Breaking News.. Red Sox Acquire Victor Martinez

Striking late and dramatically, the Boston Red Sox bolstered their lineup by acquiring All-Star catcher Victor Martinez from Cleveland less than two hours before Friday's non-waivers trade deadline, CBSSports.com has learned.

The blockbuster deal comes following several days during which the Red Sox were hot on the trail of Martinez, San Diego slugger Adrian Gonzalez and Toronto ace Roy Halladay. Martinez, a three-time All-Star, was batting .284 with 15 homers and 67 RBI in 99 games for the Indians this season and arrives in Boston with the Red Sox having fallen into second place in the AL East, two games behind the New York Yankees.

The addition of Martinez is a huge boon for the Red Sox, who are concerned with the health of catcher Jason Varitek, 37, and who have watched slugger David Ortiz regress some this season. Martinez can catch, play first base and, of course, serve as designated hitter.


This is a huge move, and reportedly the Red Sox gave up three prospects to the Indians. This also means Jason Varitek can used to sitting on the bench. Red Sox always find a way to pull off these deals, and getting Martinez is big. - SF 58


Apparently now Jake Peavy is ready to go to the South Side Of Chicago. The Padres agreed to trade Peavy and will be getting Clayton Richard and three other prospects from the White Sox
Peavy is currently on the DL with a bad ankle but should be back soon, and I assume it is someone the Sox hope they can sign to an extension
Not sure what happened since the last time Peavy turned down this deal, but a big move for the Sox. Let's just see if Peavy can be a factor once he comes back. - SF 58

MLB Trade Alert....Washburn To Tigers

The Detroit Tigers have acquired Jarrod Wasburn From the Seattle Mariners for two relief pitchers. Great move by the Tigers, and they have separatred themselves from the other pitching staffs in the AL Central. Apparently, Seattle has decided not to go for it, and by dealing Washburn they are pretty much saying we have overachevied this season, and be happy with it. I wouldn't be too happy if I was a Mariners fan, or if I was Griffey jr or Ichiro. Stay Tuned more trades t0 Come.- SF 58

Manny And Ortiz Busted For Performance Enhancing Drugs.. Cubs Get Stronger in Bullpen

NEW YORK -- David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez, the sluggers who led Boston to a pair of World Series championships, were among the more than 100 Major League Baseball players who tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs in 2003, according to a report in the New York Times.

The article posted on the newspaper's website Thursday cited lawyers involved in pending litigation over the testing results who spoke anonymously because the information is under seal by a court order.

Major League Baseball declined to comment on the Times' report, telling the Associated Press it didn't have the list of the 104 players who tested positive six years ago. The players' union also declined comment.

Red Sox owner John Henry did not immediately respond to an e-mail seeking comment.

In 2004, Ortiz and Ramirez led Boston to their first World Series championship since 1918. The sluggers helped the Red Sox win another title in 2007.

The results from the 2003 tests were supposed to remain anonymous, but they later were seized by federal agents. Alex Rodriguez admitted using performance-enhancing drugs after he was linked to the 2003 list. And in June, The Times reported that Sammy Sosa also was on the 2003 list.

Not shocked, i just wish they would release all the names at once. I have just come to the realization that most of the baseball I watched was with players on roids, aqnd I've gotten over it. Most of our heros in NFL are on roids so deal with it. - SF 58

CUBS PICK UP PAIR OF PIRATE LEFTIES
The Cubs beefed up their pitching staff on Thursday, one day before the trade deadline, by picking up left-handers John Grabow and Tom Gorzelanny from the Pirates in exchange for right-handers Kevin Hart and Jose Ascanio and third baseman Josh Harrison. Grabow, 29, is 3-0 with a 3.42 ERA in 45 relief appearances this season. Gorzelanny, 27, was 3-1 with a 5.19 ERA in nine relief appearances with the Pirates before being optioned to AAA Indianapolis, where he has gone 4-3 with a 2.48 ERA in 15 starts.- cubs.com

Cubs are on a roll, and now just added two lefties thanks to the decomposing franchise known as the pirates. F St. Louis!- SF 58

Breaking News...Phillies Acquire Cliff Lee

Frustrated in their attempts to acquire Roy Halladay, the Phillies have acquired Cliff Lee from the Indians instead, multiple sources involved in the talks told CBSSports.com.

The teams were in heavy discussions this morning, and as of early afternoon, the deal had come together, pending physicals. The Phillies, who have been searching for a right-handed bat, will also get outfielder Ben Francisco from Cleveland.

The Phillies will send pitchers Jason Knapp and Carlos Carrasco, shortstop Jason Donald and catcher Lou Marson to the Indians, an American League executive told CBSSports.com's Scott Miller.

Halladay was always the Phillies' first choice, but an asking price that began with both Kyle Drabek and J.A. Happ was deemed too high by some in the Phillies front office. Lee, who won the 2008 American League Cy Young award and is having a good follow-up season, was regarded as a reasonable backup plan.

The Indians had also scouted Drabek, but he isn't in the trade. While Knapp is still in Class A, some scouts regard him even more highly than Drabek.


This is big, and unless the Dodgers can pull off getting Halladay, the Phillies are the team to beat in the NL. Great work by the Phillies to get something done after the Halladay trade fell apart. Philly going for back to back titles, and they might get it done. - SF 58

Halladay To Dodgers?

The most interesting Roy Halladay rumor Tuesday involved the Dodgers, who see him as increasing their chance to win a World Series with Manny Ramirez in uniform. Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti, always as aggressive as owner Frank McCourt's budget allows him to be, has made 21-year-old lefty Clayton Kershaw off-limits, but some sources reported them to be weighing the inclusion of right-hander Chad Billingsley, an NL All-Star at age 24. Ricciardi would get serious in a hurry if Billingsley were in play. -- Chicago Tribune

This would obivously put them as the front runners to win the NL if they weren't already. Tough call to trade Billingsley, but to get Halladay would give them the best chance to win a title this year, and maybe next year as well. The Dodgers lineup is loaded, and adding Halladay to the pitching staff would make them real tough to beat. -SF 58


One involving the Cincinnati Reds acquiring third baseman Scott Rolen from Toronto remains alive and kicking. Also there are rumors of the departure of pitcher Aaron Harang, maybe as part of the deal that would bring Rolen to Cincinnati. -- Dayton Daily News

I guess it is a good move for Toronto to dump old man Rolen, who is having a great year, but Harang does nothing for me. He seems to get worse as his career goes on. Both these teams are going nowhere anytime soon, and it seems they are both preparing for next season.- SF 58

Breaking News...Favre To Stay Retired.. For Now

According to sources Brett Favre has informed Minnesota Head Brad Childress that he will stay retired and will not join the Minnesota Vikings for this upcoming season. Apparently citing the daily grind mentally and physically was not something he wanted endure for another year.

I am personally surprised by this decision, but don't think the talk of Favre returning will stop, as soon as the Vikings start off slow or lose a couple games in a row no doubt they will try to get Favre again. He was a great quarterback, and now I hope he just stays retired and we don't have to hear about him again until his induction into the Hall of Fame, but I doubt it. We will see what happens, but I still think he could end up in Minnesota at some point -SF 58

Breaking News...Plaxico Going Before Grand Jury Tomorrow... Jail Time?

Ex-Giants star Plaxico Burress plans to testify Wednesday before a grand jury investigating his accidental self-inflicted shooting at a Manhattan nightclub.

Defense lawyer Ben Brafman said the former Big Blue wide receiver would give an honest account of the shooting that left him with a minor leg wound.

"He's going to go in and tell the truth," Brafman said. "He's going to ask the grand jury for their compassion and understanding."

The surprise appearance comes as NFL teams open their training camps and Burress faces an increasingly uncertain football future.

Burress, who pleaded not guilty in the case, remains free on $100,000 bond.

Burress, 31, shot himself in the thigh last November while entering a Manhattan night club with teammate Antonio Pierce.

Authorities said the pair then engaged in a crude coverup, grabbing Burress' .40 caliber Glock and using a phony name when the wounded wideout arrived at a Manhattan hospital.

His next scheduled court appearance was Sept. 23, although the grand jury began hearing the case this month. Burress could face a sentence of 3-1/2 to 15 years if convicted on both counts of weapons possession.

Burress could also be suspended by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell for violating the league's personal conduct policy.

