Insider: Jerry, Simply put will the Pirates have a winning season (82 wins or more) in 2008? If not, perhaps it is time to for J. Wilson, J. Bay and F. Sanchez to go.

Jerry Micco: I'm still thinking about 2007 and sticking with my prediction of 75 wins, which looks pretty safe right now. I can't begin to speculate on 2008. Who knows what pitchers will step up, if any. What deals might be made, if any. I think 2008 is the year many front-office types over there point to as the year to break out, but I have my doubts. I'm usually a glass-half-full guy, but this team sure takes that out of you.

sqhill: In Smizik's column today, he argues that the Colborn-Wilson incident was newsworthy contrary to Colborn's contention that it was not. I would argue that the Pirates are no longer newsworthy. The ownership's actions have demonstrated that the team is there so that something is happening on the field while people are enjoying the ballpark and bobbleheads. And the fan base confirmed this by staying in their seats during the "walkout." Can't Smizik find something better to write about than re-hashing the same pessimistic column every day?

Jerry Micco: I think if you read Bob on a regular basis, you'd find that you're living on another planet. I reference his column the day after Kevin McClatchy resigned. And when the team is playing well, he nor any columnist, is afraid to call it like they see it. But have no fear sqhill. The Steelers start next week, so there'll be something other than the Bucs to write about.

PirateApologist: Jerry, as much as a lot of people were clamoring for Bullington, VanB, etc. to get up here, maybe Littlefield and Tracy knew what they were talking about on this one. John VanB has been a real bust so far.

Jerry Micco: Glad someone finally said it. Wait, I was saying that 2 months ago in this chat and others on this staff have said it both in print and on our nightly TV show. I tend to think that if someone is really good, and I mean major league ready, then he comes to the big club. A year off of major surgery, a guy isn't at his best. I think you're seeing that with Van B.

Chunkles: Hi Jerry, I saw a program the other day on ESPN that listed the top ten most versitile players in the NFL. #7 was Mike Vrabel and #6 was Kordell Stewart. Two questions: Why didnt the Steelers receive any heat for letting Vrabel go? The other thing is, what do you think was Kordell's downfall as a Steeler?

Jerry Micco: My guess is that Vrabel never really was used right here and quite frankly, he didn't perform up to standard. No doubt, he was coached up more and grew into varying roles with New England, so give both the staff and Vrabel kudos for that. But while he was here, he was nothing special. I wasn't here when Stewart was the QB. I know that being the Steelers QB in this town is about as tough a job as there is. I guess he was just a lightning rod for every ill the team had, as Ben often was last year.

Dingy_Harry: With at least 4 positions filled with players that would not start for 90% of major league teams, do you think this "window of opportunity" that we keep hearing about for 2008-2009 really exists? I really think it's just another unofficial marketing scam that the Pirates let seep out into the public consciousness.

Jerry Micco: As I said earlier Harry, it's hard for me to look ahead and see this team contending. But a lot can happen and maybe a light bulb goes on for some of these guys. But they have major holes. Centerfield; catcher, at least defensively; bullpen, even Capps who I'm not 100 percent convinced is the answer at closer; third base, where Bautista doesn't seem to have the power numbers you want. A lot will have to happen, much of it on the mound, if this team is to get to .500 and beyond.

Charleston_Charlies: Could DK blog live from an afternoon pirate game?

Jerry Micco: He could, but as the beat writer he's pretty wrapped up in what's going on. Colin Dunlap has done that for us from non-televised afternoon games. He's on vacation, however.

Dingy_Harry: The fact that the guy hasn't coached (as a head coach) a single down yet notwithstanding, what are you hearing about the perception of Mike Tomlin, by players, other media, etc.?

Jerry Micco: Straightforward, no-nonsense kind of guy. I know he coached with John Gruden in Tampa. I was sports editor of the Contra Costa Times in the Bay Area when Gruden coached the Raiders. He's a bit crazy. He worked almost 24 hours a day and was a no-nonsense guy with his players. Good with media, but close to the vest. I don't think Tomlin is a players' coach, but if you play well for him, you'll be rewarded. If not, you're out. And he seems, from what I hear, to be right in there coaching every chance he gets. I'm looking forward to training camp starting so we can see him in action.

