Archive for July, 2008

Red Sox ship Manny to Dodgers

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

Red Sox ship Manny to Dodgers
Manny won’t be Manny for the Red Sox anymore.

Dodger Stadium tapped to host WBC semis, final
The semifinals and championship game of the 2009 World Baseball Classic will be played at Dodger Stadium, where such international stars as Fernando Valenzuela of Mexico and Hideo Nomo of Japan made their marks.

ChiSox landing Griffey is no big deal
The ChiSox think they got their man in Ken Griffey Jr., but all they really did was land a spot on Dayn Perry’s list of deadline losers.

The Good, the Bad and the Manny
Breaking down Manny Ramirez’s eight seasons in Boston:

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/352203096″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Lady Luck dashed Griffey’s hometown dream
It was a fairy tale marriage made in baseball heaven. Sad for both sides that it never quite paid off.

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/352091594″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Take your pick: Manny deal produced winners all around
The Dodgers aren’t usually deadline winners. That all changed when they got Manny Ramirez, and Ken Rosenthal still can’t believe it.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Ex-NBA ref gets 15 months in gambling scandal

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

Ex-NBA ref gets 15 months in gambling scandal
NBA/~4/349598738″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Bobcats, Okafor agree on 6-year deal worth $72M

YAHOO! Story published at magicvalley.com on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 Last modified on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 4:45 PM MDT In this Jan.

LeBron leads U.S. rout of Turkey in Olympic tuneup
LeBron James looked just fine and so did Team USA after a sloppy start, rolling over Turkey in Thursday’s Olympic tuneup.NBA/~4/351646651″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Nuggets rookie Weems has hernia surgery (AP)
Denver Nuggets rookie Sonny Weems had surgery Thursday to repair a sports hernia. Weems, a second-round pick who was acquired by the Nuggets on draft night, is expected to fully recover in time for the start of training camp on Sept. 30. The Chicago Bulls picked Weems 39th overall out of Arkansas, then traded him to the Nuggets for a 2009 second-round pick.

Knicks trade Renaldo Balkman to Denver

The Knicks traded forward Renaldo Balkman to Denver for a second-round pick, guard Taurean Green and forward Bobby Jones, both of whom are expected to be waived.

Knicks trade Renaldo Balkman to Denver

The Knicks traded forward Renaldo Balkman to Denver for a second-round pick, guard Taurean Green and forward Bobby Jones, both of whom are expected to be waived.

Popularity: 3% [?]

A’s plan to activate Thomas as early as Friday

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

A’s plan to activate Thomas as early as Friday
The Athletics plan to activate designated hitter Frank Thomas from the disabled list as early as Friday.

Fantasy spin: Yankees hope Nady is solution
The Yankees acquired Xavier Nady from the Pittsburgh Pirates. He’ll play just about every day, with perhaps an occasional day …

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/350631449″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Yanks replace Posada, acquire Pudge from Tigers
The Yankees have acquired catcher Pudge Rodriguez from the Tigers for reliever Kyle Farnsworth.

Sore shoulder forces ex-Tigers closer Jones to DL
Detroit reliever Todd Jones was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Thursday as the Tigers waited for Kyle Farnsworth to join them.

How to deal with swinging a key trade
Your fantasy league title is there for the taking, but you find yourself a couple of pieces short as you get ready for the late-season …

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/350631461″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Popularity: 3% [?]

Yanks replace Posada, acquire Pudge from Tigers

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

Yanks replace Posada, acquire Pudge from Tigers
The Yankees have acquired catcher Pudge Rodriguez from the Tigers for reliever Kyle Farnsworth.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Rockets close to acquiring Artest (AP)

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

Rockets close to acquiring Artest (AP)

In this Dec. 8, 2007 file photo, Sacramento Kings forward Ron Artest warms up before facing the Denver Nuggets in the first quarter of an NBA basketball game in Denver. The Houston Rockets are close to an agreement to acquire Artest from the Kings, two people familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press Tuesday, July 29, 2008.

