Chickens on the Run

Roy Oswalt

2012-01-26T10:14:00.000-06:00

OK, so let's talk about Roy Oswalt. The Rangers are going to sign him and he would fit in the rotation just right. And should the Rangers (actually, they will) sign him, that is a message that the Rangers want to get back to the World Series for a third straight year.

Can you imagine a lineup with Hamilton, Cruz, Beltre, Kinsler, Young, and Fielder? Can you imagine a rotation with Darvish, Feliz, Lewis, and Oswalt?

And then there is Joe Nathan closing the door. Of course, Feliz could be doing that, with Nathan being a set up guy for him. Or the other way around, Feliz setting up for Nathan. But if Nathan is closing, look for Feliz to start, as I don't see Feliz being a set-up guy. I'm sure he would if he was told to, I just don't see it happening on a everyday or two basis.

The Lineup as I see it right now:

C Mike Napoli
1B Mitch Moreland
(Prince Fielder would take his spot)
2B Ian Kinsler
SS Elvis Andrus
3B Adrian Beltre
OF Josh Hamilton
OF Nelson Cruz
OF Julio Borbon
(although Leonys Martin, could take his spot in the lineup somewhere along the way)
DH Michael Young

Pitching Rotation:

SP Yu Darvish
SP Colby Lewis
SP Neftali Feliz
SP Derek Holland
SP Alexi Ogando/Matt Harrison/Scott Feldman
CP Joe Nathan

I think Ogando should be the #5 guy and when Oswalt signs, the Rotation would drop Holland into a competition with Ogando and Harrison and Feldman would essentially be given the long relief role instead of any real chance of a starting spot, which is probably best for the team anyway. I like Harrison and Feldman in the relief roles, personally, and Ogando can go either way for me. He flourished last season in the starting spot and I would like to see him given the opportunity to do that again.

Free Agents Worthy of Note

2012-01-21T15:35:00.000-06:00

Jon Garland is still available and could make for an interesting argument for a starting spot. He did well with the White Sox, however, hasn't done terribly awesome since. His last full year, he did manage a 14-12 record, which would be nice for a #5 guy (hint, hint), but he could be a project as he only started 9 games last season. Still some say he is mediocre at this point in his career and maybe he is, but as a #5 guy in the rotation, he could be a good buy. Does he fit the Rangers needs? I don't think so. The Rangers have too much talent and depth to call for a Garland signing.Prince Fielder is a possible for first base with the Rangers. Concerns do range that the Rangers wouldn't be able to sign both Darvish and Fielder and another concern is keeping both Hamilton and Fielder. Losing Hamilton in place of Fielder would be a mistake, but that is my opinion. I see Hamilton as a better fielder (no pun intended, OK, maybe a little) and has just as good a bat, if not better. What intrigues me is what Fielder could do with his bat at Arlington. He collected 38 homeruns this last season, and that number would be sure to go up in a Ranger uniform. Does he fit? Yes. Does it make financial sense? Yes and no. Yes, he would be worth the money, but not if it dictates Hamilton being sent away.Francisco Cordero is a free agent right now. It would be nice to see him back in a Rangers uniform, maybe as a set-up guy to whomever we have closing games. Likely? No. Pipe dream? Most definitely.Luis Ayala is a free agent from the Yankees organization and what a good pick he would be... he posted a 2.09 ERA during the regular season and got some postseason action. He's been in five organizations over the past four seasons, so he has seen some travel time. Would he fit? I don't know. He's been shaky over the previous two seasons of workJamey Wright and Chris Young are also free agents this off-season. Wright is a relief guy that has good stuff. I wouldn't call him a bust if the Rangers sign him, but there are other guys out there with better numbers than Wright currently available. Chris Young, well, a good starter with good numbers and he's a hometown guy. This would definitely be a good nod by ownership should the Rangers sign this guy. Concerns would be that Young only started four games last season... heck, he only played in four games, all of them starts. Shortly after the start of the season, Young sustained an arm injury which forced him to miss the remainder of the 2011 season.

Yu Darvish

2012-01-21T11:13:00.001-06:00

I like Yu Darvish. I also like that we got him for six years averaging 10 a year. I'll take that. I also like that we have the possible $$$ to still go after Fielder. It's unlikely to get both Darvish and Fielder, but I like having pipe dreams. And if anyone would have told me five years ago that we would have been to the series TWO years straight, I would've called them partly crazy and would have hugged them all at the same time. I like that kind of thinking. I believe that we can get back there again, and win, especially should we sign Fielder to a contract for some first base action. Can you think what his boom-stick would do for the Rangers lineup? Hamilton, Beltre, and Fielder? Wow.

Darvish had thrown for a sub 2.00 ERA for his last five seasons, despite not grabbing 20 wins in any of those years. He did go 18-6 this last year and gives the Rangers a real chance at a Cy Young winner, for several reasons.

#1: No major leaguer has faced him, with a small exception of Japanese players
#2: He's good.
#3: He has success backing him up.
#4: He's young, to boot.

It all spells out that this should be fun to watch.

CJ Wilson

2011-12-16T12:41:00.003-06:00

OK, I have to say something about the Angels. They signed CJ Wilson. And to be honest, I am not surprised by it. CJ wanted to go there. Even a blind man could have seen that coming. It is sad to see him go. It really is, but with all that being said, the contract they gave him was too much. It was more than what the market really called for Wilson, whom in my mind, still hasn't proved himself to be a solid #1 pitcher in a rotation. It hurts to say it, but it is true.

Anyway, I am back to posting here again. I will make an effort to post several times a week, not daily, although I will more than likely do that during the baseball season with some spurts of not posting, as that has been my habit. I will probably not post so many pictures, as they take a lot of time to do and my other activities have been taking precedence over the lagging period since my last post.

Getcha Some

2011-10-25T07:16:00.003-05:00

Let's finish this thing :-)

Giants: Dallas Still Dangerous

2010-10-22T16:04:00.000-05:00

I just read that the Giants are worried about the Cowboys, although, I don't know why. Every time the Cowboys take the field, their biggest opponent does at the same time. They are their biggest enemy. They beat themselves week after week, where it be a missed field goal which should be money, or a penalty that adds ten yards, plus negating the touchdown they would've scored on the play... they create ways to lose. I don't know if I am going to give an official posting of the prediction of the game, if anything, I can simply save myself the trouble and say that if the Cowboys do not turn it over and keep the penalties to minimum, they will win. Do I think they will? Not a chance.

Forecast: Giants win this one, 31-21.