Goodell has indicated, however, that he may wait until the legal process runs its course before deciding whether to take action against Burress. - NY Daily News


It sounds like this is Plaxico's last chance to somehow avoid jail time because apparently the District Attorney already turned down a plea deal for 1 year of jail time from Burress attorney. He is likely getting jail time, but it is just a question of how much? His last chance will be tomorrow, he will speak in front of the Grand Jury. If the Grand jury indites him on gun felony charges then he is in trouble, if they don't then he has a shot to avoid jail time, no pun intended.
Looking at this on the surface it seems pretty harsh for someone to get likely a year or more of jail time for shooting himself in the leg. I believe this law got changed once the J-lo and P Diddy shooting, where either P Diddy or someone is his crew fired a gun in a nightclub. After that incident the law got much stricter in New York. So, really Plax needs to be upset at P Diddy, just kidding.
It does seem the D.A. is trying to get his name out there and make a statement by putting Plax behind bars, and he is even pursuing getting jail time for Antonio Pearce, which seems overboard since he was trying to help his buddy out. This could drag on for a long time, and that doesn't help anyone.
I'm sure tomorrow Plax will say he brought for protection and with other Pro Athletes getting robbed and so on he needed to have it with him. However, it was unregistered, and stay out of night clubs! It is pretty easy, so although I think more than a year is excessive, Plax put himself in that situation. It looks we will have another top NFL player behind bars soon, and if he wants to sign with the Bears when he gets out, we will gladly take him. - SF 58

MLB Notes and Trade Rumors...Angels Eye Lee

MLB Trade Rumors

The Angels' hopes of acquiring Toronto ace Roy Halladay are fading, but the team remains in active pursuit of Cliff Lee, the Cleveland ace and 2008 American League Cy Young Award winner, as well as several late-inning relievers. Like Halladay, Lee, who is 7-9 with a 3.14 earned-run average in 22 starts, is signed through 2010 -- there is a team option on him for a reasonable $8 million next season -- but the Angels and Indians don't appear to be a good match for a trade. -- LA Times

This obviously would not be as big as getting Roy Halladay, but with an already loaded Angels team, this move would give them an even better shot to knock off the Bo Sox or Yankees. I like watching the Angels play, and would be happy to see them come out of the AL. I also believe Manager Mike Scocsia is one of best in the game, class act whose players run through a wall for him.-SF 58

MLB Notes By Sports Freak 58

- Cubs are on a roll, 5 wins in a row, getting great pitching, Lee and Ramirez are on fire, and Soriano actually got a clutch hit last night as he hit a walk off grand slam..watch out NL Central..
-The Phillies won again last night after beating the really bad Arizona D-backs, this Philly line-up just seems to get better, not really an easy out, they will be tough to beat, and might clinch division by end of August at this rate
-Props to another great start by Tim Lincecum, his career high in strikeouts and My buddy Angelo got to witness it first hand. I'm very impressed with the Giants this season, and have a shot to make playoffs, but really need another bat or two as that lineup is struggling to hit, but great pitching staff

- Yankees roll the Rays, and the Rays are pretty much done in my mind. Don't have same pitching from last year, and they can't keep up with Yankees or Red Sox. Yankees on the other hand look like the team from the late 1990's, a red sox vs yankees match up is where we might be headed in the postseason.
- White Sox just can't beat the Twins, and coming off of losing 3 of 4 to Detroit, htey need to salvage a game or two vs Minnesota. No one seems to want to take control of this division, and it is up for grabs. If the sox can play more consistent and make a move to get another pitcher they should win, but it hasn't happened yet.
-Angels are an impressive team, but don't sleep on Texas and Seattle as they seems to creep closer every day. I'd be surprised if the Angels didn't win this division, but Texas and Seattle haven't gone anywhere, and after Brian Fuentes blew a save lst night both teams got closer. I'm still sticking with the Angels, but stay tuned- SF 58

Breaking News.. Vick Conditionally Reinstated By NFL

According to several sources Michael Vick has been conditionally reinstated by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, and can be fully reinstated by week 6. He has to follow the guidelines below as part of his conditional reinstatement-

He is allowed to practice now and play in final 2 preseason games
Tony Dungy is his mentor
Then at week 6 Commissioner Goodell can decide to reinstate Vick or suspend further depending on how he does during his "double secret probation"


Everything above also depends if anyone signs him, and it sounds like some teams are interested. However, there is no guarantee that he will be active for week 6, that will only happen if Goodell is happy with Vick's progress up to that point off the field.
The bottom line is if Vick still has his athleticism, he can help a team right away. Also, with Tony Dungy as Vick's mentor I have no doubt he will make sure Vick is mentally prepared before taking the field. Would you want him on your team?
I'd take him, even though the PR issue would be rough, Vick should be counting his lucky stars he has another chance and I think he will take full advantage. What team signs him? - SF 58

Breaking News.. T.O. Comments On Vick From Bills Training Camp

PITTSFORD, N.Y. -- Buffalo Bills receiver Terrell Owens is disappointed in the way NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is considering Michael Vick's reinstatement now that the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback has served a 23-month prison sentence for his role in an illegal dogfighting ring.

“
A lot of the guys around the league need to speak up. I think the players' union needs to step in because the guy's already suffered so much, and to add a four-game suspension onto a two-year prison sentence, I mean, that's ridiculous.

” -- Terrell Owens

Owens called the possibility of an additional Vick suspension to start the season, possibly for four games, "ridiculous" while meeting with reporters after Sunday morning's training camp session at St. John Fisher College.

"The Michael Vick situation, I think, is unfortunate," Owens said. "I think the way the commissioner is handling it is unfair to Michael Vick. I think he's done the time for what he's done. I don't think it's really fair for him to be suspended four more games. It's almost like kicking a dead horse in the ground.

"A lot of the guys around the league need to speak up. I think the players' union needs to step in because the guy's already suffered so much, and to add a four-game suspension onto a two-year prison sentence, I mean, that's ridiculous."

League sources told ESPN's Sal Paolantonio and Chris Mortensen on Thursday that Goodell is expected to announce details of Vick's conditional reinstatement, allowing the three-time Pro Bowler to sign with an NFL team.

Owens wouldn't speculate whether Vick will be signed by another NFL team, but claimed Vick deserved the opportunity.

"Why shouldn't he?" Owens said. "There's a number of guys around the league that have done far more worse things than that and gotten a second chance. So I don't see why he shouldn't."

Not speaking in terms of the Bills, Owens said he wouldn't mind having Vick as a teammate.

"Again, why not?" Owens said. "Michael Vick is a guy that really hasn't had any character issues besides [what] he got a prison sentence for, so why not."


As wacky as T.O. is, he does have point here. Especially when you consider a guy like Leonard Little kills a woman while drunk and gets a slap on the wrist by the NFL, of course that was before Goodell was commissioner. The last thing T.O. should be doing is getting on the commisioners bad side, they will just be looking for T.O. to make one mistake and fine him. Apparently T.O. also said the commissioner should sit in a cell for 23 months and see how it feels, not a good move.
I'm sure T.O. has some celebration planned for his first touch down in Buffalo. Maybe he will dunk himself in buffalo wing sauce and then jump into a vat of blue cheese, just a thought. That celebration would be worth a the fine. - SF 58

Breaking News... Matt Holliday Off To St. Louis

Various reports saying that Matt Holliday has been dealt to the St. Louis Cardinals for three prospects. This obviously gives St. Louis a leg up in winning the NL Central assuming Matt Holliday can pick up his hitting a bit, and he has been hitting better as of late. Big move for the Cards, and it makes me wonder if my Cubs will make a move to counter this one, if they don't the Cards could run away with the division. - SF 58

Hail! Hail!

Chicago White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle took the mound today for an afternoon start against the Tampa Bay Rays and walked off hours later as just the 18th pitcher in Major League Baseball to throw a perfect game, the first in five years.

The 5-0 win was the 30-year-old's second career no hitter, making him just the sixth in MLB history to throw both a perfect game and a no-hitter. His first no hitter was hurled in a 6-0 win over the Texas Rangers April 18, 2007.

Buehrle's 27-up, 27-down victory over the Rays was also the first perfect game to be pitched for the White Sox since 1922.

The highlight of the six-strikeout shutout against last year's American League champions was centerfielder Dewayne Wise's wall-scaling 9th inning catch, which ultimately preserved Buehrle's efforts. Tampa's Gabe Kapler launched a long fly ball to left-centerfield, but Wise scaled the wall and pulled the ball back into the field of play, babbling it briefly before it settled into his glove.

