Thursday, July 31, 2008

Jonathan Roy charged for Junior Hockey March Madness



A few months after a fracas between rival Quebec Major Junior Hockey League teams the Quebec Remparts and Chicoutimi Saueneens highlighted their playoff game, goalie Jonathan Roy has been charged with one count of assault. Roy took it upon himself to get into the action, skating the length of ice before taking out Saueneens’ goalie Bobby Nadeau.

Remperts’ coach and GM Patrick Roy was suspended for five games and his son Jonathan was suspended for seven games because of the fists of glory demonstrated on the ice.

Watch out Jonathan, because the popo are on your tail!
(Source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

My Boys Thursday


I’ve tried to keep “My Boys” cast members personal lives out of these posts, but this recent photo of “Hills” star Lauren Conrad and Kyle Howard (Bobby) was just too funny not to mention. Click here for the picture. (And for the record, I don't agree with the wording that accompanied the photo, but it's a pretty great photo.)

Onto tonight’s episode: The gang is heading to Santa Barbara for the blessed union of Bobby and the Swedish nanny where craziness will most likely ensue. Plus what will happen to that budding romance between PJ and Bobby’s brother Jack? Tune into TBS tonight at 9:30 PM/est to find out.

Click here for a preview of tonight’s all new episode…and here for the latest entries of show creator Betsy Thomas’ blog.
UPDATE: Watch with Kristin has a new column featuring the cast of "My Boys." There are some spoilers about the next two episodes so if you don't mind being spoiled, click here for the interview.

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Deadlines

Baseball Update:
The Yankees made another trade on Wednesday brining in catcher Ivan Rodriguez from the Tigers for reliever Kyle Farnsworth. I think my friend summed it up best "Goodbye Kyle!" They also reportedly sent LaTroy Hawkins to the Astros for Class A second baseman Matt Cusick.

As for the current Yanks, they held off a sweep with a 13-3 bashing of the Orioles. Bobby Abreu had two homeruns and three RBIs in the win.

The Red Sox, who are reportedly in negotiations for for a three way trade with the Marlins and Pirates in which Florida would get Manny Ramirez and the Red Sox would get Jason Bay, could not stop the Angels, falling, 9-2. Mark Teixeira was 0-3 in his debut with LA.

The Cubs are just one win away from a sweep of the Brewers after hammering them, 7-2. Both teams scored on wild pitches in the first inning, but the Brewers offense couldn't muster much more, leaving them 4 games behind Chicago in the division.

The Marlins held off a late rally by the Mets in their 7-5 win. Mike Pelfrey suffered his first loss in eight decisions after the Marlins scored five runs in the fourth inning.

The Mets dropped a half game behind in the standings after the Phillies handled the Nats, 8-5. Jamie Moyer allowed three runs, includind two homers and double in the first inning and didn't allow another hit until the fifth. Shane Victorino and Chase Ultey provided the offense for the Phillies who regained the top spot in the East.

The Cardinals are one game away from a sweep of the Braves after their 7-2 win. Chris Carpenter took the mound for the first time since April 2007, allowing one earned run in four innings of work. Casey Kotchman was 0-for-5 in his debut with the Braves.

Carlos Quentin had another one of those nights for the White Sox, going 3-for-5 with a homerun and four RBIs as the ChiSox took down the Twins, 8-3.

At one point the Indians were leading 8-1, but the Tigers clawed there way back into the game scoring four in the fifth and eight innings and tying it in the ninth to send the game into extras. Placido Polanco grounded out scoring Carlos Guillen to give the Tigers the advantage in their eventual, 14-12 win. Kelly Shoppach had five extra base hits in the losing effort.

One day after his 24th birthday, Chad Billingsley threw a five hit shut out in the Dodgers 4-0 blanking of the Giants. The win pushed LA over .500 for the first time since May 27th.

Proving things are happening fast, as I am writing this post, I just read the Reds have traded Ken Griffey, Jr. to the White Sox pending approval by Griffey.

Nascar Update:
Ryan Newman has reportedly agreed verbally to signing with Stewart Haas for the 2009 season.

Speaking of Newman, he thinks Nascar's apology over last weekends tire fiasco is not enough. I think every person should get their money back plus free gas for a month for the horrible race they put on.

Popo in my crib News:
Hall of Famer Warren Moon has pleaded guilty to negligent driving in connection with a December 28th arrest in Medina, WA. Moon received a 90 day jail sentence with 88 of those days suspended. Who is he, Khloe Kardashian? He can either serve 2 days in jail or five days at home. I'll take fives day at home, Your Honor. Watch out Warren, because the popo are on your tail!

News&Notes: **Spoiler Alert** The opening ceremonies for this year's Beijing Olympics have been leaked. Click here if you want to be spoiled...Loul Deng and the Bulls have agreed to a six year deal that could be worth $80 million with a guaranteed $71 million...Because it wasn't a circius before hand, the Packers have offered Brett Farve $20 million not to play. Can someone offer me $20 million not to do something, because I'll so take that deal...Penn State has dismissed football players Chris Baker and Phil Taylor...The Detroit Red Wings signed Valtteri Filppula to a five year, $15 million contract.

Check this out: LeBron James is a very generous guy. Click here to find out what present he gave his USA basketball teammates on their flight to China.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Hump Day Hair

The newest hair trend in baseball looks to be the buzz cut, which completely makes sense when you’re playing in 80+ degree weather. Check out some of baseball's buzz cut converts.


Brandon Inge (w/Fernando Rodney)
Looks like this was freshly done. I'll allow it because the additional catcher equipment would be unbearable for me to don in the summertime, but this may not be the best look for Brando.
(Photo: Mark Duncan/AP)


Ian Snell
Even though the lack of hair can be hard for some to pull off, Snell is selling this look like he's David Beckham and this is the MLS.
(Photo: Gene J. Puskar/AP)


Ryan Braun
I'm kind of torn, but I think I'd prefer a little more hair on Ryan although the constant 5 o'clock shadow totally works for him with the shorter hair. Hence being torn. Also, it is just me or does it look like he's sporting an earing?
(Photo: Darren Hauck/AP)


Scott Olsen
If I played in Miami during the summer, I'd try to bring back the shorts and avoid long sleeves at all costs. So the buzz cut seems perfect for Tazzie McSusan over here.
(Photo: Alan Diaz/AP)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

breaking up is hard to do

Baseball Update:
The Braves finally pulled the trigger on a deal for Mark Teixeira, sending the first baseman to the Angels for Casey Kotchman and minor league pitcher Stephen Marek.

