, it's all about the money, but a lot of times it's also because of pressure fromt eh union. they don't like their players taking less money than they can, because it hurts fututre contracts across the league, in theory.

Tim (Lebanon, PA)

Look for Rajon Rondo to be exposed in the playoffs, Chauncey Billups will be all over him. The Celtics are gonna need Cassell to step up.

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

I feel sorry for you Amy. What 4 hours of chatting online? Ouch. Plus you are going to miss The View.

Jeremey (Louisville,m KY.)

Amy, Can the Whitesox keep them hot bats all season?

Amy Nelson

  (10:31 AM)

Jeremy, I wish i had picked them second in the division. It might not end that way but I did have a feeling abuot this team in the spring. If the pitching can keep it together i don't see why the offense can't maintain consistency throughout the season.

jonyi (sd)

Amy, Will the Angels win the West again?

Amy Nelson

  (10:32 AM)

Think that is a tough call, but after seeing Mariners pitching woes, it's hard to pick against the Angels. And it's always hard to pick against any team managed by Scioscia.

Pretty Ricky (Cleveland, OH)

CC has never proven to be a shut down number one starter that the Indians really want him to be. Look at his numbers in the playoffs and big games. Love and would be sad to see him go, but the facts are the facts

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Wang is a frontline starter. Just not in October.

Matt (Iowa)

What are your thoughts on the NFL schedule?

Amy Nelson

  (10:34 AM)

My thoughts are this is ridiculous that we are talkign about it. It's absurd in my mind. Who cares? Why are we talking about the NFL now on a year-round basis? Sorry, I cover baseball and the coverage and attention the NFL gets over baseball is sometimes overwhelming. Just one woman's opinion, obviously.

ronnie savannah, ga

amy, i see yesterday on the nba show everyone voted for kobe for mvp. is this the lifetime achievement award or '08 mvp?

Amy Nelson

  (10:35 AM)

that's what i was wondering ...

Sef (Connecticut)

I picked Kobe to be the MVP this year when i had a conversation with my friends because he is probably the main reason the Lakers are the best team in the West.

Derrick(Bradenton,FL)

Well More ppl would;d rather sit down and watch a Football Game because America identifies with violence over baseball

Brock (Monroe, LA)

I agree. Its similar to the NFL combine being televised. Who really needs to know how many times a guy ran a 4.2 40

Amy Nelson

  (10:35 AM)

It's too much...

Josh (Texas)

NFL is king no matter what. the ESPN ratings were off the charts just to see the schedule. It's proof.

Amy Nelson

  (10:36 AM)

I realize this, I'm not naive. But it's just too much when we dedicate all this time to discussing a SCHEDULE!

Jake (Syracuse)

Amy, the NFL is the king of the sports in the US, you have to admit that. Your not excited at all about the draft coming up in a week and a half?

Amy Nelson

  (10:36 AM)

Jake, Sorry, no. Again, I'm biased I cover baseball here...

Glen (San Antonio,TX)

The gentleman earlier who commented Kobe shouldnt win the MVP cuz he doesnt lead any statistical catagories needs to realize the one he does lead isnt a stat he made every player on the lakers better this year.

Adrian (Harrisonburg, VA)

Yes, Kobe has had a great season but just like every other year, someone else has had a better one. B4 it was Nash and this year is CP3. Mayb when Kobe starts making his teammates better, then he might win one of his own.

Aaron (Naperville, IL)

Amy, I think your opinion is justified and well heard. Too much talk in the Chicago area about the Bears is leading to a depressing cloud hovering over what I think is a pretty interesting and competitive baseball season so far.

Tim (Lebanon, PA)

The Diamondbacks are the frontrunner in the NL and maybe the whole league. They have the best frontline pitching and a ton of young hitting. Put that with the fact that they can run and play the field? I dont see anybody in the NL that complete.

Amy Nelson

  (10:38 AM)

Tim, I picked them to win the nl west (we'll see, anything can happen) and I was around them last weekend and will be in Phoenix this weekend. The clubhouse has got great chemistry adn a lot of young guys having more confidence and knowing the league a little better. And Melvin is such a good, underrated manager.

Glen (San Antonio,TX)

Amy since your specialty is baseball...what in the world is wrong with my Mets right now??

Lance (Lackey, VA)

Amy if the Diamondbacks stay hot throughout the year do think its possible for the young Justin Upton to emerge as an MVP candidate at his age if he keeps it playing well?

Amy Nelson

  (10:43 AM)

Lance, Wow, well i know people around him think that definitelty could be in his future. But to do it at 20? Imagine that, not out of the realm but I would think he's going to have some bumps this year. We'll see...

john (pa)

i know whats wrong with the mets they have no guts and if you have no guts no glory.

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Glen. Don't panic as far as the Mets go. Johan Santana will win his fair share of games. He's no Barry Zito. Maine and Perez will be solid again. The Mets were fine until September last year without Pedro. They will be fine again. If not Willie takes his ball and goes home.

Sefedin (Connecticut)

I don't believe that Upton is ready yet and has all the stuff to compete to be a MVP.

Brian (Detroit, MI)

It looks as though Justin Upton will be in many MVP discussions, for years to come.

Indianapolis

With Griffey Jr. coming closer and closer to 600 career home runs, do you think the Reds will pick up his option at the end of the season or split ways?

Amy Nelson

  (10:46 AM)

With the option at $16.5 mil, I'm not so sure. I havent made any calls on that, but the Reds aren't a big-market team, and Griffey won't be going for a milestone like 600...that's this year.

Brian (San Antonio)

Fukudome for MVP!!

Arland (MO)

Amy, what do you think about the KC Royals pitching staff so far.