"I was hoping it was staying in there, give him enough room to catch it. I know the guys were doing everything they could to save the no-hitter, the perfect game, whatever it might be," Buehrle told ESPN.

After the game he was treated to congratulation from one of the team's biggest fans, President Obama. Obama called Buehrle from his motorcade after an event in Ohio this afternoon and congratulated him on the "extraordinary achievement."

President Obama Calls White Sox Mark Buehrle
Obama joked with Buehrle that perhaps the pitcher had gotten gained some luck from the fact that Obama wore a White Sox team jacket when he threw out the first pitch at last week's Major League Baseball All Star Game.

"As a fan it's extraordinary. When you're a White Sox fan and I know the guy who did it, it makes it even more fun," Obama said in a conversation with White house Press Secretary Robert Gibbs.

The victory puts Buehrle in an elite group of perfect game pitchers, including legends like Cy Young, Sandy Koufax, David Wells and Randy Johnson. = abc.com


As A die hard Cubs fan it always pains me to discuss the White Sox, but not in this case. I have total respect for Mark Buehrle and what he did yesterday and his consistency as a pitcher in his career. Not much too say, but one of the best pitching performances I have ever seen. I dedicate this rant to my good friend Angelo who hopefully got to see some of the game in left coast, congrats!- SF 58

Sports Chips.. MLB Rumors And NFL News.. Big Ben Speaks

Not A Lot going on today, but here a couple stories worth of note...

Big Ben Makes Statement Denies Allegations

Ben Roethlisberger made a statement today denying the allegations from a Nevada woman that Roethlisberger raped her. He said he will do everything to protect his family, and is confident the truth will come out and clear his name.
The woman only filed a civil suit, and did it a year after the incident allegedly occurred. She said she was worried about losing he entry level job at a Casino? It is hard to take this very seriously when only a civil lawsuit is filed, and it is filed a year after it happened. It seems very sketchy, and hopefully this will be nothing more than a woman trying to get money from Big Ben. Once Again I think this woman might have been sent by the Patriots, Ben won't be phased. - Sf 58



NFL

Lovie And Cutler To Dine With The President

Bears coach Lovie Smith and the team's new Pro Bowl quarterback, Jay Cutler, are among the invited guests for a private fundraising dinner Thursday for President Barack Obama. The dinner, at the Chicago home of Obama's longtime friend Penny Pritzker and her husband, Bryan Traubert, will precede a major fundraising event at the Hyatt Regency downtown Thursday evening. Smith, who generally keeps out of politics, was one of the first sports figures in Chicago to speak out publicly about his support for Obama before his election. -- Chicago Tribune


I'm glad to see Lovie speak out politics, but I'd be more impressed if could speak up about his awful defense form last year, and make some changes to the cover 2. However, with Marinelli working with the defense and Lovie taking more control they can't be nearly as bad as last year of D. However, with Girlacher at linebacker, who has been stealing money the last couple years, a lot of things need to change before the bears defense is at a level that scares other teams.
Also, as much as I am excited to have Cutler I just hope all this hype and now dinner with Obama is not getting to his head. I Think Cutler has a great arm, and can be great at times, but also makes tons of mistakes. I'm a little worried he has a little Cade McNown in him, but I hope I am wrong. Hopefully, he will throw spirals with the dinner rolls to the President, that will only mean good things for cutler this season. - SF 58




MLB

Red Sox Really Want Adrian Gonzalez


One baseball source said the Red Sox have been very aggressive in attempting to deal for San Diego first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, but have been rebuffed. Another source suggested the asking price on Cleveland catcher/first baseman Victor Martinez is, at least currently, too prohibitive.-- Boston Herald


Even if you are not a Red Sox Fan and are tired of them being so good, you have to respect their determination on getting players that will help them get over the top. They are going after All Star players. I think we all wish the teams we rooted for were as aggressive as the Red Sox are year after year. Unfortunately, you see many teams struggling on the field, and in the ticket sales, so many times to cut their losses they will dump a big contract get some young guys, and save some money. I think we see that from Pittsburgh every year, but it must be nice if you are a Red Sox Fan. - SF 58

Sports Chips.. News From Across The Country

A look at some of the major sports topics with stellar commentary from Sports Freak 58...


NHL

Hossa To Have Surgery?

Chicago Blackhawks' Marian Hossa is battling a shoulder injury and might need surgery, reports the Daily Herald.

According to hockey writer Tim Sassone, a source close to the situation says the extent of the injury is not clear, but if the veteran forward needs surgery, he could be out until December. Hossa is currently rehabbing the injury.

The 30-year-old signed a 12-year, $62.8 million deal with the Blackhawks on July 1.

Last season with the Detroit Red Wings, Hossa scored 40 goals with 31 assists and a plus-27 rating. The Red Wings defeated the Blackhawks in the Western Conference Final before losing the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Stanley Cup Final. -TSN.ca

I normally don't start with hockey in the summer, but hawks are my team and this is a major issue if Hossa is out until December, but more importantly how effective will he be once he comes back? Will this injury linger? We just passed on resigning Marty "China Doll" Havlat for his injuries over the years. Hossa has been generally healthy his whole career until now, I just hope he has the surgery, and we don't have to deal with this again. I assume the Hawks were aware of this when they sign him to a 12 yr 62 million dollar deal, either way they better hope this is the only injury he has moving forward or they just wasted a lot of money.
On a side note I included a picture of Hossa and his girlfriend who is not ugly - SF 58

MLb

Matt Holliday will get moved but where?

The Giants and the Detroit Tigers are known to have at least a degree of interest in A's left fielder Matt Holliday. The Yankees have had scouts following the A's recently, and the Atlanta Braves and the St. Louis Cardinals also have been linked to Holliday. Teams also might take an interest in shortstop Orlando Cabrera, whose .382 average in July led the American League entering Tuesday. Cabrera, like Holliday, can be a free agent at season's end. -- San Jose Mercury News

Holliday hasn't had the best year in Oakland, and his numbers have been down a lot, mmmmm, interesting. Anyway, he could be a big factor for a team trying to make a run. As discussed in prior news I think the Giants would be a great fit for him. It is close, but more importantly the Giants lineup is weak, and they need some big bats desperately. They have the rotation, and this move would make sense. If they don't make a move the Giants will fade away. - SF 58


Red Sox Acquire LaRoche

The Pittsburgh Pirates traded first baseman Adam LaRoche to the Boston Red Sox on Wednesday, The Pirates will receive minor league shortstop Argenis Diaz and right-hander Hunter Strickland, WEEI.com reported.

In his sixth major league season, LaRoche is hitting .247 with 12 homers and 40 RBIs.

Diaz is batting .253 for the Red Sox's Double-A affiliate in Portland, Maine. Strickland is 5-4 with a 3.35 ERA for the Class A Greenville.

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette first reported the trade.


This trade doesn't do much for me, but LaRoche has always been an underachiever so maybe a change of scenery to a playoff team will get him going. The Pirates at this rate might as well have their minor league team playing at PNC Park, although getting rid of LaRoche is not a bad thing. He has never played to his potential and is a strike out machine. Watch him go to Boston and get hot. - SF 58


The Nationals Are Up To It Again

The Washington Nationals are not on pace to sign top overall draft pick Stephen Strasburg by the Aug. 17 deadline, a source close to the negotiations told ESPN's Pedro Gomez on Tuesday.

The San Diego State right-hander went 13-1 with a 1.32 ERA last season and won the Golden Spikes Award as the top amateur player in the United States. He is widely regarded as one of the best pitching prospects in years.

The source said that the Nats have had an ongoing dialogue with Strasburg's adviser, Scott Boras, but have made no offer other than the mandatory minor league tender that all clubs must make to their picks within 10 days of the draft. That is a standard minor league deal that pays the player $1,000 per month but does not include any bonus money.

"There are a lot of things that are happening behind the scenes that nobody is going to know about because we're not going to talk about it," Nationals interim general manager Mike Rizzo said, according to the Washington Post.

Rizzo added that the team will not be negotiating "through the media."

