Best Hair in Nascar

A few months ago we did a post on the best hair in baseball and now it's time to turn our attention to the cute race drivers.

Jamie McMurray

We have to give the crown to Jamie McMurray's hair. Yes, we are kind of biased because we love straight blonde hair. But that's not the only reason he got the nod, I mean Clint Bowyer and Jeff Burton didn't even make the list. We love the side part, it's very soap star.

(Photo: Getty Images/Marc Serotta)

Jeff Gordon

We love that Jeff decided to grow out his hair sometime around his engagement announcement last year. The natural wave gives his hair extra body but it's ok to trim the back, Jeff. It's getting a little Aaron Rowand.

(Photo: AP Photo/Rainier Ehrhardt)

Jon Wood

Jon may not be a full time Nextel Cup drive but that didn't stop us from putting him on the list. Jon has that southern California look going for him. It kind of reminds us of Ryan Sheckler. You know that skateboarder with the MTV show.

(Photo: Getty Images/Matthew Stockman)

Jimmie Johnson
Jimmie has gone for a new look. We're not too sure if we're loving it, but we applaud his risk taking ability. You have to fail a couple of times until you get it correct, right Jimmie?

(Photo: Getty Images/Rusty Jarrett)


Tony Stewart

You know when you gain a little weight you do things to take away from the fact that your mid section is making people congratulate you about your unborn child? Well, we're loving the fact that Tony is using his hair. And we're equally excited that he's dropped the whole highlighting experiment. It went against your image.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Boris Said
Boris' trade mark is not his hard driving style but rather the white boy fro he's been sporting for years and we're totally cool with that. Sometimes you just have to let the curls breathe!

(Photo: Getty Images/Marc Serota)

Michael Waltrip

Michael's abiltiy to spout sponsor's names at a drop of a hat isn't as impressive as his wild mane. He usual let's it go natural and we love it!

(Photo: Getty Images/Jason Smith)

Paul Menard/Sam Hornish, Jr.

We couldn't talk hair without mentioning our choice facial hair. Obvisiously, Paul Menard ranks number one on our list but Indy 500 Champ Sam Hornish, Jr. is definiately not too far behind.

(Photos: Getty Images/Sam Greenwood )

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

You Do Know the Yankees Lost?

(Photo: AP/Bill Kostroun)

Former New York City mayor and Presidential candidate Rudy Guiliani attended the Yankee playoff game on Thursday with his wife Judy. Guiliani is a life long Yankee fan, unlike Democratic candidate Hilary Clinton who is not quite sure which team to pull for. But looking at this picture, I'm not quite sure Rudy is aware that his team actually lost to the Indians 6-4. Or maybe he wasn't a big Torre fan.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

LCS lineup complete

Baseball Update:
Monday's Game
Indians 6, Yankees 4
It seems there will be a new era beginning for the Yankees in 2008 after they dropped game four of the ALDS to the Indians which allowed the Tribe to take the best of five series. The Indians came out strong with a Grady Sizemore leadoff homerun off of Chien Ming Wang. Wang only last a little over an inning allowing four runs before original game four starter Mike Mussina took over. But Paul Byrd's ability to change before the Yankees bats figured him out, kept the Tribe ahead. For this series, it seemed that ARod wasn't the Yankee not getting it done but instead the captain Derek Jeter.
WP: Paul Byrd (1-0) LP: Chien Ming Wang (0-2)
SV: Joe Borowski (1)
Indians win series 3-1

The LCS begins on Thursday.

Baseball Notes: Gary Sheffield had shoulder surgery on Monday and expects to be healthy in time for spring training next season...Brewers pitcher Chris Capuano will seek a second opinion on his non-throwing shoulder on Wednesday. A team physician diagnosised him with a torn labrum last Thursday which would require surgery to repair...Congratulations to Pittsburgh Pirate Freddy Sanchez on winning the Roberto Clemente Award...Mark Cuban really really really wants to buy the Cubs so he can have his own special seats in the bleachers.

NASCAR Update:
Talladega ratings were down 4.2 percent lower than last year.

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. will have a new crew chief, Tony Gibson beginning at Charlotte before reuniting with Tony Eury, Jr. at Hendrick Motorsports at Daytona in 2008.

North Carolina's Wilkes County will honor former Nascar Champion and tv race analyst Benny Parsons by naming a portion of U.S. Highway 421 "Benny Parsons Highway." Parsons died earlier this year after battling lung cancer. (jayski.com)

Ricky Rudd will be back in the #88 at Charlotte on Saturday after being cleared by doctors.

Popo in my crib News:
Three men were charged with the murder of Memphis football player Taylor Bradford on Monday. Watch out killers, because the popo are on your tail!

News & Notes: The Dallas Cowboys completed a late game comeback in their 25-24 victory over the Buffalo Bills on Monday night...Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme will undergo season ending elbow surgery...Michael Pittman will miss 6-8 weeks for the Tampa Bay Bucs after suffering an ankle injury during Sunday's loss to the Colts...Trent Gren suffered the most severe type of concussion on Sunday. He will undergo more tests to evaluate his future...Tough man commissioner Roger Goodell will look into the early reinstatement of Tank Johnson...Add the NBA to the growing list of American sports looking to play a game in Europe. The NHL began their season in London and the New York Giants will play there at the end of October...New York Ranger Sean Avery will be out 2-4 weeks with a separated shoulder...Marion Jones will return her five medals won at the Syndey games in 2000 after admitting to using steriods...And finally, Sara Evans new greatest hits album is in stores today. Get a sneak peek here.

Check this out: The next time you go to get a tattoo remember, they are forever and sometimes they can be really unattractive. Kind of like these.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Separated at Birth

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Rally Cap Rules

(photo: SI/John Iacono)

While watching some playoff baseball this weekend I felt it was only right to mention the three classic rules to wearing the rally cap.

