Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Separated at Birth



Just in case Sienna Miller decides to date someone who is not married with five kids, might I suggest Mets first baseman/outfielder Daniel Murphy. Just think you could go to Citi Field and sit in the same seats Kate Hudson cheered on Alex Rodriguez. You know you want to! No, you’d rather hang out on a boat in the Mediterranean. Fine go be all European and whatever.

Fist Bumps


Baseball: Giants ace Tim Lincecum 2-hit the St. Louis Cardinals towards a 10-0 win. It was Lincecum's third complete game of the season...San Francisco was unable to make up any ground after Andre Either drilled a two run homer that gave the Dodgers a 4-2 walk-off victory in 13 innings. Seriously, is adding Manny and his ego worth it for the Dodgers who continue to roll?...We'll find out on Friday, when Manny is reinstated, for now, he's just returning to LA...Casey McGehee made up for a dropped pop up with a grand slam in the seventh inning, helping the Brewers beat the Mets, 10-6...Mets centerfielder Carlos Beltran is seeking a second opinion on his knee...Brewers prospect Jeremy Jeffress was suspended for 100 games after his third violation of baseball's minor league drug policy. The Brewers should drop him because he's obviously not smart...The Angels hit six straight wins after downing the Rangers, 5-2...Roy Oswalt held the Padres to just two hits in Houston's 3-1 victory...Also dominating was Red Sox pitcher Jon Lester who threw seven scoreless innings as Boston shut out the Orioles, 4-0. Jonathan Papelbon tied Bob Stanley for the most saves in Red Sox history with his 132nd save...Fresh off the DL, the Rays pushed around Roy Halladay, 4-1.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: The Timberwolves are not worried about Ricky Rubio. Denial, not just a river in Africa...The Bucks have made an offer to free agent guard Ramon Sessions, but not forward Charlie Villanueva...The Pacers will not pick up Marquis Daniels option...Carlos Boozer may opt out of his contract with the Utah Jazz...Kyle Korver will not...The Knicks are talking to Jason Kidd.

Football: The Supreme Court will take a case involved licensing of NFL apparel...The Eagles signed running back LeSean McCoy to a four year contract.

Hockey: The Penguins re-signed Bill Guerin to a one year contract and Craig Adams to a two year deal. Guerin took a $2.5 million paycut to stay in Pittsburgh...The Hurricanes are keeping Jussi Jokinen...The Hawks have reportedly locked up David Bolland to a five year contract worth an average of $3.375 million a season...The Rangers and Nik Antropov are reportedly far a part in negotiations. It's early still, hopefully that will change...Rangers coach John Tortorella and Islanders coach Scott Gordon round out the coaching staff for Team USA.

Nascar: A second lab confirms that Jeremy Mayfield does meth. Ok it confirmed the positive test for the mysterious drup Mayfield was on (Read: METH)...Looks like the private matter that kept Bill Weber out of the booth had to do with an indicent that took place at New Hampshire hotel prior to the race leading to his suspension. Here's to a full season suspension!


Best of the Rest: The roof was used for the first time at Wimbledon...Andy Roddick, Andy Murray and Dinara Safina all advanced to the quarterfinals...James Blake is joining Andy Roddick and the Bryan brothers on the U.S. Davis Cup team. Blake beat out Sam Querrey and Mardy Fish for the final spot...Chris Evert would like the ladies to stop grunting during the match. It's so not lady like!...13 year old Evan Berry has already committed to Tennessee. The only thing I could committ to at thirteen was General Hospital and Oprah after school.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Check this Out: I know through all of this Michael Jackson reporting the question you've really been wondering is whatever happened to Bubbles, Michael's first love? Well click here to find out.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Car Crash



Two prominent College Football players are recovering after separate traffic accidents in the past week. Texas linebacker Sergio Kindle allegedly fled the scene after crashing his car into an Austin apartment last week. Kindle and several passengers pushed the car out of the building and back onto the road before abandoning it.

Unfortunately for him, Kindle is no stranger to car accidents. In 2007, he was suspended for three games after a DWI. This time, however, he was thought to be text messaging prior to his run-in with the apartment building.

Kindle suffered a concussion and damages worth about $8,700 to the exterior wall of the apartment building as a result of the accident.

Similarly, North Carolina State linebacker Nate Irving is recovering from surgery to repair a collapsed lung which was inflicted after he ran his car into a tree early Sunday morning. Irving reportedly fell asleep at the wheel, running his car off of Interstate 40 in Johnston County, NC. He also suffered a broken leg and it is uncertain whether he’ll play for NC State this season.

Nate has been charged with careless and reckless driving; proving once again, drinking and driving isn’t the only combination that will kill you behind the wheel.

Watch out Sergio and Nate, because the popo are on your tail!
(Photos: AP)

Flu Kicking Athlete’s Butts



From Braves phenom Tommy Hanson to half of the New York Yankees, the flu bug has hit Major League Baseball hard. But what could be worse than bringing down the American juggernaut? How about an outbreak at Wimbledon. Four ball boys and girls were asked to stay home after they exhibited flu like symptoms. Wimbledon officials are down playing the scare but could there be a worse time for the swine flu to hit with competitors battling for a spot in the quarterfinals?