"People in the front office, we know what Stephen Strasburg means to our major league ballclub," Rizzo said, according to the newspaper. -espn


If the Nats somehow screw this up then they might as well move the franchise back to Montreal. Gm Rizzo needs to lock this guy up before he starts getting annoyed and asking for a trade. With the Nats being the worst team by far in MLb, you would think they'd want some good PR and good will towards their fans by signing Strasburg as soon as possible. However, with an interim GM and sounds like a inexperienced organization all the way around it wouldn't shock me if they somehow screw this up, but at least they have the presidents race!- SF 58


Random

Local DC promoter Elroy Johnson, possibly the greatest hustler since Paul Newman, wants to turn the scowling, surly Tyson into a latter-day George Foreman: i.e., a happy-go-lucky TV pitchman who wouldn't frighten or harm a soul. All Elroy needs is a product and Tyson's approval, and they'll both get rich - Elroy for the first time and Mike for the umpteenth. "He's worth millions if he's handled right like I would do," Johnson insisted. "He could do great ads for maybe Nike. Or hockey: 'If you think I'm tough, you ought to see this sport.' " OK, but Mike Tyson smiling? It's easier to imagine Bobby Knight or Bill Belichick grinning from ear to ear. "He's 43 now, he's still alive and he's mellowed," Johnson swore. "Mike is really a nice guy." -- Washington Times


Five to ten years ago I would have said no way, but Tyson is showing up at events (like The ESPYs where he feel asleep watching them along with everyone else) and does seem to have mellowed out a bit. Don't think it could have gotten much worse after you bite off someones ear, and then threaten several boxers that you will eat their children. Also, he was real good in the movie The Hangover, had a couple lines that were extremely funny. Not sure about him promoting hockey as mentioned above, but maybe promote something to cover up awful looking tattoos. Just the thought of it sounds funny, but people would watch and listen to Tyson so I wouldn't surprised if it happens.- SF 58

Breaking News... Vick Could Be Reinstated As Soon As Next Week

A league spokesman said the NFL will remain mum on specifics, other than what Goodell briefly addressed Tuesday when he told reporters he expected a decision in the "near future."

Another league source labeled a conditional reinstatement "smart speculation" but said Goodell could choose another option, especially if the commissioner does not feel his meeting with Vick is positively productive.

Goodell's decision could be made by Tuesday and he probably will not delay it beyond next week, barring new information being made available to him, a source said.

Vick's agent, Joel Segal, said, "Absolutely no comment."

NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith also is expected to meet with Vick this week, sources said. - espn


It is still speculation, but if Goodell reinstates Vick next week I'd be shocked. Especially with how hard Goodell has come down on those in the past. His only thinking to reinstating him immediately would be that he thinks Vick has already served his suspension by sitting in Big House for the last couple years. We will find out next week. If he is reinstated I can see the Patriots taking a flier on him.- SF 58

Someone Misjudged the Market..and TV Notes

Apparently Lamar Odom hasn't been getting the best advice, and maybe isn't aware of the recession our country is going through. Odom turned down a 3 year 3o million dollars deal and a 4 year36 million dollar deal from the Lakers, but Lamar wants his five year deal. The Heat could offer a 5 year deal but at just over 5 million a year, and it looks like right now Lamar might have screwed himself.

I hope he made this decision on his own, because I'd fire my agent if he advised me to do turn down the Lakers offer, and now Lakers owner Jerry Bus is not happy with the Odom camp, and if he does sign with the Lakers I wouldn't be surprised if it is at a discount.

Has Lamar looked around the league, even the younger and more coveted Paul Milsap? Who? only got a four year deal at 32 million. It just upsets me seeing these athletes trying to get every little dime out there, and watch Lamar get stuck with a 1 year deal. Lakers picked up Artest, he can fill the void left by Odom., and Lamar can watch them raise another banner. -SF 58

Tv Notes

T.O. Show- This show is awful. I wasted half of an hour watching it. If you like to see Terrell Owens with no shirt on and getting a pedicure, then it is for you. I'd love to see his day to day life in Buffalo, but don't need another Hills-esque reality show that is all staged. Buffalo fans, I feel for you, get ready for an offense and locker room to be torn apart by T.O. However, it is a one year deal, so he might shut his mouth and play hard for one season, but then he will want a multi year extension.

Sportsnation- This latest creation by the wizards at ESPN must have been made for kids 13 and under. If you like graphs and learning what the rest of the country thinks about every single topic out there, then you will enjoy it. For those who read this website and others who can formulate their own thoughts this show is not for you. Usually one or two poll questions a day are fine, but a whole show surrounding polls is just absolutely painful. Also, the hosts who are no names, are hard to watch as well. This show can't be on the air too long, but with the wizards at the ESPN you never know. - SF 58

Sports Chips.. News From Across The Country

A Look At Some Of The News Worth Items From Across The Country With Stellar Commentary by Sports Freak 58

MLB

Ozzie The Racist?

Ozzie Guillen knew right when the announcement was made on Monday, the e-mail box would fill up. So when the club sent out notice in the afternoon that Carlos Quentin was recalled from his rehab assignment with Class AAA Charlotte, and Brian Anderson was sent down over Dewayne Wise to make room for Quentin, sure enough, the "Ozzie is a racist'' comments were fired. "What he needs to do is start playing better,'' Guillen said of Anderson's demotion to Charlotte. "It's been four years, and I've got a lot of e-mails from people calling me racists and stuff because, 'I don't like Anderson.' Well, when you don't like the players, they don't last too long. When I don't like one player, believe me, he'll be out of here in a hurry because I've got the power. "If I tell [GM Kenny Williams], 'This guy isn't good for the ballclub,' Kenny will do everything he can to get him out of here. If people think we don't like Brian, yes we do, yes we do. I think Brian hasn't produced like we thought. We've given him four years in-a-row to produce, we gave him a shot to be the everyday center fielder and that didn't work. Since I've been managing the ballclub, we've given him a legit shot. - Chicago Sun Times

I am Cubs Fan, and at most times think Ozzie is a clown, but not in this case. The clowns are the White Sox Fans. They haven given Brian Anderson so many chances to produce, and he has not come through. I would expect Anderson to be gone after this season, but to call Ozzie a racist is a joke. It just makes you wonder what the fans who emailed Ozzie were thinking? I forgot they are white sox fans so there is not much thinking involved, just kidding. - SF 58


Dodgers Interested In Halladay?

Toronto GM J.P. Ricciardi says his deadline for Roy Halladay will be sooner than the July 31 MLB deadline, according to the New York Times. He says this is because the team will have to be blown away by a offer.
Gammons reported Monday that the Dodgers are in on Halladay but won't trade their top young players and want the Blue Jays to pick up a lot of the money owed to Halladay for this year. So how are they going to make a deal? Well, they imposed similar conditions but still pulled off trades for Casey Blake and Manny Ramirez last year, so never say never. - espn insider

That would make sense as they were able to make a big deal last season, and really whomever gets Halladay in the NL, if he does go to the NL, could be the team playing in the World Series. Where Roy goes will impact a lot of what happens late in the MLB season. He is that good. - SF 58


Phillies Run Win Streak To 9 Win Beatdown Of Cubs

Raul Ibanez hit a three-run homer, Carlos Ruiz and Ryan Howard each went deep to back Lopez, and the sizzling Phillies won their ninth consecutive game, 10-1 over the Chicago Cubs on Monday night.

With Jack Nicholson watching from a front-row seat, Philadelphia's A-list lineup was about as good as it gets. The Phillies rocked Ted Lilly (9-7) in his shortest outing of the season for the Cubs, and they won for the 13th time in their last 14 games.

Up ahead, a shot at their first 10-game winning streak since 1991.

"You go out with a good feeling, and right now, things have kind of been going well for us," Howard said. "You just try to continue the feeling that you have." - cbs sports


There are two main points here, the Phillies are on a roll and look headed towards another run at the title trying to becomes the first NL team since the Big Red Machine back in 70's to repeat as World Series Champs. The second point is the Cubs looked like they didn't belong on the field. Now the Cubs could still win their division, but too many overpaid players like Alfonso Soriano not getting it done. Last night, Cubs are down by 6 already when a routine fly ball bounces off Soriano's glove to let two more runs score. Soriano would be gone already, but when you are paying him 18 million a year, no one would take him. If the Cubs want to make a run I'd keep Soriano on the bench, his numbers are awful and he can't field. The most overpriced outfield maybe in baseball history with Soriano, Fukudome, and Milton "How many outs in an inning Bradley" Bradley. Part of me wants them to miss the playoffs just so they can gut most of this team, but with big contracts the Cubs might be stuck with some of these underachieving bums for a while. -SF 58


NFL

Big Ben In Trouble?