1. Only turn your hat inside out if your team is losing! While watching the Yankees game last night, some kid has his hat inside out, while his team was nursing a 8-3 lead. Yeah, that's right, the Yanks had a five run lead. What were you expecting a 8 run lead?

2. Only turn your hat inside out if your team is losing, part 2. This means if your team is tied, you are not losing, you are tied. So once the nine innings are over and the game is still tied, you will go to extra innings. So no need to rally, you're tied!

3. Only turn your hat inside out if it is past the seventh inning. I'm being generous here, but if it's the third inning and you're losing, you still have six more innings or 18 more outs to go. You may actually be jinxing your team because you're using the magic of the rally cap too early. What if you're team then goes back down two a few innings later. You've gone to the well already, you can't go back there again.

As an added bonus remember the rall cap can only be used on baseball caps. Visors do not count.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

So that's what happened to the Phillies

(photo: si.com)

The Phillies came into their playoff series after overcoming a seven game lead in 17 days. But possible MVP canididate Jimmy Rollins thinks he knows where the Phils went wrong.

"When [the press] leaves, everybody gets excited. The music's on. Everybody's
jumping around," said Rollins – which maybe led to overexcitement, and, then,
poor hitting. "Enjoying ourselves. Pumping ourselves up . . . [They needed to]
play a little more kosher . . . Maybe trying to swing a little harder. Maybe
instead of hitting a single, trying to get a double this time." (source)

Rollins hopes that next time the time will learn not to get so excited. I guess it's a good thing that the Phils are looking foward to next season.

While you wait for next season, you may want to pick up some kitchen goodies for Pat Burrell and his fiancee Michelle. That's just a few of the items on their registry for their November nuptuals. (via ben mailer)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Who will get the final spot?

Baseball Update:
Saturday's Games
Diamondbacks 5, Cubs 1
Chris Young hit a leadoff homerun off of Cubs pitcher Rich Hill and the Diamondbacks never looked back, completing their sweep on Saturday. The D'backs won the series by holding the Cubbies to just six runs with excellent outtings by Brandon Webb, Doug Davis and Livan Hernandez while compiling 16 runs over the course of three games. Arizona was no stranger to great pitching this season, it's the outscoring opponents which is new to them.
WP: Livan Hernandez (1-0) LP: Rich Hill (0-1)
Diamondbacks win series 3-0

Phillies 1, Rockies 2
The Rockies continued to roll, besting the Phillies in their three game divisional series on Saturday. The Phillies pitching was able to hold the Rockies to just two runs, something they were unable to do at home in Philadelphia, however their bats remained silent, only errupting in a solo shot by Shane Victorino in the seventh inning which tied the game. But the Rockies rallied in the eighth off of a Jeff Baker RBI single to win the game and sweep the series.
WP: Brian Fuentes (1-0) LP: J.C. Romero (0-1)
SV: Manny Corpas (3)
Rockies win series 3-0

Sunday's Games
Boston 9, Angels 1
David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez hit back to back solo shots in the fourth inning and that was all she wrote as the Red Sox cleaned up their series on Sunday with a win. The Angels were able to contain the Red Sox until the seventh inning when they scored 7 runs. Eric Gange allowed the Angels only run in the ninth to break up the shut out but by then, the Sox had too big of a lead for the Angles to overcome.
WP: Curt Schilling (1-0) LP: Jered Weaver (0-1)
Boston wins series 3-0

Indians 4, Yankees 8
The Indians were unable to complete the sweep on Sunday. The Yankees got their best pitching effort not by Roger Clemens who started the game but by the young rookie Phil Hughes. Hughes kept the Tribe scoreless over 3 and 2 thirds innings while the Yankees offense finally got in gear knocking in six runs off of Indians starter Jake Westbrook. The Bronx Bombers seemed to rally around manager Joe Torre who was issued an ultimatium by owner George Steinbrenner, make it past the ALDS or your time in New York is up!
WP: Phil Hughes (1-0) LP: Jake Westbrook (0-1)
Indians lead series 2-1

Monday's Schedule
Indians @ Yankees, 7:37 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
Yankees: Chein Ming Wang (0-1)
Indians: Paul Byrd (0-0)

Baseball Notes: The three sweeps in the Divisional round mark the most ever in this round of the playoffs...Roger Clemens left the game early after aggravating his hamstring. I'd say it's time for him to really retire after this season...The Pittsburgh Pirates fired manager Jim Tracy...Tom Glavine declined his $13 million player option with New York Mets.

NASCAR Update:
There may not have been a big one, but there certainly was a mid-one as 10 cars crashed on lap 145 after Bobby Labonte blew a tire. Jeff Gordon was able to out duel his teammate Jimmie Johnson with a last lap pass to win the UAW-Ford 500 at Talladega on Sunday. The race overall was rather boring for a plate track. After a week of hype, Jacques Villaneuve was able to stay out of trouble while "racing" in the back of the pack. And for what seemed like 30 laps everyone just followed Junior on the high side of the track in single file. The race didn't begin to get exciting until after the final restart when drivers realized it was now or never and they began three wide racing. Overall, a race like this will not take away viewers from football. Good try NASCAR, but the COT is just not very exciting to watch.
Race Results Points Standings

Random Quotes: We went to the front early on and we were just kind of hangin' out for a lot of laps. It's boring really to just ride around like that, but it's the first restrictor plate race for the CoT (Car of Tomorrow), so we'll see if it'll be better next time." - Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (source)

"It was crazy. I think the racing was not very good. I think the racing was disappointing. To see single-file racing and the guy that wins the race is sitting in the back all day just lounging around. That's not racing to me. I hope it wasn't what NASCAR intended with this car." - Ryan Newman
(source)

Reed Sorenson's #41 Target Dodge may have violated height restricitions on the COT. The car was checked twice by NASCAR during post-race inspections before being released to the team.

Dale Jarrett will try to qualify for eight races in 2008 before retiring.

Gillett Evernham is looking to sign Patrick Carpentier to fill the final spot for 2008.