Things only got better to LA, as John Lackey took a no-hitter against the Red Sox into the ninth inning until it was broken up by a Dustin Pedoria single. The Angels went on to win, 6-2.

The Rays capitalized on Boston's loss with a 3-0 blanking of the Blue Jays. Matt Garza recorded his first career shut out in the win.

Doug Davis retired the first 20 batters he faced as the Diamondbacks shut out the Padres, 3-0. Brian Giles broke up Davis flirtation with perfection in the seventh wiht a two out single. The Diamondbacks optioned pitcher Micah Owings to the minors after losing his eighth straight start on Monday.

Justin Morneau's bases clearing double highlighted a five run fifth inning in the Twins 6-5 defeat of the White Sox. The win pulled Minnesota a half game behind Chicago in the AL Central.

The Cubs got a stellar performance from ace Carlos Zambrano in their 7-1 shelling of the Brewers. The win ensured the Cubs they would leave town with the NL Central lead.

Oliver Perez got his first win in a month as the Mets took out the Marlins, 4-1. Carlos Delgado continued his hot streak with a two run homer in the eighth to break open the game. Pedro Martinez, who flew back to the Dominican for his father's funeral, will be available to pitch on Friday. He's also making a pitch to the Mets to bring in Manny Ramirez.

Earthquakes be damned, Jason Johnson would have none of it, making his first start in two years, the pitcher was sharp going six shut out innnings in the Dodgers 2-0 victory over the Giants.

The Orioles continued their winning ways in the Bronx with their 7-6 victory over the Yankees. Daniel Cabrera pitched into the eight before getting ejected for hitting Alex Rodriguez with a pitch. The O's are now 7-4 against the Bombers this season.

Congrats to Ichiro Suzuki on collecting his combined 3,000th hit in the major leagues (USA and Japan). The milestone came in the first inning of the Mariners 11-10 loss to the Rangers.

Injury Update: The Rockies placed Scott Podsednik on the 15 day DL because of a non-displaced fracture of his left pinky. Can't tough that out?...Also landing on the DL, the Rangers' Hank Blalock (right shoulder inflammation), the Phillies' Pedro Feliz (lower back injury), the Twins' Alexi Casilla (torn righ thumb ligament) and the Pirates' Adam LaRoche (strained muscle in his ribcage).

Three Cardinals minor leaguers were suspended 50 games a piece for violating the league's drug policy. Braulin Beltre and Andres Beras both tested positive for a metabolite of Boldenone while Yedilson Pena tested positive for metabolites of stanozolol. All are members of the organization's Dominican Summer League team.

Sad news, former Red Sox catcher Russ Gibson has died. He was only 69.

Nascar Update:
44 teams are on the entry list for this weekend's race at Pocono. Click here to see who is scheduled to qualify.

"Ooops, my bad," Nascar told fans in response to the uproar over the tire fiasco at the Brickyard, "However, you will not be getting your money or hours of your life back. Oh, but please come back next year! Trust me, it can only get better. "

Nascar.com goes 1on1 with Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin.

Jimmie Johnson and Randy Moss are teaming up at Brisol Motor Speedway on August 30th. Two time Cup Champion Johnson will drive Moss' #81 Chevy in the Truck Series.

Petty Enterprises will use three different drivers over the next three races as it evaluates the #45 car. Chad McCumbee, Kyle Petty and Terry Labonte will all take turns at the wheel. I think it's time Kyle steps out of the Nascar as a driver and lets McCumbee or another driver take over the #45.

News&Notes: The Kings are sending Ron Artest to the Rockets for Donte Greene, Bobby Jackson and a 2009 first-round pick...The Saints signed first round draft pick Sedrick Ellis to a five year deal that could be worth $49 million...Dallas Cowboys cornerback Terence Newman will miss at least 3 weeks with a groin injury...Annika Sorenstam is scratching her head over Michelle Wie's decision to pull herself out of the Women's British Open to instead play in the PGA's Legends Reno-Tahoe Open. Wie has never won a women's event and has never made the cut for the PGA. That about sums up her career...Guess what Iraq, you can participate in the Olympics...Finally Brett Farve sent a reinstatement letter to commissioner Roger Goodell. I've mentioned before that I could care less whether he wants to desecrate his legacy by doing this crap, but I figured some people out there do.

Check this out: Justin Timberlake is outraged that Ashton Kutcher would suggest that he started the trucker hat phase. "[We - Timberlake and buddy Trace Ayala] were wearing them when we were seventeen." Good try kids, I think everyone wore them at least once before the big craze hit in the mid 2000s. It was called little league and they were kind of a requirement. Click here for more on JT.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

West Virginia players get rowdy at Pirates Game

Two West Virginia basketball players were arrested at a Pittsburgh Pirates game on Monday after getting into it with the stadium popo. Joe Mazzulla and Cameron Thoroughman, who smelled of alcohol, began arguing with the popo when they refused to show identification. Thoroughman then decided to get all feisty by threatening a security. He was later wrestled to the ground when he refused to put his arms behind his back. During the Thoroguhman/popo fracas, Mazzulla tried to play hero by punching a police sergeant. Bad call, moron.

The two 20 year olds were charged with underage drinking. Mazzulla was also hit with aggravated assault and hindering apprehension charges while Thoroughman was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. The school’s athletic department has yet to comment. Watch out Joe and Cameron, because the popo are on your tail!
(source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Quake won't stop Dodgers from playing ball

The Dodgers will play their scheduled game against their rival San Francisco Giants despite an afternoon earthquake that shook Los Angeles at 2:42 local time. Dodger Stadium did feel the quake, however there was no damage done to the stadium that would prevent the game from being played.

The quake, which was measured at 5.4, was centered in the Chino Hills and after shocks have stung the area, with the largest measuring at 3.8. Count earthquakes as another reason I’m not packing my bags and moving to the left coast.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Double Whammy

Baseball Update:
Greg Maddux finally did it, after being stuck at career win #350 for the last 14 games, he finally got #351 in the Padres 8-5 victory over the Diamondbacks. Mads also passed Phil Niekro for 10th on the all-time strikes out list. Not a bad night.

The Yankees got a double whammy getting smacked by the Orioles, 13-4 and learing that catcher Jorge Posada will opt for season ending surgery to repair his shoulder. Although the Posada news is probably a good thing considering he was going to need it before the start of next season, if he gets it done now, he should be a go by opening day.

The Mets suffered a similiar fate on Monday, dropping one to the Marlins, 7-3 after Florida's five run eighth broke things open and losing starter John Maine in the fifth with a stiff shoulder. He is expected to return to New York to undergo tests on the shoulder, which had been bothering him since his last start.