Amy Nelson

  (10:47 AM)

Arland, I'm going to Oakland next weekend to do a story on that. Greinke has been a great story as has Bannister. And Soria is exciting to watch. I'll know more in a few weeks...

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

I attended both of the Braves vs. Mets games a couple weeks ago and I was not impressed. I know its early in the season but their pitching and defense looks suspect. Plus, they looked slow, including Reyes.

Tim (Lebanon, PA)

Look for Pat Burrell to emerge as an MVP candidate this year. He is a notorious slow starter, but is hot out of the gate this year and almost always has a strong second half.

Sefedin (Connecticut)

In my opinion the Reds would be foolish not to sign Griffey because he will have about 650 by the time he is done.

scott (the chi)

Hey Lance- No question J Upton is playing out of his mind, but once pitchers realize it *might* not be a good idea to throw him fastballs I think we will see a bit of a slippage. A .280, 20/20 season is definitely likely though..

Lone Marlins fan (Florida)

We're in 1st. I told you we're gonna shock the world!!!!!!

Amy Nelson

  (10:48 AM)

You certainly did Lone Marlins fan...

Brian (San Antonio)

I think the Reds will explore their options they have to think about the future. A lot of AL clubs would like as a DH (another dumb concept in sports history).

Chris (Atlanta)

I don't get it. Kobe was a distraction the entire offseason. He was trying to get traded, get his teammates traded, and the gm fired. He has a decent season on a team with two other potential all-stars and a hall of fame coach, and now he's the MVP. Where's the logic in that? If he had his way, he would have been in Chicago complaining again.

Brian (Detroit, MI)

Ken Griffey Jr. has some trade value, so i would guess if they aren't in it at the end of July, he doesn't finish the season as a Red? Plus you forget, we are still waiting for his annual knee injury, and it could always be the one that puts him out.

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Ichiro won the MVP in his Rookie Year. Fukudome could do it. Only problem is that David Wright also plays in the National League,

Jake (Syracuse)

Duaner Sanchez returned for the Mets last night, he will be a HUGE addition if he's anything like he was before.

Amy Nelson

  (10:49 AM)

Chris Woodard told me Sanchez was basically their MVP of that 06 season. He was deavastating when he pitched, be intersting to see if he can ever be the same. What a tough break...

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Griffey needs to be DH'ing in the boogie down or Toronto by the end of the year.

Aaron (Naperville, IL)

If Griffey is free, I could see the Cubs possibly going after him - depending on what the ownership situation is at the time. With Fukudome in right, Soriano in left, Griffey could complete a pretty strong outfield in center for the Northsiders. Again, as a Cardinals fan, I hope that doesn't happen.

Jim (Murray,KY)

I am a Reds fan and Griffey came to the team for less money than others offered. I think he has a special relationship with the Reds and they will keep him.

Sefedin (Connecticut)

I think the MVP stands for the most valuable player of a certain team that contributes the most and help them win.

Jake (Syracuse)

Tim in Lebanon, theres no way Burrell wins the MVP

bradley (atl, ga)

Lone fan, ask the Mets what a first place lead means in september.

Jon (Wichita, KS)

Amy last night on Baseball Tonight the question was posted (Who is the best African American player in baseball?) My vote is for Torii Hunter, who do you got?

Amy Nelson

  (10:51 AM)

Jon, I havent thought about it yet so let me get back to you. but you bring up a topic of discussion : the lowest percentage of african-anerican players in the game.

Jake (Syracuse)

Yes Sanchez had a tough break, a taxi accident. He was money in 06, just hope he's fully recovered

Bubba (GR)

Watch out for Carlos Pena for M.V.P he will hit 50 homeruns and will keep the devil rays i mean rays in the hunt.

Damon (Burlington,VT)

How about Bob Gibson?

Damon (Burlington,VT)

Jon have you ever heard of Larry Doby?

Brian (Detroit, MI)

Don't be surprised if the Reds look at it like a business decision and make the best call from a business sense Jim from KY. My thought process of loyalty from either a player or team in sports has been long dead.

Chris B (Westlake, CA)

Reds wont pick up Griffey Jr. The Dodgers will because thats where vets go to die...Lets go Nomar!

Aaron (Iowa)

Amy do you think Andrew Jones' career is pretty much over or can he revive himself?

Amy Nelson

  (10:59 AM)

i dont think its over, but he aint looking good right now

taylor (silverdale,WA)

griffey will go to the mariners

Brian (San Antonio)

Everyone goes through a slump at least Andrew is facing it early he will be fine.

Jon (Wichita, KS)

Current African American player, not greatest of all time. All-time I guess you have to go either Willie Mays or Barry Bonds.

Brian (San Antonio)

If we are talking about the greatest African American player ever in baseball my vote goes to Satchell Page he revolutionized the pitching game.

Christopher (San Antonio)

Andrew Jones is done because he still thinks that you should pull every pitch, even those 2 feet off the plate in the dirt.

Brian (Detroit, MI)

I think its more of an economic disucussion then a cultral one, in regards to african american in baseball....rather then look at the racial aspect of it, I would be willing to bet the amount of players from lower income families that grew up in the US is WAY down. There are more appealing ways to pass time in inner city areas. Unfortunately, not all of them are as responsible or even legal.

Brian (Detroit, MI)

As far as unheralded African American big leaguers, I think a great role model and will be a great player for years to come is Curtis Granderson, I think he will be a fixture in CF for years to come in Detroit, he might never be in the top ten in MVP voting, but will be a player who always plays the game the right way..... he is the straw that stirs the Tigers drink, his injury is a big reason the tigers have started the way they have.....he is always smiling and having fun.

