Hump Day Hair

Is it just me or is Juventus goalie Gianluigi Buffon wearing bobby pins?

(Photo: AP)

History Repeating? And other Baseball News

Are the Rockies paying off umpires?
There are questions as to whether Clint Barmes actually did make that spectacular catch that saved the Rockies victory on Sunday after a fan’s photos revealed the ball touched the grass.



Doesn’t this kind of remind you of another questionable, yet favorable call for the Rockies? At some point I am sure Matt Holliday will touch homeplate.

Sorry for the motion sickness quality, but two year old game footage is not the easiest thing to find on youtube.

Indians start anew in 2010
The Indians have fired manager Eric Wedge. Too bad it doesn’t go into effect until Monday. Although it was very kind of them to give him five days notice of his firing.

Mets changing things up
The Mets are considering changing their uniforms for the 2010 season. Gone will be the days of pinstripes and instead, the team will opt for cream colored unis ala the San Francisco Giants. I don’t think changing the uniform is the solution to the Mets problems.

Recovering

Baseball: Following a doubleheader, the Twins and Tigers are basically back where they started after spliting the twin bill...Minnesota signed Latin American prospect Miguel Angel Sano to a $3.15 milllion signing bonus...The Braves have made things a little bit more difficult after dropping a tough one to the Marlins, 5-4...Meanwhile the Rockies padded their lead with a 7-5 extra innings win over the Brewers...Milwaukee looks to be on the verge of locking up manager Ken Macha. But could Rick Peterson being heading there way too? It's like the Mets west if Peterson joins bench coach Willie Randolph with the team...The Red Sox wrapped up the AL Wild Card despite falling to the Blue Jays, 8-7...That's because the Rangers lost to the Angels, 5-2...Josh Hamilton will not play in the final five games for Texas due to a pinched nerve...Red Sox pitcher Josh Beckett had three shots of cortisone to help his ailing back...At some point the Dodgers will clinch the NL West title. It just didn't happen on Tuesday...I think the Orioles are asking are we done yet after losing their 12th straight game. Almost kids, almost...Former Yankees infielder Chuck Knoblauch has been charged with assaulting his common-law wife Stacey. Ever heard of roid rage Chuck? Watch out Chuck, because the popo are on your tail!

Basketball: Delonte West missed the Cavs' first practice for personal reasons...It's highly likely that the season will begin with replacement refs.

(Photo: AP)

College Football: Good news, after a scary weight lifting accident on Monday, USC runningback Stafon Johnson is awake and communicating...Oregon cornerback Walter Thurmond will miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery on his right knee...Also out for the season are Texas' Bradon Collins and Christian Scott. Although their's had more to do with academic problems than health...Iowa State RB Darius Reynolds broke his leg in practice...Yankee Stadium will host a new bowl game in 2010, the Yankee Bowl. The fourth place Big East team will go up against the seventh place Big 12 team. Sounds like a battle of the titans.

Football: The Dolphins have traded for QB Tyler Thigpen after placing Chad Pennington on IR...T.O. thinks the media is out for him. How about this, stop talking and start playing well and the rest will take care of itself...The Cowboys will be without Felix Jones for at least one game...David Vobora has ben suspended for four games for violating the league's performance-enhancing drug policy. See not even performance ehancing drugs can help the Rams...The Eagles signed middle linebacker Jeremiah Trotter to a free-agent contract. They also cut QB Jeff Garcia to make room on the roster. Well that was a quick reunion...Michael Vick told attendees at a Washington church that dogfighting is bad. And he should know...Speaking of legal troubles, Albert Hayneworth's wife Stephanie has asked a judge to force the DT to pay veterinary bills, his daughter's tuititon and other expensives. She'd also like a restrianing order. It's going to be kind of hard to claim your broke after signing that $100 million contract over the offseason. You know the one that guarantees $41 million.

Hockey: Mats Sundin is hanging up his skates. Thank goodness he made a decision, I've had enough of the will he or won't he questions for one offseason...The Coyotes signed Robert Lang to a one year deal...And the Trashers locked up Maxim Afinogenov and Mark Popovic...Meanwhile the Canucks sent first round draft pick Cody Hodgson back to his junior team...The Blackhawks suffered their first loss to a European team since 1991 after falling to Zurick, 2-1.
(Photo: AP)

Nascar: So remember yesteday when I mentioned that Saudi Prince Faisal bin Fahad bin Abdullah Al Saud (that's a lot of names for one person) was looking to buy a piece of George Gillett, Jr.'s stake in Liverpool. Turns out the agreement may also stretch into Richard Petty Motorsports, which Gillett is also a co-owner.

Best of the Rest: Good news, Felipe Massa got behind the wheel for the first time since his July 25th crash at the Hungarian Grand Prix...A Manchester United fan who ran onto the field during a match has been banned for three years...Sad news, a 28-year-old French soccer fan has passed away after being beaten by Serbian hooligans. Thousands of people have turned out to mourn the tragedy.

Check this Out: It's a fashion face-off. Click here to decide which celeb looks better.

how bout those cowgirls

Baseball: The Angels sealed their third straight AL West title after pounding the Rangers, 11-0...During their celebration, the Angels honored fallen teammate Nick Adenhardt...Too bad for the Dodgers, they can't say the same thing after being hammered by the Pirates, 11-1...Don't look now, but the Braves are only two games out after shutting out the Marlins, 4-0...And if the Braves and Rockies end up tied after Sunday, the tie-breaker game would be played in Atlanta...The Bravos are also only four games out of first in the NL East after the Phillies fell to the Astros, 8-2...The Tigers and Twins game was rained out. The game has been rescheduled for Tuesday as a part of a day/night doubleheader...I think David Ortiz is still rounding second. Too bad his solo homerun wasn't enough as the Red Sox fell to the Blue Jays, 11-5 in a rain shortened game...Carlos Zambrano may quit if 2010 is anything like 2009...Speaking of 2010, it's looking like Rich Harden will not be on the Cubs next season...Who said the Mets are broke? The team will reportedly take part in the Aroldis Chapman sweepstakes...Omar Vizquel's off season workout has gone to the bulls, well bullfighting.