ALCS Game 5: Texas Rangers (3-1) at NY Yankees (1-3)

2010-10-20T15:00:00.000-05:00

This is more like a series of thoughts, as I can do the glam and bam that I like to do for each post. Still, I mentioned this on facebook, that the Rangers are 5-0 this postseason on the road. They are 1-3 at home and 1-2 in clinching opportunities. C.J. Wilson started the last game the Rangers lost. Wow, talk about some negative mojo! OK, OK, ok... I would love the Rangers to clinch at home, but you know what? It's OK to clinch on the road, too. Normally, my gut gives off the vibes as to what this Rangers team will do, and it is freakishly accurate. I don't normally post what my gut says, in a lot ways, I try to convince myself otherwise if I don't like what my gut says, but here's the thing, I got nothing on this game. I can't say that the Rangers will win or lose, I think about Wilson and Sabathia, and I come up empty. I like how the Rangers played CC in game 1, but can we expect the same show today? I don't think so. Can we expect what Wilson did to the Stankees? I think so, as the Stanks have really been off in this series and there is no reason to expect them to just suddenly come alive, although the motivation is there for them, its win or call it an off-season for them. Nothing like no more paycheck to keep you motivated. To keep in the customary fashion, I will give my forecast, but I really am just pulling from my hindquarters, you know. Forecast: Yankees late 5-4, no, no, let's say Rangers chase Sabathia early, pound tired bullpen. That actually makes sense. Their bullpen is gassed out, Sabathia would have to pitch seven solid to give them a chance... If the Rangers chase him early, even six innings, they have this game and the series. Hamilton has punched the clock four times in this series and Molina is playing like some sort of MVP. If Vlad finally finds his groove, then GAME OVER. I will say the Rangers over the Yanks 6-2.

Magic Number

2010-10-20T13:09:00.000-05:00

Even Jones Realizes Cowboys Running Out of Time

2010-10-19T16:50:00.000-05:00

By JAIME ARON - AP Pro Football Writer

Say this about the Dallas Cowboys — they're consistent.

For the fourth Monday this season, they talked about needing to stop making stupid penalties, pointed out things they're doing well despite losing and vowed to keep fighting to turn things around.

The only thing missing was the disclaimer there's still plenty of time left.

At 1-4, even ever-optimistic owner Jerry Jones realizes how long the comeback trail is getting.

Receiver Miles Austin was the latest player to point an incriminating finger at himself. He said repeatedly he feels awful for drawing a celebration penalty by leapfrogging a teammate in the end zone against Minnesota on Sunday. It came a week after a similar violation fueled another close loss.

Clff Lee 'Cheating' Controversy

2010-10-19T16:32:00.000-05:00

(AP) -- Cliff Lee has pitched so well in the postseason, some fans started wondering whether he doctors the ball.

The Texas Rangers ace had a white patch on the back of his weathered cap during the division series against Tampa Bay and it became a topic on sports-talk radio in New York last week.

Lee, scheduled to start Game 3 of the AL championship series Monday night against the Yankees, assured reporters that it's simply resin on his hat, which is perfectly legal.

The left-hander had a sense of humor about the commotion, too.

"It definitely makes me way better. I know that much. Without that hat, I don't know if I could do it,'' Lee deadpanned. "I go to the resin bag quite a bit. I touch my hat in the same place over and over. And it just accumulates. I couldn't pitch without it for sure.''

New York manager Joe Girardi said Lee's cap is not a concern.

"It's resin. It's available to everybody,'' Girardi said. "I haven't seen it to be a problem.''

Hook 'em Horns Drew Flag for Cowboys, Not Leapfrog

2010-10-19T16:25:00.000-05:00

The touchdown-celebration penalty the Dallas Cowboys received Sunday wasn't for Miles Austin leapfrogging Roy Williams in the end zone,

It was against receiver Sam Hurd for flashing a University of Texas "Hook 'em Horns" hand gesture along with Williams. That's what Carl Johnson, the league's vice president of officiating, told Cowboys coach Wade Phillips on Monday.

Austin was announced as being guilty during Dallas' 24-21 loss to Minnesota. Phillips said an official on the sideline also told him it was Austin's fault.

The bigger issue for the Cowboys is that this was the second straight week they've been flagged for an excessive celebration. Phillips said players were told Monday not to do anything except head for the sideline.

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Roy E. Williams (11) celebrates after scoring a touchdown as teammate Miles Austin jumps over him during the first quarter of their NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Oct. 17, 2010, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Andy King)

ALCS Game 4: Texas Rangers (2-1) at NY Yankees (1-2)

2010-10-19T14:47:00.000-05:00

So, is it possible to have Lee start the rest of the series? That was a phenomenal performance by Lee in Game 3! One walk in three starts while striking out a gazillion! And what is strange is that there is a Top 50 list I just read that ranks pitchers that you would want to start a game seven and you want to know where Cliff Lee was at on the list, which included Cole Hamels (#44), Roy Oswalt (#26), Roy Halladay (#34) and Andy Pettitte (#5)? If you said he didn't make the list, you would be correct. I mean, Cole Hamels is clearly better than Cliff Lee, right? And it was Andy Pettitte clearly had a better game than Lee yesterday... OK, I will say that Lee is entering his prime in his career, whereas Pettitte is nearing the pasture time of his career, but I would take Lee over Pettitte, given the option of who I would want at the prime of their careers. In fact, I would take Nolan Ryan in his prime over either of those two. That aside, Hamels ranking higher than Cliff Lee? I'll give bones on Halladay, Oswalt (maybe), and even Pettitte, but Hamels? Come on, who wrote that crap?!

Tommy Hunter goes up against AJ Burnett... let's look at some cool numbers first. The Yankees are surprisingly cold, scoring a total of 8 runs in the series. The Rangers scored 8 runs yesterday! That's 2.7 runs per game whereas the Rangers are averaging 6.7 runs per game. To put that into perspective, the Rangers are putting up solid numbers against the quality pitchers the Yankees are sending out. And AJ Burnett is considered the weakest starter for the Yankees in the postseason rotation. Hunter is also the weakest starter for the Rangers.

Hunter last started on October 10th, taking the loss on game four in the ALDS to the Rays, pitching four innings and giving up three runs, two earned. The Rangers committed two errors in that game. Also, Hunter fanned seven and gave up six hits and didn't walk anyone. I wonder if this will be a tag team of Hunter and Holland like it was in that game (just a curious thought). I should also not that with Feliz pitching the final inning of game three, Neftali will be watched closely if he is used today (and he may not even be called upon, but if it is close, you almost expect him to be called upon to pitch, otherwise, what is the point of bringing him into game 3 at all).

Hunter also finished the regular season with a 13-4 record, with only 22 starts. Could you imagine if he pitched the entire season? An easy 17 game winner, I would think, especially when you stop to consider that he had a 3.73 ERA.

A.J. Burnett, well, he finished with a 10-15 record and a 5.26 ERA, the worst numbers of his career. Her also hit 19 batters, tied a career high in HRs given up (25), which are all indications of poor control. That could be the reason he hasn't been called on to pitch thus far this postseason. He hasn't pitched since October 2nd, over two weeks ago. The Rangers worked him over in September, holding him to four innings of work, tagging him only four two runs in the process.

Forecast: First off, I have to post this, as it is a message to the Yankee fans out there...

That's right. No crying in baseball, Yankee fans. Rangers are going to take this one, 6-3. Hunter tosses five innings in this one. Holland gets a couple of innings in there, too, I think and the bullpen holds up.