Amy Nelson

  (11:03 AM)

I know a lot of the black players are frustrated becuase they tell me kids will tell them that they play a "white sport" and that why would they want to play a sport where they don't belong? The black players try and tell them this isn't the case, but with the numebrs dwindling, it's becoming more of a reality. It's a crisis.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Brian (San Antonio): You keep believing that about Andruw. There's a reason the Braves didn't resign him and that he could only get a two year deal. He's pig-headed and overweight. Big waste of money by the Dodgers.

Glen (San Antonio,TX)

Andrew Jones has always been noted for his defense....so any offensive slump I dont believe is all that bad because whatever he does at the playe is just an added bonus.

Tim (Lebanon, PA)

Greates African American Player is Willie Mays(natural), or Barry Bonds(chemically enhanced), greates pitcher has to be Bob Gibson he owned the plate when he pitched

Justin (FL)

Brian, it wasn't ALWAYS like that. the great black players of the 60's and 70's, where did they grow up? beverly hills?!?

Christopher (San Antonio)

Andrew has been slumping from the end of 06, all of 07, and now look at 08. There is a reason John Surholtz and the Braves let him walk. Who would know him better than the Braves organization?

Jeff (Ohio)

Easily Willie Mays. Prototypical 5-tool player. Probably the 2nd best player of all-time.

Jeff (Iowa)

Brian, ever hear of a couple of guys named Mays and Aaron?

Jake (Syracuse)

Jackie Robinson hands down

Aaron (Iowa)

Andrew Jones has been slumping for at least 2 years, that is why he is in L.A. and not in ATL still..

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Aaron,as a Braves fan I can assure you that Andruw is done. After his 50 Hr season he lost his discipline and started swinging for the fences. Unless, he turns that around, forget about it. But, he is the best CF I have ever seen. He could have been a HOF'er. Still will have an outside shot because of this glove and character.

Brian (San Antonio)

I think every hitter goes through a slump in his career, Andrew should coime out of this consdering how early its taking place.

Omar (Minneapolis)

do not understand why Chris Paul is in the MVP conversation. Peoples' argument is that he has a worse team than Kobe's Lakers but I don't agree because he plays along side another all star in David West. Skip please name another all star in the Lakers roster?

bradley (atl, ga)

Amy, I don't think it's a crisis. I honestly do not know anyone black that grew up playing baseball and I grew up in an area that was 90% black.

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Andruw Jones defense is not even close to what it once was. Ask Dodgers fans and they will tell you they'd much rather have Slappy McPopup aka Juan Pierre shagging down flyballs in Center field these days.

Jeff (Ohio)

Jones has lost a step, or 5. That's what happens when you try to play CF carrying 250 lbs.

Jake (Syracuse)

Earth to Omar, Pau Gasol is an All star, but i do believe Kobe should win the MVP

Justin (FL)

bradley: thats NOT a crisis?!? if it aint, then its a sin!!!

Rueben (Ca)

baseball just isnt reaching kids early enough.. soccer and basketball are, and everyone ditches soccer for football later anyway

Jeff (Ohio)

Pau Gasol is easily better than David West and he was an All-star on a crappy team. Without CP3 there's no way David West would be an All-Star.

Amy Nelson

  (11:08 AM)

that's what Greg Anthony just said to me, more or less...

Jon (Wichita, KS)

Omar - Paul Gasol, and I would argue that he is better than David West. That being said what Chris Paul has done this season is amazing.

Jake (Syracuse)

Great point Jeff, CP3 is nasty, but this is Kobe's time

Arland (MO)

CP3 and Kobe are both evenly qualified for the MVP award so the winner of the conference has to get it.

Amy Nelson

  (11:10 AM)

Arland, That's what Greg Anthony was just saying to me...

Bob (NYC)

There are fewer caucasian kids playing in the NBA. Is anyone making a big deal about that? Just let the kids play. Whoever is the best, they will play. Race should not matter.

Michael (Connecticut)

Jones will not get more than 10 HRs, guaranteed. And come on Jeff, David West is better than Pau Gasol. West stayed with 1 team all year, Gasol went from Memphis to LA

Justin (FL)

QUESTION: is it that there aren't many black players in the majors, or is it that there aren't many black kids playing ball ata all?

Amy Nelson

  (11:11 AM)

It's both, I think we're skipping a generation here...

Aaron (Iowa)

I don't know of any way to fix the shortage of african americans in baseball, it seems to be that the african american youth is just not interested in baseball. I hate to generalize but I just don't think it is "hip hop" enough..

bradley (atl, ga)

Justin, don't go all David Koresh on me. Baseball really isn't that appealing to black youths. And, while I'm not sure about other areas of America, but there are 20 basketball courts to one baseball field in my area. Maybe exposure is the problem

Omar (Minneapolis)

Bob you make a good point. But even though people dont say it. race is still a big deal in this country

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Bradley, it is a crisis. I have a 3 year old son and I am counting the days to where I can take him to a Braves game and share my love for the game with him. We sit and watch Braves games now and he is mesmerized by it. Baseball is the ultimate father/son sport. White fathers pass that on to their sons through the generations. African Americans now pass basketball on to their sons. It's cultural and it is a crisis. I live in the burbs now but I grew up in the hood so I know it does not get the love that basketball gets. Baseball needs more exposure in our community and I hope the RBI program will have an impact.

Brian (Detroit, MI)

I bring up my point again....I don't think its a racial issue... I know the amount of minorities in the inner city is larger then the white population.......but the white kids in the inner city aren't choosing baseball either, for all the same reasons that the minorities aren't.

Christopher (San Antonio)

A basketball court really has no maintenance. Concrete and goals, a baseball field requires alot more attention and I don't think that people are willing to do the extra work to make baseball appealing to the youth.

john (pa)

no kids in inner citys are playing baseball white or black and i would say it isn't there fault.the citys are not taking care of fields and not giving programs the room to play the game.i would like to see the precentage of mlb players that are from inner citys of all colors.

