Here is a little stream of consciousness about who I like at this year’s Masters.  Please see another blog if you want Tiger-Rory-Phil “analysis” – no doubt they will be contending late Sunday.  But here are my under the radar guys who may tangle with the Big 3:

I.  Top Talent, but Perhaps Overlooked:

Luke Donald.  Superb wedge game.  Meticulous player.  In prime of his career.  Don’t necessarily need to be a bomber to win it,  See, Trevor Immelman; Zach Johnson; Mikey Weir.  Plus, if we don’t get rain this week, the dryer turf may allow more run-out for shorter hitters, and equalize distance somewhat.  I see this artiste slipping on a 38 Regular.

Sergio Garcia.  Best iron player in the world.  Look for a few good eagle looks at #13 and #15 when it matters.  If the Spaniard can find it with the putter, we may see an emotional Butler Cabin Ceremony, paying homage to the late great Severiano Ballesteros.

II.  Rookie Young Guns Who Simply Aren’t Afraid:

Russell Henley.  Macon, GA-born; UGA-bred – must be a true dream for him.  If the current Charleston, SC resident can post a nice Thursday score, look for him to be in the mix through the weekend a la Sneds from a few years ago.  This guy really kept the pedal down when it mattered at the Sony in Hawaii, and we are due for our first Masters Rookie winner since Fuzzy.

Branden Grace.  I am guessing this South African phenom  is lodging somewhere off Berckmans with King Louis, Ernie, Trevor, and Charl and soaking in their Master’s success and knowledge.  This globetrotting dude seems to post more 63s than most guys.  Birdies by day, Cabernets by night.  The South Africans have a great formula and young Grace may follow his fellow countrymen’s footsteps and continue to make Gary Player proud.

III.       The Wichita State pick

Bo Van Pelt.  Ten top 10s last year.  Steady Eddie.  This perennial Ryder/President Captain’s pick snub will be “playing angry”, much like the Wichita State Shockers this past month.  Van Pelt closed with a 64 last year and would be a smart pick – especially in pools where top 10s pay out.

-NDT

---