The Houston Rockets are close to an agreement to acquire Ron Artest from the Sacramento Kings, two people familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. The Rockets will give up guard Bobby Jackson, who played for the Kings from 2000-05, and another player — likely rookie forward Donte Greene, according to two NBA people who confirmed the deal, but spoke on condition of anonymity…


Warriors give Biedrins 6-year, $62M deal
The Golden State Warriors re-signed center Andris Biedrins to a six-year contract worth more than $62 million Monday, retaining another restricted free agent and possibly capping a tumultuous month for the club. Biedrins averaged career-highs with 10.5 points and 9.8 rebounds with the Warriors last season, his fourth with the club that drafted him with the 11th overall pick in 2004. He also led the NBA in field-goal percentage, making 62.6 percent of his shots.NBA/~4/348860060″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Donaghy scandal could ultimately benefit NBA
The Tim Donaghy saga won’t end at Tuesday’s prison sentence. But Randy Hill says the scandal could actually help the NBA.NBA/~4/349763769″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Donaghy sentenced to 15 months in prison (AP)

Former NBA referee Tim Donaghy exits Brooklyn federal court following his sentencing, Tuesday, July 29, 2008, in New York. Donaghy was sentenced to 15 months in prison Tuesday for setting off a gambling scandal that tarnished the league's reputation and raised questions about the integrity of its officiating.

Disgraced ex-NBA official Tim Donaghy admitted that he’d brought shame on his profession Tuesday as a federal judge sentenced him to 15 months behind bars for a gambling scandal that still has the league on the defensive. U.S. District Judge Carol Amon sentenced Donaghy to prison time plus three years of supervised release, saying he’d let the sport down by taking thousands of dollars from a…



Popularity: 3% [?]

Guillen denies desire to be traded from Royals

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

Guillen denies desire to be traded from Royals
Left fielder Jose Guillen wants out of the Royals pronto, according to a source who spoke to ESPNdeportes.com on condition of anonymity.

Dempster, Cubs take 3rd straight from Brewers
Visit ESPN.com for the complete story.

Utley homers again as Phils beat Nats, take first
Visit ESPN.com for the complete story.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Leclaire gets 3-year deal with Blue Jackets

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

Leclaire gets 3-year deal with Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets re-signed restricted free agent goalie Pascal Leclaire on Wednesday to a three-year contract through the 2010-11 season. The 25-year-old Leclaire is coming off his best season, going 24-17-6 with a 2.25 goals-against average, .919 save percentage and nine shutouts in 54 games. He ranked second in the NHL in shutouts, seventh in goals-against average and 11th in save percentage.

Wild release veteran Parrish
The Minnesota Wild have waived veteran forward Mark Parrish with three years left on his contract. Minnesota general manager Doug Risebrough says Parrish was simply a victim of the NHL’s salary cap. He was paid $2.5 million last season and would have cost the team a salary cap hit of $2.65 million this season, bringing the Wild about $2.1 million short of the cap. Parrish scored 35 goals in two seasons with Minnesota, including just 16 in 66 games this past season.

Jackets sign G Leclaire to 3-year deal (AP)
The Blue Jackets re-signed restricted free agent goalie Pascal Leclaire on Wednesday to a three-year contract through the 2010-11 season. The 25-year-old Leclaire is coming off his best season, going 24-17-6 with a 2.25 goals-against average, .919 save percentage and nine shutouts in 54 games. He ranked second in the NHL in shutouts, seventh in goals-against average and 11th in save percentage.

NHL free agency roundup: Wings re-sign Filppula
The Red Wings continue to spend freely as they re-signed Stanley Cup star Valtteri Filppula. Check out our free agency roundup.

Wild buy out F Parrish’s contract (AP)

In this Nov. 23, 2007 file photo, Minnesota Wild's Mark Parrish is shown during a NHL hockey game in St. Paul, Minn. The Wild bought out the remaining three years of Parrish's contract on Wednesday, July 20, 2008 bringing an abrupt end to a disappointing return home for the hard-nosed winger.

Mark Parrish’s homecoming didn’t work out. The Minnesota Wild bought out the final three years of the right winger’s contract on Wednesday, ending Parrish’s frustrating return to his hometown market. Parrish cleared waivers and is now an unrestricted free agent. Wild general manager Doug Risebrough said the 31-year-old Parrish became a salary cap casualty because the club got too close to the…



Popularity: 3% [?]