DEI VP Richie Gilmore was airlifted to a local hospital after suffering an aneursym on Saturday. Gilmore was later released.

News & Notes: Looks like the Cardinals won't have to worry about their two quarterback set up after Matt Leinart broke his collarbone during Sunday's 34-31 win over the Rams...Maybe the Chargers are back on track after handing the Denver Broncos a 41-3 loss, the Broncos worst home loss ever...Not only did the Dolphins lose again, they also lost their quarterback Trent Green to a concussion...Pacman Jones wants early reinstatement because he's been doing so well over the past few months. I mean he hasn't even been arrested...LSU remains #1 in the AP poll this week...Sad news, Chad Schieber died during the shortened Chicago Marathon on Sunday. Temperatures topped out at 88 degress...And finally, it took them an entire half to get on track, but when the 3rd quarter rolled around, the Giants got in gear taking down their stadium sharing rivals the New York Jets 35-24.

Check this out: 8 million people tuned into "Friday Night Lights" tying it for fourth on the night. So now that you've watched get five friends to tune in this Friday night!

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Friday Night Lights Friday

(Photo: TV Addict)

We at Popo in my Crib have decided that you need to watch "Friday Night Lights." It's beyond the best show on TV and since NBC has placed it in a terrible time slot, Friday nights at 9 PM/est we have to help get the word out. And when we say we, we mean it. Look who else is in FNL's corner:

New York Times

Chicago Tribune

Dallas Morning Star

Reuters

LA Times

The Patriot Ledger

San Jose Mercury

The State

The Buffalo News

Vancouver Sun

The Times Argus

Seattle PI

(Photos: NBC.com)

Don't forget, "Friday Night Lights" Fridays at 9 PM/est on NBC!

It's been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Friday Funnies

(Photos: AP)

Come on ride the train...

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

so much for starting pitching

Baseball Update:
Rockies 10, Phillies 5
The Phillies led for the first time in the series following the second inning, but a grand slam by Kaz Matsui in the fourth inning seeled the Phillies fate and has put them into a two game hole. Kaz Matsui fell one single short of the cycle but his five RBIs surely made up for it.
WP: Josh Fogg (1-0) LP: Kyle Kendrick (0-1)
Rockies lead 2-0

Yankees 3, Indians 12
The Yankees got to C.C. Sabathia early with Johnny Damon's leadoff homerun. While Sabathia was able to settle in, Chien Ming Wang never got comfortable, adventually giving up 8 earned runs including homeruns to Asdrubal Cabrera and Victor Martinez in the Yankees loss.
WP: C.C. Sabathia (1-0) LP: Chien Ming Wang (0-1)
Indians lead 1-0

Cubs 4, Diamondbacks 8
The Cubs pitching was once again less than desirable as Ted Lilly gave up six runs in just three and a third innings while Arizona's Doug Davis was able to keep the Cubbies at bay in the D'backs win. Chris Young had a big game driving in three from his second inning homerun that put the Diamondbacks in front and they never looked back.
WP: Doug Davis (1-0) LP: Ted Lilly (0-1)
Diamondbacks lead 2-0

Friday's Schedule
Yankees @ Indians, 5 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
Indians: Fausto Carmona
Yankees: Andy Pettitte

Angels @ Red Sox, 8:30 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
Red Sox: Daisuke Matsuzaka
Angels: Kelvim Escobar

Saturday's Schedule
Diamondbacks @ Cubs, 6 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
Cubs: Rich Hill
D'backs: Livan Hernandez

Phillies @ Rockies, 9:30 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
Rockies: Ubaldo Jimenez
Phillies: Jamie Moyer

Sunday Schedule
Diamondbacks @ Cubs (if necessary), 1 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Red Sox @ Angels, 3 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Indians @ Yankees, 6:30 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Phillies @ Rockies (if necessary), 10 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio

Baseball Notes: Video showed Rockies closer Manny Corpas pouring liquid on his shirt while in the bullpen prior to entering Wednesday's game. For video click here...In other Rockies news, they voted to give a team share to Mike Coolbaugh's widow. Coolbaugh was killed during a Rockies minor league game while coaching first base...In weird injury news, the Yankees Doug Mienkiewicz injured his ankle prior to the start of game one when he became tangled with a cameraman. The cameraman was a freelancer from Cleveland who was hired by the YES Network. Beging your conspiracy theories now...I'm sure you all noticed a special appearance by LeBron James during the Indians game on Thursday. James, wearing a Yankees cap, told TBS reporter Craig Sager (who went for an orange blazer) "I've always been a Yankee fan. I'm a big Derek Jeter fan." Even though James is a Yankees fan, it didn't stop C.C. Sabathia from sending him a Indians rally towel.

NASCAR Update:
Chase race number four brings the Cup boys to Talladega for their first ever COT plate race. It will also feature rookie driver Jacques Villeneuve who has gotten many drivers including Jeff Gordon in a tizzy. Will it be a major crash fest? Or will the new cars provide a safe and exciting race? You'll have to tune in to find out. Watch the UAW-Ford 500 at 1 PM/est on ABC.

The Truck Series announced their 2008 schedule.

Motorsports Authentics said they will lose between $20 and $25 million in 2007. Darn Dale, Jr. screws up everything with his whole Hendrick move. I say, Motorsports sees a $50 million profit next year.

Popo in my crib news:
Marion Jones is expected to enter a guilty plea in federal court on Friday. Jones has denied any steriod use in the past but wrote a letter to friends and family admitting she used steriods from 1999-2001. Her five medals which see won during the Sidney summer games are now in doubt. Watch out Marion, because the popo are on your tail!

Rhoni Reuter, the pregnant girlfriend of former all-pro Chicago Bear safety, Shaun Gayle, was shot to death in a suburban Chicago townhouse on Thursday. Gayle is not considered a suspect in the case. Watch out shooter, because the popo are on your tail!