(Photo: AP)

Basketball: Stephen Jackson literally has no regrets...A good sign for the Celtics, Kevin Garnett is practicing again...The Magic have extended the contracts of coach Stan Van Gundy and GM Otis Smith.

College Football: Scary story out of California. USC RB Stafon Johnson is in critical condition after part of a bench press bar slipped from his right hand and landed on his throat. He underwent 7 hours of surgery...Tennessee sophomore Emmanuel Negedu was revived by a defilbrillator after passing out after lifting weights at the team's practice facility. He remains at the UT Medical Center...Urban Meyers is hoping Tim Tebow will be able to play in the Gators game against LSU...New Mexico head coach Mike Locksley was reprimanded for his fight with recievers coach J.B. Gerald...Texas Tech has banned its players from using Twitter. Now if they can stop them from posting incriminating photos on facebook they'd really be in business.

Football: The Cowboys finally got their first win at home, a 21-7 defeat of the Carolina Panthers. Jake Delhomme had two interceptions in the loss, which I think is just a marked improvement...We know Chad Pennington will be out for the rest of the season with a shoulder injury but will he have to call it quits on his career?...Niners runningback Frank Gore will miss three weeks with a right ankle strain...The Bucs have replaced starting QB Byron Leftwich with Josh Johnson...So that little fracas between Raiders coach Tom Cable and assistant coach Randy Hanson was a little more serious than first thought. Turns out Cable broke Hanson's jaw...The NFL and the NFLPA are set to meet on Tuesday.

(Photo: AP)

Hockey: The Thrashers have cut goalie Manny Legace and forward Dan Fritsche...The Blue Jackets acquired Anton Stralman from the Flames for a third round draft pick in 2010.

Nascar: Casey Mears could really use a sponsor for 2010 if anyone out there was wondering.

Best of the Rest: A Saudi prince has begun the process of purchasing all or part of Liverpool co-owner George Gillett, Jr.'s stake in the Premier League Club...US Tennis star Sam Querrey will miss four-to-six weeks after a freak accident. After practicing for the Thailand Open, Querrey reportedly sat on a glass table and fell through, hurting his arm. Oh, that's embarrassing!

Check this Out: Grand slams do not just apply to baseball or Denny's for that matter, you can also get one at Wendy's. That is just one of the 10 "secret" items you can get at many of your favorite fast food chains. Click here to see what else makes the list.

Oh my…this is ugly

And it has nothing to do with Seattle’s loss. Those jerseys should be put in a vault never to be seen again.
(Photo: AP)

Pop the Corks

Baseball: Two teams clinched a playoff spot this weekend, the Cardinals and Yankees. Interesting to note: the Cardinals were able to do so after beating the Rockies, 6-3 on Saturday. That dropped Colorado's lead to just 2.5 games in the NL Wild Card...The Braves meanwhile completed a sweep of the Nationals, 6-3 in 10...In the AL Central, the Tigers lead is still just two games entering Monday's series against the Twins after both Detroit and Minnesota lost on Sunday...The Dodgers were unable to punch their ticket to the playoffs after falling to the Pirates, 6-5...The Angels magic number is two after beating A's, 7-3...The Phillies are also inching toward their third straight NL East title after edging the Brewers, 6-5...The Mets had a chance to play spoiler against the Marlins - who for two straight season spoiled their playoff hopes - by shuting down the Fish, 4-0. Pat Misch picked up the complete game shut out for the Metsies...Congrats to Ichiro Suzuki for finally getting that monkey off his back. The Mariner outfielder was ejected for the first time in his entire professional career on Saturday...Second baseman Freddy Sanchez is open to staying with the Giants next season...Also hoping to stick around next season is veteran infielder Omar Vizquel.
(Photos: AP & Getty Images)

Basketball: The NBA is planning on unveiling rules regarding social networking. Dreams do come true!..In other dream news, Lamar Odam and Khloe Kardashian are married. Hopefully this one lasts - at least till the end of the season.

College Football: Tim Tebow is resting comfortably at home following his release from the hospital after sustaining a concussion in Florida's 41-7 blowout of Kentucky...Tebow's injury wasn't the biggest surprise this weekend as 4 teams in the top 10 lost, shaking up this week's poll.

Football: The Lions have finally broken a 19 game losing streak thanks to the Redskins and a 19-14 victory...Brett Favre's last second TD pass pushed the Vikings past the 49ers, 27-24...The Jets are 3-0 after topping hte Titans, 24-17. Where are the lovable losers I enjoy laughing at?...Meanwhile the Steelers are 1-2. Did I enter the Twilight Zone and nobody told me?. (And no that reference has nothing to do with Robert Pattinson)...In Michael Vick's first game back since being incarcerated, it was Kevin Kolb making all the noise as the Eagles pounded the Chiefs, 34-14...Peyton Manning threw four TDs as the Colts blew out the Cardinals, 31-10...Indianapolis defensive end Dwight Freeney will have an MRI after injuring his right quad during Sunday's victory...The Ravens hammered the Browns, 34-3. Brady Quinn was pulled and replaced by Derek Anderson who lead Cleveland to three whole points in the second half..Looks like Eric Mangini has already worn out his welcome in Cleveland...For more scores from Sunday, including another big win for the Giants click here.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Hockey: Theo Fleury's comeback grounded to a screeching halt after the Flames released him...Meanwhile Peter Forsberg's is going just fine in Sweden...The Canucks have released Mark Parrish...The Devils signed Rod Niedermayer to a one year deal...Sidney Crosby's groin is still sore. Isn't it kind of creepy to know these kinds of things about basically complete strangers?