NBA offseason roundup: Bulls keep Deng

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

NBA offseason roundup: Bulls keep Deng
Luol Deng became the latest restricted free agent to sign a monster pact with his current team. Catch up on all the latest deals here.NBA/~4/350868346″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Confident US arrives in China; James practices

The U.S. men’s basketball team is striving to be confident heading into the Beijing Games while avoiding the complacency that has sabotaged it in recent Olympics.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Ex-Razorback gets 15-year prison term (AP)

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

Ex-Razorback gets 15-year prison term (AP)
Elmer Martin Jr., who played on Arkansas’ 1994 NCAA championship basketball team, received a 15-year prison term after pleading guilty to drug charges. Martin pleaded guilty Thursday to delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, possession of drug paraphernalia and misdemeanor marijuana possession, deputy prosecutor David Harris said.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Yanks get Pudge Rodriguez from Tigers

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

Yanks get Pudge Rodriguez from Tigers
The Yanks have found their replacement for Jorge Posada, acquiring Ivan Rodriguez for Kyle Farnsworth. Ken Rosenthal has the latest.

Shoppach’s 5 extra-base hits tie record (AP)

Cleveland Indians' Kelly Shoppach hits a two-run home run off Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Todd Jones in the sixth inning of a baseball game Wednesday, July 30, 2008, in Cleveland.

Kelly Shoppach tied a major league record with five extra-base hits, including a game-tying homer in the ninth, but his Cleveland Indians lost 14-12 to the Detroit Tigers in 13 innings Wednesday night. Shoppach had two homers, three doubles and drove in three runs as the eighth player to get five extra-base hits in a game.


Guillen denies desire to be traded from Royals
Left fielder Jose Guillen wants out of the Royals pronto, according to a source who spoke to ESPNdeportes.com on condition of anonymity.

Marlins drop Mets into 2nd in NL East (AP)

Florida Marlins' Josh Johnson pitches against the New York Mets in the second inning of a baseball game in Miami, Wednesday, July 30, 2008. The Marlins won 7-5, with Johnson getting his first win in almost two years.

Even without Manny Ramirez, the Florida Marlins‘ offense is pretty potent. With talk heating up about Florida trading for Ramirez, the Marlins roughed up Mike Pelfrey and tightened the NL East race by beating the New York Mets 7-5 on Wednesday night. Josh Willingham and Jeremy Hermida, both mentioned as part of a possible deal, had two hits apiece for Florida.



Popularity: 2% [?]

Ex-NBA ref gets 15 months in gambling scandal

Thursday, July 31st, 2008

Ex-NBA ref gets 15 months in gambling scandal
NBA/~4/349598738″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Knicks trade Renaldo Balkman to Denver

The Knicks traded forward Renaldo Balkman to Denver for a second-round pick, guard Taurean Green and forward Bobby Jones, both of whom are expected to be waived.

Confident US arrives in China; James practices

Loaded with star power but wary of complacency, the U.S. Olympic basketball team arrived in China on Monday with a word of caution from coach Mike Krzyzewski.

Bing considering Detroit mayoral run (AP)
Businessman and former NBA great Dave Bing says he’s seriously considering running for mayor of Detroit because of scandals surrounding the incumbent and other problems in the city where he played for most of his Hall-of-Fame career. Bing said Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick’s legal and image troubles, a federal probe into a sludge recycling contract and Detroit’s underachieving public schools, are…

Bobcats, Okafor agree on 6 years, $72M (AP)
The Charlotte Bobcats ended a year of uncertainty with top rebounder and shot blocker Emeka Okafor on Tuesday by coming to terms on a six-year, $72 million deal with the restricted free agent. The move comes a year after Okafor turned down a contract for similar money and assures new coach Larry Brown will have the team’s top inside presence when he begins his record ninth NBA coaching job in the…