Dallas Cowboys Update

2010-10-18T20:00:00.004-05:00

By Ryan Cook

Mall of America Field has always been well known for its hostile fans, and although the Dallas Cowboys are more than familiar with this fact following their trip to Minnesota last season, it was evident from the very beginning on Sunday that Tony Romo and Wade Phillips' offense were in for a tough day.

On the scoreboard, Dallas fared quite nicely. The end result was far from impressive for the Cowboys, but as the 21-24 scoreline suggests, the Boys in Blue did give it there all.

But like the Cowboys so clearly knew heading into Week 6's blockbuster matchup, one team was a surefire pick to wind up as the ultimate loser.

Unfortunately for Cowboy fans, their team felt the wrath of Minnesota yet again. Given that the scoreline wasn't as big a blowout as it was back in January, Dallas now find themselves in a 1-4 hole that is looking near impossible to climb out of.

To be perfectly frank here, if the Texas Rangers weren't doing so well in the ALCS against the New York Yankees, we would all be hearing a lot more verbal concern in regards to America's team.

Still, sooner or later, the Cowboys are going to cop the criticism they deserve. While most analysts have already written the Cowboys out of postseason action, many people are yet to criticize Dallas, even though the realistic thought would be to jump on the hate bandwagon as soon as possible.

On the positive side for Jerry Jones, Tony Romo played a decent game. As untimely as his two interceptions were, Romo's 220 yards and three touchdowns acted as one of the sole reasons for the Cowboys potential win chances.

In the coming weeks, the Cowboys face tough tests against the likes of the New York Giants and Green Bay Packers. Both of these games are doable, but with a performance like Sunday Night, the Cowboys aren't exactly winning themselves any favoritism votes right now.

ALDS: Texas Rangers at Tampa Bay Rays (Game 5)

2010-10-12T17:23:00.001-05:00

Wow, I post and the Rangers win. I don't post and the Rangers don't win. I think I have learned my lesson.

Cliff Lee was 4-0 with a 1.56 ERA in five playoff starts for the Phillies last year. He's the only one of the Rangers' four starters with postseason experience. He's 6-5 with a 2.87 ERA in 13 career starts vs. the Rays (3-2 with a 3.86 ERA at Tropicana).

David Price is a career 0-2 against the Rangers in four starts. He's given up a whopping 16 runs in 19.1 innings, giving him a 7.45 ERA against Texas. He's also walked 15 but has fanned 19. At home this year, he is 9-2 in 16 starts with a 1.92 ERA. He only started one game against the Rangers this season, a no decision, and tossed six solid innings giving up two runs.

Postseason for Price hasn't been bad, as he got some work in 2008 in the postseason. He is 1-0, but hasn't started in the postseason. He has five games, totaling 5.2 innings with work against the Phillies and Boston (his win was a World Series victory).

That's what I said going into the first game of the series. I expect pretty much of the same for this game, a tight fight for dominance with the Rangers coming out on top.

Forecast: Rangers win this one in a tighter game that in the first game, expect this to be decided, not by Price, but Lee to get the win with a relief pitcher taking the loss. Score 3-2, Rangers.

Texas Rangers are really Nolan Ryan's team now

2010-10-08T09:00:00.001-05:00

By STEPHEN HAWKINS
AP Sports Writer

Nolan Ryan went to the Texas Rangers planning to pitch one more year to end his Hall of Fame career. That turned into five seasons on the mound, and so much more.

When Ryan finally retired in 1993 after the last two of his seven no-hitters, his 300th victory and 5,000th strikeout — plus that pummeling he gave Robin Ventura — the Rangers no longer were a faceless franchise known for, if anything, inventing ballpark nachos and scoreboard dot races.

"The Rangers gained legitimacy as a major league franchise the day they signed Nolan Ryan, and particularly when he showed that he wasn't washed up," said radio play-by-play man Eric Nadel, part of Texas broadcasts for 32 seasons. "That was crucial in the history of this franchise."

Now with Ryan as their president and part-owner, the Rangers are AL West champions and in the playoffs for only the fourth time.

Ryan never led the Rangers to the postseason as a pitcher, but they built a new ballpark thanks to the goodwill he generated. The added cash flow from that helped lead to three AL West titles from 1996-99, though the New York Yankees beat them in the first round each time on way to World Series titles.

Texas bottomed out again in the 2000s, until the Ryan Express roared in again.

Everything good the Rangers have ever been and everything great they could become — starting with Game 1 of the division series Wednesday at Tampa Bay — all trace back to Ryan.

"When he came here as a player, he brought instant credibility," said Steve Busby, the former Kansas City pitcher with two no-hitters who is part of Rangers broadcasts. "When he came back as president, he brought that same credibility."

Especially since Texas was mired in a string of losing seasons when Ryan became team president in February 2008.

"When I reflect back to how it was in 2008, when I was here and how painful and embarrassing at times it was to sit down there, it's been so much improvement," said Ryan, a regular fixture in the front-row seats by the Rangers dugout. "It doesn't seem like the same situation."

Largely because of the influence of Ryan, whose most significant victory for Texas came in a federal bankruptcy court this summer when his group outbid Dallas Mavericks billionaire owner Mark Cuban in an unusual auction for the team.

Major League Baseball owners quickly and unanimously approved the sale, making Ryan the first Hall of Fame player since Hank Greenberg a half-century ago to be an owner.

"Nolan's inclusion in this group, I would not only say is important, I'd say extremely important, and is very beneficial not only for Major League Baseball but for the Texas Rangers," commissioner Bud Selig said last week in Texas. "Nolan's presence is not to be taken lightly."

Ryan and Chuck Greenberg had an agreement in January to buy the team, but the sale became a drawn-out mess when creditors of former owner Tom Hicks balked at a prepackaged bankruptcy plan.

The Aug. 4 auction came 17 years to the day after Ryan, then a 46-year-old in one of his last games as a pitcher, got the 26-year-old Ventura in a headlock and landed several punches on the youngster who had charged the mound after getting hit.

After his last game, Ryan fulfilled a 10-year personal services contract with Texas while also pursuing profitable ventures in banking, ranching and owning two minor-league baseball franchises. He then spent four years in a similar role in Houston, where he pitched nine seasons.

Hicks enticed him back to revitalize the Rangers, who then had only one winning season since their first three division titles. They are still the only current major league franchise that hasn't won a playoff series.

"Obviously we haven't accomplished that much on the winning side, but I think that we've positioned ourselves to do that," Ryan said. "The organization is probably on better sound footing than it's ever been."

The season attendance of 2.5 million was the highest since 2005 at Rangers Ballpark, where a larger-than-life bronze statue of Ryan is prominent in center field and one of the main roads to get there is Nolan Ryan Expressway.

Ryan made no immediate wholesale changes in 2008, when general manager Jon Daniels was working on a plan to build from a minor league system considered among the best in baseball.

But the former pitcher known for toughness and an unmatched work ethic during his record 27 seasons emphasized pitchers being in better shape to throw longer. That went for youngsters in the low minors to veterans in the major league rotation.