Nascar: Congrats to Jimmie Johnson on winning the pole and then the race at Dover...Click here for complete results...And here for updated standings...Following a scary wreck, Joey Logano appears to be just fine. And hey, he's got a good story to tell the grandkids in like 50 years when he's 60...Congrats to Johnny Sauter who got his first career Nascar Truck Series Victory.

Best of the Rest: President Barack Obama plans to travel to Denmark this week to help support Chicago's bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics...Congrats to Phil Mickelson on winning the Tour Championship and to Tiger Woods who took home $10 million for winning the FedEX Cup...Bad economy? Tell that to the Arsenal who announced record profits of $56 million...Congrats to New Jersey City University's women's soccer team who ended a 111-game conference winless streak after beating Rutgers-Newark, 5-1. And the Lions thought they had it bad!

Check this Out: Say it isn't so. Star of Dr. Drew's Celebrity Rehab and all of your favorite Whitesnake videos Tawny Kitaen has been arrested for DUI. Luckily for Chuck Finley, he and Kitaen's high heel were not involved. Watch out Tawny, because the popo are on your tail!

Straight Edge

Baseball: With the Twins off, the Tigers took advantage by completing their sweep of the Indians, 6-5. Justin Verlander had 11 punch outs in the win...Also striking out 11 was King Felix in the Mariners 5-4 win over the Blue Jays. He's certianly making the AL Cy Young Award race interesting...His closest rival, Zach Grienke got himself tossed after yelling from the bench during the third inning of Kansas City's 10-3 loss to the Red Sox...The Braves moved into sole possession of the second place spot in the NL Wild Card race with the Cubs edging the Giants, 3-2...After the Rockies fell to the Padres 5-4, Atlanta is now just 3.5 games out with 10 more games to go....A federal bankruptcy judge has OKed a sale of the Cubs...Somehow when there is a little over a week left in the season, being done for the season doesn't have the same ring. Especially when it's the Cubs Rich Harden since the Cubs aren't really going anywhere but to the linx come October 5th...San Francisco's 2B Freddy Sanchez will need to undergo knee surgery...The Nationals accomplished something they probably aren't super proud of after falling to the Dodgers, 7-6 -- they lost their 100th game of the season. Still well behind the 1962 Mets so that's something to be proud of...A hearty crowd of 3,000 watched the Reds beat the Pirates, 4-1. Were the Penguins playing a preseason game or does it have something to do with the Pirates trading away their entire team this year?...Yankees utilityman Jerry Hairston, Jr. received a cortisone injection in his left wrist.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: The Knicks are very close to re-signing guard Nate Robinson and forward David Lee...The Bobcats have signed guard Flip Murray to a one year, $1.99 million contract...Yao Ming will play again -- just not this season...Here's something I learned today, buying a team in a different country is unpatriotic. So like the other eight Russian billionaires buying soccer teams in other countries isn't?

College Football: South Carolina upset #4 Mississippi, 16-10...Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen is iffy for Saturday's game against Purdue...Penn State captain Sean Lee is very doubtful for the Nitany Lion's game against Iowa this weekend.
(Photo: AP)

Football: Donovan McNabb is not likely to start on Sunday...And neither is Giants safety Kenny Phillips' after being placed on IR with a knee injury...Meanwhile Vikings RB Adrian Peterson says his back injury is no big deal...Jets QB Mark Sanchez has some tendinitis in his right knee but is expected to be fine...If you're around Arizona, for the good of charity, try to knock that ball out of Beanie Wells hand...A news conference has been planned to announce the formation of a new arena fotoball league. Gee, I just can't wait!

Hockey: The Coyotes have replaced Wayne Gretzky with Dave Tippett...The Canucks may not have to worry about finding a new coaching after extending Alain Vigneault's contract three years...Also receiving an extension was Avalanche forward Milan Hejduk...The Ducks have traded defenseman Steve McCarthy to Atlanta for future considerations...Not a good night for Pittsburgh. If it's not the paltry 3,000 person attendance at the Pirates game, it's Sidney Crosby leaving the Pens 5-2 loss to the Blue Jackets with a groin injury. Well there's still the Steelers! Or is the Polamalu injury and loss to the Bears still too fresh?...I am not quite ready to buy a Gaborik shirt, but if he continues to score two goals a game and STAY HEALTHY I may not be quite as upset that he took Gomer's spot...So this maybe one of the more interesting career transitions -- Habs defenseman Patrice Brisebois has retired after 18 years in the NHL to pursue a career in Nascar's Canadian series.

Nascar: Ron Hornaday, Jr. is closing in another Truck Series title.

Best of the Rest: Kansas basketball team members have apologized for their involvement in a fight with the Jayhawks football team. Tyshawn Taylor, a guard on the basketball team, injured his finger in the dust up...Skiier Bode Miller is ready for a comeback at Vancouver in 2010.

Check this Out: With The Office's Jim and Pam about to get married, EW looks back at the 15 best TV weddings. Jim and Pam also happen to be on the cover of EW this week. Click here to see a preview.