Current Chicago Bear Lance Briggs pleaded guilty to leaving the scene of a property damage accident and failure to report an accident. Briggs crashed his Lamborghini on August 27th and left the scene. He recieved a year of court supervision and 120 hours of community service. Watch out Lance, because the popo are on your tail!

News & Notes: Chris Drury delivered the game winning goal in his first game with the New York Rangers on Thursday. The Rangers adventually went on to win 5-2 over the Florida Panthers...Yi Jianlian finally arrived at Milwaukee training camp on Thursday but it did not come without some controversay. Yi's birth certificate lists him at 19, but he is believed to older than that, although he has no comment on it...Chicago is not considered a front runner for the 2016 games...Kentucky is undefeated no more after losing to South Carolina 38-23...Broncos tailback Travis Henry is facing a one-year suspension for violating the NFL's drug policy...The Giants linebacker Chase Blackburn ruptured his eardrum after a reporter bumped into while he was cleaning his ear with a cotton swab. Doctors expect him to regain hearing shortly...Meanwhile, the Giants will be taking on their stadium vivals the New York Jets in the battle for East Rutherford on Sunday. The game starts at 1 PM/est on CBS. Let's go Big Blue!

Check this out: Click here to see Ed Helm's 5 reasons he doesn't miss New York, now that he's a big shot in LA on "The Office."

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Things I learned at the Phillies Playoff Game

Thanks Howard for our first ever guest blog.

(View from Howard's Phone)

1) People in Philly still love Larry Bowa.
2) There is a market for everything. I determined this because someone
bought a Charlie Manuel jersey.
3) When your 1-4 hitters go 0-fer, you probably won't win.
4) People still have not destroyed their Scott Rolen Phillies jerseys.
5) Further proof that there is a market for everything - someone bought
a Chris Coste jersey.
6) The Shmitter is better with onions. Hold the catsup. It's best with
crab fries.
7) In general, people who I find cool usually
take longer to pee. So don't wait in line behind them in the bathroom.
8) There's always tomorrow. But it will probably be just as bad.
9) Baseball fans can't hold their liquor. 5 guys in the bathroom
couldn't believe they polished of a 30 pack. At a NASCAR race, one guy
in the bathroom probably would be wondering how he polished off a 30
pack by himself. Then drive home.
10) For some people, holding up a sign and getting on the jumbotron once
is not enough. They need to get on it multiple times.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Howard

for the love of sweet lou

Baseball Update:
Rockies 4, Phillies 2

The Rockies tagged Cole Hamels for three runs in the second and that was all they needed in their 4-2 win on Wednesday. The Phils fought back with back to back homers by Aaron Rowand and Pat Burrell in the fifth but a Matt Holliday homerun in the eighth put the game out of reach for the Phils.

WP: Jeff Francis (1-0) LP: Cole Hamels (0-1)
SV: Manny Corpas (1)

Angels 0, Boston 4

Josh Beckett put together a spectacular complete game shut out in the Red Sox 4-0 win on Wednesday. Boston's offense got to Angels' starter John Lackey early including a Kevin Youkilis homerun in the first and a three run third which began with a Big Papi two run dinger.

WP: Josh Becket (1-0) LP: John Lackey (0-1)

Cubs 1, Diamondbacks 3

With a 1-1 tie in the sixth inning, Sweet Lou Penella pulled Carlos Zambrano after only 85 pitches in a move which was meant to help the Cubbies in the long run but sure hurt them in the short run. Carlos Marbols replaced Zambrano and quickly gave up the game winning homer to Mark Reynolds in the Diamondbacks 3-1 win.

WP: Brandon Webb (1-0) LP: Carlos Marbol (0-1)
SV: Jose Valverde (1)

Thursday's Schedule
Rockies @ Phillies, 3 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
Phillies: Kyle Kendrick
Rockies: Franklin Morales

Yankees @ Indians, 6:30 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
Indians: C.C. Sabathia
Yankees: Chien-Ming Wang

Cubs @ Diamondbacks, 10 PM/est on TBS and ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
D'Backs: Doug Davis
Cubs: Ted Lilly

Baseball Notes: Even with a year left on his contract, Cardinals GM Walt Jocketty will not be back next season...Tigers Owner Mike Illitch hinted that catcher Pudge Rodriguez may be back with Detroit for next season...Even though they didn't make the playoffs, Ned Yost will be back with the Brewers in 2008...The Kansas City Royals broke ground on a new $250 million renovation of Kauffman Stadium. Wait, how much does it cost to build a new stadium?...And finally, Kobe Bryant gave his wife a reported $8 million ring for his little fling, but Alex Rodriguez one upped him by impregnating his wife. If it was me, I would have gone for a new beach house and really hot pool boy.

NASCAR Update:
Kyle Busch's crew chief Mike Bumgarner was fined $10,000 for a rules infraction suffered at Kansas Speedway on Saturday found after Busch's Busch Series win. It will be some much easier to mention Kyle in the Nationwide Insurance Series, although it doesn't have quite the same ring to it.

In other Kyle Busch news, click here to see his new M&M's car for 2008.

Much like when Nextel took over the Cup Series, Nationwide has made some demands...like Gieco has to leave in two years.

Popo in my crib News:
Cleveland Caveliers Shannon Brown said he was assaulted after an altercation with a security guard at a downtown nightclub on Sunday. Brown "was escorted from the bar for wearing a hat." Is that the Yankees hat LeBron let you borrow? No charges have been filed. Watch out security guard, because the popo are on your tail!

Los Angeles Lakers center Kwame Brown was charged with disorderly conduct and interfering with a police officer. The incident took place during his cousin's drunken driving arrest last weekend. Brown claims it was a simple misunderstanding. Isn't that what they all say? That, and "it was taken out of context." Watch out Kwame, because the popo are on your tail!