Rangers short stop Michael Young could miss up to a week after fracturing his right ring finger during Texas' 7-5 loss to the Mariners. Young injured his finger diving back to first base on a pickoff attempt in the first inning.

The Braves placed third baseman Chipper Jones and starting pitcher Tim Hudson on the DL on Monday and then promptly got spanked by the Cardinals, 12-3. The Braves were also without catcher Brian McCann who suffered a concussion during the series finale with the Phillies on Sunday.

Derrek Lee doubled in Alfonso Soriano in the ninth inning to help the Cubs rally for a 6-4 win over the Brewers. The win gave the Cubs a 2 game lead over the surging Brewers in the NL Central.

The White Sox fortunes were quite the opposite of their crosstown rivals after the Twins blanked them, 7-0. Kevin Slowely pitched a six hit shut out, while Denard Span and Justin Morneau added homeruns in the win.

Dice-K picked up only his second loss of the season as the Red Sox fell to the Angels, 7-5. Torii Hunter hit a three run homer, while teammate Casey Kotchman added a two run bomb of his own in Los Angeles' six run 6th.

Despite rumors to the contrary, A.J. Burnett is not leaving Toronto. To celebrate the news, Burnett pitched seven solid inning in the Blue Jays 3-1 defeat of the Rays.

If ever there was a team for Roy Oswalt to pitch to after returning from the DL it would be the Reds. And lucky for him, he got his wish notching his 20th career win against the team, in the Astros 5-4 win.

Proving once again that bad behavior doesn't pay, the Dayton Dragons released 22 year old Angel Cabrera, the infielder that started last week's minor league frackas with a hard slide into second, siting behavorial problems. Also if you're 22 and in Single-A, it may be time to give up the dream.

Nascar Update:
Congrats to Jimmie Johnson on winning the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard on Sunday.

Tires turned out to be the biggest news story of the day, thanks to Nascar's need for competition cautions. The longest green flag run? 12 laps. (Shakes head)

The great experiment has come to a close as the Nationwide Series has dropped Mexico City from its 2009 schedule.

Reports have Martin Truex, Jr. staying with DEI after signing a two year contract. I would have bolted, but I also wouldn't place loyality over winning. Truex's reply to the rumor, "It's bull----!"

Tony Stewart was fined $10,000 and placed on probation after an altercation with a USAC official on Thursday. Now that's the Tony Stewart I know and love!

Popo in my crib News:
University of Virginia football players Will Barker and Dave Roberts admitted to steeling beer from a cooler at Club 216 (apparently a gay club) early Saturday morning. In addition to their larceny charges, Roberts who is 19, has also been charged with being a minor in possession of alcohol and using a fake ID. Barker and Roberts are just a drop in the buckett for the UVA team who has had five players arrested in the offseason and has dismissed five other players due to academic reasons. Watch out Will and Dave, because the popo are on your tail! (via TSB)

News&Notes: Emeka Okafor and the Charlotte Bobcats have agreed to a six year, $72 million deal...The Pistons have signed Kwame Brown to a two year, $8 million contract...Commissioner Roger Goodell says the NFL will not punish Bills running back Marshawn Lynch for a hit-and-run. Lame!...Rush Limbaugh said he'd be interested in buying the St. Louis Rams if they ever came up for sale...Gymnast Paul Hamm will miss the Olympic Games in Beijing due to his broken right hand...The US Men's basketball team has arrived in China.

Check this out: Soccer stud Christiano Ronaldo has left the states. Blogs were a buzz for the past week with photos of him lounging by the pool and rumors about his kiss offs to socialites Lauren Conrad and Paris Hilton. Click here for his final goodbye photo.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Monday, July 28, 2008

Things I Learned at Citizens Bank Park: Photo Day 2008



Phillies 10, Braves 9

1. Get there when the gates open. Citizens Bank Park opened the gate early for phans, so make sure to get there right as the gates open. Plus there were a couple of entries onto the field but don’t be afraid to fan out so that you could get the best spot.

2. I am really short. I know I’m not tall, but after taking a picture with Pat Burrell, I realized I am very, very short. Oh and Carlos Ruiz suffers from a similar plight.

3. Crab fries are the most delicious things ever. I’m big on ballpark food, but crab fries top the chart and totally worth the wait on the Chickie’s & Pete’s line. Plus it moves quickly, so the next time you head over to CBP make sure you get yourself some. And if you’re into the cheese dipping sauce is the perfect topper.

4. Miracles do happen. I knew that Mike Hampton was scheduled to pitch but it didn’t mean he was going to actually pitch. I mean there was a long walk from the bullpen to the dugout and a whole bunch of steps to get to the field and a mixture of grass and dirt, anything could happen. But Mikey actually took the mound and pitched four whole innings. I had to pinch myself multiple times throughout the game to make sure I wasn’t dreaming it.

5. Just because you score 9 runs in one inning doesn’t mean anything. Thank you Atlanta for letting me in on that little secret. I was sure that once they bumped Cole Hamels in the fourth it would be smooth sailing. But that seven run inning by the Phillies that followed sealed the deal for Philadelphia.


Pat Burrell


Chad Durbin


Jamie Moyer


Chase Utley


Ryan Howard


Chris Coste

For more photos click here.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Trade Deadline closing in, teams start to deal

I'm a little pressed for time today, but I did want to update the big trades that took place this weekend.


Xavier Nady to the Yankees
With the injury to Hideki Matsui and Jorge Posada, the Yanks were in need of a right hand bat and Nady was a perfect fit. Included in the deal with the Pirates the Yankees also acquired reliever Damaso Marte for outfield prospect Jose Tabata and right handers Dan McCutchen, Jeff Karstens and Ross Ohlendorf. To make room for their newest members, the Yankees sent Brett Gardner to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and designated LaTroy Hawkins.
(Photo: Jim Rogash/Getty Images)





Casey Blake to the Dodgers
The Dodgers have needed a third baseman for most of the year so Casey Blake became the best rental option for LA. Blake, who is making $6.1 million and will be a free agent at the end of the year, was sent to the Dodgers for Triple-A pitcher Jon Meloan and Class A catcher Carlos Santana.
(Photo: Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images)





Anthony Reyes to the Indians
Reyes was once considered a top prospect in the Cardinals organization, but he never fulfilled his promise and the Cards finally dealt him to the Indians for Minor League reliever Luis Perdomo and cash.
(Photo: Gene J. Puskar)

Be on the Look Out: The Jarrod Washburn/Yankees deal is still a hot topic but Cashman isn't too sure it's going to happen...Mark Teixeira's tenure with the Braves looks to be coming to a close, but if he's going to Arizona, Conor Jackson will have to be a part of the deal...Manny Ramirez is daring the Red Sox to trade him.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Friday, July 25, 2008

Friday Funnies


Legend Bobby Hull stands with current Blackhawks Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews to celebrate the 2009 Winter Classic at Wrigley. Is it just me or is it creepy to think that if you took Kane and Toew’s combined age (about 39 years, 11 months) and compared it with Hull’s actual age (69) you’d still be a Kate Hudson away from balancing the scales? Goodness I just feel old right now.
(Photo: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
Reminder: I'm off to Phillies Photo Day on Saturday. So check back on Monday for all of the pictures from the game. Click here for the pictures from Photo Day '06 and here for '07. And to anyone who's planning on attending, I'll see ya there!