Chris (Boiling Springs, SC)

Well, basketball courts take up less space than baseball fields. That's certainly one reason for that.

Jake (Syracuse)

Michael, David West is better than Pau Gasol, what are you smoking? Pau was the only really good player on Memphis and he still was an All Star, Pau is much better overall

Amy Nelson

  (11:16 AM)

anyone have any thoughts on who shoudl coach the knicks next, other than skip?

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Another thing about basketball is that you can find a way to play it all year long. You can't do that with baseball.

Justin (FL)

bradley: the problem lies in the fact that the kids aren't given the power of choice because they don't make the decision to build either a baseball diamond or a basket ball court. if all they have is one or the other, then i think its safe to say that they will be interested in whatever they have, no?

Jeff (Iowa)

Alonzo, my son is a sophomore, and there is a very good chance that he will have the chance to play Division I baseball or football. He could also be drafted in pro baseball out of high school. He will have to make that choice, but it's his choice to make. If a kid wants to find a baseball field, he will find it. Don't push him into something that he is not interested in.

Amy Nelson

  (11:17 AM)

i wouldnt say if a kid wants to find a field, he'll find it. first off, there might not be any. second, he needs some other kids who want to go play on that field. pickup baseball doesn't exist this coutnry anymore, and that's sad...

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Bradley I agree with your opinion on access to basketball in the inner cities especially. You can go to any school yard and shoot hoops by yourself or in your driveway. You need 18 other people to play baseball. That just ain't happening in the hood. Someone needs to step up and try to organize a program to get our kids involved to see how great a game baseball is to play.

Aaron (Naperville, IL)

Funny the comment about baseball not being hip hop enough was just made. I remember hearing that Nelly was playing minor league baseball and could have made a run at an honest career in the sport, but he said it was taking too long to make money.

Brian (San Antonio)

I think it sucks race is a big deal what does it matter either you can play or you can't big deal.

Amy Nelson

  (11:18 AM)

brian i think your view is shortsighted. it should matter, it always should matter.

Chris B (Westlake, CA)

Tom Zbikowski is amazing, just a beast!

Jake (Syracuse)

Americans just arent playing baseball as much as we used to, were playing football and basketball more, doesnt matter race or status. Baeball has opened training facilities in Latim American countries because they wanna play baseball more than us Americans do.

Amy Nelson

  (11:19 AM)

Jake, perhaps but they're openign them because of the money. it's a fraction to sign latin maerican players than american. that's just a small part of this problem.

bradley (atl, ga)

Zo, I feel you. The only reason I know anything about baseball at all is because of the fantabulous Amy K. Nelson

Brian (San Antonio)

Maybe the Knicks should try to woo Larry Brown he is probably getting an itch right now and it his kind of situation that he likes to get into.

Michael (Connecticut)

Race shouldn't be an issue

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

I think Walsh will make a wise choice. Anyone see the possibility of Larry Brown returning? It'd be a shocker. But Larry Brown is all about comebacks.

Jon (Wichita, KS)

I think exposure is a problem as well as the cost involved with baseball, gloves and bats are very expensive. Plus baseball needs to be more of an organized activity. You can't go play a game of pickup baseball with 6 guys like you can basketball.

Dan ( daytona beach fl )

i think that Jeff Van Gundy should come back as coach of the Knicks. He was a great coach for them back in the late 90's early 00's. He is a hard nose kinda guy. He is an attention getter. Jeff Van gundy is the man for the job

Sheldon (New YOrk)

Without questin, the next coach of th Knicks sould be ABC NBA commentator Mark Jackson. He is a NYC basketball product who played for St. John's & the Knicks. He would be a fan favorite and have a great rapport with managment ahd the players. As a point guard himself, he can finally get Stepohon Marbury to play like the leader of the team.

Brian (San Antonio)

I guess I just want everything to be equal for everybody just how I was raised.

Brian (Arlington ,VA)

So in a nation that the majority of the population is white,what is the proper percentage of minorities that should be playing?

Glen (San Antonio,TX)

Maybe the Knicks should take a page from seattle and move.

Aaron (Naperville, IL)

Good point. Baseball might not be as popular because you can't follow it in college. I have wanted to see more college baseball televised for quite some time. Except for occasional regional coverage, we don't see it until the College World Series, and then we don't know who to follow because we don't know the teams or players. We have to wait until they get to the minors to find out who they are.

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

I think right now Walsh is holding his breath and hoping that 1st pick lottery ball goes to his Knicks. Then whoever he choses to Coach will have that to entice them to help clean up the circus that has been the New York Knicks.

Jeff (Michigan)

Charles Barkley would be an interesting coach for the Knicks. Can't you see him screaming "that play is TUR A BULL"?

kyle (evansville)

the black kids are not playing baseball because it doesnt grab there attention like basketball or football

john (pa)

how about this there are less scholarships given to baseball players going to college then football maybe that is part of the problem.

Amy Nelson

  (11:25 AM)

with only 11.5 baseball scholarship per team, not enough...

Hasnain (Toronto)

i think pat riley should go back to the knicks, he has the swag you need to coach in a city as intense as new york...but then again he might just quit on them too and go watch some more NCAA ball

Jeff (Ohio)

Mark Jackson has zero coaching experience (head or otherwise) so he's going to be the head coach of the most media driven team around? Not likely.

Omar (Minneapolis)

I think should the Warriors fire Nelly. The knicks should get him because they have the same parts as the warriors.

T.O. (NYC)

Baseball just isn't cool anymore.

Pretty Ricky (Cleveland, OH)

The best thing the Knicks can do, is hit the reset button and start all over. There is not ONE player on the team that is worth keeping.