MPM: How important is the three game series this weekend with Houston in terms of defining the Pirates season? I think we may look back at this series as the tipping point. With being swept by Atlanta, and the incident with Jim Colburn and Jack Wilson, this team seems to be teetering on the brink. They need a good series against Houston to get them back on track, since they have to go on the road for six tough games in New York and Philadelphia.

Jerry Micco: They need to win the final 4 games of this homestand to call it remotely successful. Anything less is not a good six-game series against two beatable teams. 4-2 would have been a solid stand. But who knows, they could get hot and play .500 against the Phils and Mets. I wouldn't bet you a lunch at Primanti's on that, but you never know with these guys. And this is a tipping point in the season, no doubt.

Turtle: Can you believe camp is only a few days away?

Jerry Micco: It seems like it never ends because of the off-season stuff. The NFL is pretty much year-round these days.

PirateApologist: Even though McClatchy saved the Pirates years ago, his really big mistake was to not then surround himself with true baseball guys.

Jerry Micco: Kevin deserves all the credit he gets for keeping the team here and getting the most beautiful ballpark in America built for Pittsburgh. He also deserves the blame for not surrounding himself with really good baseball people. I'm not saying Littlefield, Bonifay are terrible people, but the proof is on the field.

Dingy_Harry: Do you think Pitt being picked sixth in the Big East is a reasonable ranking? How did South Florida pass Pitt so quickly?

Jerry Micco: I've read a couple of preseason publications that have South Florida on the rise and passing Pitt. I can't believe Cincinnati is ahead of them. I still think Pitt can finish fourth in the conference but there are many holes to fill. But many of their tough games, including Louisville, Rutgers and WVU, are on the road. South Florida is here on Nov. 24. Pitt is hoping for a snowstorm.

Pickman: So do you think the Cubs got Jason Kendall to help their pitchers help figure out how to attack Bucco hitters? (just wanted to open with a joke) But seriously, I hope when he does return he gets a good reception in PNC Park. While he was almost as rough around the edges as Barry Bonds, he always hustled, always seemed to commit to winning here, and has the most career starts behind the plate as a Pirate. I just scratch my head and wonder why some fans even boo Giles and Aramis when they return and hope he doesn't get that same treatment.

Jerry Micco: I think Kendall played hard here and did the best he could. It's not his fault the front office paid him $10 million a year to hit singles and be a solid defensive catcher. It's not a player's fault for the contract he gets. Once he gets it he must perform, but in Kendall's case, he seemed to do his best, but wasn't worth the money. Fans will do what they do, but I really can't understand the Ramirez thing. They guy was traded on what many consider the worst day in Pirates history, when their future was given away for practically nothing. I hope folks remember Kendall as a guy who did his best on many bad ballclubs.

PirateApologist: Thoughts on the one year deal for Therrien?

Jerry Micco: I think that's in line, though some folks thought it wasn't enough. He's still not Shero's hire and no sense having him locked in for 3 or 5 years based on one season. He's got 2 years now so let's see how he does. He's been great so far, but things have a way of changing in the NHL. And Shero wants to have options. I always remember the great Walter Alston of the Dodgers has a series of one-year contracts his entire managing career.

sqhill: What do you think will be the big stories coming out of training camp this year?

Jerry Micco: Ben. And then Ben, and then Ben again. As goes the quarterback, so goes the Steelers. The offensive line is next on the list, particularly the battle at center and what I think will be a battle at right tackle. Will the receivers step up? Will Wilson finally do what they need him to do and will Nate Washington get much better? Will Heath Miller finally be used as the weapon he could be? And how will James Harrison do replacing Joey Porter? All good storylines that Ed Bouchette, Gerry Dulac and the columnists will be looking at.

Charleston_Charlies: What are your thoughts on the proposed college football playoff in 2011?

Jerry Micco: I whiffed on that one, Charlie. Haven't heard about it, but I've always thought D-1 football should have a playoff.