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Brawl Night down on the farm



A 17 player brawl between the Dayton Dragons (Reds affiliate) and Peoria Chiefs (Cubs affiliate) got a bit out of control on Wednesday night especially after Peoria’s pitcher Julio Castillo threw a ball at Dayton’s dugout which missed, hitting a fan in the stands. The fan was taken to the hospital while Castillo was arrested and charged with one count of felonious assault. Yeah, missing that badly probably explains why Julio is still in Single-A.

The tangle was set off by a hit batsman, a Peoria player to be exact. Castillo (Peoria pitcher) then took it upon himself to one up the Dragons by hitting not one but two Dayton players. Zack Cozart who was hit in the head, had to leave the game. The second hit batter, Angel Cabrerra then “made an aggressive slide into second to break up a double play.” Castillo followed the unfavorable move by throwing a warning pitch to a Dragons player prompting their manager Donnie Scott to complain to the home plate ump. Peoria’s interim manger Carmelo Martinez (filling in for Ryne Sandberg) joined the conversation. Then things got nasty leading to 17 ejections. Only problem was, with that many ejections the game could not continue without pitchers playing the outfield. After a phone call to league president George Spelius the ejections were reversed and Dayton came out with a 6-5 win. All in a days work down on the farm.

Oh and Julio, watch out, because the popo are on your tail!
(source)

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Getting Closer

Baseball Update:
The NL is heating up every division leader holding just a one game lead over their closest competitor including the Cubs who were able to keep a small cushion over the surging Brewers with a 6-3 win over the Marlins.

As for those Brewers, they got a boost from a Ryan Braun homerun sealing the sweep over the Cardinals with their 4-3 victory.

In other Cubs news, they will place closer Kerry Wood on the DL with a blister on his pitching hand. This is the 12th time in his 10 year career that Wood will go on the DL. And Mark Cuban is among finalists to purchase the team.

The Mets catapulted their way to the top of the division with a 3-1 win over the Phillies thanks to a red hot Carlos Delgado who tapped a two run double in the eighth to break up a 1-1 tie. The two teams were tied for the lead in the East after Wednesday's Met's victory. Jimmy Rollins was pulled from the starting lineup after arriving late to Shea Stadium.

The Phillies were apparently unhappy with Jose Reyes on Wednesday night after the shortstop "wagged his left index finger" while rounding the bases following a decisive three run homer. Manager Charlie Manuel defended his star by using the whole "he's young" defense. I don't care if he's 25, he's been in the league to long to continually be defended by his age. He's immature and it's time for him to wake up. On the other hand, I think the Phillies are overreacting on this one.

Over on the left coast, Matt Cain four hit the Nats to come out on the right side of a 1-0 Giants win. Good for Cain, I swear he always seems to pitch some great games but the offense doesn't back him up.

Want to know how to beat the Rays? Play them on the road. (Although that could go for almost every Major League team.) The Royals handed Tampa Bay its seventh straight road loss with their 4-2 win. Mitch Maier was in the starting line-up in place of outfielder Joey Gathright who was placed on the DL with a bone bruise in his right shoulder.

The Blue Jays pounced on the O's, 7-1 in the battle of the birds. Roy Halladay's one run, seven inning performance probably upped his stock on the trade market.

The Red Sox and Yankees will battle it out in Fenway this weekend and David Ortiz is reportedly ready to make his big debut on Friday since hitting the DL in May. The Sox fans are going to be extra spicy this weekend I bet.

The Yankees, among other things, discussed Barry Bonds during a team meeting on Thursday.

Infamous fan Steve Bartman reportedly turned down an offer of $25,000 to autograph a photo of himself tipping a foul ball that appeared catchable by Moises Alou. To date, Bartman has refused any offers to make an appearance.

Nascar Update:
The Brickyard beckons for the Cup boys this weekend. The race remains one of the most presitigous on the schedule and will feature two former Indy 500 winners in Sam Hornish, Jr. and Juan Pablo Montoya. But can they go toe-to-toe with four time Brickyard winner Jeff Gordon or two time winner Tony Stewart? Both guys are in search of their first wins of the season and I couldn't think of a better place for them to break through. You'll have to tune into the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard at 1 PM/est on ESPN. (NOTE THE CHANNEL CHANGE)

37 year old Jeff Gordon mentioned he doesn't see himself driving full time much past 40, so get your booing in now because in a couple of years, you'll have to use that energy to boo the Busch brothers.

Chad Walter has resigned handing crew chief duties of the JR Motorsports #5 Nationwide Series car to Cam Strader.

Popo in my crib News:
A California minor leauge game was suspended due to a police stand-off at a nearby home. Tulare County Sheriff Sgt. John Gray was stabbed while serving an eviction when he was stabbed by suspect Melvin Nicks. Gray shot at Nicks who went into his home. A stand-off ensued stopping a game between Modesto and Visaila. A makeup date has not been announced. Watch out Melvin, because the popo are on your tail!

News&Notes: Jeremy Shockey reported to Saints training camp and seemed to be in good spirits after being traded by the Giants only a few days prior. Not at the acceptance stage yet, but I'm working on it. Kick ass Shockey!...The Warriors have re-signed Monta Ellis to a six year, $66 million deal...The Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin is pissed off with the organization over what he says is a broken promise for a new deal...Iraqi athletes will not be allowed to compete in this year's Beijing Olympics.