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Move? C'mon Glen. What would come next for New Yorkers if the Knicks moved? A blind Governor?

nathan (atlanta)

cmon the notion that less african american players is a crisis is a little selfish i think, if you find data that indicates african americans are playin less sports thats one thing but that there is a decline in one sport is just simply a narrow view by those who prefer baseball over the other major sports, no is complaining about the lack of african americans in soccer or hockey.....look baseball is the most international of the 3 major sports so obviously as more latin and asian players come into the league the percentage is goin to drop for whites and blacks...my son will play whatever maintains his interest thats the only way i know how to do it

Damon (Burlington,VT)

College baseball, as Greg said is a non factor in modern day college athletics.

Rueben (Ca)

amy, did they just make fun of my post? skip should be the next coach of the knicks just so he can eat his own words when lebron comes to town.

Josh (Asheville, NC)

Sorry, I am late. Just got caught up on the chat so far and got a grip with a fellow chatter. Micheal from Conn. said that David West was better than Pau Gasol due to Gasol was traded?!? Are you serious? Trades usually happen for due to moving salaries for a team's salary cap. I guess in Micheal's mind David West is better than KG since KG was traded. And I know Michael's comment was posted earlier in the chat, so once again I apologize to Amy & her Nation.

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Baseball is the American pastime. It has the legend, it has the lore and the kind of wholesomeness that appeals to White America. As African Americans, what we see and remember about baseball is not so much it's majesty but it's the segregation, the way Jackie Robinson and so many others were treated. That still resonates to this day and it is a turn off. We look at the way Barry Bonds has been treated and it just gives us another reason to say "look, things haven't changed that much"...Basketball was just as segregated but it doesn't have the same negative stigma as baseball.

Josh (Texas)

Baseball isn't America's pasttime anymore. Kids no matter the color loves competiton and you get that from the basketball courts on the playground. You can play football just about anywhere and just tackle like crazy. With baseball you need to be patient and kids ain't patient for anything. Also it takes a long time to get to the bigs unlike basketball and football. They see dollar signs in the pros and they want to get there as fast as possible.

Jeff (Iowa)

Great point, Nathan.

Mered, Carlsbad,Ca

With regards to the state of baseball, the reason you have less blacks, and caucasions for that matter is simple, 11.5 scholarships for college baseball vs 85 for college football.

Amy Nelson

  (11:32 AM)

i actually think it's 100 for college football

Chris (Guilford, CT)

I think the youth of america is not enticed by baseball because the game is so slow. In this day and age people wantr fast scoring and a lot of action. A lot of young people say baseball is too slow and there is a lot of standing around. In basketball you are running all the time and in football most of the african american athletes are receivers, running backs and even quarterbacks so they ahve the ball in their hands all the time. In baseball you have to wait for your pitch or the ball to be put into play

george (memphis)

i would hire willes reed or karem for the knicks

Sean (Philly)

I am 32, and as a white kid growing up in the suburbs, baseball didn't have enough going on to hold my attention back then. In today's fast paced, show me the money world, it wouldn't surprise me if a lot fewer kids, black or white, are getting into baseball.

Amy Nelson

  (11:33 AM)

what about pickup baseball? NO ONE in this country plays it anymore. balck, white, hispanic ... i think that's one of the main culprits.

Jake (Syracuse)

Alonzo, Baseball is not the American pasttime anymore, everyone just has to get over it, football is king now and unless they go on strike, it will be king forever.

matt (San Jose)

Why is always about Black or white or any other race that is in our sports? Why not just the best people?

yoki rivero (san francisco)

hey amy. i just wanna comment about that knicks coaching job... i agree with skip. I think Greg would make a great coach for the Knicks for his Defensive mind. The Knicks have a great lineup for offense, all they need is agood defensive rotation and I think Greg can take out of them...

Chris (Glendale, CA)

Greg's suggested coach is a great choice for New York. At first I thought of Jeff Van Gundy for Greg's same reason, defensive purposes

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

As an African American, I think that the low pct. of players in the league is because Basketball and Football is so prevalent in our communities. Basketball has that Hip-Hop, in your face mentality that appeals to the younger set. Football has that aura as well. However, baseball is a slower game and it doesn't draw in the young kids from an excitement standpoint. Plus, baseball is not pushed in our community. Basketball is in a big way.

Rueben (Ca)

its easier to build a basketball court in a city than clear out homes and businesses to make a baseball field... that's why kids aren't interested in it.

bradley (atl, ga)

My vote for the Knicks is that Whoopi Goldberg character, Eddie. He/ She seemed to know a lot more about basketball than Isaih did

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Maybe you have the pope coach the Knicks because right now, devine intervention is about the only thing that can save them.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Wow, a coach for the Knicks. I'll go off the board and say Patrick Ewing. You get back a legendary figure in NY who cares about the team. Even if they aren't very good, you probably keep the fans happy for a while.

Jay (Indiana)

I agree with Greg's comment on Marc Jackson being a good coach for the Knicks but what about Reggie Miller being a coach for them, he has a great relationship with Donnie Walsh as well I think would be a great fit.

Amy Nelson

  (11:35 AM)

would knick fans accept miller as their coach?

Chris Atlants, GA

I think that baseball is less popular in mostly black communities because it's so expensive. In order to play it well you need a nice glove, and cleats, and a bat. And as a former baseball player I can say without any hesitaion that it takes a toll on your pocket. Not to mention the travel teams that cost thousands a summer. Football and basketball are a lot cheaper. All you need for basketball is a pair of sneaker and ball. The gear for football is also mush more affordable. Baseball is just too costly for some people to get started in it. I live in a mostly black suburb so we had the money, but not everyone has the resources I did.