News & Notes: Gus Frerotte will start in place of Marc "broken ribs" Bulger on Sunday...Rodney Harrison will return to the New England Patriots in time for their game on Sunday. Harrison was supsended by the league for four games. Good news, because they were doing so poorly without him...The Colts on the other hand, will be without four starters for Sunday's game...Looks like Alex Smith isn't as injured as ESPN first reported. Oops!...NCAA graduation rates have risen in major sports...UCLA extended its contract with men's basketball coach Ben Howland. The Bruins have gone to two straight final fours under Howland...The New Jersey Nets Marcus Williams will be out for six to eight weeks after he underwent foot surgery on Wednesday...And finally, click here to vote for your best dressed football player.

Check this out: Bravo will be running a "Friday Night Lights" marathon beginning at 8 AM tomorrow morning, leading up to the premiere on NBC at 9 PM/est. It's your last chance to catch up on the best show you're probably not watching. And if you are watching, then you know it's the best show on TV!

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Parting is such sweet sorrow

I’ve been a Braves fan for about two thirds of my life and hearing Tuesday’s decision that the Braves will not be pursuing Andruw Jones in the off season got me thinking about the saddest Braves departures since 1991.

(Photo: April 2006 @ Turner Field)

5. Julio Franco
Julio was a fan favorite. At “48” years old, he’s not a player that you were expecting huge things from, but his commitment to the game and his general attitude had Braves fans chanting his name when he’d enter a pinch hitter. At the end of the 2005 season, Franco made the decision to leave the Atlanta Braves and head over to the New York Mets who were willing to give him a two year contract. When I went down to Atlanta for my 23rd birthday, I attended the Braves series against the Mets. When Julio came up to bat, the fans literally gave him a standing ovation. With his summer 2007 release by the Mets, the Braves quickly picked him up as a pinch hitter and a sometimes first baseman. But with the addition of Mark Teixeira, Julio’s future is once again in question with the Bravos.

4. David Justice
David Justice made his debut with the Braves in 1989, which adventually fueled the Braves trade of fan favorite Dale Murhpy to the Phillies in 1990 . Justice’s second half production helped earn him the NL Rookie of the Year Award in that year. He spent six more years with the Braves which saw him head to the World Series four times in 1991, 92, 95 and 96. His performance duing those trips included the series clinching homerun in game six of the 1995 World Series, the only title for the team of the 90s. During spring training in 1997, the Braves pulled off a blockbuster of a deal which sent David Justice and Marquis Grissom to the Cleveland Indians for Kenny Lofton and Alan Embree. Justice’s departure was done not only to make salary room but to open up a spot for Andruw Jones and Jermaine Dye. It was a difficult blow for me personally, since Justice was my first ever favorite Brave. By 1997, he was eclipsed by Chipper Jones, but he still held a special place in my heart.

3. Greg Maddux
Maddux joined the Braves in 1993 to complete a starting rotation that included John Smoltz, Tom Glavine and Steve Avery. Two years later, the Braves were finally World Series Champs. But Maddux’s departure was hardly surprising. He had only signed a one year contract in 2002 and was figured to be gone at season’s end. But during his time in Atlanta, he won 3 straight Cy Young Awards and saw his teammates Glavine and Smoltz both pick up Cy Youngs and saw Glavine be named 1995 World Series MVP. They call Maddux the professor for a reason.



2. Andruw Jones
At the beginning of the 2007 season, the big question was whether it was going to be Andruw Jones’ final season in Atlanta. General opinion was that Jones would prove to be too expensive for the Braves, however, as the season progressed and Jones numbers declined, people began to wonder, maybe Jones misfortune could be Atlanta’s fortune. Maybe they could sign him to a lower than originally thought contract. Or maybe they could sign him to a one year contract while they awaited their two star minor leaguers maturation process. But two days after the Braves ended their season, GM John Schuerholz announced that they would not seek to resign Andruw Jones ending an 11 year major league partnership. Jones was signed by the Braves in 1993 when he was just 16 years old and made a huge splash as a rookie in 1996 becoming the youngest player to hit a homerun in the post season. But at 30, Jones balls to the wall playing style began to wear on his body and his numbers began to raise questions. Was 2007 a fluke? Or was it the beginning of something? In the end, the Braves decided their need for pitching and desire to lock up first baseman Mark Teixeira for a long term deal more important than bringing back Jones for one more season.

1. Tom Glavine
Tom Glavine was a home grown player. In 1984, he chose baseball and the Braves over a shot in the NHL with the Los Angeles Kings. He developed and grew up with teammates John Smoltz and Steve Avery creating an unstoppable rotation with the addition of Greg Maddux in 1993. His Braves stats were insane, two Cy Young Awards, a World Series MVP and over 200 wins. But in December 2002, a teenage girl’s heart was broken when it was announced her favorite player (I moved onto Glavine around 2000) was leaving the only home he had ever known to move to New York and the Mets for what ended up being five years. The Braves were not only outbid by the Mets but also the Phillies making the situation even worse. According to John Schuerholz’s book, Glavine had extreme reservations about his new team. But following the 2006 season the Braves had the opportunity to lure back their former ace although the exchange hinged on finding cap and rotation room most likely in a trade of Tim Hudson. In the end, Hudson’s season far surpassed Glavine’s 2007, but I can’t help but look back and think how amazing it would have been to see Glavine pick up his 300th in a Braves uniform like Smoltz picking up his 200th at Turner Field. Who knows, Glavine does not seem likely to be heading back to New York and the Braves desperately need another starter. Who says you can’t go home?
(Photo: AllSport/Matthew Stockman)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

If Big Papi Can do it...

(photo: bostonhearld.com)

Why can't Tom Brady make the switch? Brady has been seen walking around the streets of New York sporting a New York Yankees hat from time to time. He was even spotted in New England with the Yanks cap. If not for his incrible arm, he'd be toast. From the Boston Herald:

Ortiz, who arrived for yesterday’s workout wearing a Tom Brady No. 12 jersey,
said the Patriots’ 34-13 win in Cincinnati on Monday finally convinced him to
dump the Packers and adopt the Pats as his favorite football team.The slugger,
who lived in the Green Bay area for nearly 10 years, said his wife, Tiffany,
cautioned him that he could never come back to the Packers side if he left the
house wearing a Patriots jersey.“She said, ‘You’re on your own now,’ ” Ortiz
said. “That’s OK. (The Patriots) are some bad (expletive). They win by 20-plus
points every (expletive) game!”

