As the first major of the year draws ever closer at least three of whom would surely be on most favorites lists are in real question. Tiger is of course out having serious back surgery. Phil is hurt as well and he also has shown little major-like form thus far this season.
Of course I know we have seen both of these players pull the proverbial rabbits from their hats before, but please let’s keep in mind at younger ages and in much better physical conditions. I’m going to go out on a limb as I often do and say neither of these two are a factor in Augusta. Watch that come back to slap my face!!
The third favorite and my personal pick is also in question. The Jason Day camp has been very quiet about his thumb injury. We have seen a very similar injury cause world-class player Anthony Kim to vanish completely off the worldwide golf radar. Jason Day is in fact a more sensible lad and I would suspect that if that thumb is questionable, you might not see him play. I hope he is on the mend but again having been sidelined for a few weeks with limited practice and limited competition leading up to the cathedral of golf, how much can we expect if Day plays at all?
All this said, who then is rounding into major-like form with a short time to go? Last week in Texas the winner closed with 76! Not exactly exciting stuff. Matt Kucker who has played very well at Augusta in the past closed the same event with a 75 when he had a real chance to win. Now God knows the golf world is overrun with awesome talent in all corners of the planet but thus far this season no one jumps out at me and screams GREEN JACKET at this juncture.
Of course Augusta is Augusta, so we all know come Thursday, Masters week there will be a story line developing that will bring us to the edge of our seats by Sunday. I for one will be parked in front of the widescreen watching with great attention as I do every year. After all, it is Augusta, it is The Masters!
Who are your top 3 picks? Email them to me with your why for each pick at tpatri@mindspring.com.