Justin (FL)

Zo: i'd love to believe that american youth have that sort of grip on history, no matter their race, but i'm skeptical. really unsure how many black kids now about satchell paige or the negro leagues, just as not many white kids no about honus wagner or the summer of '41.

Ryan winslow Maine

One of the problems with baseball is: Barry Bonds! He was the greatest African-American and possibly the best of all time black or white! What happened there? The Media Brought him down, down so far he cant get a job anywhere! Everyone was takin steriods not just him!!! We could of been praising him last year but NOOOO! The biggest black figure in the sport has been black balled and Honestly its not fair!

Spike Lee (New York)

The Knicks should hire either Rick Pitino or myself

Sefedin (Connecticut)

i dont think kids want to play baseball just on a playground but rather on a team whether it is in high school or college.

Ryan: Wading River, NY

What are they talking about no idols in american soccer. Growing up in todays society and playing on competitve teams all the emphisis is on the players that take place in competitive leagues. Examples that are emphasized include David Beckham and Juan Pablo Angel. As a goalie many idols can include Tim Howard and Joe Cannon. There are many professional players that can be considered idols if the major networks would show more professional soccer there would be more kids aspiring to play professional soccer.

Jeff (Iowa)

Amy, you are so wrong about that. Come to my hometown on a Saturday afternoon in the summer, and you will see kids playing baseball. They move to the courts and shoot some hoops. To make a state like that is irresponsible journalism.

Amy Nelson

  (11:38 AM)

Jeff, Sorry but a colleague of mine was working on a pickup baeball story. I helped him with the reporting and we asked all over; scouts, the streets, players you name it. We could not find any pickup games. Your town, is a rarity, from our reporting.

Johnny (Scranton, PA)

Chris: I do agree about the finances but how can we explain the popularity of baseball in underdeveloped Latin American areas? They aren't using expensive equipment yet the game seems to be thriving.

Marvin (St. Louis, MO)

Tthe problem is Baseball is just such a boring sport. I have a son who plays out field for his little league team and he actually played in a game where not a single ball came his way. That could never happen in Basketball or Football. In every other sport everyonbe is envolved in some way, which makes the game much more enjotable for everyone.

Ray (Baltimore,MD)

Amy,No one has gym class anymore. So the different sports arent explored anymore.Naturally the game with more contact and excitement is going to succed.

Mike E (Chicago)

I agree with what Geeg said about African Americans not really being exposed to baseball in theis youth. growing up i had to travel to another part of town to play baseball. when i wanted to play basketball, i could go around the corner to the park. or when i wanted to play football we would play in the street with just a few guys. It takes too much to get a baseball game started in the "Hood"

Sefedin (Connecticut)

I dont think Miller would be accepted just because he played in Indiana, but i think he would make a great coach.

Josh (Asheville, NC)

Until chicks start digging the long ball again, boys will play the flashier sports as in basketball & football.

Owen (Massachusetts)

for a knicks coach how about Wilis Reed?

yoki (san francisco)

i think Spike Lee is gonna freak out if Reggie coaches

derrick indiana

im african amercian, and baseball isnt a big things where i live. its not that we dont like it. noone funds its. and basketball have nba cares and so do football.we ask do the MLB how something that show us they care about the community.

Ryan winslow Maine

I dont think Knicks fans would mind that much! Its a love hate type of thing with him!

Daniel ( daytona beach fl )

WOw Reggie as Knicks coach.. I dont think SPIKE LEE would ever let that happen.

yoki (san francisco)

Believe it or not. The reason why kids doesnt wanna play baseball anymore coz kids these days want more adrenaline rush to them. That's why they'd rather play football and basketball than playing baseball in which (no offense to everyone) is a little boring..

Jeff (Ohio)

Chicks started digging the long-ball right around the time the long-ball was chemically enhanced.

Amy Nelson

  (11:41 AM)

jeff, good call...

Derik (Montgomery,AL)

Take a look at the Ryan Howard Dick's sporting goods and Addidas commercial. Theres not one African-American kid in the commercial.

Justin (FL)

MARVIN: if baseball is boring, why is attendance so good? boring to you does not mean boring to all.

jonyi (sd)

i used to play pickup baseball with my friends. but it is so much easier to get a group of guys to play basketball than baseball. I truly believe that its becuz bball is a faster sport and also nobody pitchs overhand when they play pickup. so its a lil harder to emulate a real time baseball game.

Kevin (Chicago, IL)

Baseball's decline with young African Americans can largely be attributed to the events of the late 1990's. Were it not for injuries, good-looking, super-marketable player in Ken Griffey Jr. would be breaking the all-time home run record. Instead, we got Barry Bonds as not only the face of current baseball, but the topic of conversation about whom former african american hero's were forced to speak on a regular basis. Terrible turn of fortunes for the game.

Jeff (Iowa)

Did you check with any towns smaller than 10,000 people, which, much to the surprise of most of the media, actually exist? Sure, in the big cities, you may not see it as much, but's out there. You just have to look harder.

Amy Nelson

  (11:43 AM)

Jeff, we did and we also spoke to scouts, many of whom are in those small towns, whether you believe that or not. i had one scout who was on a native american reservation looking for talent, didnt' see any pickup games. unfortunately, we dont have th budget to drive to small towns all over the country. the point is to not look in cities (where we know it's not happening) and in those small communities. didnt see or hear of it happening in many places/

Daniel ( daytona beach fl )

I dont see the big deal about Michael Beasly as # 1 pick. to me he is a nba verson of Christen Lattener. O.J. Mayo would be my number pick. He is combo guard that can post up and slash to the basket, rebound ,and make his teammates better with his lightning passing ability

Nick (Franklin, NJ)

The problem with Greg's NCAA baseball plan is that we fans watch college sports to see who our future pro stars will be. In baseball there is no way of knowing who will be drafted, and if they are it may take years before they contribute as a professional. Football and basketball players often provide a more immediate impact.