Chico_Lind_s_pipe: How many games does the NFL suspend Vick for the indictment? Or do they wait for a resolution to the case first? The allegations are pretty awful, I figure a half-season now, more to be added if there is a conviction or guilty plea.

Jerry Micco: He's going to get something for the indictment, probably six games, but it may be months before this goes to trial. It's a horrific story if it's all true. I'm a dog-lover and it just broke my heart to hear this. I also was sports editor in Newport News, Va., for several years, one of them being Vick's freshman year in high school. Tough to see what is happening with him these days.

Eddie_Vedder: Who wins the British Open?

Jerry Micco: Well, I always say Tiger Woods because he's just the best and this is a tournament he loves probably more than any other. I think Furyk will be there. Mickelson may play a bit better and contend, but he can't win it I don't think. At some point, the group that includes Luke Donald, Retief Goosen, Carl Pettersson and Justin Rose should challenge at the top. It's going to be a fun Open because Carnoustie is such a great course. Very similar to Oakmont.

Billy_Walsh: Penn State football -- I've seen them as high as 3rd in the Big Ten and as low as 5th, but I really think that they could give Michigan a run for the title. They have Ohio St. and Wiscy @ home -- the home team always seems to win in these 2 series. Notre Dame is at home too, and the Lions (particularly Morelli) will be licking their chops for revenge. Anyway, how do you see them doing? Does Morelli make the leap this year? Does Austin Scott grow up finally?

Jerry Micco: I think Michigan is better than Penn State, but other than that, I don't think there is a clear second/third-place team out there. I think they can beat Wisconsin and Ohio State and if they can do that, then they could finish second, no question. One scary game for them -- at Illinois. That team is going to give everyone fits this year. Ron Zook has recruited some guys who can play. They are very quick and will give slower teams problems. Penn State could very well go 10-2 this year, but I'd say if that happens, then they may have overachieved. I'd say 9-3 is maybe more like it.

Turtle: What do you think of your boy Phil Mickelson's chances this weekend? I would say he's healthy based on the way he played last week, but I can't pick him to win considering he had another back 9 collapse on Sunday.

Jerry Micco: Well, I always put him near the top and the Scottish Open, despite the collapse, was good for him. He needed to play competitive rounds. But the British has not been kind to Lefty, so I don't expect him to win. Maybe we can discuss that prior to the PGA Championship.

Pickman: In reference to Mike Vrabel, Jason Gildon had much better stats than Vrabel in the first 3 years Vrabel was gone and in New England and Joey Porter did as well...Even by using hindsight...seems to me we made the right keeps...he just played in a better system suited to his abilities...I still thing both players we kept made more pro bowls each

Jerry Micco: I agree, Pickman. I just didn't say it as well as you just did.

Chico_Lind_s_pipe: Jerry, how is the Pirates' season at a "tipping point" as you say? Does it really matter if they win 68 vs. 75 games? Or are there people so delusional they think .500 is still possible?

Jerry Micco: I don't think anyone's thinking .500. But you need to see some improvement over last season to try to gauge where they are. Yes, there's a difference between being 68-94 and 75-87. It doesn't get at the broad problem -- they pretty much stink -- but at least there's some movement and improvement. So getting back on track on this homestand is important, from a developmental aspect.

mtw: Is Jason Bay trying to field his way to a DH spot in the American League? When did his arm get so bad?

Jerry Micco: He's never had a good arm. And the way he's been hitting lately, how could he DH? This is a huge problem because while always streaky, he's always been able to follow two bad weeks with two good ones. Not this time. And I don't know the answer to what ails him. But you absolutely need his bat if this team is to have any chance to win.

Billy_Walsh: There is news just posted on the PG's web site that Alan Faneca will report to camp. Does this guy have a legit beef or is he being a baby? And isnt more important for the Steelers long term plans to lock up Polamalu and Big Ben? I mean Faneca will be in his 11th season after this year.