RENO, Nev. -- Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been accused of sexual assault in a civil lawsuit, his lawyer said, denying the claim.
The lawsuit was filed Friday in Washoe County District Court accusing Roethlisberger of assaulting a woman in July 2008.

Roethlisberger is one of nine defendants listed in the online court docket report. Further details of the lawsuit were not available Tuesday morning.

"Ben has never sexually assaulted anyone ... The timing of the lawsuit and the absence of a criminal complaint and a criminal investigation are the most compelling evidence of the absence of any criminal conduct. If an investigation is commenced, Ben will cooperate fully and Ben will be fully exonerated," David Cornwell, Roethlisberger's lawyer, said in a statement released early Tuesday.

A phone message and e-mail from the AP to Cornwell were not returned.

Attorney Calvin R. Dunlap, of Reno, filed the lawsuit, according to court documents. A telephone message left for him was not returned.

Steelers spokesman Dave Lockett said Tuesday the team is aware of the lawsuit, and "we are gathering information."


I heard about this a couple days ago, and really didn't want to report it since it seems like B.S., but it is timely news. It seems very sketchy that this woman would file this lawsuit a year after it supposedly happened. There doesn't seem to be much detail yet, but I hope it gets settled before the season. The last thing Ben needs is some crazy Patriots fan trying to invent a lawsuit to take him off his game for the upcoming season. He will get through it, and be exonerated. - SF 58


MLS


Baby Beckham

At halftime of Sunday's 2-2 tie with AC Milan, Beckham walked toward the "L.A. Riot Squad" section of the stadium and motioned to a fan to come closer. The man jumped down from the seats and was arrested by police for trespassing.

Afterwards, Beckham said he'd wanted to shake the fan's hand. "One of the guys was saying things that really wasn't very nice," he said after the game, according to the Los Angeles Times. "It was stepping over the line. I said, 'You need to calm down and come shake my hand,' and he jumped over."

But fans in the section, who booed Beckham every time he touched the ball and displayed banners reading "Go Home Fraud" and "23: Repent," told the Times that Beckham was not blameless in the altercation and used foul language.

"He called the guy out," said Eric Lewis of Los Angeles, a member of the fan group, according to the report. "He called out a drunk fan. How stupid is that? He's the player. He's the professional. He should have kept himself under control. He didn't."

Another Riot Squad member, Jeff Austin of Highland Park, said in an e-mail to the Times that Beckham's actions were "way out of line for a professional athlete," according to the report. "Anything that he says putting the blame entirely on the fan is nothing short of a complete lie," he added.

It was Beckham's first game in Los Angeles since returning to the Galaxy from a five-month loan to AC Milan, during which he tried to arrange a permanent transfer from MLS to the Serie A club. - ap, espn


The bottom line is that Beckham has been a complete bust in the MLS, LA have gotten worse, he is injured all the time, and most importantly doesn't want to be there. This guy is supposed to be the face of MLS and is requesting a permanent transfer? I applaud the fans in LA for calling him out, because he is a fraud. If the fans weren't enough you have Donovan saying what a lousy captain he has been.
I completely understand the quality of soccer is much better over seas then fine keep playing there, but don't commit to the Galaxy and never play. To think that people thought Beckham was going to have an impact like Gretzky did is comical. Pele was able to do it with the NY Cosmos in the early 80's, but Beckham is nowhere near the player and athlete that Pele was and never will be. My only hope is that Bechkam gets his transfer, and the U.S. somehow face England in the world cup and beat them. - SF 58

NFL, MLB Notes And Trade Rumors... Vick Released

A Look At Some Of The Topics, and Trade Rumors From Across The Country along with stellar commentary from the Sports Freak 58

NFL-

Vick Released

Suspended NFL star Michael Vick ended his federal dogfighting sentence Monday, freeing him to lobby for a return to the field.

Vick's attorney Lawrence Woodward told The Associated Press outside Vick's suburban Virginia home that the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback had been released from federal custody as scheduled.

That means Vick no longer has to wear the electronic monitor he's had while under home confinement for the last two months of his 23-month sentence.

Vick hopes to soon meet with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, who has said he would review Vick's status after Vick completed his sentence.

Goodell has said he wants to sit down with Vick, but it's unclear when that face-to-face meeting will take place.

"Michael did an egregious thing," Goodell told The Associated Press in April. "He has paid a very significant price for that."

He said people are forgiving when someone who has done wrong shows remorse and is prepared to live a different life.

"That's something he has to prove to myself and the general public," Goodell said. -espn.com


I'm with Goodell that Vick has to prove something to the public, and I know that Vick has already spoken to PETA. He will have to be their spokesperson to stop Dog fighting, by getting the street and getting his message out. Apparently, dog fighting has been cut in half since Vick's arrest, since it brought so much attention to the problem. I guess the bigger question is, Does Vick Deserve To Play In The NFL Again?
I personally think he should be able to play, and let PETA use his celebrity status to do something good. You can't take back all the awful things he did to those dogs, so you might as well let him try to stop kids who are thinking about getting involved in dog fighting.
I've seen many pro and college athletes in person, but nothing was like when I saw Vick with Virginia Tech play at Boston College. Vick ran for over 200 yards, he was amazing, it is a damn shame it ever got to this point. If Goddell suspends Vick for another two years or more, then Vick might not have anything left when he comes back, who knows if he still possess the same speed? Lot of questions, all falls in the hands of the commish. - SF 58

Wilfork And Pats Still No Deal

There has been no significant movement in long-term contract talks between the Patriots and nose tackle Vince Wilfork, according to a league source. -- Boston Globe

The Pats seem to keep everyone and when they lose someone they find someone else to fill in the holes. However, if they don't lock up Wilfork and he left that would be a major loss, might be more wishful thinking on my part.- SF 58


MLB-

Pirates Pull Offers For Wilson and Sanchez

The Pirates yesterday pulled back their contract extension offers to Jack Wilson and Freddy Sanchez and, though they remain open to new negotiations, there was no indication any are forthcoming. "That time has come and gone," general manager Neal Huntington said of the offers' lifespan. "They feel like we're awfully light both in years and dollars. In our minds, the conversations are at a standstill." Neither of the player's agents, Page Odle for Wilson and Paul Cobbe for Sanchez, has responded with a counter-offer after each player rejected the team's initial offer late Friday, though Wilson's rejection was not as emphatic as Sanchez's. Wilson's offer was for two years and $8 million, plus a club option for 2012. Sanchez's was for two years and $10 million, plus the voiding of his existing 2010 vesting option that could pay him $8 million. -- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

If I am Jack Wilson and Freddy Sanchez I would pray that I got traded, but would not resign with the Pirates no matter what. Aside from the Naitonals the Pirates are the worst organization in baseball. You actually have two loyal players in Wilson and Sanchez, and you try to low ball them? They trade Niger Morgan this season for an injured Elijah Dukes, which made no sense. Of course, Morgan is on a tear now with the Nats, the Pirates seem to be confused. Maybe Pirates GM Huntington should walk around town stop by Heinze Field and the Igloo to speak championship GMs, no excuse for the Pirates sucking year after year. - SF 58

Gonzo To Red Sox?