Check this out: Mad Men's second season is finally premiering on AMC on Sunday. Tune in at 10 PM/est to catch all the latest from the Steerling Cooper Ad Agency. If you haven't watched click here to find out how you can catch up for free. (Or head over to iTunes to download the entire season) And here to learn a little bit about the show.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Thursday, July 24, 2008

My Boys Thursday

***SPOILERS For those who did not watch last week’s episode***

So last week we got introduced to Bobby’s brother Jack. Sparks flew between Jack and PJ but will it continue this week? And will PJ mention any of this to Bobby, who it seems like only a few episodes ago, was the object of her desire? You’ll have to tune into this week’s all new episode of “My Boys” to find out.

In addition, after a week hiatus, Jamie Kaler has finally updated his blog. Click here for his latest post. And don’t forget to go to tbs.com after this week’s all new episode (10 PM/est) to participate in a web chat with the cast.

Plus tell all of your friends to tune into TBS at 9:30 PM/est to catch “My Boys.”
(Photo: TBS)

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

I made it through the rain

Baseball Update:
Shane Victorino and Geoff Jenkins hit solo shots but in the end it was Jose Reyes and his three run homer that sailed the Mets past the Phillies, 6-3. After missing Tuesday's game with shoulder troubles, Billy Wagner came in to close out the win for New York.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Pedro Martinez and his family after his father Pablo succumbed to brain cancer at the age of 79. Martinez will miss his next start to be with his family in the Dominican Republic.

The Braves rebounded nicely from a one hit loss on Tuesday with a 9-4 blowout of the Marlins on Wednesday. Third baseman Chipper Jones exited the game in the fourth with a hamstring injury while pitcher Tim Hudson had to leave with eblow tightness. Could it get any worse for the Braves? Or could it get better? Mike Hampton could possibly make his first start of the season on Saturday. Although he'll probably get injured in the airport buying a magazine or something.

The Yankees completed a sweep of the Twins with a 5-1 victory. Jorge Posada has opted to put of surgery in hopes of getting back into the lineup before season's end. As reportedly earlier, if Posada does return, he would not do so as a catcher but rather as a DH/1st baseman, because the Yankees don't have enough of them.

The Mariners suffered another tough loss, falling to the Red Sox, 6-3. The win marked Boston's first sweep at Seattle in 15 years and was accomplished without the services of Manny Ramirez who missed the game with a sore knee.

Ben Zorbist made the most of his final day in the majors for the forseeable futre tallying a homerun and two RBIs in the Rays 4-3 edging of the A's. The A's scored one run in the ninth off of a Emil Brown sac fly to close the Rays' lead to one run, but closer Troy Pervical was able to hold the A's off in the win.

Alfonso Soriano was activated from the DL but it was Reed Johnson who stole the spotlight with his grand slam in the eighth as the Cubs were finally able to beat the Diamondbacks, 10-6.

There was no lack of offense in Los Angeles as the Angels racked up 19 hits in their 14-11 drubbing of the Indians. The third proved to be the only inning where not run was scored by either team.

Carlos Quentin continued his monster year with a three run homer in Chicago's decisive five run eighth. The game was Quentin's third multihomer game of the season and the 10-8 win over the Rangers gave the White Sox a 2.5 game lead over the Twins in the AL Central.

Greg Maddux remains winless over his last 14 starts after the Padres fell to the Reds, 9-4. Apparently win #351 is a lot harder to get than it seems.

CC Sabathia picked up his third win as a Brewer with a superb complete game shutout in Milwaukee's 3-0 blanking of the Cardinals. The Brew Crew look to finish off a sweep of the Cardinals on Thursday.

Nascar Update:
Nascar has issued a rule change that would harness power in Toyota's engines in the Nationwide Series.

Speaking of Toyota, they aren't making a lot of fans in Nascar.

Sam Hornish, Jr. is hoping to turn things around this weekend at the Brickyard, where he won an Indy 500 in 2006. Keep hoping!

Mike Greci will take over interim crew chief duties on the #1 Bass Pro Chevy driven by Martin Truex, Jr. after the team's appeal was denied.

ESPN has decided analyst and former Cup Champ Rusty Wallace can own a Cup team and stay with the network.

News&Notes: The Army has decided that Caleb Campbell will not be allowed to play in the NFL after being drafted by the Detroit Lions in April. Originally Campbell was given the ok by the military branch, which would let him play while serving his country by acting as a recruiter. The timing is bit odd considering that training camp was set to begin on Thursday...The Bears' Devon Hester will miss practice because he's holding out for a bigger contract. I hate this crap. You signed a contract, you show up to camp, you do your job and you cry into your 1000 thread count pillows cases. If you wanted a better contract in the first place, you should not have put you signature on the dotted line. Grow up!...Speaking of crying, I bet Julio Franco is tearing up after learning that 50 year old Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman is leaving the broadcast booth to hit the court for the Detroit Shock...Doping? The Olympics? Those words would never come out of my mouth. That's why I'm just so darn shocked to learn that swimmer Jessica Hardy's "A" sample came back positive for a banned substance putting her Olympic hopes in jeopardy. If you're going to cheat, you should try to do it a bit better there, Jess.

Check this out: Calling all Chuck fans, calling all Chuck fans. By now you've read about the big guest stars this season like Nicole Richie, Jordana Brewster and John Larroquette. But burried in the bottom of a press release was news that recently retired Giants defensive end Michael Straham will make an appearance as a sporting goods store owner. This is going to be so good! For more news click here. And to see why everyone is buzzing about this show, catch a few episodes here.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Hump Day Hair

One good thing came out of the battle at the palace 2 is that it reminded me that the WNBA season has started. Yes, one person’s PR nightmare is another person’s wake up call. Wait I think both of those apply to the WNBA. Anyway, I figured that this week’s hump day hair should highlight the women that make up the league and their lovely hair.

So here are the hair trends gracing the courts of the WNBA 2008:


Sue Bird showing us the classic pony.
(Photo: Daivd Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)

Kristen Rasmussen modeling the pony braid.
(Photo: David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)


Vanessa Hayden-Johnson and Kelly Santos showing off the multiple ways to rock a headband
(Photo: Andy King/AP)


Tan White sporting the half updo Manny locks looks
(Photo: Ed Betz/AP)


And then Charde Houston with this ultra chic off the court look. You know if you’re the before picture on the America’s Next Top Model episode when they do makeovers. Cause otherwise this is so not fierce!
(Photo: David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Melee in Detroit Round 2: the Ladies Turn

Detroit is quickly becoming one of my favorite basketball cities. And no it’s not because of the team’s superior basketball skills but rather for their superior boxing skills especially after another basketball brawl. But this time there was no Ron Artest in sight. Instead it was the WNBA's Shock getting their nails broken scratching out the eyes of the LA Sparks and there star Candace Parker. After last weekend’s kitty fight between IndyCar drivers Danica Patrick and Milka Duno the phrase anything you can do I can do better is taking on a whole new meaning.