Amy Nelson

  (11:44 AM)

nick, good poitn. what people seem to forget is that the money is, in general, better in baseball because its GUARANTEED. even a $50,000 bonus is better than nothing. and there are way more players who are able to play with bigger rosters than basketball

Les (Orange County, CA)

Why is the lack of american born black athletes in MLB a "crisis", while when it comes to the NBA there are virtually no american born non-blacks in the sport and that is NEVER mentioned?

Amy Nelson

  (11:45 AM)

actually, it's mentioned quite a bit. especially by fans ...

Anthony (Toronto)

Equipment cost is also getting to be a big factor in baseball decline. You have to spend $30-50 on a glove and another $50 dollars on a bat compared for $20 for a football/baseball. Baseball is not a cheap sport.

Omar (Minneapolis)

Blame Michael Jordan for the decline of youths in baseball. Since he took the court, all kids wanted to do is play basketball.

Chris (Guilford, CT)

chris in atlanta baseball is not expensive to play. All you need is a glove a ball and a stick. people used to play stick ball in the street or play with a tennis ball in the backyard. Expensive has nothing to do with it

Brain (Detroit, MI)

Baseball has RBI, but they have to put more money into that program, but i am not sure that would help that much, baseball might be too far gone to help. And even if they get a ton of youths playing baseball in the inner city, i don't know that it will make a huge impact even then, I mean it would still not be as popular a sport as football or basketball. I mean I would be willing to bet that more kids play soccer then almost anyother youth sport, and the popularity of soccer in America, not to mention the quality of players, is still WAY behind most other countries. The exceptional athletes are still going to choose football or basketball

Chris (Guilford, CT)

yeah but it takes longer to make big bucks in baseball than in any other sport

Amy Nelson

  (11:47 AM)

true, but an injury can end any promising career. the upfront money is generally better and at least is there. and if you can get a contract and make it. best money and union in pro sports

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Johnny, I think baseball is so prevalent in latin america because the communities come together as a collective to get games, leagues and training together. They get the kids interested from a cultural standpoint. I live in Macon, Ga but I grew up in Warner Robins, Ga the home of the little league champs. Not a single black kid on that team. Is that a racial statement? No, it just shows that the black kids in my area are not as interested in baseball. I think its the same way across the country.

Justin (FL)

NICK: which is EXACTLY why kids dont play. they dont have the patience. they dont want it later, they want it NOW. we are in the middle of the "on demand" era, and its all about, what can i get NOW? answer: playing in the nba and nfl means you can get paid NOW!

LHJR (Indy)

The athlete of the day is forced to specialize at the college level after playing as many as three sports at the high school level (elite athlete).At that point it changes from play for fun to for pay.THose that don,t go pro simply stop playing raher than go to the secondary sport.

chris (minneapolis)

another reason were seeing a decline of pickup games is due to your xbox playstation, we didnt have all that stuff 10-15 yrs ago

Ryan (Wading River NY)

If the better players are coming from other countries why are people complaining the point of professional sports is for the best players to play and win it does not matter what the race it is just who can play the best. Who cares about the race of a player except for the people who care about nothing less then statistics. If the best players are not caucasian or african american then it should not matter. Soon we will see teams picking players based on race not ability showing us reverting to the times when black people wouldnt be allowed to play.

Jay (Indiana)

I disagree with you omar MJ set the standard for kids growing up watching him play and for who wanted to play basketball wanted to follow in his footsteps baseeball has nothing to do with MJ

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Upfront money and security over dorm rooms and lecture halls? I think so.

Jeff (Ohio)

It takes longer and requires more hard work and less natural talent, unlike basketball where you can get by by being Vince Carter and taking games but still putting up 20 a night.

Mike E (Chicago)

probably the nuber one reason why african-americans don't like baseball as much...no cheerleaders1

Rueben (Riverside, Ca)

you don't hear about dodgers mini camps for kids or anything like that.. just the other day, the lakers advertised to millions on ABC about a program for kids to hone thier basketball skills.

Jeff (Ohio)

Good point from Chris, why go out and play when you can stay in and play with all your favorite stars over and over again?

Jason, Rockland County, NY

I don't think race in baseball is a problem for really anyone. I live near NYC. Im Spanish and I have a lot of mix friends both black and white. it seems to me that yankees for example has Arod, Matsui, and Derek Jeter. Very mixed nationalities, yet walk in NY everyone loves the Yankees and Mets. Surburban guys play fantasy baseball, I guess innner city guess love mlb baseball hats. And All woman Love Jeter and Arod.

Sean (Philly)

The most popular pickup sports don't require much equipment. One ball is required for Soccer/Football, and they can be played anywhere including the street. Basketball requires a hoop and a ball which are easily found. The space, and need for a bat and several gloves is a hinderance to pickup games.

Jeff (Iowa)

Justin, you are right. I used to sit on the floor and watch a three-hour baseball game when I was a kid. My son, an all-state football and baseball player, will not sit down and watch a game, not when he has an XBox in the house. It's absolutely amazing.

Justin (FL)

cost doesnt have to be an issue. poor kids in the dominican and cuba, you think they have money for a brand new glove? or bat? or even a ball? many dont even have a real field to play on, yet somehow, they find a way to play, dont they? anyone STILL wanna play the "cost is to high" game? doesnt hold water here.

John (Kentucky)

I think that the problem with African americans and sports is the music they listen to. It encourages awful behavior and praises poor decisions in life, rather than playing sports.