When the postseason became a distinct possibility this summer, Texas had stocked its system with enough talent to use prospects in midseason deals for ace left-hander Cliff Lee, Jorge Cantu and Bengie Molina.

Even with batting champion Josh Hamilton and Vladimir Guerrero in the middle of the lineup, Texas is no longer known only for slugging.

The Rangers led the majors with a .276 average, but the 162 home runs were their lowest total since 1992. They had fewer than 1,000 strikeouts for the first time since 2000.

More telling of Ryan's influence is the team ERA of 3.93, the lowest since 1990. Along with a Rangers-record 1,181 strikeouts.

Texas unseated the Angels, AL West champs five of the last six seasons. Los Angeles manager Mike Scioscia, who as a player faced only seven pitchers more than Ryan, sees the obvious difference the pitcher-turned-president has made for the Rangers.

"A lot of that is down to Nolan's influence on the franchise in everything they do," Scioscia said. "There's definitely been some impact from Nolan on a lot of parts of that team."

___
AP Sports Writers Jaime Aron in Dallas and Greg Beacham in Anaheim, Calif., contributed to this report.

Gameplan vs. Titans: Shut down RB Chris Johnson

2010-10-08T08:30:00.002-05:00

By TERESA M. WALKER
AP Sports Writer

Tennessee running back Chris Johnson's No. 28 might as well be a glowing red bull's eye — at least to defenses.

No NFL defense wants to be gashed by the last player to run for 2,000 yards in a season, and beating Tennessee starts — and stops — with slowing down the speedy Johnson.

It's working so far this season too. The Titans (2-2) have won each of the two games where Johnson ran for more than 100 yards, and both losses came when defenses held him under that mark.

The Dallas Cowboys (1-2) get their turn next on Sunday, and linebacker Keith Brooking says Johnson is the man they must stop for a simple reason: The running back can score anytime he touches the ball.

"We talk all the time about everybody being where they're supposed to be," Brooking said.

"If you got one guy who is not doing what they're supposed to do, a guy like that will absolutely crease you and he's out the gate. When he gets out in the open ... we've got some good athletes in our defense, but there's nobody that's going to catch him."

Johnson likely made himself an even bigger target for defenses when he proclaimed his goals for 2010 included not only topping Eric Dickerson's NFL single season rushing mark of 2,105 yards but 2,500, a number more easily reached by quarterbacks.

Just like the last half of 2009 as Johnson ran for 2,006 yards, defenses through the first four games stacked eight and nine players near the line of scrimmage to contain him. Denver linebacker Robert Ayers said the Broncos keyed on Johnson in their 26-20 win last week with outside linebackers blitzing to keep him contained.

They held him to 53 yards on 19 carries.

"We knew if we could slow him down that it would be good things to happen to us," Ayers said.

Fullback Ahmard Hall said that's what the Titans will keep seeing from defenses year in and year out as long as they have Johnson.

"He knows everybody's keying on him," Hall said. "He has a big target on his back being the best back in the league. It's just going to take patience, and eventually we're going to get it done."

Titans coach Jeff Fisher said defenses aren't necessarily scheming up any new approaches to stop Johnson.

"We're getting a little more edges. We played two odd fronts, 3-4 fronts. You know with the big linebackers up there it's hard to get the ball bounced outside. It will come, I have confidence in our offensive players and our backs and our staff that we'll get it turned around. We still ran for 122 yards," Fisher said.

Brooking noticed six or seven Broncos around the ball at all times last week, and pride is involved.

"Us 11 guys, we're not going to let this guy get out of the gate and off to the races, to beat us on one play."

Dallas coach Wade Phillips also is reminding his Cowboys about making sure to take the right angle if Johnson breaks loose.

"He can change direction really well too for a guy that runs that's fast," Phillips said. "Normally really fast guys run like a track guy where it's one foot in front of the other rather than being able to move from side to side. He runs with his feet a little wider than a normal real fast guy and that enables him to cut faster."

The Associated Press' 2009 NFL Offensive Player of the Year dashed to a 76-yard touchdown in Tennessee's opening win over Oakland, but the Raiders held him to 66 yards on his other 26 carries. A holding penalty erased an 85-yard TD in a 19-11 loss to the Steelers as they limited Johnson to 34 yards on the 16 runs that counted.

He broke loose for 42 yards in a road win in Week 3. But again, the Giants bottled him up with 83 yards on his 31 other rushing attempts.

The Titans aren't backing down either. This is the franchise that runs more per game on average than anyone else in the NFL since 2006.

All that attention is taking a toll. Tennessee now ranks ninth in the NFL averaging 133.3 yards per game after being second in the league last season, and Johnson, the NFL rushing leader over the past two years, now ranks sixth with 354 yards.

Johnson is starting to sound a bit frustrated too, especially after the loss to the Broncos when his longest run was 8 yards, a distance that seems normal for him. He talked of looking for daylight with so many defenders boxing him in.

"We've got to improve. We've got to improve everywhere," Johnson said. "I feel like there's things in the running game we can get better. ... This team's a running team, so they know we're going to run the ball."

The Tennessean is tracking Johnson's pace toward that 2,500 goal on its website. Johnson insists he's not counting himself.

"I just go in the game trying to get a victory and hopefully when I look up (I'll be) close to that goal," Johnson said.

___
AP Sports Writer Jaime Aron contributed to this report from Irving, Texas.

Beware Cowboys After Bye Week in Wade Phillips Era

2010-10-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

By JAIME ARON
AP Pro Football Writer

The Dallas Cowboys are back from their bye week, still in the thick of things.

The Cowboys put themselves at risk of getting left behind by losing their first two games. Yet when they returned to work Monday, their 1-2 record left them only a half-game behind everyone else in the NFC East and 1 1/2 games behind the best record in the NFC.

Any team could seize control over the next month, and the Cowboys are set up as well as anyone.

Their next four games are against teams at or below .500. Three are at home, starting Sunday against Tennessee (2-2).

Plus, there's this tidbit: Dallas has won at least three straight games coming out of its bye every season under coach Wade Phillips.

Dallas Cowboys (1-2) vs. Tennessee Titans (2-2)

2010-10-07T17:00:00.001-05:00

The Cowboys Rank 19th in the NFL on Power Rankings. If the Cowboys are to win more games, then the trio of Felix Jones, Marion Barber, and Tashard Choice need to run the ball better. If they don't, expect Romo's passing rating to fall, as he will start giving up more interceptions.

Cowboys Injury Report:
Tight end Jason Witten (knee) did not practice during the bye week, but did practice on Monday and should fully participate this week. Witten suffered a knee sprain two weeks ago against the Texans.

Lineman Kyle Kosier (knee) also went down against the Texans with a knee sprain, but last week coach Wade Phillips said that Kosier was "iffy" as far as playing this week. However Kosier was at the media portion of Monday's practice and said that he would fully participate this week and play.

Wide Receiver Dez Bryant (hip, ribs) was another Cowboy who didn't practice, dealing with hip and rib injuries, but is expected to practice on Wednesday and play this week. Bryant has played through his injuries, which include a stress fracture in his ribs and a bruised hip.