I promise at some point I will have something positive to write about the Coyotes…

…But this will not be it.



Wayne Gretzky has stepped down as the Coyotes head coach and director of hockey operations. It’s not surprising considering the massive turmoil surrounding the sale of the team, but why give up a free paycheck?

"This was a difficult decision that I've thought long and hard about," Gretzky said in a statement Thursday on his Web site. "We all hoped there would be a resolution earlier this month to the Coyotes ownership situation, but the decision is taking longer than expected.

"Since both remaining bidders have made it clear that I don't fit into their future plans, I approached general manager Don Maloney and suggested he begin looking for someone to replace me as coach. Don has worked hard and explored many options. I think he has made an excellent choice, and so now it's time for me to step aside."

Gretzky was scheduled to make $8.5 million this season. Since joining the club in 2005, the Coyotes have posted a record of 146-161-24 and have failed to make the playoffs during that time.
(Photo: AP; source)

Halloween is not for another month

Baseball: After Brad Lidge blew his 11th save of the year, I am guessing the Phillies are literally jumping up and down on a large panic button...So the Cardinals failed to clinch the NL Central after being shut out by the Astros, 3-0. But on the upside, if the Cubs lose on Thursday the Cardinals can pop some bubbly in their hotel suites...Albert Pujols was named the baseball player of the decade by the Sporting News...No matter what anyone says, the NL Wild Card is still up for grabs after the Rockies fell to the Padres, 6-3...And the Giants beat the D'backs, 5-2...And the Braves completed their sweep of the Mets, 5-2...The Rockies now hold a four game lead...Braves manager Bobby Cox will retire after the 2010 season...The Tigers hammered the Indians, 11-3...But the Twins kept pace with their 8-6 win over the White Sox. Looks like it's going to come down to their four game series next week. If someone likes me upstairs these games will all be broadcast on national TV...Apparently the White Sox are complete underachievers. Nice to hear such kind words from your GM...The Yankees finally won a series in Anaheim after edging the Angels, 3-2. Good thing that they got that over with in the regular season, wouldn't want to use that credit in the post season, because those games don't count (complete sacracism if you didn't pick that up)...The Yanks got a break when x-rays on Jorge Posada's foot came up negative...Prince Fielder hit his 42nd homer and tallied his major league leading 131st RBI as the Brewers nipped the Cubs, 3-2. Well that gives people in Milwaukee something positive to talk about...Another positive note, Milton Bradley is sorry for being such an ass...Veteran umpire Marty Foster was hit by three foul balls during San Francisco's 5-2 victory over Arizona. Foster was taken for x-rays following the game. That's dedication and another reason why I couldn't be an umpire. I bruise very easily.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: The Timberwolves have cut Mark Blount...While the Bobcats have signed Raymond Felton to a one year, $5.5 million contract.

College Football: According to Pete Caroll, Matt Barkley is ready to start on Saturday...The Big Ten has suspended Purdue offensive guard Zach Reckman one game for his late hit during the Northern Illinois game...Georgia will continue to play Florida in Jacksonville through 2016...Michigan will ban purses and all other bags from the Stadium for security reason. I hope he's not planning on attending this game.

Football: Jerry Jones is still a Tony Romo fan. Good to see there is at least one person willing to admit that...Dallas offensive tackle Flozell Adams was fined $12,500 for his actions during Sunday's loss to Big Blue. Adams tripped Giants defensive end Justin Tuck causing him to injure his shoulder. Only desperate people play dirty...That move only makes Tuck hate the Cowboys more. Spoken like a true Giant. I love it!...The NFL's blackout rules aren't going anywhere...So it looks like prisoners just aren't all that impressed with a former NFL WR.

Hockey: Veteran goaltender Olaf Kolzig is retiring after 14 seasons in the NHL...Peter Forsberg is attempting a comeback in Sweden...The Sharks signed Manny Malhotra...This year's number one pick John Tavares had an assist in his first home game with the Islanders. Unfortunately that was about the only good thing that happend in the Isles 4-2 loss to the Devils...Kings defenseman Sean O'Donnell was suspended five games for a match penalty during LA's game against the Islanders...Coyotes forward Francis Lessard was suspended for three games for his hit on Anaheim's Ryan Donally...The Coyotes will stay in Arizona for the 2009-10 season if Jim Basille's has his way. Oh, yeah, now I am sure people will just start running to the box office to buy tickets...Let's just say with a medical staff like this, I don't think I'll be playing in the KHL anytime soon.
(Photo: AP)

Nascar: Nascar will allow additional testing at some tracks in 2010.

Best of the Rest: Is the PGA in danger of losing some events?...Army has fired Men's Basketball Coach Jim Crews after seven seasons with the academy.

Check this Out: Fans of the CW's One Tree Hill, Melrose Place, and Vampire Diaries got some good news on Wednesday. The network has picked up all three shows for the full season.