It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

trade winds begin to blow

Baseball Update:
The San Diego Padres have traded starter Randy Wolf to the Houston Astros for minor leaguer Chad Reineke. The Wolf Pack couldn't get to Houston fast enough as they fell to the Pirates, 8-2.

The Diamondbacks added a fresh arm to the bullpen when they traded infield prospect Emilio Bonifacio to the Nationals for Jon Rauch. Rauch's old team also fell to the Giants, 6-3 giving Barry Zito his fifth win of the season. Fifth win, when the heck did he get wins 3 and 4?

The Nationals and Cristian Guzman agreed to a two year extension worth $16 million which would keep the shortstop in DC through 2010. And finally, Willy Mo Pena is done for the season after undergoing shoulder surgery. I think this is the most Nationals' news I've ever commented on!

Rick VandenHurk went into Tuesday's game with an 11.81 ERA and then helped one hit the Atlanta Braves, in the Marlins 4-0. I think that's the Braves third one hit effort in the past week. So now where do you think Mark Teixeira and Will Ohman are going to go, because it looks like the Braves are going to be sellers. Bobby Cox got a one day vacation on Tuesday thanks to his outburst on Sunday and a one game major league suspension.

Speaking of weak performances, after getting a stellar eight inning outting from Johan Santana, the Mets bullpen (without Billy Wagner) gave up six runs to the Phillies in the ninth in what became a losing effort for New York. The Phillies now hold a one game lead over both the Mets and Marlins.

Things are almost as tight over in the AL East after Boston beat the Mariners, 4-2. The win put Dice-K at 11-1 this season. And with the A's 8-1 stomping of the Rays, the Red Sox remain just a half game out of first.

Meanwhile, the Yankees are gaining ground after beating the Twins, 8-2. They are now just 3.5 back of the Rays in the East and 3 back of the Red Sox for the Wild Card. The Bombers have been reportedly in talks with the Mariners about the avialibilty of lefty Jarrod Washburn.

Add Josh Fogg to the long list of freakish baseball injuries this season after he was hit in the face by a ball during batting practice, requiring 30 stitches to patch up the scrap. Fogg was in the outfield when the incident occured.

Bill Hall did it again, slapping a homerun in the ninth to break up a 3-3 tie and hand the Brewers a 4-3 victory over the Cardinals. The win was their sixth straight. The Cardinals on the other hand, placed Chris Duncan on the 15 day DL with a bulding disc in his neck. So that sounds uncomfortable.

Milwaukee signed Jay Gibbons to a minor league contract.

The Brewers were able to gain ground on the Cubs after they fell to the Diamondbacks, 9-2. Conor Jackson drove in three runs while Orlando Hudson added a solo homer of his own helping Arizona to another win.

Francisco Rodriguez notched his 41st save of the season as the Angels edged the Indians, 3-2. K-Rod is now just six saves shy of the franchise record set by Troy Percival in 2006 and it's still only July.

The White Sox stopped their slide at three after tearing up the Rangers, 10-2. It was quite the reversal of fortunes for the ChiSox who had lost to Texas, 6-1 the day before. Nick Swisher knocked a three run blast while Jermaine Dye added three hits on the night.

Speaking of reverals, the Rockies gave up eight runs to the Dodgers in the first inning on Monday but rebounded nicely with a 10-1 win over LA.

Major League prospect friends with bookie, this does not sound like very good combo, especially when said prospect (Michel Inoa) just got the largest signing bonus ($4.25 million) ever given to a Latin player.

Nascar Update:
Ryan Newman and Tony Stewart certianly aren't giving any hints as to whether the Hoosier state natives will join forces in 2009.

Even though this season will likely be one that Reed Sorenson would like to forget, the downturn has not stopped the kid from wanting to re-up with Ganassi. Sorenson showed signs of life in 2007, but can Ganassi get back on track to where they were in 2003?

News&Notes: NFL security is probing tampering charges against the Vikings. Shouldn't they be watching video clips to see if players are flashing gang signs? I mean I'm so over this...This is like so sad for me and my daily postings, the Bengals are apparently not interested in bringing back Chris Henry...LeBron James hurt his ankle during practice. Luckily it seems to be just a mild sprain. Practice doesn't make perfect, it makes injuries, just ask Mike Hampton...The NHL held a press conference at Wrigley to hype up this season's winter classic, which Chicago Blackhawk players are super stoked about...Mats Sudin denied reports that he had accepted an offer with the Canucks and says he plans to drag this story out as long as possible before deciding where he's headed...Doug Logan the new CEO of USA Track & Field asked President Bush not to commute Marion Jones' sentence. She's got two more months to go, let her cook a little while longer in jail. Martha Stewart held it together at Camp Cupcake and so did Little Kim, I'm sure you can handle it.

Check this out: The biggest movie in the land The Dark Knight is having a bit of a PR problem thanks to star Christian Bale and his did he or didn't he assualt his mother and sister thing. Well that's a family I'd love to spend Thanksgiving with. Watch out Chrissy, because the British popo are on your tail!

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Bring on the Sunscreen

Forget about that pesky skin cancer issue, because for a few years now, the Yankees have allowed fans to throw caution to the wind by not allowing anyone to enter the Stadium with more than 3 oz. of sunscreen. But thanks to oppressive heat and unhappy fans over the weekend, the ban has finally been lifted. That’s right Yankee fans, have no fear, your No-Ad, Coppertone or Neutrogena sunscreen can now safely be applied within the friendly confines of Yankee Stadium. But remember to rub that stuff all over (including your ears) and make sure to apply it thoroughly without leaving any of the white stuff in view, who wants to end up on the jumbotron with white streaks everywhere?
(source)

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Blowout City

Baseball Update:
The Dodgers scored eight runs in the first inning. So you can kind of guess how that game ended, but can you guess how many runs the Dodgers ended up scoring over the next eight innings?.....If you said eight more runs, you'd be correct, as Los Angeles outslugged the Rockies 16-10. Troy Tulowitzki made his first appearance for the Rockies since being cut by a shattered bat.

But they weren't the only ones bringing their bats to town, the Tigers at one point were leading the Royals 19-0. Now being the meriful team that they are, Detroit gave up four runs in the bottom half of the 8th before closing out the victory 19-4. Miguel Cabrera had six RBIs while Matt Joyce talled 5 in the win.