Adrian Gonzalez, a durable player, could be traded at the deadline if Padres general manager Kevin Towers gets the right deal. The Red Sox have always liked Gonzalez, who is only 27 and who has an affordable contract that calls for him to earn $4.75 million next season and $5.5 million in 2011. -- Boston Globe

This would be a huge move to get Adrian Gonzalez, and the Red Sox seems to always pull them off. San Diego better get an arm and a leg for him because they are starting to turn into the Pittsburgh Pirates of the West. - SF 58

"The House That Juice Built"

When Long Island man Steve Lore trademarked the phrase "the house that juice built" to express his disgust over steroid use in baseball, the Yankees' legal team came out swinging. They are demanding that the phrase -- plus Lore's T-shirt design that shows the Yankee top hat logo with the bat replaced by a syringe -- be banned. -- NY Post

What a great idea by that guy, and if he gets banned for making those shirts that is a complete joke. He isn't using their Yankee Symbol, and the phrase has been changed, I don't know how they can ban him. They might just make him take it off the cap, but if no trademark is involved it should be allowed.
The Yankees shouldn't be upset at Mr. Lore, they should be upset at themselves and baseball in general for never having a drug policy until it was too late. Everyone loved the homers when Big Mac, and Sammy "Baseball been very very good to me" Sosa were crushing homers to get fans back in the park, so now they should have to deal with the aftermath. I think everyone one was jolted because baseball is "America's Pastime", and is is clean and pure. Well, maybe up until 1980, but things change, lot more money, news ways to get bigger, stronger, and faster. For whatever reason MLB ignored it, and here is what you get.- SF 58

2009 ESPY Awards... Good TV To Fall Asleep To

When the ESPY's were started 17 years ago, I remember being excited and then after the first couple I looked forward to seeing them every year. However, over the last 5 years or so they really are pretty dull aside from a montage here and there. The lifetime achievement awards are nice, and normally it causes most of the audience to start crying including myself, but other than a few moments I really have no reason to watch them. The awards are just made up, and based on the most popular athlete, as they are voted on by the fans. The comedy is usually what I'd look forward to, but after a couple hosts pushed the limit, they have made the sketches and jokes very vanilla. Samuel Jackson made a funny comment about Michael "Bong Hit" Phelps, but other than that it was boring. How many twitter jokes can do about TO, The Williams Sisters, and Ocho Cinco?
The ESPYs now is more about ESPN promoting its brand and really nothing else. I guess when you pretty much have a monopoly on the sports coverage you really don't need to do stuff outside the box any longer, and now we are stuck with a stale show, pretty weak.
-SF 58

Breaking News. Blackhawks Patrick Sharp On The Move?

This just in...

The Hawks are in obvious cap trouble due to the "marketing" UFA signings that were forced on Dale Tallon by McDonough of Hossa and Huet, so now Mr. Bowman's first task appears to trading a player who is truly part of the core and backbone of the Hawks: Patrick Sharp.

Sharp was perhaps one of Tallon's best trades...A steal who came out of nowhere...

There are reports today that the Maple Leafs are interested, and I can add the Sabres and Canadiens to what I am sure will be a growing list of teams... hockeybuzz.com


This rumor just kills me. Sharpe is a heck of a player, but the hawks are up against the cap as mentioned above and need to clear space for next season. They don't necessarily have to make a move this season, but if they have the right deal it sounds like they might take it. I assume a veteran defenseman, be happy if it was Kaberle, but that wouldn't save them any money. I hope he is not dealt, I'd rather see Versteeg go before Sharpe. We shall see, just speculation at this point. - SF 58

Washington Nationals Continue Season Towards Worst MLB Team Of All Time

As a frustrated Cubs fan coming out of the All Star break I was worried about how the Cubs would respond after a less then stellar first half. Little did I know that a little league team that calls themselves the Washington Nationals were waiting to give the Cubs four wins and a series sweep.
The Nationals might be the worst major league team I have ever seen, just all around awful. Even if your team isn't in the game the Nationals will create chances for you to get back in it, and on top of it some of their players seem to be going through the motions. I didn't even know Willie Harris was still in the league until I saw him on the Nats.
As of right now the Nats are on pace for one of the worst records of all time. Below is a list of some of the worst MLB teams ever. The Nats should also be thankful for the Cleveland Spiders who have the most losses, would have love to see that team play.

Most Losses in MLB History-

1899 Cleveland Spiders 20 wins 134 losses .130 win %
1962 New York Mets 40 wins 120 losses .250 win %
2003 Detroit Tigers 43 wins 119 losses .265 win %
1916 Philadelphia A's 36 wins 117 losses .235 win %


I didn't go any further with the list because there is no doubt they will have at least 117 losses. If you get chance watch a Nationals game or two just so you can say you saw one of the worst teams ever play. Hopefully, your favorite MLB team will be playing them soon, so you can get some easy wins and jump start the offense like they did for my cubbies. God bless the Nats.

SF 58

High Hopes, Shattered Dreams... Cink Takes British Open Title

Tom Watson had the British Open title in his hands with a one stroke lead as he took the 18th tee. He evetually put himself into position on 18th green to win the title with a 8 foot putt, but missed the shot, bogeyed the hole and went into a playoff with Stewart Cink.
The playoff was pretty much over once it started, as Watson bogeyed the first playoff hole, and it just got worse form there. Watson's age might of finally caught up with him once he got to the playoff. Cink on the other hand was spot on. After hitting a bridie on the 18th, he continued his great play in the playoff round as he shot minus 2 over four playoff holes and Watson was plus 4.
Great tournament, and Watson made it one to remember, he just couldn't finish it off. Give credit to Cink who battled to get to the playoff and then took control. Definitely a British Open that will go down as one of the best ever.

SF 58

NBA, MLB, NHL Latest Trade Rumors

Here are a couple Trade Rumors worthy Of Note...

MLB

White Sox GM Kenny Williams is making a stealth run at Roy Halladay.

"I definitely think Kenny is involved," said one AL executive. "Let's put it this way: I would be very surprised if he's not."

But the White Sox may not be able to add payroll due to a drop in attendance, and their farm system may not have the kind of talent the Blue Jays want in return. It's believed that infielder Gordon Beckham is off limits, and the Sox just sent first base prospect Brandon Allen to Arizona for reliever Tony Pena. A package centered around Aaron Poreda, Clayton Richard, Dayan Viciedo and Tyler Flowers probably isn't going to get it done. Don't forget, however, that the ever-aggressive Williams nearly acquired Jake Peavy in May.

Reports still indicate the Phillies' front office is split on whether to pursue the right-hander or stick with the current staff (including recently signed Pedro Martinez). And if the Jays stick to their guns and insist that any taker for Halladay also accepts outfielder Vernon Wells in the deal, the New York Yankees may be the only fit, says Newsday's Anthony Rieber. -espn.com


Not long after he was designated for assignment this morning, we learned that the Cubs, Cardinals and Mets have expressed interest in former Red Sox shortstop Julio Lugo. Whether a club acquires Lugo through trade or by signing him after he's released, Boston will be on the hook for just about every cent left on his contract. -mlbrumors.com


NBA

"The buzz out of the Las Vegas summer league is the Miami Heat has interest in trading for Utah Jazz forward Carlos Boozer and signing Los Angeles Lakers free agent Lamar Odom.

Multiple reports have the Heat trying to work a three-team trade, using the Memphis Grizzlies and their salary-cap room, to land Boozer.

The Bulls showed some interest in Boozer last week.

Heat president Pat Riley apparently is looking to add Boozer and Odom to keep guard Dwyane Wade, who has balked at signing a contract extension until the team adds some more star power.

The Heat reportedly has offered Odom a five-year, $34 million contract.

As for Boozer, the Heat reportedly would send forwards Udonis Haslem and Dorell Wright to Utah. The Jazz would then ship Wright and his $2.8 million salary to the Grizzlies and save itself approximately $5.6 million in salary and luxury-tax payments. Memphis also would probably get cash and draft picks.

Boozer's agent has been telling teams it will cost $14 million per season to sign Boozer to a contract extension.

That, among other things, has lessened the Bulls' interest in Boozer, who has one year left on his Jazz contract worth $12.7 million.

The Jazz has told Boozer he will be traded." - Chicago Sun Times


MLB

Not long after he was designated for assignment this morning, we learned that the Cubs, Cardinals and Mets have expressed interest in former Red Sox shortstop Julio Lugo. Whether a club acquires Lugo through trade or by signing him after he's released, Boston will be on the hook for just about every cent left on his contract. -mlbrumors.com


NHL

Sources say itis becoming apparent that Phil Kessel is not long for Boston..I am told that four teams are seriously working up deals and apparently one is so good that even GM Peter Chiarelli has shifted his stance from Kessel is staying a Bruin to my personal favorite, "I don't comment on rumors." - Hockeybuzz.com

Woods Misses Cut At British Open, Watson Still In Lead After Day Two

Tiger Woods is gassing up the plane and heading for home.

Treacherous Turnberry delivered a pair of shockers Friday.

The 59-year-old Watson rolled in two impossibly long putts, danced a Scottish jig on the 18th green and walked off tied with unheralded American Steve Marino for the 36-hole lead at the British Open, where the course struck back with a fury thanks to a stiff breeze whipping off the Firth of Clyde.

Woods won't be around to see how it all turns out. He took two double bogeys on the back side, limped off with a 4-over 74 and missed the cut in a major for only the second time in his professional career.

"It was just problem after problem," said Woods, who came into golf's oldest championship as an overwhelming favorite after winning three times since his return from knee surgery. "I kept compounding my problems out there."