She's Got a Ticket to Ride

Baseball: The first official member of the 2009 postseason is - the Yankees. They punched their ticket after beating the Angels, 6-5...And thanks to another Red Sox loss, it looks like the Yanks will be riding in as the AL East title winners. But there is that pesky 3 game series this weekend that could change things...Looks like Ben Affleck is a very lucky man. I mean his wife actress Jennifer Garner is almost as big a Red Sox fan as he is...The Tigers held off the Indians, 3-1...And the Twins topped the White Sox, 8-6. The Tigers still hold a two and a half game lead over Minnesota...Chicago closer Bobby Jenks is likely done for the season after pulling a right calf muscle in pregame drills. But the bigger question remains has Jenks played his last game for the White Sox?...If there was award for strike out king, Mark Reynolds would own it -- two years in a row. Reynolds had three strike outs for his 205th punch out of the year, breaking his year old record for most strike outs in one season...The D'backs went on to beat the Giants, 10-8. Oh Matt Cain, this is not the time to start pitching poorly...The Rockies extended their wild card lead after out slugging the Padres, 11-10...Two Rockies prospects, Brent Bowman and Shane Lowe, have been suspended for 50 games following positive tests for amphetamines...THe Dodgers are now just three games away from clinching a playoff spot after hamemring the Nats, 14-2...Also closing in on a divisional title is St. Louis after they killed the Astros, 11-2. Way to kick a team when they are down...If there were say four more weeks left instead of two, maybe the Braves would have a better chance at making the playoffs, especially with the way they have been playing as of late (Phillies series not with standing) instead they'll have to take solace in their 3-1 victory of the Mets which puts them a game away from another sweep...Sad news, Curt Schilling has decided not to run for Ted Kennedy's seat. I only write that it's sad news, because his campaign could be the source of ten -- no at least 20 posts on this here blog.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Basketball: The owner of the Utah Jazz D-League Team Brandt Andersen is offering a $100,000 donation to see Michael Jordan take on Bryon Russell.

College Football: Good news Gators, it's not swine flu, just the regular old knock-your-butt-to- the-curb flu. Now don't you feel better?...In other not as serious as originally thought injury report news, it's just turf toe for Irish QB Jimmy Clausen...Louisville starting safety Terrence Simien is out indefinitely after suffering a lacerated kidney. That should not be confused with not as serious as originally thought injury report news because a lacerated kidney is pretty serious..Keep those fingers crossed Pete Carroll, because who knows if Matt Barkley and Taylor Mays will play against Washington State. Wouldn't want two upsets in a row...Apparently Kansas' football and basketball teams are not friends. Or at the very least frenemies.

Football: Cowboys RB Marion Barber received treatment and hopes to play on Monday...The Chiefs are sticking with Matt Cassel...Robert Henson has decided to take down his twitter account after calling Redskins fans "dim wits" Well they like the Redskins so that's really not too far off. I hope this had nothing to do with it...The new Cowboys Stadium remains a work in progress and as such, the Cowboys have decided they'll try to limit the number of standing room only tickets. Oh and Giants LB Danny Clark would like you work on the plumbing in the visiting team's locker room.

Hockey: The Blackhawks have lost Adam Burish for six months once he undergoes surgery for a torn ACL...Colorado will be without Tom Preissing for four-to-six weeks after he had a scope done on his right knee.
(Photo: AP)

Nascar: A day after Jack Daniels announced they were leaving the No. 07 chevy, Jim Bean has announced they'll no longer sponsor Robby Gordon's No. 7. It appears 7s are not so lucky in Nascar...Kyle Busch was docked 25 points for having a too low fender at New Hampshire...Casey Mears will be without tire changer Clint Pittman for the rest of the season after he broke his foot during a pit stop at New Hampshire...Here's a note for anyone who plans to interview Juan Pablo Montoya, don't wait until 5:01.

Best of the Rest: Rampage Jackson says he's done fighting in UFC. Good now he can back to taking his frustrations out on other cars...Floyd Mayweather, Jr. has agreed to pay $5.6 million in back taxes to the IRS. I would say that's a good idea...Looks like it could be another epic battle between Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer this time at the Davis Cup.

Check this Out: For your viewing pleasure, indicted Tom DeLay on Dancing with the Stars. Click here for Countdown's review of Tommy's pefromance. (PS - Could they mention he is indicted anymore?)

Can they get their money back?

Originally best known for signing a record $2.1 million signing bonus with the Giants in 2006, top prospect Angel Villalona could be better known as inmate 72733546 after being charged with murder over the weekend.

The 19-year-old turned himself in 12 hours after the Saturday night shooting of 25-year-old Mario Felix de Jesus Velete at a bar in the Dominican Republic. During his hearing on Monday, Villalona was described as tired, which is quite understandable. I mean it would be hard for me to sleep knowing I could go to jail for up to 20-years…oh, and that I killed guy.

Just a year ago, Villalona was rated as the top prospect in the Giants system by Baseball America and was selected for the Futures Game during the All-Star festivities. Now it seems he may need to do a Longest Yard remake with a baseball theme to keep in shape.

Upon hearing the news, the Giants said they were “disappointed” with the situation and that their insurance policy did not have a criminal clause. Hopefully they had a morality clause in Angel’s contract. And that he didn’t spend all of his money on iPods and cars. Those things just don’t hold their value.

Watch out Angel, because the popo are on your tail!
(Photo: AP; source)

Lesson Learned # 34

Even though I am not in school, I am still all about learning. Take for example this, little fracas. Jumping off the bench to start a fight with Dion Phaneuf will earn you a five game suspension, Pascal Morency. Absolutely leveling Kyle Okposo during a preseason game will not. Keep your head up next time Kyle. That's a bonus lesson for you.
(Source)