Bulls, Deng agree to six-year pact
Restricted free agent forward Luol Deng and the Chicago Bulls have agreed to six-year contract that could be worth as much as $80 million, according to a person within the league who is familiar with the situation. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because an official announcement had not been made Wednesday morning, but was expected later in the day or Thursday. The new deal was reported earlier by the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times and ESPN.NBA/~4/350858575″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Reports: Rockets to acquire Artest in trade
Ron Artest may be joining Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming in Houston.NBA/~4/350050199″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Bobcats give Okafor team-record $72M deal
The Charlotte Bobcats are paying big money to keep top rebounder and shot blocker Emeka Okafor. The Bobcats have come to terms with the restricted free agent on a six-year, $72 million deal, ending a month of negotiations. General manager Rod Higgins confirmed the deal Tuesday, which marks the biggest contract the Bobcats have given a player since they entered the league in the 2004-05 season. ESPN.com first reported late Monday that the two sides were close to an agreement.NBA/~4/349413295″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

NBA offseason roundup: Bulls keep Deng
Luol Deng became the latest restricted free agent to sign a monster pact with his current team. Catch up on all the latest deals here.NBA/~4/350868346″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

76ers add free agent sharpshooter Rush
The Philadelphia 76ers signed free agent guard Kareem Rush on Tuesday to help bolster the team’s 3-point shooting. Terms of the deal were not released. The 6-foot-6, 215-pound Rush has averaged 6.8 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 314 games in five NBA seasons. Last season with the Indiana Pacers, he averaged 8.3 points, a career-best 2.4 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 21.2 minutes per game and shot 39 percent from 3-point range.NBA/~4/349945677″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Popularity: 3% [?]

Pirates put 1B LaRoche on DL

Wednesday, July 30th, 2008

Pirates put 1B LaRoche on DL
The Pittsburgh Pirates put first baseman Adam LaRoche on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday because of a strained muscle in his ribcage and called up infielder Brian Bixler from Triple-A Indianapolis.

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/350280070″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Pedro returns to Mets after father’s funeral in D.R.
Pedro Martinez was greeted with hugs and handshakes from teammates and manager Jerry Manuel in the New York Mets clubhouse Tuesday when he returned from the Dominican Republic after attending his father’s funeral.

Offense explodes as Yanks avoid home sweep

Yanks get Pudge Rodriguez from Tigers
The Yanks have found their replacement for Jorge Posada, acquiring Ivan Rodriguez for Kyle Farnsworth. Ken Rosenthal has the latest.

Deal temporarily saves part of Tiger Stadium
A portion of Tiger Stadium will remain standing until at least next spring after a tentative deal was reached Tuesday to stave off complete demolition.

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/349863058″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Phils put Feliz on DL, recall Happ to replace Eaton
The Phillies put Pedro Feliz on the DL and recalled left-hander J.A. Happ from Triple-A.

Lee doubles in go-ahead run in ninth in Cubs‘ win
Derrek Lee doubled with one out in the ninth to score Alfonso Soriano and the Chicago Cubs rallied to beat the Milwaukee Brewers 6-4 on Monday night to take a two-game lead in the NL Central.

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/349491493″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Popularity: 2% [?]

Ron Artest to be traded to Rockets by Kings for Jackson, another player

Wednesday, July 30th, 2008

Ron Artest to be traded to Rockets by Kings for Jackson, another player

The Houston Rockets are close to an agreement to acquire Ron Artest from the Sacramento Kings, two people familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Angels add power, nab Teixeira from Braves

Wednesday, July 30th, 2008

Angels add power, nab Teixeira from Braves
A big offensive boost is headed Anaheim’s way. The Angels acquired slugger Mark Teixeira from the Braves on Tuesday.

Davis perfect for 6 2-3 in Arizona’s win (AP)

Arizona Diamondbacks' Doug Davis, right, congratulates Tony Clark, left, after Clark scored on an RBI single hit by the Diamondbacks' Alex Romero in the sixth inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres Tuesday, July 29, 2008 in San Diego. The Diamondbacks won 3-0.

With all that Doug Davis has been through this year, a perfect game would have been quite a bonus. Davis, who underwent surgery for cancer this season, was untouchable before allowing Brian Giles’ two-out single in the seventh inning of the Arizona Diamondbacks‘ 3-0 win over the San Diego Padres on Tuesday night.