Amy Nelson

  (11:51 AM)

john, wow if ever there were an ignorant comment ...

chris (minneapolis)

im 24, still play ball and we even play pickup games, now my little cousin who is 13 would rather stay inside and play halo instead of going out and running around

Josh (Asheville, NC)

Omar, I enjoyed playing basketball when I was younger before I knew who Jordan was. Baseball just didn't hold my interest. Jordan ain't to blame. Video games are. Why play a game that will take hours & you may ocassionally get the ball when you are constantly in control when you play a video game.

Markus (Rockingham, NC)

Young blacks are not into baseball because of IMAGE. You can play high-school basketball and be on national television. Or you can play high-school football and have a nationally televised press conference on signing day. It's just not like that in baseball. Black youth adore image above everything else. You're just another face on the team in MLB.

Chris (Guilford, CT)

the elite athlete can play any sport but baseball has more to do with mental toughness than skill. You need to know the game more and that takes time. Basketball if you can out jump and out dribble the competition thats all you need. Baseball you need to think about what pitch is coming where the guy will hit the ball and where to throw the ball when it comes to you. These things mean more than physical ability and youth today doesnt want to learen the games they just want to use their talents

Josh (Texas)

What 10-15 years ago I was playing Tecmo Bowl. Video games aren't a excuse.

john (pa)

maybe there is just to much failure in baseball.

Jay (Indiana)

basketball takes as much hard work and dedication as baseball does

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

I know. C'mon John. Elvis was considered a bad influence at one time. Get a grip.

Chris (Guilford, CT)

there are oor decisions in all sports. It has nothing to do with sociological figures

Aaron (Naperville, IL)

It is much easier to get paid to play baseball than any other sport. There are more opportunities. You have to be pretty much at the top of the class to get paid to play football or basketball while you can get paid, albeit a minimum, to play baseball. Regardless, wouldn't you rather get paid $100,000 to play minor league baseball than not making it in basketball or football?

brandon (san jose, ca)

What if Base ball was to take away the A-ball double A and triple A ball....and then they just draft out of college. That way you are getting more Americans fresh out of college and they don't lose interest while waiting all those years hoping someone will call to send you to the "Bigs"

Amy Nelson

  (11:52 AM)

never will happen..

Brain (Detroit, MI)

Is it also timing.....I mean Baseball is played largely during the summer, when its nice and peole all over the country are outside, and is 162 games long, even apathy sets in with players in the dog days, let alone fans. I know in the winter here in michigan all i have to do is stay inside and do something, and there is usually a TV going so i will find a basketball or football game even if the Lions, Pistons, or Wolverines aren't playing. In the summer if I am not at Comerica, i might not be watching the Tigers, out with friends at the beach or BBQing

chris (minneapolis)

john i dissagree, so do all baseball players listen to country or rock

bradley (atl, ga)

thats exactly it John in KY. Its the music we listen too. I didn't start slinging rocks until I heard 10 crack commandments by biggie. and that was the same time I put down the basketball

Jeff (Ohio)

Aaron, try like $15,000 for minor leaguers. If you make $100K in the minors there's a good chance you'll be in the majors some day.

Les (Orange County, CA)

It's all about instant gratification, baseball typically takes longer for players to develop and a lot of athletes want the spotlight now...

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Greg Anthony takes Rose over Beasley? Big shcoker. Point guards stick together I assume? Beasley is a stud and has the perfect NBA body.

Paul (Lorain, OH)

Video games have nothing to do with it. It's parents who allow kids to sit in front of the tv hours at a timem instead of getting them to go outside.

Owen (massachusetts)

Gotta agree with Greg Derik Rose #1 pick

Ryan (Wading River NY)

I would take Derrick Rose any day over Michael Beasley because Rose has what it takes to play at the next level. In my opinon Michael Beasley will hold the ball and does not have potential to lead a team down the court in a pressure situation while Rose does.

Corin (FL)

Brandon, it's a good idea in theory. But if you're in college getting an education you just can't come up to the bigs for a few days and go straight back to college. It just doesn't work that way.

john (pa)

so i guess the football and basketball players dont play video games.

Jeff (Iowa)

I played D-1 football a long time ago at a BCS conference school, and about half my teammates were African-American. I used to listen to some of them talk about having a part-time job to be able to buy football cleats, and they were stunned when I said I did the same thing. If you want to play baseball badly enough, there are plenty of ways to find the money to buy a glove.

Amy Nelson

  (11:55 AM)

you need other people to play it, thoughj and have that same desire...

Amy Nelson

  (11:55 AM)

guys we're going to be wrapping this up today, great chat. i'll post a few more before we close the show.

Antoine (Greensboro)

Yea. baseball has so many games its hard to get exposure. in football they usually play on one day and everyone knows when that is.

Keros (CA)

What about the way our youth view the baseball stars of today? Would a kid really choose to play a sport tainted by steroids and controversy if he had the talent to be a star in a much cleaner NBA, NFL, or even pro soccer?

Adam (Port Charles, NY)

Beasley doesn't have to be a leader right away no matter where he goes. It will be part of a rebuilding process no matter where he lands.

Jeff (Iowa)

Amy, you can play a pick up baseball game with seven or eight kids. We used to have ghost runners. We would have one outfielder and two infielders. You don't need 22 kids to play a pickup baseball game.

Marvin (St. Louis, MO)

I stick to my point, Baseball is just not as fun to play as other sports, for all envolved

Alonzo (Macon, Ga)

Amy, this has been a great chat. Especially the Baseball issue..it's good to see that we all have an opinion and we do care about the sport. We that care about the sport need to get off our butts and see what we can do to contribute as well. Know what, I think I'll do that..volunteer to coach or something...it has to start somewhere.

Amy Nelson

  (11:56 AM)

With that guys, we'll end it for today. Thanks to all.