Leg Kick

Baseball: Don't look now, but we may actually have a pennant race after the Twins shut down the White Sox, 7-0 to move to just 2.5 games back of the Tigers...The two teams will square off another four games before the end of the season, but if they need a fifth to decide it, don't count on the Vikings to be too accomadating. Because they are so not moving their game...Speaking of pennant races, if the Yankees keep losing like they did on Monday night they may enter an unexpected battle with the Red Sox for the AL East this weekend. Of course it would probably be a good idea for the Red Sox to stop blowing leads to the Kansas City Royals...The Giants are holding onto their slim playoff hopes, edging the D'Backs, 5-4...And it's now or never for the Rangers. That maybe why they pummeled the A's, 10-3...Kevin Millwood earned his $12 million option...After a disappointing weekend series against the Phillies, the Braves took out their anger on the Mets, pounding them 11-3...The Astros have a new manager after they fired Cecil Cooper with 13 games left to go...Although the personnel move didn't really help after they fell to the Cardinals, 7-3...Jays shortstop Marco Scutaro will likely miss the rest of the season (yes, all two weeks) with a tear in his right heel...The MLBPA may file a grievence on behalf of Milton Bradley. Can the Cubs do that too?...Cuban defector Aroldis Chapman has established residency in Andora and has sent materials to MLB so he can be declared a free agent.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Basketball: Good news, Michael Beasley has rejoined the Miami Heat after a month in rehab...Ron Artest says to blame him if the Lakers do not do well this season...Or you could just blame Khloe Kardashian who is reportedly marrying Laker forward Lamar Odom this weekend.

College Football: Florida coach Urban Meyers says the Vols were not going after the win on Saturday, but Tennessee coach Lane Kiffin disagrees...Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford is throwing again...And so is USC's Matt Barkley.

Football: The Indianapolis Colts had possession of the ball for just 15 minutes but were still able to pull out the 27-23 win over the Dolphins...The win moved Peyton Manning past Johnny Unitas as the Colts all time QB wins leader...Are Larry Fitzgerald and Kurt Warner fueding? Do you know what would fix the situation? A dip in Matt Leinart's hot tub...The Giants are not happy with Flozell Adams after he tripped Justin Tuck during the first half of Sunday's game...Turns out Matt Hasselbeck fractured a rib. Is that the injury du jour this year?...Speaking of a broken rib, Donovan McNabb is still in pain. And if he can't play this weekend, look for Kevin Kobb to be at the helm. Even though Michael Vick will be allowed to play...Speaking of convicted felons, Plaxico Burress is expected to start his two and half year prison sentence on Tuesday.
(Photo: AP)

Hockey: So let me get this straight, Marian Gaborik plays an entire game and doesn't get hurt, yet Sean Avery practices on Monday and sprains a knee. WTF?!?!?!...Congrats go out to Brandon Dubinksy who finally decided to sign that contract on Saturday...Blackhawks forward Kris Versteeg suffered an upper-body injury in the Blackhawks' 3-2 preseason loss to the Capitals. I guess that's more descriptive than just a body injury...Recently acquired winger Phil Kessel signed a five year, $27 million deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs...Turns out even though Wayne Gretzky is MIA from coaching the Coyotes, he's still getting paid. Man I need to figure out how I can do that...Although now that the Coyotes have hired Dave King, who knows how much longer he'll be collecting checks with Phoenix's logo on it.


Nascar: Jack Daniels will end its sponsorship of the No. 07 RCR Chevy...Umm -- Nascar has asked for a mental evaluation of Jeremy Mayfield. Now that's a cheap shot, completely justified, but still a cheap shot.

Best of the Rest: Former top ranked tennis player Justine Henin may be launching her own comeback. Inspired by Kim Clijsters?...The NCAA has announced that Reliant Stadium in Houston will host the 2011 Final Four. The following year it will be played in the Superdome in New Orleans and then for the 75th anniversary event it will be played at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta...Also announced, the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ will host the East Regional in 2011.

Check this Out: Let's just say, Atlanta doesn't need anymore rain for the next six-to-eight months.

F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S

Baseball: The Tigers avoided a sweep by the Twins, 6-2 to keep a slim three game lead over Minnesota in the AL West...Joe Crede will undergo a third back surgery...Also wrapping up a sweep were the Red Sox who smashed the Orioles, 9-3...Prince Fielder notched his 40th homer of the season as the Brewers shut out the Astros, 6-0...The Phillies crushed the Braves slim playoff hopes, 4-2...The Dodgers downed the Giants, 6-2...And the Rockies topped the D'backs, 5-1 to open up a four and half game lead in the Wild Card...Jake Fox hit a two-run homer in the 11th to help the Cubs double up the Cards, 6-3...Chicago has suspended Milton Bradley for the remainder of the season...The Cardinals are giving pitcher Kyle Lohse three starts to prove he's ready for the playoffs...The Yankees will have to wait at least one more day to clinch a playoff spot after Joba Chamberlain gave up seven runs in the Bombers 7-1 loss to the Mariners...John Maine threw five shut out innings as the Mets handled the Nats, 6-2...Kevin Millwood is very close to being guaranteed $12 million next season.

(Photo: AP)

Basketball: Cavs guard Delonte West was arrested on Thursday for speeding on a motorcycle while carrying two loaded handguns and loaded shotgun in a guitar case. All on a motorcycle? That's impressive. Watch out Delonte, because the popo are on your tail!...Is Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov the key to the Nets move to Brooklyn? I hope not!

College Football: Following their loss to Washington, USC has tumbled in the AP top 25...Click here for the rest of the top 25...South Florida QB Matt Grothe will miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL...Also out for the season is Arizona TE Rob Gronkowski with a strained back...Notre Dame WR Michael Floyd underwent surgery for a broken left collar bone and could miss the rest of the regular season...The Florida Gators are a little nervous, ok totally panicked over a recent flu outbreak.

