TCD 2010 Masters Contenders

Well, its that time of year again - The Masters, a sure sign of Spring, begins Thursday. The Azaleas are in full bloom, the feminists are angry, and Jim Nantz is trading in his Final Four voice for his back of the throat Augusta soothe. Lets cut to the chase and present the contenders:

Horse for the Course:
Tiger Woods – Even after a Winter of zero competitive golf and stewing over his transgressions, it’s hard to bet against a guy with four jackets and still in his prime. Augusta will make him forget all about his past "bogeys."
Ernie Els – Arguably the hottest golfer on tour. Took 2 wins on the Florida swing and has been in the hunt here before. The Big Easy definitely wants to party in a Green Jacket Sunday night.
Retief Goosen – Another contender from South Africa, The Goose loves to get loose at Augusta. A very impressive track record (ex last year’s cut) and experience coupled with some good play this year could get The Goose in the green.

In the Hunt:
Paul Casey – The British Bulldog can go as low as anyone on tour and has gone low here before. Needs to put four consistent rounds together to be up there on Sunday. Hopefully he doesn't wear another Nike shirt with a hogan on the back. (See 2008 Masters)
Phil Mickelson - With all the talk about Tiger, people may be sleeping on Phil. Lefty has not played his best golf this year but thats is not to say he's played poorly: 7 for 7 on cuts and no public humiliation. Phil also has, like, infinity top 5's here so he's a great pick.
Lee Westwood - Lee should probably be a Horse for the Course but he has cost me in previous Masters betting sessions so I demoted him. Big time game. Plays well in majors. Model citizen.

Sleepers:
Mike Weir – He’s won here before and always seems to be lurking around on weekends like Crash in 2003. Leads the tour in putting average on a course where good putting is essential.

Matt Kuchar - Can't believe it was 12 years ago when he was the low amateur at Augusta. Matt hasn't played here since '99 but has two top 10s in his last two events and has played well all season. He's playing with Tiger the first two rounds. Seems like a sweet dude.

Ian Poulter – Could this be the year of the PoulterHeist? The outspoken Brit has great game and a "hit or miss" wardrobe selection. Would love to see a Green Jacket/pink pants combo in Butler Cabin. Also rocks an entertaining Twitter feed.

There ya have it, Lads and Lassies. Please feel free to comment or agree/disagree. Enjoy.

Photo courtesy of The AP