Linebacker Sean Lee (hamstring) practiced last Wednesday and Thursday and is expected to fully participate in practice this week. If he is able to practice with no pain to his hamstring then he will play this week.

Martellus Bennett (ankle), Mike Jenkins (knee) and Sam Hurd (hip) all are expected to practice and play this week as well.

From one report:
Chicago VS. Carolina
The Bears weren't as good as their 3-0 record, and now they're 3-1 and minus Jay Cutler.

The Panthers are trying to build some consistency behind rookie quarterback Jimmy Clausen, but the Panthers rank dead last in the league in points scored and 30th in total yards.

The Bears still are tough beat up to win this week, though.

Their prediction: Panthers 18, Bears 10

My Prediction: Bears 12, Panthers 6 (a boring, all field goal game)

Also, their thoughts on the Cowboys:
Dallas is 1-2 after the bye week with a victory over the Houston Texans. The Titans are 2-2 after a close loss to the Denver Broncos.

The Cowboys haven't looked right this season, with confusion on the sidelines and coaching mistakes bringing the team down.

A bye week should help the Cowboys fix a lot of the mistakes but the Titans are no pushover, and Jeff Fisher is not going to just roll over and let his team fall under .500 again.

However, Vince Young hasn't exactly lit the place up so far this season and it will be the Titans' 27th ranked offense versus the Cowboys eighth ranked defense.

Sorry, Jeff.

Their Prediction: Cowboys 31, Titans 17
Now... my thoughts. Teams coming off a bye week almost always play better than before the bye. That alone should say the Cowboys are going to win this one, which is my thoughts period. If the Cowboys can change two things they have had trouble with thus far this season, being the running game stinking like a septic tank and having penalties KILL them, really, just changing one of those two things would be reason for celebration. If they change both of those things, then they dominate. Period. The Cowboys defense will control the Titans offense. I don't see them scoring 17 points. I also don't see the Cowboys scoring 31. I think it will be a lower scoring game easily.

My Prediction: Cowboys 20, Titans 13

Chicago Bulls (0-1) at Dallas Mavericks (0-1)

2010-10-07T16:00:00.001-05:00

Ah, Preseason. The Mavericks haven't really played the rotation, but are honestly evaluating who stays and who goes. The Bulls, well, I think they are doing the same. So, who's reserves are better? Who is better off the bench, 'cause that's who will be getting the most time.

And really, why play out this season? Why don't we just give the trophy to Miami and save everybody some time. Anyway, if you think I am bitter, that's because I am.

Forecast: Mavs win this one, I guess, with a score of, let's say, 98-92.

Post-Season Thoughts

2010-10-07T15:21:00.000-05:00

American League Divisional Series:

Yankees over Twins in four games.

Rangers over Rays in five games.

ALCS:

Yankees over Rangers in five games.

National League Divisional Series:

Phillies over Reds in four games.

Giants over Braves in four games.

NLCS:

Giants over Phillies in six games.

World Series:

Yankees over Giants in six games.

Divisional Series Roadblocks: The Rangers' starting pitchers have to be better in the postseason than they were during the regular season, when they ranked 25th overall in quality starts.

Can Cliff Lee out-duel Rays pitcher David Price? He'll have to, against a Rays team that ranks third in the league in runs scored.

ALCS Pitfalls: It would be much of the same for the Rangers in a series against the Twins or Yankees. Minnesota and New York absolutely rake at the plate, and a lack of quality starting pitching is a feast in the eyes of these team's hitters.

In all likelihood, Cliff Lee will have to pitch on two days rest, and give two stellar outings.

World Series Issues: I know it seems redundant—and it is—but pitching is the key to any World Series championship team. Lee and the rest of the Rangers staff will have to step up, or Josh Hamilton better bring the lumber.

I’ve talked extensively this year about the conundrum of Lee still not having a long term gig with anyone, even after being traded to Texas.

But it would make sense for Texas to keep Lee, especially if he does for the Rangers what he did for the Phillies.

Furthermore, fellow flame-thrower Rich Harden has basically been a bust, so there is plenty of room to think that they could ink Lee for two years, drop Harden, and perhaps make a move on FA Jorge De La Rosa.

OK, I admit that the Rockies will make De La Rosa a priority this offseason; but hey, anything can happen.

-Bleacher Report

Quick Picks

2010-10-07T13:38:00.000-05:00

Texas Rangers at Tampa Bay Rays: I like Wilson over Shields. Rangers win it, 7-3.

Atlanta Braves at SF Giants: I don't know, my gut says Braves in the series, but the Giants have a few things going for them. Off the hip, I will say Braves, 4-2.

NY Yankees at Minnesota Twins: I like the Yankees in this series, but the Twins have some moxie, really good on the bases, so they can create runs that wouldn't normally be there. I say Twins even up the series here, 6-4.

Game is starting, gotta go!

ALDS: Texas Rangers at Tampa Bay Rays (Game 1)

2010-10-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Rangers return to the post-season for the first time since 1999 and have pitching that can make them stay in the playoffs for many seasons to come. A couple of things should stay in place, with one of those starting in Game 1 against the Rays.

Forecast: First off, even though we are playing a really tough team in the Tampa Bay Rays, I still pick the Rangers to win this series in four games, and that is taking into account that we haven't done well against the Rays this season and we haven't play well in day games. What I am taking into account, the intangible difference, is this team is healthy and they have a new found zeal in being in the playoffs. The Rays have been there, done that, and I just don't feel the excitement from the Rays that the Rangers have right now. I like the Rangers in this one, and I think this one will be REALLY close, as Price is better than his numbers would suggest. Rangers win it 3-2. Neftali gets the save.

LAAAA Angels (79-82) at Texas Rangers (90-71)

2010-10-03T08:35:00.000-05:00

No pictures today, not really much today. I am going to the game, my fourth in the last week (and yes, it is nice). Colby Lewis (12-13) goes up against Dan Haren (4-4) and it looks to be a good match up, at least when considering the pitchers. I still am not impressed with the Angels hitters right now. Maybe next year they can strike some fear in me, however, today, this season, they are lack-luster. If they didn't have good to great pitching, they would be playing close baseball with the Mariners. That is just my opinion, mind you, but that is really how it is for them this year. And when you consider how things are going for them, they may not even recover next season unless they really compete in the free agent market.

This is the last day of baseball for most teams. The Rays and Yankees may have one more day. And the Giants, Braves, and Padres may have something interesting going on in the National League. A three way tie? I don't want to try to figure that one out, but I would assume the Padres and Giants play for the division title, giving the Wildcard spot to the Braves, based on percentage points, but I am not officially sure that would be the case.

Going back to the Rangers, this game hinges on what Lewis does in his 6+ innings. It really doesn't matter how good the hitters are, as I think they will take care of business and have four runs in the first seven innings. So, lets say Lewis pitches six, if he holds the Angels to two runs (which I think he can do) then it is simply all good for Texas Rangers fans. However, if he folds along the way, the we could be in trouble, but that kind of goes without saying, really.