Football: It may have not been what Jerry Jones was hoping for, but for my money, the Giants edging the Cowboys 33-31 was the perfect way to open up the new Cowboys Stadium...But on the brightside Jerry, the Cowboys did break the NFL all time attendence record...It was also a good day for the Jets who held off the Patriots, 16-9...He said he wasn't going to suck, and well Jay Cutler didn't suck in the Bears 17-14 come-from-behind victory...The Saints pounded the Eagles, 48-22...Philly RB Brian Westbrook injured his right ankle during the game...The Niners soared past the Seahawks, 23-10...Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck suffered a rib bruise...The Bengals beat the Packers, 31-24...And for those who didn't see it, Chad Ochocinco did make the Lambeau Leap...For a look at the rest of the scores from week 2, click here...The Niners are claiming the Jets are tampering with Michael Crabtree.
(Photo: AP)

Hockey: So far so good for Theo Fluery who had a goal and an assist in the Flames 5-2 win over the Panthers...The Islanders forward Pascal Morency has been giving an indefinite suspension after leaving the bench to start a fight with Calgary defenseman Dion Phaneuf...The Sabres have returned first round pick Zack Kassian to junior team.

Nascar: Could this be the year for Mark Martin? Well, it's still way to early to know, but winning at New Hampshire during the first race of the Chase couldn't hurt...Click here for full results...And here for the updated standings...Kasey Kahne had a short day after a broken crankshaft lead to an engine failure...Kyle Busch's car was deemed to low after the Sylvania 300...Turns out when you announce your leaving your current team to work for another team, your current team starts to blackball you. Or at leas that's what Penske Racing is doing to Pat Tryson.

Best of the Rest: Rafael Nadal has pulled out of the Thailand Open due to a stomach injury sustained during the UP Open...American sprinter Tyson Gay matched Usain Bolt's winning time in last year's final at the Beijing Olympics during the Shanghai Golden Grand Prix on Sunday.

Check this Out: The Emmy Awards were last night. Click here to see who won.

It's Always Sunny on Thursdays

The wait is almost over. After almost a year off, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia returns with all new episodes tonight at 10 PM/est on FX. Judging by the tons of clips, this season promises to be the funniest yet, which is a pretty tall task.

Speaking of seasons past, Glenn Howerton (Dennis) picks his 10 favorite episodes from seasons 1-4 here.

Even at three...

I am pretty sure I wouldn’t have thrown it back. But I have to say this is probably one of the cutest things I’ve seen today. Well and this.

Walk-off Wonderful

Baseball: Because one is the loneliest number and two just isn't enough, there were seven, count them seven walk-off wins last night including the Braves 6-5 rally past the Mets...The Yankees 5-4 edging of the Blue Jays...The Padres 6-5 downing of the D'Backs in 10...And Boston's controversial 9-8 win over the Angels...Yankees catcher Jorge Posada and Blue Jays pitcher Jesse Carlson were both suspended three games for their part in Tuesday's malay in the Bronx...Matt Wieters two-run blast pushed the Orioles past the Rays, 4-2...The loss put Tampa Bay below .500 and lead to a shouting match between outfielder Carl Crawford and DH Pat Burrell. Nobody messes with Pat the Bat!!!!...The Giants rally fell short as they lost to the Rockies, 4-3. With the win, Colorado has a 3 1/2 game lead in the NL Wild Card...Is it just me, or has Matt Cain not been the same since he hit David Wright in the head?...On a night when they honored long time broadcaster Ernie Harwell, the Tigers came out on top, notching a 4-3 victory over the Royals...The Dodgers completed a sweep of the Pirates, 3-1...A portrait of former Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda will be hung in the Smithsonian Institute...Also wrapping up a sweep were the Twins who crushed the Indians, 7-3...The Astros have shut down Roy Oswalt...And Grady Sizemore underwent surgery to repair a sports hernia. That's his second surgery in less than a month...Sitting 6 1/2 games out of first in the AL Wild Card, it may not be such a bad to loss for the Rangers to have Josh Hamilton out for the rest of the season.
(Photo: AP)

Basketball: Gilbert Areneas is ready to be his old kick ass self...As the regular season closes in, the NBA and the refs are not any closer to agreeing on a new contract.

College Football: The Jags may consider drafting Florida QB Tim Tebow. Well luckily they've got nine months to figure that out...Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez denies seeing Jonas Mouton throw a punch at Notre Dame lineman Eric Olsen.

Football: That didn't take long. Recently cut WR Hank Baskett could be in a Colts uniform very soon....Over 100,000 fans are expected to attend the Cowboys home opener on Sunday. And about 99,000 of them will be very sad to see the Cowgirls get beat up by the Giants...Agents maybe be telling their clients to avoid signing with the Browns...Brett Favre's Vikings jersey is the best selling NFL jersey. In a recession, I'd say this isn't the best way to spend your money...Jets coach Rex Ryan called Jets fans to ask fans for some help for Sunday's game against the Patriots. Needless to say, I didn't make the call list...Current Titans QB Vince Young surprised former Titans QB the late Steve McNair's sons by showing up at their home and taking them to their school's "Dear Dads Breakfast."

Hockey: Former NHLPA executive Paul Kelly will remain on the board of directors for the Hockey Hall of Fame...Good news, the US and Canada have struck a tentative deal over charter-flights...The Devils have demoted captain Jamie Langenbrunner to the fifth-line center position and placed Brendan Shanahan on Langebrunner's old line with Zach Parise and Travis Zajac.

(Photo: AP)

Nascar: Red Bull Racing is sticking with Toyota...A report claims Richard Petty Motorsports has fired Mark McArdle.

Best of the Rest: Sad news, NCAA president Myles Brand has died. He was 67...The US Open broke attendance records this year...The Men's Final between Roger Federer and Juan Martin Del Potro also drew higher ratings than last year.