Calming fans and participants fears, All England Club spokesman Henry O’Grady had this to say:”

'There's no one that has swine flu,'' O'Grady said. ''There are a couple of people that have flu symptoms, and as a result they've been asked to stay at home. ... They haven't been tested for swine flu, and they're not going to be tested.''

There have been 4,300 confirmed cases of swine flu in Britain.
(Photo: Getty Images; source)

Milestones



Baseball: Before collecting his 500th career save, Mariano Rivera got his first career RBI after being walked by Francisco Rodriguez in the 9th. The Yankees went on to a 4-2 win, completing the three game sweep of the Mets...Also getting the sweep was the Rays who downed the Fish, 5-2...The Braves avoided a sweep by the Red Sox, 2-1. Tommy Hanson got his fourth victory in just his fifth career start despite battling the flu. Oh Tommy, you are so moving up my list...The Phillies edged the Blue Jays, 5-4...Roy Halladay is expected to return to Toronto's starting rotation on Monday...Brandon Inge hit a two run homer that put the Tigers in front of the Astros, 4-3...The White Sox blanked the Cubs, 6-0...Lou Pinella is sorry for blasting Milton Bradley on Saturday...Zach Geinke scored his 10th win of the season as the Royals beat the Pirates, 3-2...The Twins pounded the Cardinals, 6-2...The Cardinals line-up featured their newest addition, Mark DeRoas who St. Louis acquired from the Indians for Chris Perez and a player to be named later...Speaking of the Tribe, they were routed by the Reds, 8-1...Cleveland activated Asdrubal Cabrera from the DL...Are the Giants just hording young talented arms? Rookie Ryan Sadowski got his first major league victory in his first career start after blanking the Brewers, 7-0.
(Photo: AFP)

Basketball: Shaq says he vetoed a trade that would have sent him to the Trail Blazers...Newly drafted Ricky Rubio skipped a T-Wolve's post draft news conference. That's not a good sign.

Football: The Bills are not rushing to play additional games in Toronto...Former Browns receiver Joe Jurevicius has sued Cleveland over a staph infection...Former Chief lineman Richard Baldinger was involved in a car accident that resulted in the death of a 61 year old woman. The accident is currently under investigation.


Hockey: John Tavares was selected first overall by the Islanders in this year's draft. His prize for being the #1 pick, Tavares threw out the first pitch before Sunday's Mets/Yankees Subway Series finale...Click here for a the complete draft...The Flyers traded Joffrey Lupul, Luca Sbisa and two draft picks to the Ducks for Chris Pronger and Ryan Dingle...Also dealing were the Wild who got Kyle Brodziak from the Oilers for a fourth and fifth round pick...Teemu Selanne and Scott Niedemayer want to play next year...The Red Wings want a new arena lease from the city. And why not? They aren't in chapter 11 unlike a couple another big time Michigan company...A group lead by Jerry Reinsdorf has made a $148 million bid to buy the Phoenix Coyotes.
(Photo: Getty Images)


Nascar: Joey Logano became the youngest Cup Series winner after besting the field at a rain shortened New Hampshire...Click here for full results...And here for updated standings...Congrats also go out to Kyle Busch and Ron Hornaday on winning the Nationwide and Truck Series events respectively...If you watched this weekend's race you may have noticed a different guy sitting the booth. Ralph Sheheen took over announcer duties from Bill Weber who was absent due to private issues. It is not known if Weber will return to the booth for next weekend's race at Daytona. I have to be honest, I didn't mind the switch.
(Photo: Nascar.com)

Best of the Rest: It was a valiant effort for team US who was leading Brazil after the first half. Brazil bounced back with three goals in the second half to win 3-2 and take the Confederations Cup...Roger Federer, Andy Murray and Dinara Safina are all looking to make it to the quarterfinals at Wimbledon...Congrats to Kenny Perry on winning at the Travelers Championship...IRL drivers are sorry for their crappy race in Richmond. Well at least they are being honest...Former Duke basketball player Elliot Williams says he will transfer to the Unversity of Memphis. Duke released Williams on Wednesday to move closer to his ill mother.

Check this Out: It's sentencing day for Bernie Madoff. Any takers on 150 years? Click here for Vanity Fair's run down for the Madoff saga.

Friday, June 26, 2009

Was anyone clean during the World Baseball Classic?



One day after finding out that Geovany Soto is a lifetime subscriber to High Times (and like five minutes after discovering Lou Pinella has tried pot), news has leaked that Kansas City Royals pitcher Sidney Ponson tested positive for a stimulant during the World Baseball Classic. Now looks who kicking themselves for not playing in the WBC this year, Manny Ramirez.

Ponson will not be suspended by Major League Baseball, but will be “subject to medical review and fine.” Ponson was playing for the Netherlands when he tested positive for Phentermine, a well known appetite suppressant. Judging by the photo above, that medication was not doing its job.
(Photo: Getty Images; source)

Friday Funnies



In a face off for the lead role in the Lakawana County Theater production of Sound of Music, Tim Lincecum tries to out smart Henry by using a towel as his habit while hanging out in the dugout during a Giants game. Henry, not willing to go down without a fight, one upped Tim, wearing an actual habit to the All England Club to watch a match at Wimbledon. Nicely played Henry.
(Photos: AP)

NBA Draft Redux

It has been a world wind few days for the many newly drafted NBA players. Here’s a look back PIMC style:


Tyler Hansborough
Tyler clearly looks thrilled with David Stern’s pre draft pep talk.


Hasheem Thabeet
Meanwhile, Hasheem skipped out on the one on one with Davey and instead headed over to Bethpage for a quick 18.


Hasheem Thabeet and Blake Griffin
Then met up with number one overall pick Blake Griffin where they took a very creepy family photo, perfect for this website.


Ricky Rubio
For their draft day photos, each player was handed a ball with their team and number emblazed on it. Unfortunately, for Ricky, they ran out of balls and had to give them whatever they could find at the NBA store. I hope this isn’t a sign of things to come.


Stephen Curry
After seeing what happened to Ricky, Stephen held onto his ball for dear life.


Brandon Jennings
Meanwhile, Brandon decided to bust out his best impersonation of Tom Hanks in Cast Away. “Wilson, I will never leave you.”


James Harden
Finally, we have to give a shout out to James, who was far and away the best dressed player at the draft. Who doesn’t love a bowtie?
(Photos: Getty Images & Reuters)

Spare Change

Baseball: The Yankees took the rubber game from the Braves, 11-7 in what may be the longest nine innning game ever played...Atlanta reliever Jeff Bennett fought the door and the door won, placing Jeff on the DL. One of your finer moments I am sure Jeff..Speaking of marathons, Scott Podsednik ended a 13 inning stunner, delievering a two out single to help the White Sox escape the Dodgers, 6-5...Also going into extras were the Rangers and D'backs with the Rangers coming out on top, 9-8...Omar Vizquel surpassed Luis Aparicio for most hits by a native of Venezuela in the Rangers victory...The Mets edged the Cardinals, 3-2...The Rays banged up the Phillies, 10-4...Phillies SS Jimmy Rollins has been benched for the next two games...Magglio Ordonez hit his first homerun in 40 games as the Tigers completed a sweep of the Cubs, 6-5. It was totally the hair cut!...Cubs catcher Geovany Soto was very relaxed during the World Baseball Classic. But yet smart enough to know that if he got caught smoking pot during the WBC and not spring training he wouldn't get punished by MLB...The Nationals got to John Smoltz early, scoring four runs in the first inning, but then the future Hall of Famer settled in, retiring eight batters in a row including striking out the final three. It was too little too late, however, as the Red Sox fell, 9-3...Nats president Stan Kasten is a "village idiot." What? He said so himself!





Basketball: Blake Griffin was selected number one overall by the LA Clippers in Thursday's NBA draft. What a shocker...Click here for the complete draft list...Prior to the draft, there was a flurry of trades including one that sent the Nets Vince Carter and Ryan Anderson to the Magic for Courtney Lee, Rafer Alston and Tony Battie...Which maybe a good thing since Hedo Trukoglu is definitely opting out...Michael Jordan wants to buy the Charlotte Bobcats.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Football: Roger Goodell will get around to Michael Vick's future in the NFL at some point...The Lions signed center Dominic Raiola to a four year extension worth $20 million..."Good bye Dallas. I will miss some of you. Others, not so much." - T.O...Seahawks fullback Owen Schmitt is sorry for being completely wasted while driving his car...The Steelers owner Dan Rooney has been named U.S. ambassador to Ireland.

Hockey: Sergei Fedorov signed a two year contract to play with Russian club Metallurg Magnitogorsk of the KHL...The NBA had their night, now it's time for the NHL draft.

Nascar: Jeremy Mayfield continues to deny that he took drugs.

Best of the Rest: Venus Williams rolls onto the fourth round at Wimbledon...Also continuing at the All England Club are Leyton Hewitt and Andy Roddick...Late night comic Jimmy Fallon beat Tiger Woods in golf. Of course it also involved a Nintendo Wii. But don't worry, Tiger got his own revenge.

Check this Out: If you haven't heard, the world lost two icons on Thursday, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

HairCut

Magglio Ordonez has reportedly chopped off his beautiful long locks in hopes of snapping out his epic slump. He’s not the first person to do this - just this past April David Wright buzzed off his hair for the same reason - but he may have the most to lose, what with those beautifully manicure curls now just lying on the floor of the barber shop ready to be swept up and made into a dark wig for carrot top.


(World Baseball Classic March 2009 / June 24, 2009)

Hopefully, for his sake, this sheering gets rid of the bad vibes. There are only so many players you can place on the DL with anxiety before the team psychiatrist has to get fired.
(Photos: AP; source)

Flyers to take on the Winter Classic



Contrary to popular belief, the Flyers not the Capitals will be skating against the Bruins in Fenway Park for the Winter Classic 2010. The move was thought to be made on behalf of NBC not the NHL because the network was unhappy with the lackluster ratings between the Capitals and Rangers in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The NHL has yet to confirm this report, just telling the Philadelphia Daily News that all will be revealed on July 15th when the NHL schedule is released.

Lame! Why is the NHL listening to NBC? They only put together one of the worst sports broadcasting experiences on TV. Not to mention I was hoping for Ovie and crew to be playing on New Year’s Day.

To be honest though, the addition of the Flyers will not stop me from waking up, walking downstairs in my PJs, grabbing a bag of popcorn from the pantry and then simultaneously plopping on my couch and turning on the TV to watch the Winter Classic.
(Photo: Getty Images; source)

PS - Before you go crazy, I fully understand the business reasons why the NHL would be badgered into going along with NBC. I just think it’s crazy to follow suit with a network that employs Tiki Barber and Pierre McGuire as analysts.

Things I Learned at Citi Field


Mets 11, Cardinals 0

1. Don’t waste your money at the Mets Clubhouse Store. There’s really no reason to pay full price for an Omir Santos jersey when you know by the end of the season it will half off. Same goes for the overwhelming amount of Daniel Murphy paraphernalia. (I couldn’t decide if was because they have high hopes for him now or had high hopes last year and are just trying to get rid of the extra stock. Seriously there was more Murphy stuff than David Wright, Carlos Beltran and Jose Reyes combined.) Oh and we may want to add the Fernando Martinez collection to this list as well.

2. Not all game worn jerseys are created equal. The Mets were selling game warn jerseys for $50. A bargain right, but there was just one catch, these were certainly jerseys worn by members of the 40 man roster. Or possibly for players that were non-roster invitees to spring training. You know the kind of players that I am pretty sure the Mets would give you a $10 discount if you could give the correct first name to the corresponding surname. But really, who doesn’t want the “other” Reyes game worn jersey? Or one worn by a Bat Boy 08?

3. Who said there was no Mets memorabilia at Citi Field? The Mets may not have photos of former and current players strewn all about (although they do have some), but that’s only because they prefer to have them live in person. Rusty Staub was signing autographs for free outside of the Mets store. The only thing I saw outside of the Yankees clubhouse store at Yankee Stadium was some guy in an “official” jersey that had Jeter written on it. Tell me; what part of that jersey differs from the one Derek Jeter actually wears? Could it be that the Yankees players don’t have last names on their jerseys? In addition to Rusty, the bullpen entrance has the original apple and pennants displayed as well as a great view of the actual bullpen. (Hence the name “bullpen entrance.” They are so smart over there in the Mets front office, minus the overpaying of aging free agents and the whole Madoff thing.)

4. Rain can be good. As I entered Citi Field I was greeted by a little sprinkle. The beauty of threatening weather was that it cut the line for Blue Smoke and the Shake Shack in half. I ventured towards Blue Smoke because I was in the mood for some BBQ and was a bit disappointed. To say the pulled pork sandwich was a bit salty was to describe the Cardinals defense on Wednesday as a bit shaky. I would recommend getting a little extra BBQ to add to the sandwich which I am pretty sure would have cut the salty after taste. Or just jump over to the Shake Shack line which is always a grand slam.

5. Beware of the obstructed views. My seats were in the left field side of the upper deck. I knew we’d be missing a bit of the action, since the upper deck does overhang left field. But it was more than I had bargained for. Take the left field and cut it in half and that would be my view. Luckily, the right jumbo tron had real time action, so whenever a ball was hit into left field, I just glanced at the screen and saw what was going on. At the same time, I didn’t pay to watch a game on TV, but the Mets did add screens and speakers so that the fans in those sections could remain in the thick of things. Plus anything is better than the two dubious sections in the bleachers flanking the Mohegan Sun Sports Bar at Yankee Stadium.

6. Major Bathroom Upgrades. If you ever attended a game at Shea Stadium then you know the importance of nice bathrooms. The restrooms at Shea were like a half step up from a port-a-potty and that’s only because the toilets flushed and the sinks had water instead of just Purell. I wouldn’t say the bathrooms at Citi Field are luxurious, but they are clean, they have speakers that play the radio broadcast so you never miss a minute and best of all they have no resemblance to the disaster at Shea.

7. It is quite possible the Cardinals sent their minor league affiliate to play. Looking at the box score, the Cardinals registered two errors including a near collision between their centerfielder Colby Rasmus and left fielder Rick Ankiel which resulted in a dropped ball. But they also turned some routine plays into missed opportunities throughout the night. Not to mention they failed to score one run while giving up 16 hits and 11 runs for the loss.

8. "It’s Pat" the sequel. I understand that those “mug shots” they use are not always the most flattering, but poor Brad Thompson may have gotten screwed the hardest. His photo harkens back to the old Saturday Night Live sketch that turned into the movie “It’s Pat.”

9. Boston still sucks. And you thought that chant was reserved for just Yankee Stadium.

10. The Mets have a new homerun apple. Thanks to Nick Evans’ two run shot in the fourth inning; I got to see the new homerun apple. As shiny and pretty as it is, I still miss the kindergarten art project that was the original homerun apple. And where’s the top hat?

Bonus: The Mets did a lot of things right. After completing my two ballpark tour of New York City, I can definitively say that the Mets have the better stadium. No question about it. Citi Field is colorful, it’s warm and inviting, it has an open feel that harkens back to stadiums of yesteryear. They even have thoughtful touches like the screen on the back of the scoreboard that faces the never ending lines that wrap around the Shake Shack stand. They also have multiple team stores including one for the women’s line Touch by Alyssa Milano and one for 47. Plus they’ve created areas for kids to expel their excess energy when the game gets a little too boring for them and they start to get a bit cranky.

Comparatively, Yankee Stadium is cold and uninviting. Its enclosed bowl shape is outfitted in grey concrete, making me wonder if at some point they plan on finishing it. This is not to say that they didn’t get anything right. The expanded bleacher section is a welcome sight for any bleacher creature attending a game. I enjoy the food court and food carts which offer a variety ranging from Brother Jimmy’s and Johnny Rockets to Carvel. It also has an area which allows fans to stand at tables and watch the game while chowing down. But in a face off, it’s hard to see how the Yankees spent $1.5 billion and ended up with the charmless New Yankee Stadium while the Mets only spent $800 million and ended up with a wonderful place to see a game.

(Photos: PIMC)

Happy John Smoltz Day



Baseball: John Smoltz is scheduled to make his first start since undergoing shoulder surgery last year. It also marks his Red Sox debut. Best of luck, Smoltzie...Meanwhile teammate Nick Green evaded a flying bat in the second inning and David Ortiz drove in his 1,000th career RBI as a Red Sox in Boston's 6-4 win...With former President Jimmy Carter watching, the Braves stumbled to a 8-4 loss to the Yankees. The Bombers were held hitless through the first five innings before scoring three runs in the sixth...It was a nice six weeks there for Carl Pavano, six weeks that are defintely over after he had another treacherous start in the Indians 10-6 loss to the Pirates...The Mets rocked the Cardinals, 11-0...While the ChiSox pounded six homers, topping the Dodgers, 10-7...Pat Burrell ended his longest homerun drought in the second inning of the Rays 7-1 rout of the Phillies. Burrell added a RBI to help down his former squad. Somehow I still think the Phillies are ok with letting go of Pat the Bat and adding Raul Ibanez...Brad Lidge is expected to return to Philadelphia's bullpen on Thursday...Speaking of ending droughts, Vladimir Guerro hit his first dinger in 28 games as the Angels bashed the Rockies, 11-3...An off duty cop shot two men in the parking lot of Angel Stadium following the game. It is believed he was acting in self defense...The Tigers continue to cruise, dropping the Cubs, 5-3 for their sixth straight victory...Congratulations to LSU on winning the College World Series with an 11-4 victory over Texas.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: The Suns have reportedly agreed to send Shaquille O'Neal to the Cavs for Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic...Bad news for the Rockets, Yao Ming's broken foot refuses to heal. That must be one of the dangers of being 8 feet tall. Something I know nothing about...Judging by the long line outside of Penn Station at 7:30 this morning, the NBA draft is tonight!

Football: The Panthers signed Julius Peppers to a one year, $16.7 million contract. Sign me up for that deal...Giants linebacker Micahel Boley will miss 8-10 weeks after undergoing arthroscopic sugery to repair a torn labrum...Jets head coach Rex Ryan suffered from dyslexia. So did I, hence all the spelling and grammatical errors. And don't even get me started on descerning my left from my right, it's a mess.

Hockey: Anybody want a 47 year old? Because Chris Chelios still wants to play in the NHL next season...Could Vinny Lecavalier be staying in Tampa Bay?

Nascar: This economic diaster is really screwing things up for Brad Keselowski.


Best of the Rest: Suck it world, the US just defeated the World's top soccer team Spain, 2-0 in the Confederations Cup. The US will move onto the Finals...Serena Williams is moving onto the next round of Wimbledon while Maria Sharapova is going on vacation or the spa or maybe shopping after being bounced.
(Photo: AP)

Check this Out: While you were sleeping last night, people were around the country were enjoying Transformers 2. The sequel earned $16 million in midnight showings alone. Something tells me this is going to be a huge movie.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Reminder

I am heading out to Queens tonight, weather permitting of course (seriously should I start building my ark now?), to catch my first game at the new Citi Field. Check back tomorrow to read what I learned.

And a special thanks to all of my readers, I have finally hit my 100,000th visitor! Small for most big blogs, but very cool for me! So thanks again.

Hump Day Hair

Want to lose 10 years in just 15 minutes? Simply shave off that playoff beard.


(Press Conference during Stanley Cup Finals/NHL Awards in Vegas)

Now Max Talbot looks a lot closer to his 25 year age. Holy crap…he’s younger than me? Now I feel old.
(Photos: Getty Images)

Senseless

Well known Iowa High School football coach Ed Thomas was shot and killed in the weight room of Aplington-Parkersburg High. The alleged gunman was 24-year-old Mark Becker, a former student and football player at the school. As school was not in session, there were about 50 students on school grounds, including some who witnessed the attack in the weight room. None thankfully were injured. As a courtesy, the school has dispatched counselors to talk to any student who believes it would be beneficial to discuss the incident.

Thomas was named the 2005 NFL High School Football Coach of the Year and amassed a 292-84 record in 37 years as a football coach, 34 of them at Aplington-Parkerburg. During his tenure, he also coached four current NFL players, Casey Wiegmann of the Denver Broncos; Jared DeVries of the Detroit Lions; Brad Meester of the Jacksonville Jaguars; and Aaron Kampman of the Green Bay Packers.

Weather permitting, a vigil will talk place at the field at 7 PM local time on Wednesday. My deepest condolences go out to Mr. Thomas’s family and friends.

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

Things I Learned at the Baracklyn (Brooklyn) Cyclones Game


(Photo: AP)

1. Stop at Nathan's. Before you even get to the Stadium, it’s important that you make a stop at the world famous and original Nathan’s across the street from Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway stop. You will not be disappointed, trust me. And once you taste the aramark food at the Stadium, you'll be kicking yourself that you didn't get a hot dog from Nathan's.

2. Brooklyn hearts America. The Cyclones celebrated Barack Obama’s presidency changing their names to the Baracklyn Cyclones for the night as well as wearing the most patriotic uniforms this side of the Washington Nationals alternative jerseys. For the seventh inning, the crowd participated in a sing-a-long version of “God Bless America” and the night was topped off by a Barack Obama look-a-like.

3. Barack Obama is a lot bigger than I expected. Well at least his bobblehead doll was. As a part of the night, the first 2,500 fans got Barack Obama bobblehead dolls. Since I stopped at Nathan’s first, I missed out on getting myself one. But the women on the subway on the way were kind enough to take the bobblehead out of the packing and show us one and the first thing out my friend’s mouth was, “Wow, that’s a lot bigger than I expected.” For the record, it was about average for a bobblehead doll.

4. It was a very safe night. Among the free give aways at the park, were band-aids or “free healthcare” as they called it. They also gave out America tattoos, nothing on the level of Jeremy Shockey’s but cute freebees for all the kids in attendance.

5. Even though they love America, Keyspan Park is a strictly a monarchy. Thank you King Henry.

6. The Renegades may want a new catcher or a few pitchers. According to the box score, the Renegades only had two passed balls, but it seemed like the ball spent more time hitting the backstop than the glove of the catcher.

7. The Cyclones store is where old Mets t-shirts go to die. Are you still in search of a Billy Wagner t-shirt? Or what about a Pedro Martinez tee? Well you’re in luck, because the Cyclones store was selling a bunch for just $5. Although if I were Luis Castillo, the other t-shirt they were selling for $5, I’d be a bit nervous.

8. Burt Reynolds is a baseball player. And he plays third for the Hudson Valley Renegades.

9. Drunk hipsters and little league kids are a perfect match. The crowd was decidedly mixed between little kids, true Brooklynites and hipsters. Of course I don’t really fall into any of those categories, but then again there must have been a fourth category I missed. What I did learn was that a group of drunk hipsters are very similar to a group of 10 year old girls in their little league uniforms. They are both loud, love the wave and really just want to walk home with a free t-shirt or ball and they don’t care what they have to do to get one. Elbows included.

10. Single-A Ball has its own version of gay or European and it’s called of legal age to drink in Canada or the US. Single-A is filled with kids just starting out and those not ready just yet to give up on their dream. Currently, the oldest Cyclone is 25 but the youngest are recent High School grads, leading us to think whether they had to cross the boarder to purchase alcohol legally. For the record, 30 of the 33 players are over 21. Way more than I had guessed.
(Photos: PIMC)

Strike a Pose



Baseball: It was a quiet night for New York with both the Mets and Yankees being held scoreless in their defeats...The Yankees are hoping CC Sabathia will be able to make his scheduled start on Friday...Oh and their protest has been squashed like a bunch of 60 year old hippies running into the National Guard outside of Penn Station...The Phillies bounced back from getting swept over the weekend, pounding the Rays, 10-1...Grady Sizemore went 2-for-5 with two RBIs in his first game back from the DL. Not bad for a guy who skipped a rehab assignment. The Indians, meanwhile, held on for the 5-4 victory over the Pirates...Eric Wedge maybe on the hot seat, but he's not talking about it...While Manny Ramirez was going hitless for the Isotopes, the Dodgers were cruising to a 5-2 victory over the White Sox. Looks like the Dodgers would be better off if Manny stayed in Albuquerque...The Angels cooled down the Rockies, 6-3. Well for one night at least...Ryan Raburn's homerun lifted the Tigers past the Cubs, 5-4...Former Cub Ryne Sandberg does not think Sammy Sosa should be in the Hall of Fame...Royals Manager Trey Hillman did not think Zach Greinke had his best stuff, but I think the Astros may disagree after they fell to Kansas City, 2-1. It was Greinke's first win since May 26th...Joey Votto admits the stress of his father's death "totally overwhelmed" him and forced him out of the Reds lineup. In his first game back with the team, Votto got a hit, but the Reds fell to the Blue Jays, 7-5...President Barack Obama will throw out the first pitch at the All Star Game in St. Louis.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Basketball: The Bucks have traded Richard Jefferson to the Spurs in a three team trade that also included the Pistons...The Timberwolves are close to a deal that would land them the 5th pick in the draft. Apparently Minnesota is already hording for the winter...Phil Jackson is mulling over a plan that would literally have him calling it in from his couch during the Lakers road games. I wasn't aware that NBA coaches had a telecommuting option...The Philadelphia 76ers are going retro with their logo.

Football: The Packers are working on a deal to extend WR Greg Jennings' contract...The Chiefs will retire the number 58 for the late Derrick Thomas.

Hockey: Congratulations to Steve Yzerman, Brian Leetch, Brett Hull, Luc Robitaille and others on being named to the Hockey Hall of Fame. Brett Hull and his father Bobby are the first father and son combo to be named to the Hall of Fame...Mike Babcock will coach Canada's 2010 men's Olympic hockey team...Brent Sutter was announced as the head coach of the Flames and his former boss Devils owner Jeff Vanderbeek is not happy about it! You don't always get what you want, even if you're ridiculously rich. It's a good lesson to learn Jeff.

Nascar: Richard Petty Motorsports will stick with Dodge for 2009...Now that Kasey Kahne broke his 37 race winless streak, who will be next?

(Photo: Getty Images)

Check this Out: With a hit summer movie to her credit, Rolling Stone looks at Sandra Bullock's best and worst movies. Click here to see which made the list. And if you haven't seen The Proposal I'd suggest checking out. It's a very cute rom-com and for the girls, Ryan Reynolds shows off almost all of the goods.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Your Lady Can Wait



Florian Busch, a German national hockey player, refused to take a drug test for several hours while playing house with his girlfriend resulting in a two year ban by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Next time just pull the plug out of the easy bake oven.

Busch eventually succumbed to the officials, testing negative, but it was too late. His initial refusal was treated like a positive test and Busch will not be allowed to play for the Polar Bears Berlin until February 2011.

Not since the Gossip Girl sex tape did a “private moment” become so public.
(source)

Danny Boy



Baseball: The Braves snapped the Cubs four game win streak, 2-0...The A's ended a five game slide besting the Giants, 5-1...Despite placing Carlos Beltran on the DL, the Mets topped the Cardinals, 6-4...The Rockies are making it like it's September 2007 after bashing the Angels, 11-1. It's their 17th win in 18 games...The Angels placed Ervin Santana on the DL...Things weren't quite that bad for the Rays Akinori Iwamura...Ryan Howard is expected to be back with the Phillies on Tuesday...Good news for the Tribe, centerfielder Grady Sizemore is scheduled to come off the DL on Tuesday. Cleveland also assigned infielder Asdrubal Cabrera to Double-A Akron for rehab...Ramirez is headed to the minors. Wait, isn't he like suspended or something? Shouldn't the only organized baseball he play involve an x-box and an online tournament?...The Yankees filed an official protest of their 6-5 loss to the Marlins. Apparently the Marlins weren't quite aware of the rule that once you leave the game you cannot come back...Donald Fehr has announced his retirement as the head of the MLBPA.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Basketball: The Celtics have reportedly offered up Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo to the Pistons for a group of players that include Richard Hamilton and Tyashuan Prince...Jayson Williams is a free man...for now! But watch out Jayson, because the popo are on your tail!

Football: La'Roi Glover is retiring after 13 seasons in the NFL...Gloria Estefan has reportedly purchased a minority ownership in the Miami Dolphins.

Hockey: White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf has vowed to make a bid for the Phoenix Coyotes which would keep the team in Arizona by Friday...Chris Chelios will not be returning to the Wings for the 2009-10 season...The Devils are in no rush to hire a coach...At least we know the Flyers are good at something, beer pong...Sean Avery apparently does not have a problem hooking up with Jets QB Mark Sanchez's sloppy seconds. Oh to be young and look like Hilary Rhoda...Just a reminder, the newest class of the Hockey Hall of Fame will be announced on Tuesday.


Best of the Rest: Congrats to Lucas Glover on winning the U.S. Open at Bethpage Black. Phil Mickelson ended up tied for second...Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova advanced to the second round at Wimbledon...The College of William & Mary is on the hunt for a new mascot. Please, for the love of your school, do not go with the asparagus stalk!
(Photo: Getty Images)

Check this Out: Click here for an out of control shot made by an eighth grader in Ohio.

Monday, June 22, 2009

She thinks my Moped is Sexy

It’s hard to top George Jones in anything but Iowa offensive tackle Kyle Calloway tried his best when he was arrested and charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicate. The vehicle you may ask was a moped. Not exactly as sexy as driving a tractor down the street completely wasted after your wife has taken your car keys away, but a valiant effort for the upcoming Iowa senior.

"I was very disappointed to learn of Kyle's poor judgment," Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz said in a statement. "Kyle will be expected to complete counseling and educational requirements, extensive community service obligations and game suspension prior to returning to the field."

Calloway blew a 0.106 over the legal limit in Iowa of 0.08 at the time of his arrest.

Watch out Kyle, because the popo is on your tail!
(source)

Already?

**SPOILER ALERT FOR WIMBLEDON FANS**


We are like only four hours in and already American James Blake has been ousted from Wimbledon after losing to Andreas Seppi of Italy 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 (5). Blake was the first seeded player to go down and has now lost three grand slam matches in a row, including a first round exit from the French Open. Argh!!

I am just hoping he is getting the losing out of the way so that he can make a big run at the US Open in September.
(Photo: Getty Images; Source)

The Hiden Ball Trick

Baseball: Albert Pujols slugged two homeruns helping to give the Cardinals a 12-5 win over the Royals and Tony LaRussa his 2,500th career win as a manager...Barry Zito is making a bit of a comeback for himself, flirting with a no-hitter until the seventh when Rangers slugger Andruw Jones his a two-run homer. No worries, the Giants still prevailed, 3-2...Speaking of comebacks, Justin Verlander has proven over the course of the year that he is back, especially after his 7 2/3 performance on Sunday. Verlander's efforts were aided by a three run homer by Brandon Inge as the Tigers completed a sweep of the Brewers, 3-2. What has happened to Milwaukee?...The Phillies were swept by the Orioles, 2-1...Phillies slugger Ryan Howard was released from the hospital after being treated for flu like symptoms. Howard also went the ER on Friday night and was released...Also completing a sweep were the Cubs who did it without the any extra inning heroics, 6-2...Good news for the Yankees, A.J. Burnett's suspension was lessened by a game. The Bad news, well CC Sabathia left in the second inning of the Yanks 6-5 loss to the Marlins...It only took one pitch in the ninth for the Red Sox to top the Braves, 6-5. Damn you Nick Green for finally starting to hit well!...The Red Sox sent Dice-K to the DL and do not expect him back anytime soon...The Hall of Fame has begun a new tradition, old times game.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: Hasheem Thabeet canceled a pre-draft workout with the Grizzles...Jayson Williams is expected to ask for a delay in his sentencing. Becasue five years is not enough of a delay...The Nuggets and Cavs will play an exhibition game in Taiwan.

Football: The Chargers have signed CB Brandon Hughes to a four-year deal...Jerry Jones has found a very lucative way to secure funds for the Cowboys, have his new $1 billion+ stadium host college football games.

Hockey: The Canadiens have been sold to the Molson Brothers...Mats Sundin will not play in the 2010 Olympics...The Flames are reportedly close to hiring former Devils head coach Brent Sutter. Luckily for Brent his brother Darryl is the GM so those family problems won't come into play...The Blues re-signed Keith Tkachuk...The Coyotes signed former Ranger Petr Prucha...Former Islander Kenny Jonsson has retired.


Nascar: Kasey Kahne held off a charging Tony Stewart to win at Sonoma. The victory broke a 37 race winless streak for Kahne...Click here for full results...And here for updated standings...Rick Hendrick is planning to meet with Brad Keselowski to discuss plans for 2010. Could that mean Keselowski will join Tony Stewarts' team Stewart-Haas?
(Photo: Getty Images)

Best of the Rest: The US Open is still going on with Ricky Barnes leading the pack...Sad news, Beth Smith, wife of PGA Tour golfer Chris Smith was killed in a car accident over the weekend...Congrats to Dario Franchittin on winning at Iowa. He is now 2-for-2 at the Speedway...Brazil did its job, blanking Italy, 3-0, while the U.S. held up their end of the bargain, taking down Egypt, 3-0 to advance to the semifinals of the Confederations Cup...Wimbledon gets underway today.

Check this Out: If you were hoping to see Brad Pitt playing Billy Beane in a big screen adaption of the book Moneyball then you might be out of luck. According to Variety, the movie has been scrapped just days before it was set to shoot. There is still hope, Columbia Pictures has put the project into "limited turnaround" meaning it could be picked up by another studio. Thank goodness, I was super excited to hear that David Justice would be acting in the flick. Although I highly doubt he's getting any acting pointers from Halle Berry.