Hamilton is back in the lineup, all the starters should be used today, so I really think we should expect more than four runs over seven innings... let's say that the forecast looks like this: Texas is hot (duh) and the Rangers win 8-3.

LAAAAAA Angels (78-81) at Texas Rangers (89-70)

2010-10-01T17:05:00.005-05:00

You know, when the Rangers clinched the AL West, a song came to mind, which I have been itching to share...if you aren't into the 'hard rock' style of music, then it probably isn't your flavor then, but all the same, here's the clincher.The Rangers can win out against the Angels to finish with 92 wins, the prediction made by Nolan Ryan before the season started.

I could go into the statistics of why Hunter will do well and Weaver will not... however, all I can say is this. I saw the hitters for the Angels at the game yesterday, and they are not up to snuff. I expect more auditions for the Angels 2011 roster to continue for the rest of the series, with some starters sprinkled in... and that favors the Rangers in a great way. I don't think that made too big a difference yesterday, but today it will, in that the Rangers are getting the starters back into the lineup to fine tune and get a rhythm going into the post-season. Josh Hamilton comes back into the lineup tonight. What does that mean offensively? A great deal. He will still be used sparingly, as I have heard, but he will get at least a couple of at-bats.

Forecast: Rangers win #90 with a score of, I don't know, 5-3 sounds good.

Texas Rangers (82-63) at Seattle Mariners (55-91)

2010-09-17T19:57:00.000-05:00

The Rangers are coming into Seattle with a seven game winning streak, looking to make it eight against the Mariners. Texas will clinch the division on the road, as it is currently 10 games over the A's and the magic number is at 8.

What I like about right now with the Rangers is that they have clinched a winning season. I would also like to note that the Rangers have the worst record among the playoff teams, so they will start off on the road, playing the winner of the East, which is just to close to call if it will be either it will be the Ray's or the Yankees. The Wild Card team will play the Twins and also be on the road, irregardless of whether they have a better record than the Twins, if I understand that correctly.

I don't have too much time to really reflect on this game, but I can't see myself picking the Mariners. The Rangers are hot, Wilson is going for his 15th win and even though he has never pitched this many innings in a major league season, I still like him for this one.

King Felix has a solid 2.39 ERA, but only an 11-11 record.

I will have to say that this could start out a really low scoring game, but being that Hernandez isn't getting run support, he isn't getting the wins that he really should. Tonight will not be any different. Wilson himself has a 3.25 ERA, but the Rangers are really clicking. Look for an 8th straight victory tonight. Magic number to drop to at least 7 games. Prediction: Rangers 5-2, scoring two runs late in the game.

Detroit Tigers (72-73) at Texas Rangers (81-63)

2010-09-15T15:30:00.000-05:00

The A's and Angels both lose, so the magic number is now down to 10...

This song has been stuck on the brain the last couple of days... had to share it.

So, I think the Rangers just might clinch before the series against the A's, but it is still tough to say. One thing is for sure, it will be done on the road, which is a bit of a bummer, as I would truly enjoy going to the 'clinching' game.

So, Colby Lewis against Galarraga. I said yesterday that it was hands down Rangers for this game, but now that I look at it, not so sure. The numbers are good for Galarraga, with one exception: At first glance, I noticed a 4-5 record (indicating not being around all season) and 40 walks (which means if he hasn't pitched too much, those are a lot of free passes). As it is, Galarraga started the season injured and got his first ML action this year in mid-May and has since grabbed down 20 starts and 21 games.

Galarraga has lost his last two starts against the Rangers, allowing eight runs over 14 1-3 innings and receiving two total runs of support. Against Texas, Armando has four starts and a 2-2 record and a 3.95 ERA over 27.1 innings. What is surprising is that the Rangers have 26 hits and 6 walks, giving Galarraga a 1.17 WHIP, which is a good line for a pitcher. The hitters need to take advantage of what Armando gives them tonight, especially since he is averaging 2 walks per start and has given up five walks in a game twice in his last eight starts. In another game, he gave up four walks. I will remind you that he threw a 'one-hitter' on June 3rd, which made a lot of press as he got to one out away from a perfect game against Cleveland before the ump blew a call at first on what should have been the final out, so he can pitch good. He's just not doing that lately and I don't expect him to do anything near a perfect game tonight.

Well, Colby Lewis... he's an awesome pitcher. Here's the thing with Colby... the Rangers are 2-8 in his last 10 starts. And Lewis is 1-7 during that stretch. That is mind boggling to think about. So, he's gone from 9-5 to 10-12 while really not pitching all that bad. There were a couple of games that I think he deserved to lose, particularly against Oakland and Minnesota, but outside of that, he's done a deceint job. With a 20% success rate for the latest number on Lewis, it makes it hard to pick the Rangers in this one.

Forecast: Well, the Rangers are smart when it comes to having a game plan. I think that comes with having Washington as the chief in charge. But the thing that sticks in my mind is the whole 20% on Colby. Colby is 8th in strikeouts in the AL, more than Cliff Lee and more than CJ Wilson, so he will fan them out tonight. Lewis is also 16th in WHIP with a 1.22 WHIP, which shows his control of a game. Has he not been lucky? I think so. Will he be lucky tonight? I want to say yes, I really do, but I honestly don't think it will change much. I am going to go with my mind and against my gut and say Detroit splits this one with a 4-3 score.

Chicago Bears (1-0) at Dallas Cowboys (0-1)

2010-09-14T17:27:00.000-05:00

All I can say is that I would like both teams to win... and, of course, when I was watching that last three seconds of the fourth quarter, I ended up going through a whole mess of emotions that simply cannot be summed up into words. We went from a win to a loss in a matter of seconds... and it was our own fault, which is like salt in the wound. Salt in a gunshot wound. And the wound is self-inflicted...

So, after one game, the stats look as follows:


Tony Romo	282 Yards	66.0%	1 TD - 0 INT
Marian Barber	39 Yards	8 Carries	0 TD
Felix Jones	38 Yards	8 Carries	0 TD
Miles Austin	146 Yards	10 Catches	1 TD
Dez Bryant	56 Yards	8 Catches	0 TD
DeMarcus Ware	6 Tackles	0 FF	1 Sack

What this means is this: Romo is on pace for 4,512 yards (It's possible, and I'll take that), Miles Austin is on pace for 2,336 yards (won't happen), and that the Cowboys have NNNNOOOO rushing game and are trying to trade Choice. Dez Bryant has shown that he has game.

Here are the concerns about the Cowboys:

* 5/13 on third down.

* 12 Penalties for 91 Yards

The 38.5% on third down isn't going to blow teams away and it really won't win you a lot of games. Now, if you are getting 38.5% on third down but averaging two third downs per game, ROCK ON. But with 13 third downs, you gotta convert more than five.

The Cowboys rank second in penalties, with only the Jets being tagged for more (14 for 125 yards). As far as yardage is concerned, there are three teams with more yards penalized (Jets, Bears, Giants). This game could see a LOT of penalties come Sunday. I... can't... wait. There's nothing I love more than litter on the field.

Now, the Bears look like this:


Jay Cutler	372 Yards	65.7%	2 TD - 1 INT
Matt Forte	50 Yards	17 Carries	0 TD
Matt Forte	151 Yards	7 Catches	2 TD
Devin Aromashodu	71 Yards	5 Catches	0 TD
Brian Urlacher	8 Tackles	0 FF	1 Sack
Lance Briggs	10 Tackles	0 FF	1 Deflection

Jay Cutler looked good in that game. He's on pace for close to 6,000 yards, which will not happen. In fact, I honestly expect him to get picked off twice in the game against the Cowboys. Why? I don't know, I just have that weird feeling that it will. I want to say there will be three pickoffs on Cutler Sunday.

Cutler also got sacked four times against the Lions and I don't think the Cowboys will sack Cutler that many, more like two. DeMarcus Ware will be playing, so two seems completely possible. The key to Dallas winning really relies on what happens with containing Matt Forte and making sure Cutler doesn't explode again. Can the 'Boys do it, while Romo stays Romo and plays catch with Austin and Bryant?

Forecast: To answer said question, I think the Cowboys can take care of Forte and Cutler enough. I will even go on to say that Romo will play a good game of catch with Austin, Bryant, and Jason Witten. In fact, if Witten doesn't get more catches Sunday, the Cowboys will be in jeopardy of losing. If Witten grabs six catches, then I think the Cowboys win it hands down. Will Witten catch six? Probably not. Will he catch four? Yes. Is four enough? I think so. Prediction: Cowboys win in a close one and move to 1-1 with a score of 21-17.

Detroit Tigers (72-72) at Texas Rangers (80-63)

2010-09-14T15:27:00.000-05:00

My apologies as I have been away from the blog due to a death in my family, followed by only what I could describe as an extended grieving period. I did stay busy, though, as I have some new ideas on revamping this look a little bit more. I hope you like the changes so far, I do have some more adjustments in mind to make.

Anyway, the Rangers just swept the Yankees, and you can pretty well guess how I feel about that... :-) The magic number is now at twelve games. I would say that the Rangers will clinch the division in Oakland, and my guess would be the first game of that series on September 23rd. I am not sure if Cliff Lee will be pitching on the four days rest the rest of the way as the original plan was for him to do that, but if that is the case, he would end up missing the Oakland series completely, pitching in the last game against the Angels (on the 22nd). Lee's last regular season start would place him on October 1st, which would mean he would be able to start with four days rest on October 6th, which would be game one against someone, with game two the following day. The schedule for the playoffs goes as follows:

Game One of ALDS on October 6th
Game Two on October 7th
Game Three on October 9th
Game Four (if needed) on October 10th
Game Five (If needed) on October 12th

Just a thought to see how this plays out as Lee missing Oakland could pose to be a big deal, not crucial, but you would want him to pitch in that series.

Derek Holland vs. Jeremy Bonderman for tonights game. This is a two game series, with Lewis against Porcello in game two (which, right off the bat, I'm thinking the Rangers take that one). Let's look at this one.
Holland is 3-3 with a 4.31 ERA, but has a 2-0 record and a 2.45 ERA at home. Starting in June, Holland has pitched in four games, three of which were starts. During that time, he is 1-2, winning his last start against Toronto. I will note that he was taken out of a game in which he had the lead and Alexi blew it, giving the loss to Holland, so he could have easily been 2-1 over the same stretch. Looking at his return to the Majors, Holland's ERA is actually better, posting a 4.21 ERA over his last 21.1 innings.

Holland has never pitched against Detroit and has faced only one Tiger, Johnny Damon, who is 0-4 with three strikeouts. Damon went 1-8 against Baltimore with a walk and two runs scored.

This year, Bonderman is 2-5 on the road with a 6.61 ERA. Against the Rangers, it gets worse. He has no record in two starts, but has a 7.36 ERA ERA (that's nine runs in eleven innings), coughing up fifteen hits, two HRs, and three walks. That's a 1.63 WHIP while the Rangers slap him with a .319 batting average. YUCK for him, great for the Rangers. Now, here's a concerning trend, Bonderman has a 2.93 ERA this month, along with a 1-0 record in two starts. Still, that's only two starts, with one of those coming against Kansas City, so you almost can't even count that one... although he did ace out the White Sox, which is very notable. Overall, he has a 5.03 ERA with a 8-9 record.

Digging through things, Bonderman didn't pitch against the Rangers in 2009, and pitched one game in 2008, throwing 4.2 innings giving up two runs off two hits, but walked SEVEN batters in that time. Bonderman somehow managed to get a no-decision in that game, too.

Going back to 2007, Bonderman finally got a decision against the Rangers and not all that surprised, it was a loss. He pitched seven innings, posting a 2.57 ERA, but gave up four runs, two earned. He fanned nine while walking four and giving out seven hits.

Rangers Against Tigers (RAT, for short):

Vlad: 5-26 (.192) against Bonderman, so it would be wise to play him off the bench. One double and three RBIs, it would be good to have a strong bat come off the bench, albeit, a DH.
Michael Young: 8-23 (.348) against Bonderman. He has two HRs and five RBIs.
Cristian Guzman: 6-16 (.375) against Bonderman. He's only played two games over the last week, but there are no notes on an injury that I can find. I would play him, start him, against Bonderman if he is available.
Josh Hamilton: 4-9 (.444) against Bonderman. One HR. Two RBIs. Will he get his groove on tonight? He has numbers to indicate he will...
Ian Kinsler: 4-7 (.571) against Bonderman. A Double. A HR. Four RBIs. Nuf Said.
Julio Borbon: 1-5 against Bonderman. I note him as he has been showing some stick of late, so even though he is .200 against Bonderman, I still expect him to show up.

Forecast: Well, it shouldn't be a surprise that I like the Rangers for this one. The numbers really speak for themselves. The Rangers just about own Bonderman. What I don't understand is how this guy manages to squeek out of the game without taking a loss. He should be 0-2 this year, 0-1 in 2008... etc. against the Rangers. This guy just might be the luckiest pitcher in a Tiger uniform. Despite his awkward luck, I still say he will take the loss, although, it might be decided by the bullpen in a strange turn of events, at least for the Tigers. I like Holland, simply as he has pitched four games in his return, one at home, and has done better than before he went down... So, if Bonderman pitches like Bonderman should and Holland pitches like Holland should, hands down a Ranger win. I don't really expect everything to fall into place, but with considering the intangibles, I still say Rangers win it. Score (on a conservative side) will be 6-4, (but can realistically be more like 9-3, Rangers).

Tom Hicks to Sell Stars

2010-08-19T17:19:00.001-05:00

By CBC Sports

Tom Hicks is on the verge of selling the Dallas Stars and his 50 per cent stake in the American Airlines Center for nearly $300 million US, reports Forbes.

This will allow creditors of Hicks Sports Group to get back close to $200 million, in addition to what they will receive in the sale of the Texas Rangers, according to Forbes.

While there was no mention of a potential buyer, there have been reports that suggest Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, who showed interest in purchasing the Pittsburgh Penguins at one point, would at least make an inquiry into buying the Stars.