The Yankees also brought the big stick, chasing Twins starter Nick Blackburn out in the middle of the second inning before finishing off Minnesota 12-4. Johnny Damon returned to the lineup since injurying his shoulder over two weeks ago. However, it was all kicks and giggles for the Bombers who put Jorge Posada on the DL with an injured shoulder. The catcher is now debating on having season ending surgery.

On the other side of the fence were the Rays who kept Oakland on their losing streak by blanking the A's, 4-0. Scott Kazmir held Oakland to just two hits, reminding fans of his early season form when he went 6-0 with a 0.88 ERA. Another Rays pitcher wasn't having such a great day. Matthew Walker was suspended for 50 games after testing positive for an amphetamine. Remember, greenies are bad kids, Red Bull is good.

The A's meanwhile got a welcomed sign when DH Frank Thomas took batting practice on Monday.

Jon Lester kept the Mariners in their place, tossing a seven plus inning shutout for the Red Sox in his hometown ballpark. Jason Varitek added a two run homer to put a special stamp on Boston's 4-0 win.

The Marlins ended up on the wrong side of a 4-0 game, with the Braves redeeming themselves from Sunday's blowout loss to the Marlins. Jorge Campillo shined in seven scoreless innings on the mound for the Braves.

We may have found the Cubs kryptonite and it's name is Randy Johnson. Monday's 2-0 win for the Diamondbacks marked Randy's 13th win over Chicago making him undefeated in such games.

The Cubs were reportedly fined for a violation relating to the First-Year Player Draft. According to the report, the violation had to do with "a rule requiring that an agreement be in place before any signed Draft pick takes the field." Uh-oh.

The Indians continue to move full steam ahead, handling the Angels, 5-2. The Indians are still missing Travis Hafner and Victor Martinez in the line-up but Andy Marte and Casey Blake both broke through with homers for the Tribe.

Who says homerun derbies hurt your swing. A-Rod you said? Well Mr. Rodriguez, take note, those 28 dingers in the first round did nothing to Josh Hamilton who added a longball when it counted, in the Rangers 6-1 victory over the White Sox.

The Brewers made it interesting, blowing a one run lead in the ninth only to regain it and then some in the 10th, in their 6-3 win over the Cardinals. Skip Schumacher hit a sac fly to Ryan Braun that scored Brendan Ryan knotting the score at 3 a piece before the Brewers finally decided to take care of business.

Mets closer Billy Wagner needs some more tests on his shoulder. So that's probably not a good sign right?

Sad news, Hall of Fame writer Jerome Holtzman has died. Holtzman is credited with creating the saves rule.

Nascar Update:
Click here to see who will try to qualify for the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard this weekend.

The National Stock Car Racing Commission has decided to uphold fines and penalties levied against the #1 Bass Pro Shops Chevy driven by Martin Truex, Jr. for violations found during opening day inspection at Daytona International Speedway.

Kyle Petty's stint out of the #45 Dodge has been extended by one race. Petty had been out since June as he served as an analyst for TNT. Petty Enterprises is hoping to take advantage of Terry Labonte's past champions provisional to make Sunday's Cup race at the Brickyard.

Tony Stewart is expected to announce that he will be driving the #14 Chevy next season for Stewart Haas in 2009 this weekend at Indy. Office Depot and Old Spice will split sponsorship duties.

After being delayed on Sunday, Kevin Harvick won the TD Banknorth 250 on Monday night.

Popo in my crib News:
Convicted felon Marion Jones has asked President Bush to commute her sixth month sentence. Apparenly jail has not been the fun party house she was expecting and has currently served four months of her sixth month sentence for lying to federal agents about her use of performance-enhancing drugs and for a check-fraug scam. Goodness, you've got two months to go, suck it up. And next time, when you get approached by federal agents, don't lie. Watch out Marion, because the popo are on your tail!

News&Notes: Besides Jeremy Shockey's trade, there was some other news in the NFL, like Brian Urlacher restructured his contract with the Bears...And Jason Taylor was officially introduced as a Redskin...Plaxico Burress says he will report to Giants training camp on Thursday...And I'm still in the bargaining stage for those wondering...Marcus Camby is not happy that he was traded to the Clippers...The Red Wings have hired Brad McCrimmon as an assistant coach, filing a vacacny created with Todd McLellan's departure...American teen soccer wonder Freddy Adu will move from Portugal's Benfica to Monaco where he'll play in the French league next season. From one great local to the next, not too bad.

Check this out: ***CSI: NY SPOILER ALERT*** For all of you fans of CSI:NY, the team will get a new cast member in Kathleen Munroe formerly of Beautiful People. She'll play Samantha Flack, kid sister to Det. Flack (Eddie Cahill) and as an added bonus, she'll be stirring things up as a bad girl. I have always been more of a CSI:Miami kind of girl, but let's be honest who doesn't love Eddie Cahill (Tag from Friends) and Melinda Kanakaredes (Dr. Sydney Hansen of Providence)?

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Jeremy Shockey’s Traded: Day Two



So I haven’t been taking the news very well. I mean whatever stage anger is on the grieving scale, that’s about where I am. And I hate the fact that keep calling him disgruntled. You know who is disgruntled…ME!! And apparently other players on the team who are none too thrilled with the prospect of going into the season without their four time pro bowl player. Sorry Kevin Boss, but it’s going to be hard to live up to Shockey’s play on the field and his enjoyable quotes off the field! Plus you’re going to have to get some homage to America on your bicep.

And by the way, is it just me or do teams in New York have trouble getting rid of people? First the whole Willie Randolph firing debacle with the Mets, I know let’s fly this guy out to LA so we can fire him there. Wouldn’t want to ruin father’s day! And now this. If they wanted to trade him in April, they should have traded him in April and not have waited until three days before training camp to send him packing. What’s next the Knicks hand Stephon Marbury his walking papers as he drives up to the training facility in his pickup truck? (Fine, I would kind of enjoy that image.)

I guess the only thing I can take solace in is the fact that Shockey’s excited to be reunited with his old coach Sean Payton in New Orleans and he’ll probably get drinks for free in those oversized weird looking plastic things, wear some Mardi Gras beads and enjoy the company of even easier ladies than the drunk girls in Hoboken. But still, where will the Giant’s excitement come from? David Tyree probably only has that one incredible ball to helmet catch in his tank. Can’t the Giants call an audible and say they were just kidding? Call it the Brett Farve defense or something? I guess whatever stage bargaining is, I’m now there.
(Photo: Richard A. Brightly/Icon SMI)
I have an early morning meeting but will be back with the daily crawl a little later so check back.