Check this Out: Lady Antebellum unveiled their new video for "Need You Now" the first single off their sophmore album. Click here to watch and don't say I didn't warn you, but after listening to this song, you'll probably play it on your iPod non-stop. Goodness knows I do.

Step Away from the Ledge Bears Fans and other notes from the NFL

QB Jay Cutler vows to play better this week after a “disappointing” performance last Sunday against the Packers. Because duplicating a four interception performance is Jake Delhomme’s schtick

A Native American group is petitioning the Supreme Court to hear their case against the Washington Redskins. The group believes the Redskins name is an inappropriate dig at their people. Was badgering St. John’s not enough? And how come they are going after the Redskins when clearly Chief Wahoo seems like an easier target.

The NFL has fined the Jets $75,000 and former coach Eric Mangini $25,000 for their role in Brett Favre injurygate. In related news, this is why I try to keep my Favre news to a minimum; it just ends up upsetting me.

Finally, if you’re planning on attending this weekend’s game between the Packers and the Bengals you just might be in luck. Chad Ochocinco is planning on unveiling the “Lambeau Leap” if he scores in Sunday’s game. I hope it’s as magical as this.
(Photo: AP)

Hump Day Hair

Barcelona defender Carlos Puyol reminds me a lot of IndyCar driver Tony Kanaan but with much more amazing hair.
(Photo: AP)

Cause this is Lady's Night

Baseball: After Tuesday's game, I don't know if the Yankees are falling apart at the seams or in need of some comic relief. From the looks of the attempted elbow Jorge Posada threw, I am going with comic relief...Oh the Jays would be playing the part of the victors in last night's episode...The Giants pounded the Rockies, 10-2 to move within 2 1/2 games of Colorado in the Wild Card race. Barry Zito struck out nine in seven innings of work. Barry, I wish you would stop toying with my emotions...Randy Johnson was back in the pen...While the two closest competitors in the NL West were battling each other, Andre Either was hitting a walk off two run homer in the 13th that allowed the Dodgers to knock off the Pirates, 5-4...The Braves pounded the Mets, 6-0. That's six in row if you're counting at home...Mike Hampton will be out for the entire 2010 season after undergoing shoulder surgery. Right on schedule, Mikey. Wouldn't want to play too many games...Michael Young's return to the Rangers lineup lasted one whole at bat. And it didn't get any better for Texas who fell to the A's, 6-1...Dice-K pitched six scoreless innings in his return from the DL and David Ortiz hit his record-breaking 270th homer as a DH in the Red Sox 4-1 win over the Angels...Magglio Ordonez will be $18 million richer thanks to his 1,080th plate appaerance of the year. The appearance came in the Tigers 11-1 loss to the Royals...Jake Peavy is scheduled to make his first start with the White Sox on Saturday.
(Photo:AP)

Basketball: The summer only gets worse for Richard Jefferson as the Spurs forward dislocated his thumb during a workout. Some call that karma Richard. Well at least your former fiancee does...Golden State's Stephen Jackson has been fined $25,000 for saying he wanted to be traded. So honesty is a fineable offense?...Sad news, Indiana Pacers co-owner Mel Simon has died. He was 82.

College Football: Ohio State coach Jim Tressel will continue to call the plays...Speaking of the Buckeyes, their game against USC was the most watched college football game ever on ESPN...USC QB Matt Barkley is doubtful for the Trojans game against Washington...UCLA has suspended Courtney Viney, Milton Knox, Morrell Presley and Randal Carroll for Saturday's game against Kansas State...When did football turn into boxing?

Football: Michael Vick has been added to the Eagles roster. He is still unable to play in Sunday's game, but will be able to practice with the team...To make room for Vick, the Eagles cut WR Hank Baskett. Well at least he's still got that Kendra money coming in...Matt Cassel may or may not miss his second straight start with that knee injury. I think Shawn from Psych makes better predictions than Todd Haley...The NFL is investigating current Browns/former Jets head coach Eric Mangini's role in the Brett Favre injury cover-up. That is why all Favre press conferences should be scripted because he obviously is not good at ad-libbing...In taking things too far news, Bills cornerback Leodis McKelvin's lawn was vandalized after Monday's heartbreaking loss to the Patriots. I hate to see what they did to Scott Norwood's home.

Hockey: Jonas Gustavsson's quest to be the Maple Leafs goalie hit a snag. The Swed will miss a few days after underoing a heart procedure...Bruins center David Krejci will likely miss Boston's opener...Brandon Dubinsky and his agent are stupid...And so are the Rangers because Marion Gaborik is injured already. Like I didn't see that one coming...After the Rangers turned down the opportunity to overpay for Nikolai Zherdev (which may be a first for the Blueshirts) it looks like Nik's heading to Atlant of the KHL...The Blue Jackets signed center Antoine Vermette to a five year, $18.75 million contract...The Blues extended coach Andy Murray through 2010-11...It may have only been a preseason game, but the empty arena in Phoenix isn't really a good sign of things to come, Gary...Sad news, long time radio and TV voice of the Bruins Fred Cusick has died. He was 90.
(Photo: AP)

Nascar: With Brad Keselowski heading to Penske, JR Motorsports has announced Kelly Bires has signed on to drive in the Nationwide Series...Minor changes highlight the 2010 Nascar Sprint Cup Series schedule.

Best of the Rest: Congrats to Amanda Beard on the birth of her first child Blaise Ray Brown.

Check this Out: People unveiled their top 10 best dressed. Click here to see who made the list.