Is it me, or does the field at this year's Giro d'Italia seem kinda weak? As far as Mongo can calculate, there are nine guys that can win the race...and if my life depended on it, probably only three. Add to this the lack of depth on most of the big teams, and it really seems like the GC guys will have to do it mostly alone. There aren't too many "super-domestiques" tagging along for the ride.
I'd like to think that this depleted field bodes well for the upcoming Tour of California. It would be nice to host a truly world-class field in an event that rivals the bigger stage races in Europe. I do know that all of the American teams have sent scrubs to Italy and will be "represent'n" hardcore at the TOC. So...that leaves us with who we're left with. These are the guys who can win the race...but won't.
Michele Scarponi (Lampre)...Usually at least one Italian is on the podium/ He's as good as any of the second-tier guys.
Tiago Machado (RadioShack)...Definitely has the potential/ "Nobody" to support him.
Danilo DiLuca (Katusha)...Not the best rider on team/ Will be a good second fiddle.
Carlos Sastre (Geox)...Team has something to prove/ Same situation as DiLuca.
Roman Kreuziger (Astana)...Weak team/ Better TT riders in the field.
These are the guys who should win the race...and one of them will.
Vincenzo Nibali (Liquigas)...Defending Vuelta champion/ Always solid.
Juaquin Rodrigez (Katusha)...Had a great Spring/ Has DiLuca.
Denis Menchov (Geox)...Former Champion/ Has Sastre/ Has all the tools.
Alberto Contador (Saxo Bank)...The total package including the dope.
Epilogue...At least the sprinting should be good with Cavendish, Petacchi, and Farrar in the field.
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