Kotchman, Hunter homer as Angels beat Red Sox
Casey Kotchman and Torii Hunter homered in a six-run sixth inning and the Los Angeles Angels improved baseball’s best record …

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/349049043″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

What a relief: No deals are necessary for some contenders
As teams scramble to fill a perpetual need for relief pitching before Thursday’s non-waiver trade deadline, some contenders have …

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/349049042″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Morneau helps Twins rally to beat White Sox 6-5
Justin Morneau’s bases-clearing double capped a five-run fifth inning and helped the Twins rally from four runs down to beat …

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/350134408″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Mets‘ Maine has mild rotator cuff strain
New York Mets pitcher John Maine was diagnosed Tuesday with a mild strain in his right rotator cuff, and it’s uncertain whether he will make his next scheduled start. Maine came out of Monday night’s game at Florida after 4 1-3 innings because of pain in the back of his pitching shoulder. He returned to New York for an MRI exam, and he’ll rejoin the Mets when they arrive in Houston for a series that begins Friday. Maine’s next scheduled start is Sunday against the Astros. He is 9-7 with a 4.

Posada to have season-ending shoulder surgery
Jorge Posada will have season-ending surgery on his right shoulder, ending his attempt to return to the New York Yankees‘ lineup …

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/348937909″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Myers pitches Phillies past Nats 2-1 (AP)

Karl Rove, former White House adviser, watches a baseball game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Washington Nationals, Tuesday, July 29, 2008 in Washington. The Phillies won 2-1.

Seven shutout innings, spotting his fastball right where he wanted to, even pretending to argue with his manager when it was time to leave — it’s been a while since Philadelphia’s Brett Myers had such a good time on the mound. Facing the Washington Nationals will do that for a pitcher. Myers won for the first time since May, Chase Utley backed him with a two-run homer, and the Phillies beat the…


Angels make splash in trade market by landing Teixeira
The Los Angeles Angels, who already have the biggest lead in baseball, acquired power-hitting first baseman Mark Teixeira from …

MlbAl-TopStories/~4/349874853″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Ichiro reaches 3,000 hits in US, Japan (AP)
Ichiro Suzuki reached 3,000 combined hits in the major leagues and the Japanese League with a first-inning single Tuesday night against the Texas Rangers. The Seattle Mariners leadoff man hit a soft liner to left-center on the game’s first pitch from Luis Mendoza. Standing on first base, Suzuki received an ovation from the Texas crowd and tipped his helmet when his achievement was posted on the…

Popularity: 3% [?]

Zambrano dominant as Cubs beat Brewers (AP)

Wednesday, July 30th, 2008

Zambrano dominant as Cubs beat Brewers (AP)

Chicago Cubs' Carlos Zambrano pitches during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday, July 29, 2008, in Milwaukee.

Carlos Zambrano figured he’d have to be perfect against fellow ace Ben Sheets. The big right-hander often is when facing the Brewers. Zambrano outpitched Sheets again, and the Chicago Cubs scored five runs in the sixth inning to beat Milwaukee 7-1 on Tuesday night, assuring they’ll leave town leading the NL Central.


Jays 3B Rolen out for shoulder rehab (AP)
Scott Rolen plans to skip some games and cut back on his batting practice while undergoing an “extensive” rehab program for his surgically repaired left shoulder. “I’ve been having some shoulder trouble, some problems with it,” Rolen said. “Not strength, not flexibility, not surgery. Nothing like that.

Finger fracture lands Rockies‘ Podsednik on DL
The Rockies have put outfielder Scott Podsednik on the 15-day disabled list because of a non-displaced fracture of his left pinkie.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Warriors give Biedrins 6-year, $62M deal

Wednesday, July 30th, 2008

Warriors give Biedrins 6-year, $62M deal
The Golden State Warriors re-signed center Andris Biedrins to a six-year contract worth more than $62 million Monday, retaining another restricted free agent and possibly capping a tumultuous month for the club. Biedrins averaged career-highs with 10.5 points and 9.8 rebounds with the Warriors last season, his fourth with the club that drafted him with the 11th overall pick in 2004. He also led the NBA in field-goal percentage, making 62.6 percent of his shots.NBA/~4/348860060″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Team USA looks committed to winning gold
Team USA has the pieces in place to win gold. Randy Hill says it’d be nice, but doubts the long-term prospects of domestic hoops.NBA/~4/348553643″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Yao held to 14, China falls to Australia (AP)
Yao Ming was held to 14 points and the rest of China’s team was overwhelmed by dogged Australia defense in a 67-55 loss Wednesday in a pre-Olympic warmup. The Houston Rockets center was 5-for-8 from the field in 30 minutes. Yao had few touches as Australia forcing 25 turnovers. “We have a lot to improve on in a short time, but we will do our best,” Yao said.