Seriously Tommy, Papi's backing you, why can't you back him? It is playoff time!

It's been fun blogging with you,

Kate

Play Something Country

Yesterday was a huge country music day at your local walmart.

Faith Hill released her Greatest Hits album which features three new songs and host of classics like "This Kiss", "Breathe", and "Wild One." For a preview click here.

Brooks & Dunn released Cowboy Train which features their new single "Proud of the House We Built." For a preview click here.

(Photos: cmt.com)

Other releases included John Fogerty's Revival and Merele Haggard's The Bluegrass Sessions.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Hello Insomnia...I've missed you so

Braves Update:
ESPN the Magazine's Sarah Tucotte took Braves ace John Smoltz out for a round of golf. Click here for the highlights.

Current Met and former Brave Tom Glavine said he will probably not return to the Mets next season. "I have five days at the end of our season to accept or decline [the option]. Most likely, I'll decline it, " Glavine said. But the real question is, will he return to Atlanta?

Baseball Update:
Willie Randolph will be back with the Mets next season.

The Tigers have extended manager Jim Leyland's contract through 2009.

Tony Pena, Jr. picked up AL comeback player of the year while Dmitri Young was the NL winner.

2007 had the fewest homeruns since 1995.

Playoff Schedule for Wednesday

Rockies @ Phillies, 3 PM/est on TBS or ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
Phillies: Cole Hamels
Rockies: Jeff Francis

Angels @ Red Sox, 6:30 PM/est on TBS or ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
Red Sox: Josh Beckett
Angles: John Lackey

Cubs @ Diamondbacks, 10 PM/est on TBS or ESPN Radio
Probable Starters
D'Backs: Brandon Webb
Cubs: Carlos Zambrano

Playoff Notes: Adam Eaton, Tim Wakefield, Gary Matthews, Jr. and Bartolo Colon will be noticeably absent from their team's playoff roster

NASCAR Update:
Nationwide Insurance will take over as title sponsor for what is now called the Busch Series beginning in 2008 according to sources.

Reports are swirling that Dario Franchitti has signed a multiyear contract with Chip Ganassi Racing for 2008. Franchitti will replace David Stremme in the #40 car. He'll also get his first start in a stock car in the ARCA race at Talladega this weekend.

Scott Riggs will be racing for Haas/CNC in 2008 in either the #66 which is currently being driven by Jeff Green or the #70 currently being driven by Johnny Sauter.

Joe Gibbs Racing is expected to announce the addition of M&M's/Mars to the hood of Kyle Busch's #18 Toyota for 2008. (via Jayski)

Bruton Smith said is willing to shut down Lowe's Motor Speedway and move it from its current Concord, NC location if officials do not let him build a drag strip. Yikes!

Popo in my crib News:
Northern Colorado back up punter Mitch Cozad was sentenced to seven years after stabbing his rival kicker in September 2006. Watch out Mitch, because the popo are on your tail!

Pitt basketball player Levance Fields will enroll in a special program for first time offenders including nine months probation. Fields, who was involved in a little scuffle with the popo outside of a nightclub, was charged with aggravated assault, public drunkenness and disorderly conduct. Watch out Levance, because the popo are on your tail!

Former Louisville football player, Willie Williams has pleaded not guilty to marijuana possession. Williams was kicked off the team after his arrest last Wednesday. Watch out Willie, because the popo are on your tail!

News & Notes: Memphis beat Marshall 24-21 only two days after the slaying of teammate Taylor Bradford...According to espn.com, 49ers QB Alex Smith may not play in two weeks after all. A MRI revealed "serious injury to tendons in his right shoulder" which would cause him to have season ending surgery. Smith is said to seeking a second opinion...Marijuana advocates are asking the Broncos to pick up pot lover Ricky Williams if he is reinstated by the league...Amare Stodemire underwent knee surgery on Tuesday. He is expected to return to the team in two to three weeks...Big Ben Wallace will be allowed to wear a headband this season. Thank goodness that was decided, I have been biting my nails for the past week...The NHL is back. What channel is Versus?...Here are 82 reasons to watch...And finally, Alyssa Milano says she's looking for a plumber not a major league baseball player. Thank goodness, it was just so hard to compete with her!

Check this out: Click here to see musicians who are also sports fans.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Thanks for the Memories, Andruw

(Andruw Jones at Shea 9/12/2007)

Atlanta Braves GM John Scheurholz announced on Tuesday that the Atlanta Braves will not go after free agent Andruw Jones ending a partnership that began sparklingly in 1996 when a 19 year old Jones hit two homeruns in game one of the World Series against the New York Yankees. The Braves will instead go after first baseman Mark Teixeira who will command around $12 million for 2008 through arbitration.

Jones has five All-Star game appearances and nine straight gold glove awards on his resume. And even though he'll leave the Braves after posting his worst offensive numbes in his 11 year major league career, he will be missed by Braves fans alike, including myself. I forced my friends to head over to Shea on September 12th so I could see Jones in a Braves uniform for one last time. Thanks Andruw for all of the memories!

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Changes

You may have noticed a few layout changes on the blog. What do you think?

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

This is your Captain?

The Florida Gators senior captain Tony Joiner was arrested on Tuesday and charged with felony burglary. Tony allegedly pushed open an electric gate to retrieve his girlfriend's car which was sitting in the impound "in lieu of a $76 towing bill." Joiner got into the car, drove it out of the lot and was confronted by a witness when he attempted to close the gate. Arresting officer Robert Concannon told reporters he heard Joiner say "I am probably about to go to jail 'cuz I did push the gate open." And steal a car, buddy and STEAL A CAR! Florida has been on fire lately, only two days before Joiner's arrest three players were questioned in connection with a downtown nightclub shooting. The players were not considered suspects but rather witnesses to the incident. Hey Tony, have you met Frank Tolbert. You seem to have been arrested for similiar things. Watch out Tony, because the popo are on your tail!