Jerry Micco: He's been a loyal guy for 11 years so maybe he feels he's owed one more big payday. Reality is that you have to pay Polamalu and Ben because they are the future. So, guys like Faneca lose out. High-priced veterans who are that old can't be kept unless you have no young guys who are keys to your team. He's not a baby, he's just upset because he's out on a limb. If he gets hurt in game 10 and it's a serious injury, no one's going to pay him top dollar as a free agent. And if it's career-ending, god forbid, then he's done getting paychecks. It's a tough situation for him, but he's a good guy and he'll play hard this season.

Turtle: What do you think Colborn said to Jack Wilson? I think it would be something like "play the game the way it is supposed to be played"

Jerry Micco: That's probably what was said, but the wrong guy said it. Where was the manager on that play? The pitching coach chewing out a position player? Who's next, Jeff Manto asking why Van B is so painful to watch on the mound? If I were Tracy, Colborn and I would have had a come to jesus meeting after the game. The manager is the guy who does the public chewing out, not the pitching coach, especially for a position player.

mtw: Why don't the Bucs look to buy at the trade deadline with 2008 in mind? They need help at a variety of positions. Why not explore the trade market for Bay, like the A's did with Mulder and Hudson.

Jerry Micco: Well, how much could they really get for Bay? He's got a poor arm, he's streaky and many folks feel, and rightfully so, he's not a clutch hitter. So what do you get? A starting stud centerfielder? Nope. Maybe another arm or a bullpen guy, but it's not like Mulder (who has been injured so much after the trade he's s shell of himself) and Hudson, who had huge upsides.

Turtle: Do you think Mike Tomlin's training schedule is too tough? Hate to see the guys wear down from an exhausting camp.

Jerry Micco: I think Tomlin knows what he's doing. And I think you'll see that schedule altered after a few days to adjust to how the players are doing. And hard work shouldn't kill these guys. Maybe they need a bit of that old school camp to get ready.

Turtle: Why do we continually see teams like Colorado, Florida, Arizona, and now Milwaukee rebuild through their minors, make smart trades, and sign good players at reasonable prices...and all the while the Pirates can't get out of their own way??

Jerry Micco: Front office decisions and player evaluation, both in the minors and at the major league level. And they draft well. The Pirates are weak in all those areas.

Turtle: Did you watch that You Tube clip that Dejan linked to his Q&A today? It breaks your heart if you care about the Pirates.

Jerry Micco: I have not seen it yet. I'll have to check it out.

Pickman: With the Steelers not pursuing that addition running back many felt we needed going into the offseason. Can Willie Parker, Davenport, and Hayes carry the load? Still seems to me we're shorthanded unless we look at the waiver wire toward the end of training camp when some cuts come along...

Jerry Micco: Well, don't forget Kevan Barlow, who if his head's on straight, can be a pretty effective backup guy. He may supplant Haynes because Barlow can be a third-down back, as can Davenport. I think also the rookie FA from Minnesota, Gary Russell, is intriguing. Still, I'd have liked to see them take a RB in round 3 instead of a big tight end.

Turtle: What is in your iPod?

Jerry Micco: iNothing. iDon't own one.

mtw: How big of a deal is Troy P going to get?

Jerry Micco: Probably $10 mil up front and probably $5 mil a year for 4-5 years. I'll say 30 million over five years.

Billy_Walsh: I know you like Phil, Jerry, but don't you think he kinda acted like a punk at the U.S. Open

Jerry Micco: I think he was frustrated on not at his best at the Open. He criticized the course, certainly not the only golfer to do that at Oakmont or any other tough course, and I thought that was a lame excuse. I think he wants to win the US Open so badly that when you combine Winged Foot and Oakmont, it just wore him down. He's usually very relaxed and genial with everyone. That wrist isn't right and he's worried about it. I don't blame him. He may need to take some real time off to get it right again. But there are still 2 majors left and he'd love to win one.

Eddie_Vedder: 6-10 this year for the Steelers. The Yinzers will be calling for Cowher by October. Book it.