Knicks trade Renaldo Balkman to Denver

The Knicks traded forward Renaldo Balkman to Denver for a second-round pick, guard Taurean Green and forward Bobby Jones, both of whom are expected to be waived.

NBA Notebook: Donaghy associates sentenced in scandal

Two former high school classmates of disgraced NBA referee Tim Donaghy were both sentenced to more than a year in prison Thursday for their roles in a betting scandal that embarrassed the league.

Bobcats, Okafor agree on 6 years, $72M (AP)
The Charlotte Bobcats ended a year of uncertainty with top rebounder and shot blocker Emeka Okafor on Tuesday by coming to terms on a six-year, $72 million deal with the restricted free agent. The move comes a year after Okafor turned down a contract for similar money and assures new coach Larry Brown will have the team’s top inside presence when he begins his record ninth NBA coaching job in the…

Hawks sign sixth-man Evans
The Hawks completed their deal with Maurice Evans on Tuesday, locking up a replacement for sixth-man Josh Childress. The 6-foot-5 Evans started 47 times for the Orlando Magic last season and averaged a career-high 9.3 points. He was quickly targeted by Atlanta after Childress, a restricted free agent, stunned Atlanta last week by signing with Greek powerhouse Olympiakos.NBA/~4/349874615″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Rockets close to acquiring Artest (AP)

In this Dec. 8, 2007 file photo, Sacramento Kings forward Ron Artest warms up before facing the Denver Nuggets in the first quarter of an NBA basketball game in Denver. The Houston Rockets are close to an agreement to acquire Artest from the Kings, two people familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press Tuesday, July 29, 2008.

The Houston Rockets are close to an agreement to acquire Ron Artest from the Sacramento Kings, two people familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. The Rockets will give up guard Bobby Jackson, who played for the Kings from 2000-05, and another player — likely rookie forward Donte Greene, according to two NBA people who confirmed the deal, but spoke on condition of anonymity…


Confident US arrives in China; James practices

Loaded with star power but wary of complacency, the U.S. Olympic basketball team arrived in China on Monday with a word of caution from coach Mike Krzyzewski.

Ron Artest to be traded to Rockets by Kings for Jackson, another player

The Houston Rockets are close to an agreement to acquire Ron Artest from the Sacramento Kings, two people familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Stamkos signs contract with Lightning

Wednesday, July 30th, 2008

Stamkos signs contract with Lightning
Steven Stamkos can hardly wait to get started for the Tampa Bay Lightning. The No. 1 pick in the NHL draft, already penciled in as the team’s second-line center, signed a three-year, $2.625 million contract that could be worth up to $11.175 million with incentives. Stamkos relishes the opportunity to give the Lightning an immediate return on its investment, although the 18-year-old player realizes nothing - even a roster spot - will be handed to him in training camp.

Lightning sign top overall pick Stamkos (AP)

Tampa Bay Lightning coach Barry Melrose, right, listens as center Steve Stamkos, who was taken first overall in the 2008 NHL hockey draft, speaks during a news conference in Victoria, British Columbia, on Tuesday, July 29, 2008. Stamkos signed a three-year contract with the team.

Steven Stamkos can hardly wait to get started for the Tampa Bay Lightning. The No. 1 pick in the NHL draft, already penciled in as the team’s second-line center, signed a three-year, $2.625 million contract that could be worth up to $11.175 million with incentives. Stamkos relishes the opportunity to give the Lightning an immediate return on its investment, although the 18-year-old player realizes…


Wild release veteran F Parrish (AP)
The Minnesota Wild have waived veteran forward Mark Parrish with three years left on his contract. Minnesota general manager Doug Risebrough says Parrish was simply a victim of the NHL’s salary cap. He was paid $2.5 million last season and would have cost the team a salary cap hit of $2.65 million this season, bringing the Wild about $2.1 million short of the cap.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Yankees’ Milton takes next step, throws 35 pitches

Wednesday, July 30th, 2008

Yankees‘ Milton takes next step, throws 35 pitches
New York Yankees left-hander Eric Milton took another step in his comeback from elbow surgery by throwing 35 pitches Tuesday in his first simulated game.