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Mets email

The Mets felt so bad about their historic collapse that they sent an email to their fans. Here is the actual email.*

Dear Season Ticket Holder,
We, here at the Mets organization would like to send our deepest apologies to our fans. We know that our actions during the month of September have been "historic." But we'd prefer that you look at the bright side, we played really well the other four months. (The season really doesn't start until May, right?) Remember May 16th when we took over the lead in the NL East? And that time back in June when we actually beat the Phillies three times? Those were some good times. Times we hope to repeat in 2008. So please, just forget about 2007, we already have. Don't forget to put a deposit on your 2008 season tickets, because next year might just be our year.
Sincerely,
The New York Mets

P.S. To win back your affections, we are willing to lease out David Wright for parties during the off season. Forget about Mr. Met at your wedding, think about David Wright sociallizing with your guests. It will really make your wedding/Bar Mitzvah/Sweet Sixteen the Wright event for you. We are also willing to sell Tom Glavine, Paul Lo Duca, Guillermo Mota and Carlos Delgado to the lowest bidder. They make great holiday gifts!
(*not actual email)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Are you sure there's only one October?

Braves Update:
The Braves season closed early for a second straight season, but that has not stopped veterans like John Smoltz and Chipper Jones from being excited about next season. Especially after finishing so strong in the final month of the season...Bobby Cox back in 2009? It could happen.

Baseball Update:
Wild Card playoff
Colorado 9, Padres 8
After 13 innings, the final playoff spot was decided on Monday after the Rockies beat the Padres 9-8. Walking into the bottom of the 13th, Trevor Hoffman picked a horrible time to become human. Hoffman had a two run cushion but after allowing doubles to Troy Tulowitzki and Kaz Matsui and a triple to Matt Holliday, he intentionally walked Todd Helton. A sacrifice fly by Jamey Carroll scored Holliday and gave the Rockies their first trip to the playoffs in 12 years.

NLDS/ALDS Schedule

Baseball Notes: A new report says that Mets reliever Scott Schoenewies received steriods while playing with the Chicago White Sox. Good thing this story didn't break right before the Mets were starting the playoffs...In other Mets news, apparently the Mets sent season ticket holders a dear John email. Something like, sorry we sucked but please come back next season. We'll try harder...MVP contender Matt Holliday was rewarded for his regular season performance after picking up two out of three in the triple crown including the Batting Title (.337). He also drove in the most runs (137) while Prince Fielder (50) hit the most homeruns this season...San Diego Padres Jake Peavy may not have pitched the game of his life on Monday, but he did lead the NL in ERA, wins and strike outs and was named the NL pitcher for September...The Boston Red Sox announced their starting rotation for the ALDS. Josh Beckett will start game one followed by Dice-K and Curt Schilling...Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago and Cleveland celebrated rally Monday. If you attended send photos and we'll post them on the blog...Houston Astros closer Brad Lidge had surgery to repair torn cartilage in his right knee on Monday. He is expected to be ready for 2008...The Baltimore Orioles got rid of starters Jaret Wright and Victor Zambrano on Monday...And finally, St. Louis Cardinals Walt Jocketty predicted that manager Tony La Russa would return in 2008.

NASCAR Update:
NASCAR officials said that Greg Biffle did maintain reseasonable speed on Sunday. Really?

Dale Jarrett is leaving 2008 up to Michael Waltrip Racing and UPS. I say, skip 08 and take over for Rusty in the booth!

Overnight ratings for the Kansas race on Sunday were down. Maybe it had something to do with those three hour rain delays.

Popo in my crib News:
Tennesse linebacker Dorian Davis was cited for fighting in Iowa City on Saturday. He was charged with disorderly conduct after meeting a friend, Charles Jones, for an appointment and then got into a verbal spat which turned into a physical atlercation. Watch out Dorian, because the popo are on your tail!

Indiana recruit Bud Mackey was charged with drug trafficking on Friday. As an added bonus, he was also charged with trafficking within a 1,000 yards of a school. Looks like Indiana may want to add an extra player for next season. Watch out Buddy, because the popo are on your tail!

In other drug news, Duke Crews, a Tennessee basketball player was suspended after marijuana was found in his dorm. The pot was found when housing personnel entered his dorm to investigate a complaint of loud music. Why not just put a sign on the door that says, "pot inside." Watch out Duke, because the popo are on your tail!

News & Notes: The New England Patriots embarassed the Cincinnati Bengals 34-13 on Monday...The Tampa Bay Bucs will be without Cadillac Williams and Luke Petittgout for the rest of the season. I guess the Giants knew something about Petitgout when they got rid of him after last season...In other injury news, The 49ers will be without QB Alex Smith for at least a week with a separated shoulder...Ricky Williams has filed for reinstatement after his various failed drug tests...Kobe Bryant and Stephon Marbury had some fun quotes during media day on Monday. Apparently, Kobe's "a soldier" and Steph found Jesus on June 26th...And finally, for all of you concerned, the Bengals will be shooing those pigeons away with lasers not guns. Trying to keep it safe!

Check this out: We usually try to steer clear of gossip, but not when it involves one of our favorites on "Friday Night Lights." Good job Minka, way to get the show in the news right before it premieres on Friday, October 5th at 9PM/est on NBC. Click here to see her caught in the act with singer John Mayer.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

What do they do during a rain delay?

(Photo: REUTERS/Robert LeSieur)
This week's Lifelock 400 at Kansas Speedway produced not one but two rain delays lasting about a combined 3 hours. But if you've ever wondered what drivers do during red flags, we're here to help:

They nap
Driving in circles can be draining.