Major title No. 15 will have to wait.

"I hit some bad tee shots, a couple of bad iron shots, didn't get it up and down," Woods said. "I kept making mistake after mistake." - cbs sports


Even with him coming off injury, no one expected this result. The bigger question is we will see from Tiger moving forward? or Is this just a bump in the road for Woods?
I would have to think the latter, but he had won a couple tournaments since coming back, but maybe he mentally is not reading to win a major?
Quite a surpise, and I will be rooting for the Old Savvy Veteran, Tom Watson. I hope he can get it done.
SF 58

Sports Chips

A Daily Look At The Hot Sports Topics From Across The Country..

MLB-

The Giants are looking at players such as Pittsburgh second baseman Freddy Sanchez, but the real prize would be a power-hitting cleanup hitter, preferably right-handed, who would allow them to move Bengie Molina down in the order. "If the Giants add just one good hitter, they're the best team in the division -- including the Dodgers," one N.L. West talent evaluator said. The A's are attempting to move Matt Holliday, but if the Chicago White Sox put outfielder Jermaine Dye on the trade market, he'd be an ideal fit. Toronto third baseman Scott Rolen is the kind of player General Manager Brian Sabean loves, but he's owed $11 million next year. -- San Jose Mercury News

I still can't believe the Giants have gotten so good so fast, but with their starting rotation I guess it is no surprise. Rolen would be a nice player, but he is due to get injured again at some point so I'd take a pass. Dye or Holliday would be ideal, I can't see the Sox Trading Dye, he is their most consistent player. Why do the A's even sign or trade for players with big contracts, they all get dealt. It would be a real easy transition from Oakland to San Fran, seems like the most probable of all the deals.
SF 58


On Monday, Brian Fuentes said he was told he would pitch the sixth inning of the All-Star game. On Tuesday, he was told he would not, which Fuentes blamed on the commissioner's office. "That bumped me from my inning," Fuentes said. "It's kind of crazy they would have their hand in making up the lineup." Fuentes, the Angels' closer, did not pitch in the game. He said he was told in an American League team meeting Monday that he would pitch the sixth inning, and he shared that news with family, friends and Angels officials in St. Louis. On Tuesday, two hours before game time, Fuentes said AL pitching coach Jim Hickey told him that there had been a "misunderstanding" and that AL Manager Joe Maddon had not been aware that the commissioner's office wanted the starting pitchers to work two innings. That left one fewer inning for the relievers and that left Fuentes out. "That soured me a little bit," Fuentes said. "To think that someone in MLB would dictate who pitches when and where, that is not the way the game is supposed to be played." -- LA Times


This is a complete joke if Bud Selig and his boys had a say on who would pitch. The game counts, let Madden manage the team. I know Madden was thinking about starting Wakefield, which would have been nice for him. I wouldn't be surprised If Bud has a say on him not pitching as well. Maybe Bud should make up the line up card for both teams, and his grand kids can pinch hit as well, Come on Bud! Clean It Up!
SF 58

NBA-

What was made clear in Riley's private session was that the Heat's interest in re-acquiring forward Lamar Odom from the Los Angeles Lakers is legitimate, with numbers being discussed that would approach the current Lakers' free-agent offer that Odom has rejected, when accounting from Florida's lack of state income tax and other options regarding payments. Beyond that, the Heat has not entered talks about possibly acquiring forward Carlos Boozer from the Utah Jazz, but is monitoring that situation, with no expectation of a quick resolution by the Jazz. In his Thursday speech to season-ticket holders, Riley said the team could acquire Odom, Boozer or both and still put itself in position to be a major player in 2010 free agency. The Heat made it clear to those present that Riley's comments to season-ticket holders were in an "off the record" setting. -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel

I take back what I said the other day about Odom going to a team that can't make a title run, but only if they get Boozer. It seems the Bulls have more players to offer in Hinrich and Tyrus Thomas, and it seems the Heat have not fully gotten involved, but it could happen. If they get Boozer and Odom, they have a chance to get to the finals. - SF 58


New Orleans star point guard Chris Paul insisted he was serious when he said there's a chance he soon could be traded. Paul was interviewed Thursday by Pro Basketball News, and asked about his team's financial situation. The Hornets are staring at being well over the luxury tax, and might have to dump some big contracts. "In this league, anything can happen," said Paul, at the summer league to watch his Hornets. "I can be dealt." Paul then was asked that surely he can't be serious he could be traded. "It's possible," he said. "It's possible." -- Pro Basketball News

Wasn't New Orleans really good a couple years ago? Now they are falling apart financially like several other teams in the NBA. However, if they trade Paul they are doomed to sink even further into the abyss of mediocrity. Don't do it.
SF 58

NCAA Football

Florida football coach Urban Meyer weighed in on the national discussion Thursday about the Bowl Championship Series. When asked about Utah Sen. Orrin Hatch's problem with Utah being left out of the national title game despite a perfect regular season record, Meyer said Utah couldn't survive in the SEC. "That Utah team this year and the Utah team we had in '04 -- I don't think they can survive the grind of the SEC, but there are other conferences out there who can't survive the grind either," Meyer said. "? I will certainly listen to (Hatch) because I know him and I know their coach Kyle Whittingham. To tell them he isn't a BCS coach and they aren't BCS players, it's not true." -- Ledger-Enquirer

Maybe that is true and maybe it isn't, but you can't penalize Utah for not being in the SEC. Utah's dominance over Bama in BCS bowl game was enough to show me that they can hang in the SEC. Not too many offense like Utahs around, and their defense punished Bama. If you want to even out the playing field then the NCAA should make sure the major conferences play several games against the top mid majors, obviously those change from year to year but something has to be done. Of course the sensible thing would be to have a playoff, but the greedy presidents don't want to lose that money that come sin every year. I wonder if any of them have ever played in a competitive sport? Very painful, I will be happy with Obama's run as president if he can fix this BCS garbage.
SF 58

Let The 2nd Half Begin!

Yesterday the 2nd Half Of the MLB seaosn started, and now we will truly see who are the contenders and who are the pretenders?

A team that seems to be finding their groove are the Phillies where Ryan Howard Made history last night...

Ryan Howard's career is still relatively young. But power-wise, he's on an unprecedented track.

With his solo shot in the sixth inning of Thursday night's 4-0 win over the Marlins, the Phillies' first baseman became the fastest player in Major League history to hit 200 home runs.

Howard, 29, reached the 200-homer plateau with a drive to right field off Marlins starter Chris Volstad. It was the lefty slugger's 23rd home run of the year, and it came in his 658th career game, 48 fewer contests than the previous record.

Before Howard, the fewest amount of games a player needed to notch 200 homers was 706, by Hall of Famer Ralph Kiner. - mlb.com


It is impressive to think That Howard is on this pace for Home Runs, and at this rate he could end up being one of the best home run hitters of all time. His strikeouts are many, but his ability to change the game with one swing makes him a threat every time he steps to the plate. If Howard continues his hitting, and the Philles get some help in the rotation they could be set to make another title run.

Howard is one player that can take their team to the postseason, but who else will step up in the 2nd half and lead their teams to the postseason.
Aside From Howard here are my 5 players that are picks to click in the 2nd half, who are yours?

Derrick Lee
Vlad Guerrero
Jimmy Rollins
A Rod
Alexi Ramirez


Also, we have several divisions up for grabs, Who makes the playoffs? Who misses them?

Here are my predictions
Al
Bo Sox
Yankees
Angels
White Sox

NL
Cubs
Brewers
Dodgers
Phillies

Not too many surprises, but I do think the Tigers and Giants will fade down the stretch, we shall see..agree or disagree?