Cardinals hand closer’s role back to Isringhausen
The St. Louis Cardinals have decided it is time to return the closer’s role to Jason Isringhausen, who has been languishing as a middle reliever after an early-season slump and a trip to the disabled list.

Wojciechowski: Postseason preview in Milwaukee
Green Bay says it wants its best team on the field. If that were true, Brett Favre would compete for the starting QB job.

Davis nearly perfect as D-backs blank Padres
Visit ESPN.com for the complete story.

Popularity: 2% [?]

O’s hold off Yankees, win third straight (AP)

Wednesday, July 30th, 2008

O’s hold off Yankees, win third straight (AP)

New York Yankees' Robinson Cano sits at the edge of the infield grass at the end of the eighth inning after the Yankees stranded two runners against the Baltimore Orioles in a baseball game Tuesday, July 29, 2008, at Yankee Stadium in New York. The Orioles won 7-6.

Daniel Cabrera loves pitching at Yankee Stadium, and he’s having a good time no matter where he sees the Bronx Bombers these days. Cabrera pitched into the eighth inning before being ejected, Aubrey Huff had four RBIs and the Baltimore Orioles held off the New York Yankees 7-6 Tuesday night for their third straight win.


Ichiro reaches 3,000 hits in US, Japan (AP)
Ichiro Suzuki reached 3,000 combined hits in the major leagues and the Japanese League with a first-inning single Tuesday night against the Texas Rangers. The Seattle Mariners leadoff man hit a soft liner to left-center on the game’s first pitch from Luis Mendoza. Standing on first base, Suzuki received an ovation from the Texas crowd and tipped his helmet when his achievement was posted on the…

Mets‘ Maine has mild rotator cuff strain
New York Mets pitcher John Maine was diagnosed Tuesday with a mild strain in his right rotator cuff, and it’s uncertain whether he will make his next scheduled start. Maine came out of Monday night’s game at Florida after 4 1-3 innings because of pain in the back of his pitching shoulder. He returned to New York for an MRI exam, and he’ll rejoin the Mets when they arrive in Houston for a series that begins Friday. Maine’s next scheduled start is Sunday against the Astros. He is 9-7 with a 4.

Rays’ Garza shuts out Blue Jays (AP)
Roy Halladay has learned the hard way that the Tampa Bay Rays are no longer a pushover. Matt Garza threw a five-hitter for his first career shutout, and the Rays beat Halladay and the Toronto Blue Jays 3-0 on Tuesday night. Eric Hinske hit his 100th career homer and Evan Longoria added a two-run triple as the Rays beat Halladay for the third time in three games this season.

Myers pitches Phillies past Nats 2-1 (AP)

Karl Rove, former White House adviser, watches a baseball game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Washington Nationals, Tuesday, July 29, 2008 in Washington. The Phillies won 2-1.

Seven shutout innings, spotting his fastball right where he wanted to, even pretending to argue with his manager when it was time to leave — it’s been a while since Philadelphia’s Brett Myers had such a good time on the mound. Facing the Washington Nationals will do that for a pitcher. Myers won for the first time since May, Chase Utley backed him with a two-run homer, and the Phillies beat the…


Zambrano dominant as Cubs beat Brewers (AP)

Chicago Cubs' Carlos Zambrano pitches during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday, July 29, 2008, in Milwaukee.

Carlos Zambrano figured he’d have to be perfect against fellow ace Ben Sheets. The big right-hander often is when facing the Brewers. Zambrano outpitched Sheets again, and the Chicago Cubs scored five runs in the sixth inning to beat Milwaukee 7-1 on Tuesday night, assuring they’ll leave town leading the NL Central.


Angels acquire 1B Teixeira from Braves (AP)

In these 2008 file photos, Los Angeles Angels first baseman Casey Kotchman and Atlanta Braves first baseman Mark Teixeira are seen. The Angels acquired Teixeira on Tuesday, July 29, 2008, in return for Kotchman and minor league pitcher Steve Marek. (AP Photos/File)

Mark Teixeira sure is a popular player at the trade deadline. A year ago he was acquired by the Atlanta Braves, who hoped the slugging first baseman could lead them back to the playoffs. That didn’t work out, so Teixeira is on the move again — this time to a team that almost surely will get him to the postseason for the first time in his career.