(Photo: AP/Ed Zurga)

They catch up on other sports like football, baseball and that Saturday hockey game.
That's really why they have the tvs in their pit boxes.
(photo: joegibbsracing.com)

They enjoy the fruits of their sponsors
Can you imagine how busy David Reutimann's pit gets? Between all the pizza, burgers, fries and chicken fries you can eat, he becomes a very popular guy.
(Photo: Action Sports Photography, inc.)

They live blog
Well, that's how we compiled this list.

(Photo: nascar.com)


They covertly work on their cars
Or in the case of Jeff Burton they try to covertly work on their cars. Did we not learn anything from Sterling Marlin? (around 3:05)

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

The Popo Awards: The Recap

For those of you who missed it this weekend, the Mets performance in the final 3 days of the season solidified their win in the Best Choke Artist Award. I believe this was their acceptance speach:

Beat the Mets, beat the Mets,
Last place teams defeat the Mets.
Hanging sliders, minor-league speed, guaranteed to waste a seven-run lead.
Because the Met bullpen keeps fading away, October baseball won't be at Shea. Mota . . . Sosa . . .every game is now in doubt.
Can anyone who's on this staff get
three men out?
(Thanks Mr. Bennett)

(From the New York Post)

Here's a look at the other winners.

Best Use of a Bat: Alex Rodriguez
Best Managerial Freak Out: Phillip Wellman
Most Embarrassing Arrest: Scott Olsen
Biggest Disappointment: AL Central
Biggest Suprise: Dustin Pedroia
Best Scandal: Bonds' 756
Best Choke Artist Award: New York Mets

Congratulations to all our winners.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate

Here's to 2008

Braves Update:
The Braves completed their final two games of the season with a two game losing streak after they fell to the Houston Astros 3-0. Chipper Jones failed to get a hit on Sunday giving the batting title to the Colorado Rockies' Matt Holliday. The Braves can look back on this season and think what could have been or they can instead look forward to 2008 like manager Bobby Cox, who told reporters, "I never like to see the end of the season. But Spring Training isn't far away. We'll scramble the club a little bit. I think we should be good next year. Right from the get-go, we should be good." (source) I agree.

Games behind Philadelphia Phillies in NL East: 5
Games above .500: 6
NL Wild Card Leader: San Diego Padres/Colorado Rockies

Braves Notes: The Braves have announced the 2008 coaching staff. And it looks very similar to the ones in 2007, like exactly the same...Braves broadcaster Skip Caray said goodbye after 30 years with TBS.

Random Quote: "I was here for the first [TBS broadcast], and I'm honored to be here for the last. But how do you say goodbye to these people who have supported you for 30 years? You say 'Thank you,' I guess. It's going to be very hard to do." - Skip Caray (source)

Baseball Update:
AL Standings


NL Standings


(Standings: Foxsports.com)

Baseball Update: It was a day of farewells on Sunday as Craig Biggio and Mike Sweeney said goodbye to their loyal fans...And the Mets said goodbye to their playoff hopes with an 8-1 loss to the Marlins while the Phillies pulled through with their 6-1 win over the Nationals...The Colorado Rockies are just not giving up and after winning 13 of 14 games they have forced San Diego into a one game playoff for the wild card spot...Magglio Ordonez captured the AL batting title with his .363 average. And Detroit scortched the Chicago White Sox 13-3...Meanwhile, the White Sox extended catcher AJ Pierzynski's contract by two years to 2010.

NASCAR Update:
(Editor's Note: I still have not finished watching the race so commentary is from various articles.)
Greg Biffle "won" in a rain and accident filled Lifelock 400. But Jimmie Johnson and Clint Bowyer aren't too sure about that. Biffle ran out of fuel and was unable to make it to the finish line in front of Bowyer and Johnson but NASCAR ruled Biffle the winner. (Biffle said that NASCAR asked if he was out of fuel, which he responded with a no and then NASCAR asked him to be pushed to victory lane?) Of course this is after two rain delays that pushed the race into the six hour mark and forced it to end under caution. I'll go with Kasey Kahne on this one, the races are starting too late and leave a smaller margin of error. Johnson and Bowyer aren't the only disappointed Chasers. Denny Hamlin, Matt Kenseth, Martin Truex, Jr., Tony Stewart, Carl Edwards and Kyle Busch were all involved in accidents during the course of the day. (Stewart was leading after the second rain delay.) Only Bowyer, Johnson Jeff Gordon and Kevin Harvick saw the inside of the top 10.
Race Results Points Standings

Tony Stewart will not be fined for his little verbal slip following practice. NASCAR reviewed the tape and talked with ESPN, deciding that with all of the noise there was a chance viewers might not have heard anything. So obvisiously he shouldn't be fined. Hey Junior, next time try to swear in Victory Lane while everyone's spraying you with Bud, becuase then there'd be a chance people wouldn't be able to hear you.

News & Notes: Sad news, Taylor Bradford, a University of Memphis fotoball player was shot and killed in his car at the Carpenter Complex on campus. He was only 21...LSU bumped USC to become the #1 team in the nation according to this week's AP Poll...Apparently, it's not the quarterback that sucks in Chicago, it's the offense after the Bears fell 37-27 to the Detroit Lions on Sunday...If you had the Packers going 4-0 then you're totally kicking ass in your office pool. If you knew three years ago that Brett Favre would still be playing and passing Marino's TD record than you should become the next Miss Cleo...The Texans who started off so well, have returned to their old ways after losing to the Atlanta Falcons 26-16. This is the Falcons first win of the season...The starter/closer thing seems to be working for the Cardinals after they handed the Steelers their first loss of the season...And finally, the New York Giants have now won two in a row and their defense seems to be playing at a professional level in their 16-3 win over the Philadelphia Eagels. I mean they only sacked Donovan McNabb 12 times!

Check this out: Are you the sexiest fan alive? Click here to apply.

It's been fun blogging with you,
Kate