SF 58

Sports Chips

A Look At The Hot Sport Topics From Across The Country

MLB-

The Giants have to very seriously consider trying to trade Barry Zito to any suitable team that will take some of his money (Zito has a no-trade clause); or they have to think about releasing him in the off-season. Of course, at the end of this season, Zito will still be owed a guaranteed $83 million. Which is a lot. -- San Jose Mercury News

I would deal him in a second, even though Zito has shown some signs this year of coming out of it, he is dead weight at this point. Dump the contract if you can- sf 58

An outfielder will have to go when Carlos Guillen returns from a minor league rehabilitation assignment that he expects to last about another 10 days. Will the Tigers release Ordonez at that time or send down Clete Thomas or Josh Anderson? Those are the options before them. This decision will be a gut-wrencher. Ordonez, 35, was the big gun in the middle of the batting order for Detroit's 2006 American League champions and won a batting title by hitting .363 in 2007. Anderson and Thomas provide speed, defense and offensive spark whether starting or coming off the bench. Winning is all about production, and Ordonez is running out of chances to show he still can do that with consistency. And the Tigers certainly don't want to be saddled with the huge contract Ordonez would realize for next year if he plays regularly. -- Booth Newspapers

I'm releasing Mags when Guillen returns, very interesting how all of Mags numbers have dropped specifically his power numbers, hmmmm. Dump him, cut your losses- SF 58


NBA

Lamar Odom has been talking to the Miami Heat about signing the mid-level exception of $5.8 million, which would adjust to five years for $34 million. On Wednesday, teammate Kobe Bryant called Odom to find out how negotiations with the team were going. -- LA Times

Lamar finally wins a title, and were offered 9 mil over three years by the Lakers, How do not return for another title run? I understand it is more money with the Heat, but even after the three deal is done Lamar could probably sign a lucrative deal. The Heat also are nowhere close to a title, so maybe once Lamar got his title, I guess winning doesn't matter. - SF 58

NASCAR, yep NASCAR

NASCAR driver Jeremy Mayfield tested positive for methamphetamine for the second time and lawyers for the racing series argued the driver should have his ban reinstated, according to a motion filed in federal court Wednesday.
The urine sample collected on July 6 "conclusively" showed that Mayfield had again used the addictive street drug, NASCAR's lawyers wrote in the filing that urges a U.S. District Court judge in Charlotte to reconsider the temporary restraining order that lifted the 40-year-old driver's suspension.
Mayfield again disputed the results.

"I didn't think they were going to come back and say I was clean," Mayfield said on Sirius Satellite Radio. "They have a hard time admitting when they're wrong."

Wednesday's filing also included an affidavit from Mayfield's' estranged stepmother, Lisa Mayfield. In the document, she alleged she was "personally aware" of his use of meth between 1998 and 2005 and that Jeremy Mayfield cooked up his own batch the drug before the sale of major ingredient for the drug, pseudoephedrine, was restricted.Lisa Mayfield also recounted an incident in 1999 when she claimed to have witnessed Mayfield use the drug before a race at Darlington Raceway.

"I was concerned about his heavy use and talked to his father about it," Lisa Mayfield said. "I saw Jeremy use methamphetamine by snorting it up his nose at least 30 times during the seven years I was around him."

Mayfield denied those claims as well.

"I'm not even going to call that lady my stepmom," Mayfield said. "She's a very evil lady who can be bought."-USA Today


This story is probably the first time I've been interested in NASCAR, but it is such a train wreck story I had to include it. Either NASCAR is lying, or Mayfield is delusional. I think I'm gonna go with the latter. This is what we need more of from NASCAR, and I will be sure to discuss it. Yee Haw! -SF 58


NFL


The Ravens made Terrell Suggs the highest-paid linebacker in National Football League history Wednesday, but the $63 million price tag over six years was the cost of doing business in the NFL.

By keeping the loquacious pass rusher in Baltimore, the Ravens added another chapter in their instructive book on how to beat free agency and the salary cap. In an era when players in all professional sports casually trade uniforms and traditions year to year, they are one of the rare organizations with the ability to re-sign core players and keep the team together.- Baltimore Sun


Great move by the Ravens, loved this guy out of college after everyone said he was to small. Now he is one of the best at his position. It must be nice to have elite player earning their money on the field, I wish a certain #54 could start doing that! - SF 58

Old Man Watson On Top Leader Board At British Open After Shooting 65

When it comes to Golf if I follow anything it is the majors, and I always love seeing a savvy veteran like Tom Watson take the lead in a major after shooting a 65 on the first day.
However, we have seen this before including a run by Greg Norman which lasted until the final day when he eventually ran out of steam. I just hope Watson can keep it up until the last day, but I don't expect it to happen.
As much as I like seeing Tiger on the final day going for a title, it is nice to have some other golfers winning these major tournaments. Tiger shot a 1 over today, and is still a little rusty after coming back from injury, so this is the time when others have to take advantage.
I normally don't get excited after Day 1 of a major, but seeing Watson atop the leader board is a good thing, and something that will make me pay more attention to it as the tourney goes into the weekend. I just hope Watson doesn't fade away like the other veteran golfers we have seen in the past. Get it done Tommy.

SF 58

Pedro In Mid Season Form As He Goes Straight To Disabled List

Pedro Martinez had been trying out for the Phillies for it seems like months, and all those try outs have put Pedro on the disabled list. A day after signing with the Phillies, Pedro is right where he has been the last several years..injured.
However, the Phillies really only need him to be ready close to postseason, but if that lead slips in NL East they might need him sooner. The Phillies would be wise to acquire another arm as Old man Martinez ain't got much left in the tank.
Not including the playoffs I say his over under for starts is 5, might seem low, but this guy is a china doll and could break at any moment. Sadly, an injured Pedro is still an upgrade for Philly's pitching staff, let's just see how much he helps. I think he just made the easiest million dollars of his life.

SF 58

Super Old And Overrated Favre Gives July 30th Deadline

As if you weren't tired enough of hearing about Brett Favre, The old man came out today and let the Vikings know that he will make his decision whether to play or not by July 30.
Unless his arm is cut off , we all know he is gonna play, so why all the nonsense once again?
Haven't we seen this garbage before? Just say you are coming back, and start preparing to play. A 50% Brett Favre is better than anything the Vikings have so I'm sure Minny will wait as long as Brett wants to wait to make his decision.
The best thing about Favre returning is that he will be the 3rd best qb in the division, and honestly Stafford could out perform him as well. However the biggest games will obviously be the Pack vs the Vikes, and as much as I dislike the Packers I will be rooting for them in those games. They should cheer him in pregame, and then boo him the rest of the game.
Apparently, Packers legend Paul Hornnung doesn't think Favre will do to well next either.
At A banquet in the beautiful Sheboygan, WI, Hornung said, "Favre Ain't Gonna Win In Minnesota, I'll bet on it."

I believe Hornung on both accounts, and the second part for sure. Hornung was suspended in 1963 for gambling and associating with shady people.
I'm all about guys playing until they get hurt or can't be effective, but making a spectacle every summer is a joke, and for a QB that is done. Yes, done. Favre might be able to hand the ball off to AP, but other than that he is a liability. If you watched him last year, I think you will agree.
New division, New Top QB, Welcome to the NFC Mr. Cutler..bear down

SF 58

This One Counts and Is Still Boring To Watch

For the 13th time in a row the National League loses an All Star Game, and once again the National League will NOT have home field advantage in the World Series.
Even though Ryan Howard had a chance to be a hero in front of the town where he grew up, he could not, and struck out in the bottom of the 8th with two on and Mariano Rivera got the save in the 9th to close it out for the AL.
The bottom line is even though "This One Counts" is the motto for this game, it still felt like an exhibition game and it is still as weak as the other Pro All Star games. Maybe they could bring retired All Star pitchers from the past like Greg Maddux or Dennis Eckersley to pitch.
Teams with home field advantage for the last 6 years are 3 and 3 in the World Series, so why are making this game count again? TV? Advertisers? Ratings?
Something needs to be done to make up for the 2 plus hours I wasted on that game..countdown to football.

*(pictured above) The Video Game Version Of The MLB All Star Game Might Be The Answer To Make It More Entertaining

SF 58

Stan Bowman Introduced As Blackhawks GM

Blackhawks are my team, and it is nice to have their news relevant again in the hockey world . Dale Tallon was let go yesterday as GM (general manager), and new GM Stan Bowman, son of Scotty Bowman, was introduced as the new GM today.
Dale did some good things, but this move I saw many months ago coming. The icing on the cake for Dale might have been getting the offers to the RFAs (restricted free agents) after the cut off date, but fortunately those players all wanted to come back and the hawks were able to sign them. However, this will mean cap issues for next summer when they have to sign Kane, Toews, and Keith. I still have a feeling we could see a forward get dealt for a veteran defenseman this summer, but we shall see.
Anyway, Dale is the last of the old guard, after bob Pulford and just about everyone else had been let go, Dale was the last one left, and now with Stan Bowman inserted and his Dad guiding him as a "consultant", this can only be good things for the hawks next year and down the road. Still Many moves to be made in the NHL this offseason..stay tuned