Lackey loses no-hitter in 9th; Angels top BoSox

Davis perfect for 6 2-3 in Arizona’s win (AP)

Arizona Diamondbacks' Doug Davis, right, congratulates Tony Clark, left, after Clark scored on an RBI single hit by the Diamondbacks' Alex Romero in the sixth inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres Tuesday, July 29, 2008 in San Diego. The Diamondbacks won 3-0.

With all that Doug Davis has been through this year, a perfect game would have been quite a bonus. Davis, who underwent surgery for cancer this season, was untouchable before allowing Brian Giles’ two-out single in the seventh inning of the Arizona Diamondbacks‘ 3-0 win over the San Diego Padres on Tuesday night.



Popularity: 3% [?]

NY Judge Sentences Disgraced NBA Ref

Wednesday, July 30th, 2008

NY Judge Sentences Disgraced NBA Ref

Former NBA referee Tim Donaghy was sentenced to 15 months in prison Tuesday for setting off a gambling scandal that tarnished the league’s reputation and raised questions about the integrity of its officiating.

Reports: Rockets set to acquire Artest
Ron Artest may be heading to Houston soon. The Rockets have agreed to a deal with the Kings, according to multiple reports.NBA/~4/350073017″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Bobcats, Okafor agree on 6 years, $72M (AP)
The Charlotte Bobcats ended a year of uncertainty with top rebounder and shot blocker Emeka Okafor on Tuesday by coming to terms on a six-year, $72 million deal with the restricted free agent. The move comes a year after Okafor turned down a contract for similar money and assures new coach Larry Brown will have the team’s top inside presence when he begins his record ninth NBA coaching job in the…

Warriors ink Monta Ellis to $66M contract

Point guard Monta Ellis re-signed Thursday for six years and $66 million US. Explosive point guard Monta Ellis re-signed Thursday with the Golden State Warriors for six years and $66 million US on Thursday.

Hawks sign Evans to fill Childress’ spot (AP)
The Hawks completed their deal with Maurice Evans on Tuesday, locking up a replacement for sixth-man Josh Childress. The 6-foot-5 Evans started 47 times for the Orlando Magic last season and averaged a career-high 9.3 points. He was quickly targeted by Atlanta after Childress, a restricted free agent, stunned Atlanta last week by signing with Greek powerhouse Olympiakos.

Bobcats, Okafor agree on 6-year deal worth $72M

YAHOO! Story published at magicvalley.com on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 Last modified on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 4:45 PM MDT In this Jan.

76ers sign free agent G Rush (AP)
The Philadelphia 76ers signed free agent guard Kareem Rush on Tuesday to help bolster the team’s 3-point shooting. Terms of the deal were not released. The 6-foot-6, 215-pound Rush has averaged 6.8 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 314 games in five NBA seasons. Last season with the Indiana Pacers, he averaged 8.3 points, a career-best 2.4 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 21.2 minutes per game and…

Reports: Rockets to acquire Artest in trade
Ron Artest may be joining Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming in Houston.NBA/~4/350050199″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

AP source: Hawks near deal for Maurice Evans

Looking to fill the void left when Josh Childress bolted for Greece, the Atlanta Hawks are close to completing a deal with free agent Maurice Evans.

A person within the league, speaking on condition of anonymity because the contract had not been completed, told The Associated Press on Sunday a deal could be signed by midweek.

Evans started 47 times for the Magic last season and averaged a career-high 9.3 points. He would fill the sixth-man role left by Childress, a restricted free agent who stunned the Hawks last week by signing with Greek powerhouse Olympiakos. The Hawks would be Evans’ sixth team in seven NBA seasons.

Donaghy scandal could ultimately benefit NBA
The Tim Donaghy saga won’t end at Tuesday’s prison sentence. But Randy Hill says the scandal could actually help the NBA.NBA/~4/349763769″ height=”1″ width=”1″/>

Popularity: 3% [?]