Jerry Micco: You may be right, but I think my early prediction is 9-7. I think 10-6 is optimistic. But it's early. I always wait until the end of camp to make a final call. And yes, next to being Steelers QB, being the team's coach is the toughest job in town.

ronin_buc: Unless there is a major turn-around in the next two weeks, it looks like Tracy will be a dead man walking (along with Littlefield) to the end of the season. He has been so stubborn in personnel moves (i.e. Freddy has to play 2b, Castillo only gets starts due to injury) At this point why not switch Freddy back to 3rd and Castillo to second, if anything it could build up Castillo's offseason trade value playing 2b. Tracy just seems inflexible on a sinking ship.

Jerry Micco: You are probably right on all counts. No sense, though, playing Castillo at second if you have no plan to put him there permanently. No reason to move Sanchez if your future revolves around him playing there for the next several years. I'm not sure what difference it'd make anyhow. I think we'll see who Nutting brings in as his "baseball man." If it's someone who is given a free hand, certainly Littlefield is gone. If he goes on the cheap and gets a bean counter (and not Billy Bean) then Littlefield and Tracy will serve their contracts out.

ronin_buc: Have you ever seen a solid MLB player with three great years go into a funk as deep as J Bay? He just looks whipped mentally at the plate and it has carried over to his defense, which is slipping, too. Will he snap out of this, or is it just a down year for him?

Jerry Micco: I have to think this is a down year for him and maybe the losing is just wearing on him. He keeps everything inside, so you never really know how he feels. But I think physically and mentally, he's pretty beat up. I don't know, maybe Tracy benching him for a series, clearing his head some, may work. But this is painful to watch.

jimmy_g: Just how does a team play so well leading up the to All-Star break and then completely fall apart afterward?

Jerry Micco: Because they're not a very good team, jimmy. It's like water seeking it's level. If you're bad, you aren't going to win a bunch of games and keep rolling. No, you'll win a few, lose a few more. Look at the second half last year. They probably played as well as they can play and were 37-35. That's the BEST they could play. They just aren't very good, and I don't know when we'll be able to say they are good enough to just be .500, which is a pretty low goal anyhow.

ronin_buc: If Bob Nutting is forward thinking, how about this for a management combo, Chuck Greenberg as CEO and Jack Zuerencik of the Brewers as GM? Given how provincial Pittsburgh is, hometown boys who can turn it around would be great for the attitude around the Pirates? Who else is rumored as the next Pirates CEO?

Jerry Micco: I really don't know that answer to that one, but I'm sure Dejan will have more on that as the search moves along. I'll throw in one more for you: What's Ken Macha up to these days?

mike7psu: Can Penn State take the Big Ten? They lucked out with Ohio St. and ND having to come into the White Out of Beaver Stadium, but i just dont feel they have the secondary or the QB to make it the whole way through the season.

Jerry Micco: I don't think they can handle Michigan in Ann Arbor. And Wisconsin, even at Beaver Stadium, will be tough because of the Badger D. And I still point to the game at Illinois where they could stumble. But I think OSU and ND are winnable games for them. I just don't think they can climb past Michigan. I think Morelli will be pretty good this year and the secondary, once Sciorotto comes back, will be very good. I actually think it's a strength.

jimmy_g: Here are a few random comments on the Pirates: The Ramirez "trade" was probably the low point. This year's draft was a relatively low point. The fan base for those who enjoy competitive baseball is erasing fast. Does Bob Nutting have any clue that his profit-making enterpirze could go completely south in a very short time?

Jerry Micco: From where he sits, he sees it's still making money. And with revenue sharing, he's fine. It'll be up to the fans to talk with their wallets should they do that. But some people just love big league baseball and want to see it. I've got no problem with that, but it's tough to lose money if you're a baseball owner. This is my fourth baseball season here, and I agree, this is the most anger I've seen out of the fanbase.

Pickman: I take offense to the bean counter comment...i think we even we bean counters could do better than current mgmt...Until next week Jerry

Jerry Micco: I give you the last word, Pickman. Well said!

Jerry Micco: I need to run folks. It was good to be back after missing the last two weeks. We got the Steelers opening camp, so the real sports season starts next week. I'll see you next Wednesday at noon! Thanks for taking the time everyone.