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Monday, July 21, 2008

NOOOO!!!!


The Giants have traded beloved tight end Jeremy Shockey (and fine, I maybe the only person who actually still enjoys him) to the New Orleans Saints for a second and fifth round draft pick in 2009. It was no secret that Shockey hasn’t been getting along with management as of late and that the team was able to do just fine without him last season when he went out with a broken leg, but by trading Shockey and losing Michael Strahan to retirement, hasn’t all the fun left East Rutherford? And why are the Giants counting on some rookie who fine did pretty well during the Super Bowl run, but could just as easily return to his normal ho-hum self once the season starts?

I’ll miss Jeremy’s outbursts, his ability to stop mid play and argue with the refs and his amazing tattoos. Sadly, I don’t know if I’ll be able to watch the Giants the same way this upcoming season, but I’ll give it until October to make my final decision of the new look and most likely incredibly bland Giants ‘08. Goodness Eli, I’m going to need something, not on the A-Rod level but a step up from trips to Disneyworld with your wife.
(Photo: newsday.com; source)

It’s been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Girl Fight hits pit lane



Ryan Briscoe got the win, but once again Danica Patrick made top headlines, this time for her run-in with fellow female driver Milka Duno. I love Patrick and totally support her, but it does get a tad annoying when no matter what she does, it always seems to overshadow the actual winner. Admittedly, this video is a tad enjoyable, and I think I'm not alone when I say Duno should probably use her talents somewhere far away from the IndyCar track.
(source)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Dancing to DC

Baseball Update:
It's getting very tight in the NL east after Marlin third baseman Jorge Cantu hit a game winning single in the 11th to give the Fish a 3-2 victory over the Phillies pulling them within a half game of first place.

Meanwhile, the Mets pulled out an extra innings win of their own, 7-5 over the Reds, to keep move them tied for first with a series against the Phillies on the horizon at Shea this week. It's nearing the end of July, but I could easily go for two months of this back and forth action. If only the Braves could join the fray...

...But alas they are getting killed by the Nationals, 15-6. Mark Teixeira did have two homeruns and three RBIs on the day, but he could not do everything on his own as the Braves continue to languish in fourth place in the division.

Not all is well for the Mets, closer Billy Wagner will have his left throwing shoulder examined after feeling tightness during Sunday's game.

The Angels completed a sweep of the Sox, 5-3 on Sunday to become the first team to hit 60 wins this season. According to Mike and Mike this morning, that means they are headed to the World Series. Although I'm kind of hoping that's not the case, sorry LA of A but I'm just not that into you, but I'm sure it runs both ways.

With their 2-1 edging of the A's, the Yankees picked up a sweep of their own to bring them not just 8 games over .500 but also 4.5 out in the East and 3 behind Boston in the Wild Card.

Jason Isringhausen blew a save but luckily Aaron Miles made up for it with a grand slam in the ninth to give the Cardinals a 7-5 win over the Padres. The walk-off bases clearer was the first of Miles' career.

Rangers Taylor Teagarden made sure his first career homerun meant something, and boy did it, in Texas' 1-0 blanking of the Twins. The long ball proved to be the only run of the game.

Is something is up with Tim Lincecum? The kid gave up five runs in six innings as the Brewers rode past the Giants, 7-4. The same could not be said for the Brewers Ryan Braun who drove in a career high five runs in the win. Following the game, the Brewers announced a new member of the crew, Ray Durham who they acquired from San Francisco.

The Dodgers completed a big five run ninth inning rally to help their NL West chances beating the Diamondbacks 6-5. Matt Kemp tied the game with a double, while Andre Either hit a go-ahead triple to seal the win for LA.

A few weeks ago Ryan Dempster suffered his first home loss of the season, but he made up for it on the road in the Cubs 9-0 crushing of the Houston Astros. Mike Fontenot hit a solo homerun and a two run double while Derek Lee had three RBIs to take care of the offense for the team. And as an added bonus, Alfonso Soriano will begin his rehab assignment.

DL Update: The A's recalled Wes Bankston after first baseman Daric Barton smashed his head on the bottom of a pool. The injury required six staples to close up and forced Barton to head to the disabled list. This is why you shouldn't drink and swim...The Astros placed starter Roy Oswalt on the DL with a hip and back injury...The White Sox put struggling starter Jose Contreras on the DL. Ozzie Guillen was none to thrilled with his pitcher after he failed to mention his injury to the White Sox manager...Mariners activated closer J.J. Putz from the DL.

The Rays got closer Troy Pervical back, but it wasn't enough as they fell to the Blue Jays, 9-4. It was their eighth loss in the last 10 games. Now everyone experiences a slump, but it's the good teams that can rally. This could show how real these Rays are.

Nascar Update:
Congrats to Carl Edwards who picked up a Nationwide Series win at his home track on Saturday night and to Johnny Benson who collected the Truck Series victory besting Kyle Busch by five spots who was attempting to win Nationwide Series, Cup Series and Truck Series victories in successive starts.

The TD Bank 250 was postponed due to rain. The event pits Cup Series driver Kevin Harvick against a field of local and regional drivers.

Jeremy Mayfield is hoping to get another chance in Nascar.

Popo in my crib News:
Indiana Pacer Shawne Williams is in some hot water after a car he was driving was stopped by the popo. A passenger in the car, Darrell Smith, Jr. was arrested for marijuana possesion while Williams was written up for window tint and seat belt violations. Watch out Shawne and Darrell because the popo are on your tail!

News&Notes: The Redskins traded a second round pick in 2009 and a sixth round pick in 2010 to Miami for Jason Taylor...A court threw out a $550,000 indecency fine levied against CBS for Janet Jackson's little indicent exposure at the Super Bowl...The SuperSonics no more, the newly relocated Oklahoma City team will be renamed the Thunder. Eh, why not the Oklahoma City Twisters or the Oklahoma City Relocators or we'll steal your team Mr. Starbucks and not sellout the arena three years later and make you cry all over your overly expanded coffee chain empire...Our get well wishes go out to Keith Jones, a crew member for De Farren Motorsports. Jones was injured in a pit fire during the American Le Mans Series race at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

Check this out: If you're as excited as I am for the all-new season of Friday Night Lights to start this fall, than you maybe wondering just when new episodes will start airing. Well, it depends, if you are a DirecTV costumer, than you get to watch the 13 episodes beginning in October but if you're like me and you subscribe to cable, then the wait is a bit longer, try February 2009. Click here for the details. And here to watch some episodes from the first two seasons.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate