Flat Feet

Baseball: Edgar Renteria lifted the Giants past the Rockies, 9-5, completing the three game sweep and netting them even with Colorado for the Wild Card...Randy Johnson may return to the Giants as a reliever...Also completing the sweep were the Yankees who hammered the White Sox, 8-3...Chicago will have Jake Peavy's elbow x-rayed...And the D'backs finished up their sweep of the Astros, 4-3...Mike Hampton's out for the rest of the season. Excuse me while I roll on the floor laughing...Matt Kemp's sac fly in the 12th drove the Dodgers past the Reds, 3-2...LA picked up Ronnie Belliard from the Nats...The Angels acquired Scott Kazmir from the Rays...And then John Lackey earned his 100th career victory as the Angels pounded the A's, 9-1...Bees swarmed super agent and royal ass Scott Boras' suite at Angel Stadium. Unfortunately it appears Boras was not in the suite at the time. Ok bees, take 2...Royals ace Zach Grienke 1-hit the Mariners, 3-0...Adam Wainwright collected his 16th win of the season as the Cards edged the Nats, 2-1...Meanwhile Justin Verlander got his 15th win of the season in Detroit's 4-3 win over Tampa Bay...Paul Byrd made his first start since last September shutting down the Blue Jays, 7-0...After getting nailed in the head, David Wright thinks he's ready to come back. Stay home. Enjoy your vacation. The weather is very nice in New York right now. Tennis is being played in Flushing. There's no reason to come back...The Twins are serious about acquiring Rich Harden. Well you've got one day to get that done...New helmets will be required in the minors in 2010...Congrats to Chula Vista, CA for winning the Little League World Series.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: Don't get too excited but Yao Ming just might play for the Rockets this season...The NBA has suspended J.R. Smith and Jason Richardson for their recent driving offenses. It's almost like a more lenient NFL 2.0...Former Heat draft first-round draft pick Tim James is stationed in Iraq.

Football: In Jay Cutler's preseason return to Denver, the Bears Chiefs cuffed the Broncos, 27-17...QB Matt Cassell has a MCL sprain and could miss 2-to-4 weeks...The Bengals signed first round draft pick Andre Smith...Skins fullback Mike Sellers is sorry for throwing the American Flag to the ground. He's just lucky they weren't playing the Saints because Jeremy Shockey would have none of that!...Teddy Bruschi is expected to announce his retirement on Monday.

Hockey: The NHL Players Association has fired executive director Paul Kelly less than two years after they hired him...The Canucks signed defenseman Mathieu Schneider to a one year deal and acquired Christian Ehrhoff and Brad Lukowich from the Sharks for two prospects...The Lightning signed Alex Tanguay to a one year deal worth $2.5 million.

Nascar: A last lap pass put Carl Edwards in Victory Lane in Montreal...Congrats also go out to Kyle Busch who held off Todd Bodine to win in Chicago...Daytona 500 qualifying has been moved up a day to avoid a conflict with the Super Bowl.

Best of the Rest: The NCAA is investigating Michigan for a possible rules violation. So Michigan, how's this whole Rich Rodriguez thing going?...Congrats to Heath Slocum who won The Barclays at Jersey City this weekend...The IRL really wants Danica Patrick to stay and quite frankly, so do I...Former High School football coach David Jason Stinson is set to go to trial in which he is charged with reckless homicide in the death of one of his players. 15 year old Max Gilpin collapsed and died during practice last season while running in 94 degree heat...Would-be attacker, you should never mess with Dawn Fraser.
(Photo: AP)

Check this Out: Try to hold back the tears kids, Audrina Patridge is leaving The Hills. Apparently it's time for her to grow up. Sure we'll go with that.

A billion dollars is just not worth what it used to be

With the litany of problems discovered after the completion of the $1.5 billion behemoth in the South Bronx, it should come as no surprise that a major issue is developing in the $1.15 billion new Cowboys Stadium. That silly video display board featured in the photo above is causing all sorts of problems. Hanging 90 feet above the playing field, it has become a target for errant kicks forcing the league to rule that for this season, any ball that hits the video board will be replayed and the clock will be reset.

As for next year, well there looks to be a bit of reconstruction on the horizon. Goodness, it seems like all a billion dollars will get you is one crappy stadium.
(Photo: AP; source)

Friday Funnies

This is kind of the picture I got in my head when I read the story about Sidney Crosby’s attempt at fly fishing. Fortunately, he missed hooking his head.
(Clip: Funny Farm)

Get Psyched

Ray Wise (The Devil on Reaper) guest stars in this week’s all new episode of “Psych” as what else but a priest who thinks the devil is involved in an apparent suicide.

Tune into USA at 10 PM/est to see if the devil really did do it.

There is a Santa Claus

Baseball: Vincente Padilla made his first start for the Dodgers, allowing two runs in five innings as LA edged Colorado 3-2...Dodgers reliever Ronald Belisario pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor drunken driving. Watch out Ronnie, because the popo are on your tail!...Three A's pitchers combined for a three hit shut out of the Angels, 2-0...The White Sox topped the Red Sox, 9-5 to avoid the sweep...Also avoiding sweeps were the Braves who smashed the Padres, 9-1...And the Astros who rallied for a 4-3 victory over the Cardinals...The Red Sox activated Billy Wagner...Mark Reynolds hit two homers in the Diamondbacks 11-0 shelling of the Giants...Ian Kinsler also had two dingers in the Rangers 7-2 romp over the Yankees...Are Derek Jeter and Minka Kelly engaged? And if so can I get an invite to the wedding. I promise I won't take too many pictures and I cerntainly won't sell them!...If you ever needed an additional reason to stop sliding head first into a base, use Nats outfielder Nyjer Morgan's recent injury as an example. Morgan will miss the remainder of the season after breaking his hand sliding into third...Sources say Trevor Hoffman, Rich Harden and Aaron Heilman have all been claimed on waivers...This list could be going all the way up to the supreme court.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: Part time popo officer Shaq got a ticket in LA for stopping in the middle of the street. Apparently in LA they frown upon that.

Football: Michael Vick made his Eagles debut in Philly's 33-32 win over Jacksonville...Cowboys WR Roy E. Williams is likely done for the rest of the preseason with a shoulder injury...Broncos WR Brandon Marshall is frustrated. I think the Broncos can say the same thing.

(Photo: AFP)

Hockey: It looks like Patrick Kanes nightmarish cabbiegate is over. Kane and his cousin plead guilty and have been ordered to write an apology to the cabbie...St. Louis Blues defenseman Eric Brewer has undergone sugery on his right knee and will be out for 2-to-4 weeks...Jacques Demers was appointed to the Canadian Senate.

Nascar: Michael Waltrip has a new crew chief...Congrats to Ray Evernham and Erin Crocker on their recent nuptials.

Best of the Rest: USC has named freshman Matt Barkley their starting QB...The US Open draw has been released...The popo investigating a shooting outside a skating rink (is nothing sacred these days?) found two handguns, ammunition and two bulletproof vests in the home of Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and two cars. What no suitcases filled with cash? I am not impressed. Watch out Floyd, because the popo are on your tail.

Check this Out: With only a few weeks left until the premiere of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, here's another teaser to get you ready.

This Beat is Sick

Baseball: Even if Milton Bradley is feeling no love at Wrigley, it didn't stop him from belting a homer in the Cubs, 9-4 romp over the Nats...No amount of late inning heroics could stop the Rockies from falling to the Dodgers, 6-1...Meanwhile the Giants rallied past the Diamondbacks, 4-3 after Bengie Molina hit a pinch-hit homerun in the eighth...The Marlins slipped past the Mets, 5-3...On a day when the Mets lost another pitcher for the year, Oliver Perez. Ollie will undergo knee surgery...The Yankees hammered the Rangers, 9-2...Jorge Posada is day-to-day after leaving Wednesday's game early when he was hit by a foul ball on his glove hand...David Ortiz had two homeruns in the Red Sox 3-2 victory over the White Sox...Boston granted Brad Penny's release request...Marco Scutaro scored the winning run on a wild pitch as the the Jays edged the Rays, 3-2...Ryan Howard's three run homer saved Ryan Madson who blew a save opporunity in Phillies 4-1 victory over the Pirates...The Indians doubled up the Royals, 4-2 after a wild day in which the Tribe's team bus was side swiped on the highway. None of the players nor the driver was injured in the accident...A federal court of appeals has ruled that the government had no right to sieze the infamous list of 104 players who test positive for performance-enhancing drugs.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: The Grizzles are confirming Allen Iverson's tweet, they have offered him a contract...Mike Dunleavy maybe back sooner than expected...At this point, Ricky Rubio's destination for this year's basketball season is anybody's guess.

Football: The popo plan to question Raiders head coach Tom Cable over his little incident...Speaking of the popo, former Patroits lineman Daniel Villa was sentenced to two years in jail after pleading guilty to raping a 15-year-old girl. Watch out Danny, because the popo are on your tail!...Chris Simms will miss 2-to-4 weeks with an ankle sprain...Giants DT Chris Canty underwent a new plasma therapy to help with his hamstring injury.

Hockey: Islanders center Mike Sillinger has decided to retire after 17 seasons in the NHL...The Flyers are confident Simon Gagne will be ready for training camp after suffering a groin injury while praciticing with team Canada...Cam Ward missed the first day of practice with team Canada because of a back injury...The NHL does not want to get involved with DirecTV and Versus battle...But are more than willing to spend $140 million to keep a team in Phoenix even though no one goes to games nor cares about hockey. Stop millions of fans from being able to see non-local/Stanley Cup Playoffs or force Phoenix to have hockey. Good choice!

Nascar: Boris Said's crew member has been suspended by Nascar for violating its substance abuse policy.

Best of the Rest: It looks like it's not a good time to be a former head coach at Kentucky. First there's the Rick Pitino diaster. And now Billy Gillispie has been arrested for DUI. I'd watch out if I were you Tubby Smith (click here for video)...Tennessee freshman tailback Bryce Brown has been ruled ineligible by the NCAA...Good news, IndyCar driver Nelson Philippe has been released from the hospital after sustaining multiple injuries during a practice crash at Sonoma....Tiger, Phil and the gang begin the first leg of the FedEX Cup in beautfiul New Jersey on Thursday...The US Open doesn't start until next week, but be warned, Rafael Nadal is not in his best condition.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Check this Out: EW has your first look at the Seinfield reunion here.

Hump Day Hair

Remember a few weeks ago when I lamented about the lack of Troy Tulowitzki hair photos? Well thanks to last night’s walk-off win I finally get to post one.



(Note: It appears that the look is growing out, for shame, but you get the idea.)
Photo: AP

AGAIN??!?!?!??!

Baseball: The Rockies refuse to quit, edging the Dodgers 5-4 after Troy Tulowitzki hit a walk-off liner that scored Ian Stewart. Colorado is now just 2 games behind LA in the NL West...MLB is looking into a dispute between the Rockies and the umpiring crew during their Monday victory over the Giants...Speaking of late game heroics, defensive replacement Ryan Langerhans hit another walk-off homerun to give the Mariners a 4-2 victory over the A's...And David Eckstein drove in the winning run in the 12th after blowing their ninth inning lead in their 2-1 win over Atlanta...Cincinnati blew a five run lead in the ninth to rebound with solo homeruns from Joey Votto and Laynce Nix that gave the Reds a 8-6 win over the Brewers...Zach Grienke haulted the Royals slide by striking out 15 batters as Kansas City topped Cleveland, 6-2...Jacoby Ellsbury set the Red Sox steal record as Boston doubled up the White Sox, 6-3...Jake Peavy is hoping to make his start on Saturday...After placing second baseman Freddy Sanchez on the DL, the Giants rebounded from a diasterous weekend series against the Rockies, handling the D'Backs, 5-4...In other diaster news, Brad Lidge blew another save as the Pirates stunned the Phillies, 6-4...Adam Wainright became the NL's first 15 game winner after the Cardinals shut down the Astros, 1-0...Aaron Boone is set to return to the Astros on Friday, five months after undergoing heart surgery...The Rangers held off a rallying Yankees team to win, 9-8...Carlos Pena had two homeruns as the Rays crushed the Blue Jays, 7-3...Johan Santana will undergo surgery to remove bone chips in his elbow...The Mets will also be without J.J. Putz for the remainder of the season...Milton Bradley thinks he's hated at Wrigley. I think that might be because he is hated at Wrigley.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Basketball: The Hawks have signed Joe Smith...The Wizards are planning a trip to China.

Football: Sources are saying the Jets have quietly named Mark Sanchez their starting QB...Terrell Owens will not be playing for the Bills in their matchup agains the Steelers...Although Big Ben will play despite an ankle injury...Michael Vick is set to debut for the Eagles on Thursday...The Eagles have met with animal rights groups. Maybe they won't picket the game. Who am I kidding, of course they'll picket the game...The Seahawks signed RB Edgerrin James...Tom Brady says he's not thinking about his contract. Well then, it's a really good thing you married Gisele.
(Photo: AP)

Hockey: Jerry Reinsdorf has pulled his bid for the Coyotes. Ice Edge a partnership between the NHL and Canadian and American investors have put in a bid. What a freakin' mess...The Staals are all hoping to join the Canadian Olympic team. Hitting up orientation is a good start...Flyers forward Simon Gagne strained his groin while practicing with Team Canada. Uh-oh, I hope you have that insurance Yogi...Chris Drury's little league team won the little league world series? Why can't he show that kind of leadership with the Rangers?

Best of the Rest: Isiah Thomas is threatening to pull the powerhouse that is Florida International from the Coaches vs. Cancer tournament if they don't get a match up switch. What, don't think you can take out UNC?

Check this Out: Sad news, Senator Ted Kennedy has passed away at the age of 77.

Wagner agrees to go to Boston

It appears even the prospect of staying with the Mets for another six weeks has made Billy Wagner change his mind about leaving for Boston. I mean if the news that Jeff Francoeur and Johan Santana are battling newly acquired injuries aren’t enough, how about sharing a clubhouse with Jerry Manuel for an extended period of time.

In agreeing to waive his no trade clause, the Red Sox have assured Wagner that they will not pick up his $8 million club option for 2010 but are still able to offer him arbitration, which would make him less attractive on the free agent market.

In return for Wagner, the Mets have received two minor leaguers to be named later and will not have to pay him $1 million to buy out his contract.
(Photo: ; source)

John Denver would be pleased

Baseball: The dramatics continued for the Rockies, who found different ways to rally past the Giants this weekend, including Ryan Spilborghs walk-off grand slam on Monday...Just when you think things can't get any worse in Queens, the Mets lose to the Phillies, 6-2...Find out Jeff Francoeur has a partially torn ligament in his thumb...Johan Santana's elbow is bothering him and he might need surgery...And that they can't get rid of Billy Wagner...Speaking of bad breaks, Jake Peavy was hit by a liner in his latest rehab start....The Red Sox out slugged the White Sox, 12-8...The Tigers topped the Angels, 10-7...Roy Halladay did not have a start to remember, giving up seven runs in six innings of work as the Jays fell to the Rays, 12-7...Justin Morneau returned to the Twins lineup after missing six games with an ear infection. Minnesota went on to edged the Orioles, 2-1...Ryan Braun sparked a six run sixth inning with his two run homer as the Brewers burried the Nats, 7-1...John Smoltz says his was tipping his pitches in Boston...Sad news, one of the former owners of the Cincinnati Reds, William J. Williams, Sr. has died at the age of 93. (Photo: Getty Images)

Basketball: The Heat's Michael Beasley has checked into rehab...Meanwhile former NBA ref Tim Donaghy is back in jail. Watch out Timmy, because the popo are on your tail!...Speaking of jail time, Dirk Nowitzki's former flame Cristal Taylor was sentenced to five years in prison for violating her probation. Watch out Cristal, because the popo are on your tail!

Football: The Ravens edged the Jets, 24-23...With both Mark Sanchez and Kellen Clemens looking unremarkable, the Jets still don't know who will start...Speaking of Baltimore, rookie linebacker Tony Fein's agent say his client was racially profiled when the popo basically jumped him at a Johnny Rockets. I guess the smiley face made out of ketchup didn't help the situation...Philip Rivers signed a six year, $93 million extension. Too bad you're still trailing Eli Manning...The 49ers will start Shaun Hill over former No. 1 draft pick Alex SmithIn an interview with E:60, Plaxico Burress recounts the night he shot himself and claims he was not wearing sweatpants but rather bagging black pants. Ok I already don't believe his story.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Hockey: The New Jersey Devils are taking a dig at the New Jersey Nets. Can't we all just get along?...Jim Balsillie has amened his bid for the Phoenix Coyotes and has set a September 14th deadline. You just pretend you have some sort of leverage in this...DirecTV will drop Versus network making it impossible for viewers to watch part of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Are you happy now Bettman?...Team Canada will open their four day Olympic orientation camp.

Nascar: Jimmie Johnson has donated $150,000 to four Charlotte area school systems.

Best of the Rest: Former Nebraska running back Thunder Collins could not use his speed to run from the popo. Collins has been convicted of first degree murder. Watch out Thunder, because the popo are on your tail!

Check this Out: Jessica Beil has been named the most dangerous celebrity and it's not what you think. Security firm McAfee claims Ms. Beil's name is more likely to result in viruses and spyware than any other celebrity.

I can do good all by myself

Baseball: Eric Brunlett's unassisted triple play ended the Mets threat and gave the Phillies the 9-7 victory...For some unexplained reason, the Mets are still sticking with Omar Minaya...John Smoltz struck out nine batters in his Cardinals debut. St. Louis went on to beat the Padres, 5-2. I bet all of Boston is wondering where that performance was while he was with the Red Sox...Although they should probably be more concerned with Josh Beckett's perforamance on Sunday where he gave up 5 homeruns in the Yankees, 8-4 romp...Billy Wagner's trade to the Red Sox is in jeopardy. I think Jonathan Papelbon would be ok with that...After Tim Lincecum no hit the Rockies for over five innings, Colorado bounced back to double up the Giants, 4-2...Colorado reportedly signed veteran Jason Giambi...Brian McCann's career high five RBIs helped lift the Braves past the Marlins, 7-5...Michael Cuddyer homered twice in the Twins 8 run seventh inning to give Minnesota the 10-3 advantage over the Royals...Both the Rangers and Cubs avoided sweeps...White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen is hopeful Jake Peavy will pitch for Chicago by the end of the season...Get well wishes go out to Aaron Harang who had an appendectomy.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: Nuggets reserve forward Renaldo Balkman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. Watch out Renaldo, because the popo are on your tail!

Football: Michael Vick has a court appearance scheduled in Virginia on the same day he's supposed to start for the Eagles...Hopefully the Giants have a plan B because Chris Canty's hamstring injury is not getting any better...In other injury news, Seahawks center Chris Spencer has an injured leg...Panthers middle linebacker Jon Beason may or may not have torn his MCL...And Bucs linebacker Angelo Corwell tore his biceps.

Hockey: Dany Heatley still wants out of Ottawa...Mats Sundin and his agent will meet to decide his future. Oh great so the Brett Favre dance is over, why not start the Mats Sundin one instead?

Nascar: Congrats to Kyle Busch for winning at Bristol on Saturday night...Click here for full results...And here for updated standings...Congrats also go out to David Ragan who won in the Nationwides Series race on Friday.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Best of the Rest: Michigan is planning to juggle three quarterbacks for their season opener against Western Michigan. This isn't a preseason game, it counts Rich...Congrats to Roger Federer on winning the Cincinnati Masters title...Congrats also go out to Dario Franchitti on winning the IndyCar race at Infineon Raceway...And to Rubens Barrichello for winning the European Grand Prix, capturing his first F1 victory in five years.

Check this Out: Inglourious Basterds' was number one at the box office this weekend, taking in $37.6 million.

Get Pysched on Friday

The guys head over to the Wild West where they meet guest star James Brolin on tonight’s all new episode of Psych. To get you in the mood, click here for James Roday and Dule Hill’s interview with SheKnows.com. Or here to catch up on episodes from this season.

Don’t forget to tune into USA at 10 PM/est for tonight’s latest episode of Pysch!
(Photo: USA)

Friday Funnies

The Mets are celebrating the 1969 Miracle Mets on Saturday with a pregame ceremony. Fans in attendance get this free t-shirt:



Did anyone look at this before they sent it over to the t-shirt makers?
(Photo: mets.com)

The First Time is Always the Best Time

Baseball: Brian McCann hit a solo shot as the Braves held off the Mets, 3-2. Billy Wagner made his first appearance since September 10, 2008...The Mets released Livan Hernandez...But they aren't letting Gary Sheffield go. It was only a matter of time before Sheffield was going to either piss off the organization or be pissed off by the organization...The Phillies whacked the Diamondbacks, 12-3...Russell Martin's tie-breaking grand slam pushed the Dodgers past the Cubs, 7-2...Speaking of grand slams, Brendan Ryan got one himself as the Cardinals blasted past the Padres, 5-1...John Smoltz says he's ready to go...Drew Stubbs' first career homerun could not have come at a better time. Stubbs hit a walk-off solo shot to help the Reds beat the Giants, 2-1...Meanwhile the Rockies swept the Nationals, 4-1. Colorado's lead in the Wild Card grew to two games...Boston hammered the Jays, 8-1 to pick up the sweep...Recently called up Matt LaPorta had a career high three RBIs and Justin Masterson pitched over six scoreless innings as the Indians routed the Angels, 11-3...The Tigers rallied to a 7-6 win over the Mariners...The Rangers hammered the Twins, 11-1...Twins first baseman Justin Morneau returned to Minnesota to see a specialist regarding his nagging ear infection.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: The Rockets have reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Pops Mensah-Bonsu...LeBron James hosted a screening in Akron, OH.

Football: The Bills are close to coming to terms with first-round pick Aaron Maybin...Ochocinco kicked the game winning extra point to push the Bengals past the Patriots, 7-6. Apparently soccer is Ocho's #1 sport...Peyton Manning tossed two TDs as the Colts edged the Eagles, 23-15...Ben Roethlisberger's summer of fun just keeps on rolling as the QB injured his right ankle or foot in practice.

Hockey: The Ducks signed defenseman Brett Festerling to a two year deal...While the Sabres locked up Jeff Cowan...Dany Heatley will break his silence. Gee, I just can't wait...Since he was traded to Montreal this off season, Scott Gomez has decided to learn French. Although it's not going to be easy "Us Mexicans, we roll our 'R's"...I don't think calling members of the NHL community crooks will win you any fans Jimmy...Sad news, the two month old son of Capitals goalie Jose Theodore has died.

Nascar: Current and former Nascar drivers were honored at the White House on Wednesday...A new "Intimidator" roller coaster is set to open at two theme parks. Guess where I'll be headed next year!

Best of the Rest: Usain Bolt ran the 200 in a record 19.19 seconds. I don't know if you know this, but this guy is FAST!...Brock Lesnar and Shane Carwin will go head to head at the Mandalay Bay Events Cetner in Las Vegas on November 21. Carwin is trying to defend his UFC title...In crazy news, the family of 18-year-old South African runner Caster Semenya claim she is in fact a woman. The IAAF are conducting an investigation into that claim...The NCAA is not happy about a ruling that could publish documents pretaining to the cheating scandal at Florida State.



Check this Out: Alexis Bledel, of "Gilmore Girls" and Sisterhood of the Travel Pants fame, and Zach Gilford of "Friday Night Lights" fame are hitting the theaters this week with a new movie Post Grad. Also opening this weekend is Quentin Tarantino's Inglorious Basterds.

Things I Learned at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome (Game 2)

Twins 3, Indians 7

1. People travel far and wide to go to a Twins game. Between a quick license plate count and conversations with fellow attendees, I discovered fans came from all over, including Nebraska, North Dakota and Iowa just to see the Twins. Talk about a regional team!

2. Fan area. There is great fan area located in front of the main ticket window that had booths, a concert stage, face painting (which is apparently is very big here) concessions and a picnic table area for fans to congregate before the start of the game. It becomes the perfect place to stretch out your legs after driving from North Dakota.

3. The Indians make everyday feel like Spring Training. While the Indians stretched before the game players walked over to waiting fans to autograph balls and programs. And we’re not talking the long relievers, but players like Grady Sizemore and Jhonny Peralta.

4. Michael Cuddyer gets the Pat Burrell Fan Appreciation Award. For those not familiar with Pat Burrell’s tenure in Philadelphia it can be best described as love/hate. They would cheer for Pat when hit a homerun but would be just as quick to yell some words of encouragement his way (read: curse him out) when he’d let a ball drop in front of him in left. Well for Twins fans, Michael Cuddyer has earned this distinction. He has struggled mightily this year and while I heard pleas for Cuddy to just get a freaking single, I also heard a lot of Cuddy you’re a bum when he’d fly out. Love/Hate

5. Throwing the ball back is one of the dumbest traditions sweeping baseball. I believe originally it was a Cubs tradition (although feel free to correct me on that) for fans to throw back a homerun ball hit by the opposing team. This trend has spread across the league like wildfire and I for one would like to see it stopped. First of all, how awesome is that you’ve actually placed yourself in the optimal position to catch a towering homerun hit by a major league player? And now you’re going to chance your karma for ever catching another one by throwing it back? You know the kid sitting three rows in front of you that has been pleading all game for a ball to come his/her way, why don’t you toss the ball over to him/her? Seriously, I am sure there are tons of people in your section that would be more than willing to take that disgusting ball off your hands.

6. Everybody wants to be circled by Bert.

7. Of course when they finally get themselves on the jumbotron they have no idea. The way the dome is set up, it mimics your average football stadium with jumbotrons on either side of the stadium placed high above the final row behind what would be the end zone. Because of their awkward locations, many fans would fail to watch them during a stoppage of play. This made for some inattentive fans gracing the jumbotron. Too bad, they never knew their mugs were being flashed to everyone, including Bert.

8. Foul territory bullpens are awesome. This was the first place I had ever been to where the bullpens were in foul territory and I have got to say it’s very cool. The players warm up literally a few rows in front of you. This created one awesome moment, when Scott Baker (starting pitcher for the Twins in Game 1) was tossing warm-up pitches to Joe Mauer while Justin Morneau stood with a bat in his hand to give Baker a feel for where a batter would stand. Fans gathered to take photos of the moment, which is not possible in the standard bullpen set-up. The closeness also translated into a couple of souvenirs in game 2 when the Indians reliever Chris Perez started tossing balls to the some lucky fans in the stands.

9. Fans still miss Torii Hunter and Doug Mientkiewicz. I saw a bunch of people wearing Hunter gear but you could really tell their true feelings when a ball would drop in center and fans would grumble, “Hunter could have gotten to that.” More surprising was the number of Mientkiewicz jerseys and t-shirts. I didn’t know anyone missed him besides maybe Alex Rodriguez.

10. Kid wearing the Casilla shirt is probably regretting that decision. In other Twins clothing news, I spotted a kid sitting in my section with an Alexi Casilla jersey. I can understand not wanting to go with the Joe Mauer/Justin Morneau/Joe Nathan route. You want to be different, prove what a huge Twins fan you are by going for the obscure, but when the guy your wearing a jersey for is batting around the Mendoza line, maybe you start to regret being such a trailblazer and wish you had gone with the Mauer tee or at least Jason Kubel. He did hit a long homerun in game 1.

Bonus: It’s takes a long time to leave. While I kind of made fun of the fans that exited during the fifth inning of the first game, they did have a point. It takes an eternity to get out of the Stadium. The lower concourse is the only way to escape the dome after the game and is easily backed up with fans trying to get to the restrooms or standing in the middle of the concourse waiting for family and friends or trying to get a soda for the road. This then backs up the aisles which are attempting to get to the concourse so they can use the restroom or stand in the middle of the concourse to wait for their family and friends or try to buy a soda for the road. So you end up just standing, waiting for things to thin out. The best idea is to either wait in your seat until the aisles start moving or if you are more inclined, try to sneak out in the later parts of the ninth.

(Photos: PIMC)

Plax is going to Jail

Former Giants WR Plaxico Burress has pleaded guilty to a weapons charge and will be sentenced to 2 years in jail – 1 ½ years less than the mandatory sentence he was facing for criminal possession of a weapon. Under the plea agreement, Burress pleaded guilty to one count of attempted criminal possession. In addition to his time in jail, he’ll also receive two years of supervised release.

Watch out Plax, because the popo are on your tail!

(Photo: Reuters; source)

Well Done

Baseball: A day after giving up eight runs in one inning, the Braves bounced back with an eight run inning of their own as they pounded the Mets, 15-2...The Mets have reportedly put Billy Wagner of waivers. Why not wait until he at least comes off the DL for the first time this season?...John Smoltz officially signed with the Cardinals...And then St. Louis edged the Dodgers, 3-2...LA has signed Vincente Padilla to a minor league contract...In other former Braves pitchers news, Mike Hampton has a torn rotator cuff. Super glad he didn't accept the Braves offer this off season...The Astros meanwhile doubled up the Marlins, 6-3...Cliff Lee fanned 11 as the Phillies hammered the D'Backs, 8-1. So this Cliff Lee trade has turned out pretty well for the defending champs...Clay Buchholz allowed one run in six innings as the Red Sox topped the Blue Jays, 6-1...Denard Span hit a game tying double and then slide into home with the go-ahead run as the Twins beat the Rangers, 5-4...The Angels blanked the Indians, 3-0...Cleveland called up Matt LaPorta...The Brewers traded Bill Hall to the Mariners for minor league pitcher Ruben Flores...Seattle then held off the Tigers, 3-1. Recently acquired pitcher Ian Snell earned his first victory for the Mariners...The Nationals are expected to make interim GM Mike Rizzo their permanent GM.
(Photo: Reuters)

Basketball: Jason Williams (not the one who allegedly shot his driver nor the one who fell off his motorcycle) has signed with the Orlando Magic...The Thunder has parted ways with Desmond Mason.

Football: T.O. will miss Saturday's Bills-Packers game with a toe injury...The Vikings sold 3,000 season tickets after announcing the Favre signing. People were also seen scooping up #4 jerseys. Let the fair fans of the New York Jets tell you about the life span of their #4 jerseys. Hint: It's ends with a trip to goodwill...Venus and Serena Williams are reportedly the newest part owners of the Dolphins. Tell me, besides myself, who doesn't own a piece of the Dolphins?...Bucs cornerback Aqib Talib was arrested and charged with simple battery and resisiting arrest on Thursday. Watch out Aqib, because the popo are on your tail!

Hockey: The Hurricanes have signed Stephane Yelle to a one year contract...Pens coach Dan Bylsma fresh off a Stanley Cup victory chatted up Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin who is fresh off a Super Bowl win. Are they trying to pool their power?...And just because news in hockey is a bit slow, I'll mention Kane's indictment. This story is very close to falling into the ranks of Roger Clemens and Jeremy Mayfield's meth use. (Read: I am close to not being able to care less)...The Sporting News talks to Buffalo Sabre goalie Ryan Miller here.



Nascar: Congrats to Kyle Busch for winning the Truck race at Bristol. Too bad he hasn't been able to translate his Truck and Nationwide success over to the Cup ranks this year...Furniture Row Racing has announced they will race the full 2010 schedule.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Best of the Rest: Memphis may have a few less victories after the NCAA gets done with them...Andy Roddick was upset by fellow American Sam Querrey at the Cincinnati Masters 7-6 (11), 7-6 (3).

Check this Out: Click here to see the 12 types of people on facebook. After a quick glance I easily know seven types of people on this list.

Hump Day Hair

I am having issues uploading photos today so I'll let Big League Stew take care of the Hump Day Hair post for this week.

Things I Learned at Miller Park (Game 2)

Brewers 12, Padres 9

1. They know their product integration. The Brewers corporate sponsorship people are really good. Not only does a person in a Harley Davidson drop off the first pitch before each game, but for Thursday’s match-up, the YMCA was getting some shout-outs as well. Mike Cameron helped 1,600 kids from local YMCA camps get tickets and the first 10,000 fans received a week’s free pass to a Milwaukee area YMCA. By the way, anyone living in Milwaukee, I’ve got a free pass good till the end of September if you’re interested.

2. Prince Fielder can hit it really far. If Wednesday’s game was memorable for its lack of long balls, well then Thursday’s was memorable for the multitude of them. A combined seven balls went deep including one hit by Prince Fielder that was measured at 465 feet. It was so powerful it knocked out a light on the scoreboard. When you start breaking scoreboards, you know you’ve had a good day.

3. Bernie is a lucky mascot. During games (and maybe after them I don’t know, Bernie and I aren’t really on friendly terms right now) Bernie lives in a little tree house high above the left field bleachers where he watches the games from his front porch. If perchance the Brewers hit a homerun, Bernie hops onto the yellow twisting slide and heads for the Kalahari splash zone at the bottom. Afterwards he starts to frantically wave a Brewers flag until the next batter steps to the plate. Not a bad life if you can get live it. (Oh and did I mention the Brewers have a lot of product integration?)

4. Cesar Carrillo may want to throw at the plate not at the players. Carrillo hit two Brewers (Mike Cameron and Craig Counsell) on his way to a two and a third inning, eight earned run performance. Remember Cesar, pitching inside is designed to get the batter off the plate, not to first base.

5. “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” has a lot of words I’ve never heard before. After a rousing rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” was sung, the fans then chimed in with a Milwaukee tradition, “Roll out the Barrel.” Sadly, until that very moment during the seventh inning stretch I had never heard the song before and was unable to join in. That’s when advanced research would have come in handy!

Bonus: Getting home is easy. I have been to many a ballpark before (U.S. Cellular Field, Turner Field) where getting a taxi after a game can be rather difficult, but not at Miller Park. Cabs, shuttles and vans continuously motored towards the homeplate entrance to pick up fans. And don’t worry if you get out of the Ballpark late, the cab line only seemed to grow the longer I wanted for my hotel shuttle.

Check back tomorrow for Things I Learned at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome (Game 2).

(Photos: PIMC)

Can the real reason why Brett Myers can’t pitch please stand up?

There has been a lot of question as to why Brett Myers was unable to pitch in a rehab start on Saturday. Originally he had claimed he injured his eye playing with his 4-year-old son. Then he blamed the injury on his wife’s truck. But Phillies manager Charlie Manuel is not to sure about either excuse. “I don’t believe any of it.”

That might be a good call, considering reports actually claim Myers suffered his injury as a result of being punched in the face during an altercation outside of a bar near his home in Jacksonville, FL.

I guess it’s not as easy to beat someone else up when they’re not your wife.

Myers has denied the allegation but did admit that a buddy of his was involved in a fracas at the bar. Popo reports confirm Myers claim, but I still think something funny is going on here.
(Photo: AP; source)

Stand Still, Look Pretty

Baseball: I'd like to pretend that the eight run fourth inning never happened during the Mets 9-4 victory over the Braves. Because without that, the Braves would have won 4-1. Oh to dream...A rain delay ruined Pedro Martinez's first start at home for the Phillies, but it didn't ruin the game as Philadelphia topped the Diamondbacks, 5-1...The Padres doubled up the Cubs, 6-3 who didn't need the aid of newly named closer Carlos Marmol, you know with them losing and all...Ricky Nolasco fanned 10 while the Marlins got 10 hits for their fourteenth consecutive game. With stats like that it's not hard to believe the Marlins came out on top of the Astros, 6-2...The Dodgers haulted the Cardinals 5 game win streak, 7-3...Hiroki Kuroda is probably heading to the DL...And John Smoltz is leaning towards joining the Cardinals...Tim Lincecum wasn't at his best, but Ryan Garko bailed him out with four RBIs as the Giants bested the Reds, 8-5...Recently acquired Ivan Rodriguez got a standing ovation as he took the field for the Rangers. Unfortunately for Texas, the good times ended there as they fell to the Twins, 9-6...The loss coupled with the Red Sox 10-9 win over the Blue Jays means we've got a tie in the AL Wild Card Race...Tim Wakefield is still not ready to come off the DL...Jake Peavy had a shaky rehab start giving up three earned runs while hitting a batter...Nats acting GM Mike Rizzo said it's unlikely Stephen Strasburg will start for the Nats in 2009...All players and staff of the Nippon Ham Fighters baseball team have been tested for swine flu. Remind me to avoid all players and staff from the Nippon Ham Fighters.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Basketball: Knicks guard Nate Robinson was arrested for operating a vehicle without a valid license. Watch out Nate, because the popo are on your tail!

Football: The NFL is investigating the hit and run incident inside the Raiders coaching office...Bucs safety Tanard Jackson will miss the first four games after violating the NFL's substance abuse policy...Brandon Marshall is still upset with the Broncos. This time he's not a fan of how they handled his acquital. Oh and he still thinks he should get more money. Lawyer fees are expensive!

Hockey: A grand jury is expected to announce charges against Blackhawks star Patrick Kane...Although it is thought that Pat and his cousin will cut a deal with the DA...At age 39, Mike Modano is back for one last go round with Team USA...The Red Wings signed Todd Bertuzzi to a one year, $1.5 million contract.

Nascar: Dodge is sticking with Nascar no matter how much money they lose because people just don't want to buy the Dodge Caliber. Have you ever seen this car on the road? Or the Avenger. When did they start making that one?...Tony Stewart stopped by "Fox & Friends" on Tuesday. Click here for the interview.

Best of the Rest: The NCAA is investigating Tennessee freshman running back Bryce Brown's amateur status...Romain Grosjean will replace Nelson Piquet Jr. behind the wheel for Renault...Venus Williams lost to Kateryna Bondarenko in the second round of the Rogers Cup 1-6, 7-5, 6-4.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Check this Out: With Top Chef Las Vegas premiering tonight on Bravo (9 PM/est), Entertainment Weekly looks back at some of Top Chef's former contestants to find out what they are up to now.

I do not condone this

Let it be known I am not ok with the following news: Brett Favre has signed with the Minnesota Vikings. It’s not that I care that he’s playing for the Vikings; I am not a Packers fan. It’s just that I want the family circus to stay put in Mississippi, far away from the NFL. I mean what’s so wrong with retirement? For me, I can’t wait to be retired. I wouldn’t have to get up early. I wouldn’t have to wear work clothes and could instead just rock jeans and my Chuck Taylors with a casual top everyday. I wouldn’t have to fight off people in line at Starbucks. I could go to the gym when it’s not crowded. Same with the supermarket, J.Crew, the doctor’s office, the Riverside Square Mall. I could decide on Wednesday to take a vacation and by Thursday I could be on a plane to St. Bart's. The possibilities are endless. So why Brett, why must you come back to the league? Why can’t you just stay retired? What is so bad with watching games from your La-Z-Boy recliner in the comfort of your own home?

This concludes my Brett Favre rant. You can go back to doing whatever it was you were doing. And I’ll go back to ignoring him on the blog.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Vickers and Red Bull Agree to New Deal

Two days after winning at Michigan, Cup driver Brian Vickers has been rewarded with a contract extension. Vickers and Red Bull Racing had been engaged in talks for months but a final deal could not be reached until now.

“I’m thrilled,” said Vickers, who had expressed frustration during the last month about the delayed contract talks. “This has been a long time coming, and there is nowhere else I would rather be. I am looking forward to building on what we have started the last couple of years.”

Vickers surprised many by announcing his jump from powerhouse Hendrick Motorsports to the upstart Red Bull team for the 2007 season. And while it has been a bumpy ride over the past two years, the 2003 Nationwide (nee Busch) Series champion has gained consistency in 2009 and is currently knocking on the door of his first career Chase appearance.
(Photo: Getty Images; source)

Things I Learned at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome (Game 1)

Twins 11, Indians 0

1. That big white marshmallowly thing is the Metrodome. Not quite as pretty as Miller Park but just as recognizable, the Metrodome is easily spotted from blocks away. All you need to do is look for the round, white puffy thing and you’ll know you’re close.

2. Irony. As I was walking towards that marshmallow in the sky, heading into the entrance with the large sign that said “Minnesota Twins World Series Champions 1987 & 1991” I got a text message from my brother. It said - as I was staring at this sign – “ESPN Classic is playing Game 7 of the 1991 World Series.” For those not familiar with the 1991 World Series, that would have been the one where the Braves and Twins squared off in what some consider one of the best ever, game 7 highlighting this fact. Of course the irony of this would be that I am a huge Braves fan and I am walking into the Metrodome where the banner does say Twins 1991 World Series Champions. My brother later texted me “Well they didn’t revise history, so the Braves lost.” I wish they would have.

3. There’s no team store. As if the large white exterior isn’t a big enough reminder that this thing was built before I was born, the lack of modern amenities you’ve grown accustomed to like a team store do. Don’t get me wrong, there are booths set up around the concourse that have various t-shirts, pins, pens, baseballs and hats, but there isn’t a large central store to kill a few minutes in between batting practice and the start of the game.

4. They do, however, have Famous Dave’s. Famous Dave’s is a barbeque chain (for those not in the know) that actually serves up pretty decent chow. So if you head over to the Metrodome to catch a game, you may want to skip the hot dog or brat and go straight for the pulled pork sandwich. Although, I did enjoy the turkey brat with my imported (read: smuggled in) spicy deli mustard.

5. Vampire seats. The Metrodome has a bunch of distinct characteristics when there is baseball being played none more famous than the vampire seats in the outfield. The seats, which are used when the Vikings are in town, are flipped upside down in sections, hence the moniker vampire seats. The Dome also has fantastic garbage bag outfield walls in center and a tent like ceiling which bear mentioning as well.

6. Only 22 games left until farmer-tanned vendors. The Twins will be saying goodbye to the Metrodome at the end of the season and from the billboards around the Stadium, that is a welcomed thing. Apparently people just can’t wait for mustard flavored lip balm, ch-ch-chhhhhh, skyline sunsets, real grass and starry nights.

7. Of course the move to an outdoor facility has puzzled some fans. Take the woman seated next to me who asked her husband what happens when it rains. He told her they have a rain delay to which she responded I don’t get it. I guess some people aren’t ready for change.

8. It is hard to keep your eye on the ball. In a pre-taped video, players warned fans to keep their eye on the ball as to avoid getting beaned ala Hiroki Kuroda. But it’s hard to keep your eye on the ball when it blends so perfectly with the ceiling.

9. They really like Carlos Gomez. There were a ton of Carlos Gomez jerseys and t-shirts in attendance. Now this made me wonder if this was a Daniel Murphy thing (see: Citi Field) where the Twins ordered too many Gomez items and are forcing them on fans, or if the fans have truly embraced this one time Met.

10. It is really loud. Even more so than when you attend a concert, basketball or hockey game at an arena the simple noise stemming from a single clap made it sound like a JV cheerleading squad was seated behind you. It got to the point where I wanted to find the woman who was doing the in game announcing and rip the microphone away from her. There’s no need to shout, that’s what the microphone is for.

11. If ever there was a place where crowd control was needed this would be it. When you attend a Broadway play and you get there late, an usher will hold you at the door until which time said usher allows you to find your seat without disrupting the actors or theater goers. This concept should be added to the Metrodome. Because of the angle of seats, when someone stands up in front of you or walks up and down the aisle, it’s nearly impossible to see homeplate which is why fans should be limited to using the aisle in between innings and in emergencies only. Same goes for the vendors.

12. The top of the fifth is a great time to leave during a blow out game. There were a ton of kids in the crowd which is great (when they are well behaved). But since the game was basically wrapped up by the fifth a lot of fans decided to head for the exits. This would have been fine, if not for the fact that the pile up for the exit caused fans to stand in the aisle’s thus blocking the view of homeplate.

13. Sometimes arguing works…and sometimes it gets you thrown out. In the sixth inning, Justin Morneau was at bat and appeared to swing through a pitch causing him to strike out. Twins manager Ron Gardenhire ran onto the field and firmly requested umpire Bob Davidson change his mind, claiming Morneau had actually fouled the ball. A quick look at the ball proved Gardenhire’s point and Morneau returned to the plate. A livid Eric Wedge (Indians manager) ran out of the visitor’s dugout and started arguing that Morneau was out. At first it seemed the two sides would work things out, but then Wedge got loud and in Davidson’s face and wouldn’t you know it, Wedge was tossed from the game. Morneau, for the record, grounded into a fielder’s choice which advanced Joe Mauer to second.

14. Jason Kubel can hit it really far. Like all the way into the upper deck.

15. Section 134 is a great place to catch a foul ball. While I was seated in section 134, the closest a ball came was about 10 seats away. But it wasn’t for lack of opportunity; it felt like at least 10 foul balls found their way into section 134 and a few more into section 133.

Check back tomorrow for Things I Learned from Miller Park (Game 2)

(Photos: PIMC)