Author note: Oops, well this is what I get for writing a day ahead.

Johnny Lee "Blue Moon" Odom was a starting pitcher in Major League Baseball. For most of his 13-year career, he played for the Kansas City and Oakland Athletics, Chicago White Sox, and Atlanta Braves.

I still remember when he came into the league. Odom was a dominant pitcher. He pitched in two All-Star games (1968 and 1969), and won three consecutive World Series rings with the Oakland dynasty of 1972-1974. Best of all, he was an excellent all-around athlete and was used quite often as a pinch-runner. He also wielded a strong bat (for a pitcher), hitting 12 home runs with a batting average of .195 for his career. On May 4, 1969, he swung the lumber with authority and went 3-for-3 with a home run and six RBI against the Seattle Pilots (yes, Pilots).

So why do I bring this up? There is another Odom that could come into play and is a very good all-around athlete. Antwan Odom (born September 24, 1981 in Mobile, Alabama) could be that defensive end that the Vikes hope brings on the much needed pass rush the Vikes D sorely needs. He was originally drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2004 NFL Draft.

Oh, and he likes to sack QB's...especially aging QB's.

And he has other talents. Such as blocking kicks. He even blocked a extra point against the Jets last year which was instrumental in winning that game and starting the Titans drive for the playoffs. Here is a photo of Odom (#98) driving up the middle against a FG attempt in a game against the Chiefs.

A sack artist and a key special team player. Maybe he can block for All Day on the goal-line as well?

Odom is a 26-year old coming off an eight-sack season. I'd like to see him on the team, and would be more excited if the Vikes were successful in that attempt that their failure to get Justin Smith.

So, let's do it. Bring on Purple Moon Odom! If the Vikes were to land him, this would be the FA aquisition to get most excited about.

Thoughts? Leave a comment.

Posted by briankeithmaas@msn.com at March 4, 2008 01:12 AM