Dallas Cowboys (1-1) at San Diego Chargers (1-0)

2010-08-19T17:10:00.002-05:00

I am the person who doesn't care about preseason until the final preseason week. The last game tends to mean a lot more, as it helps set a tone for the regular season. So, I would suspect that the regular season starters would play at least a full quarter this week.


Tony Romo	4,483 Yards	63.1%	26 TD - 9 INT
Marian Barber	932 Yards	214 Carries	7 TD
Felix Jones	685 Yards	116 Carries	3 TD
Miles Austin	1,320 Yards	81 Catches	11 TD
Jason Witten	1,030 Yards	94 Catches	2 TD
DeMarcus Ware	57 Tackles	5 FF	11 Sacks

This is preseason, folks. Wins and Loses don't mean squat, at least, until, you realize that teams who have a winning preseason, will typically go to the postseason, or at least if you having a losing preseason, you don't do the playoffs. Winning in your preseason, doesn't equal playoffs, but losing in the preseason typically means no playoffs for you.

Forecast: What is important in this game is what the starters do... second team is also important, but the main thing is what the first team does, and that is what I would take into account as I give this prediction. I really like the Cowboys to make some noise this year. I expect the first team to be leading when they hand the ball to the second, who should also get some points. I am NOT going to dig into prospects and such right now, as this is preseason, and I am not all that interested. I expect the Cowboys to grab 10 points with Romo at QB, although the reports of the offensive line being, well, offensive. Um, the third and fourth team blew for the Cowboys last week, but they third and fourth team were playing the Raiders second team, so, go figure. Think about that, the Cowboys fourth team wasn't as good as the Raiders second team, whup-de-freakin'-do. Cowboys lead after the first quarter, who really cares after that. Final may look like this: Cowboys 24-20 or Chargers 20-17... who really knows?

Texas Rangers (67-52) at Baltimore Orioles (42-79)

2010-08-19T13:35:00.002-05:00

A family member of mine took her life recently, so I am going to just post what Mike Lipka said on Yahoo! Sports, and give my thoughts at the end. I was planning on posting all the way through this and doing a preview of the weekend games, but honestly, my brain just isn't really able to concentrate right now. I hope you faithful readers understand. Thanks.

By MIKE LIPKA, STATS Writer for Yahoo! Sports

The Baltimore Orioles were solely responsible for the Texas Rangers’ last four-game losing streak, sending the AL West leaders stumbling into the All-Star break with a sweep.

This time, they’d settle for simply extending Texas’ skid, which is at three as the Rangers arrive in Baltimore to begin a four-game series against their former manager Buck Showalter’s Orioles on Thursday night.

The Rangers (67-52) remain comfortably ahead of Los Angeles and Oakland as they chase their first division title since 1999, but they allowed 24 runs while getting swept in a three-game series at Tampa Bay this week.

“You just move on,” manager Ron Washington said. “We’ll be better equipped the next time we see them. Stay tuned.”

Texas first must end a five-game road losing streak and improve its 4-12 record in AL East ballparks this year. The Rangers are 12-21 overall against that division, including 2-4 against the last-place Orioles.

Baltimore (42-79) swept a four-game series in Arlington from July 8-11, which remains the Orioles’ lone road sweep this season.

Showalter, who replaced interim Orioles manager Juan Samuel on Aug. 3, managed Texas from 2003-06 and still lives in Dallas. He said he has always supported the Rangers.

“It’s the first time I won’t be pulling for them, the next four days,” Showalter said. “That’s pretty much the way I look at it. There’s a lot of people I respect over there.”

The Orioles won eight of their first nine games under Showalter, but they’ve dropped four of their last five, including two of three to visiting Seattle this week.

Their problems may continue against Texas’ Colby Lewis, who continues to pitch well despite going 0-4 in his last five starts.

Lewis (9-9, 3.28 ERA) hasn’t won since July 16 at Boston, but poor run support has been the primary reason. The right-hander has a 2.76 ERA and 38 strikeouts in 32 2-3 innings in his last five outings, but the Rangers have scored a total of four runs for him in that stretch.

“You’ve got to roll with the punches,” Lewis said after Saturday’s 3-1 loss to the Red Sox. “If I go out there and give a quality start and keep my team there, we’re one swing away from getting a win.”

Lewis, who spent the last two years pitching in Japan, hasn’t started against the Orioles since June 1, 2003.

Baltimore’s Brian Matusz (4-12, 5.28) would prefer to forget his two starts against Texas this year. He’s 0-1 with an 18.56 ERA in those outings, lasting a total of 5 1-3 innings and surrendering two homers to Vladimir Guerrero.

The rookie left-hander, who hopes to avoid matching teammate Kevin Millwood and Philadelphia’s Roy Oswalt for the major league lead in losses, is 1-0 with a 1.50 ERA in his last two home starts, but he struggled at Tampa Bay on Saturday, giving up five runs in four innings of a 7-3 loss.

It’s unclear if Matusz will have to face Rangers third baseman Michael Young, who has missed Texas’ last two games with a stiff neck.

“Right now it’s kind of a hour by hour kind of thing,” Young said Wednesday. “I get more treatment and it feels better. So I imagine that will continue.”

The Orioles likely won’t avoid major league batting leader Josh Hamilton, who is 11 for 24 with two homers and three doubles against Baltimore this year.

Forecast: I like Lewis over Matusz for several reasons. First, I like Lewis, as noted above, he has indeed pitched well. The Rangers are cold right now, they aren't fielding well and they aren't hitting well, but the pitching is still there. If they can start getting better gloves on the field, which shouldn't be too big a stretch, they should put up some good numbers. I also like Lewis as the Rangers just got swept by a really good team, the Rays. They NEED to come out and play this series well for the fact they need to get the mindset mojo working again. Some teams you simply look at as playing the part of a 'slump-buster' and that really is what Baltimore is going to be for the Rangers right now. Look for a healthy score from the Rangers in the opening, and as I shoot from the hip on this one, lets gander a score of 7-2, Rangers, of course.

Texas Rangers (67-49) at Tampa Bay Rays (71-46)

2010-08-16T17:20:00.000-05:00

The Rangers are playing good ball in spite of themselves. You gotta love that. I mean, they almost can't lose, and they really try hard. They really do. I loved the game yesterday, romping it out to the BoSox, who happens to be on my hate list, but I prefer them over the Yankees. Now, in the AL East, the Rays are my favorite, probably because I am a Ray. Wouldn't it be awesome if my last name was Ranger? Still, how many people do you know that has a baseball team named after them? Not too many. Even if my last name was Yankee, I just don't think I would like them...

Cliff Lee is 2-2 as a Ranger. His starts are beginning to scare me, not in what he does, but in what the Rangers as a batting order do not accomplish, mainly getting some runs on the scoreboard. This guy has pitched his heart out and has only two runs to show for it. YUCK! Lee has an ERA 2.57 this season, but as a Ranger it is 2.97, kinda what that Wilson kid is doing right now. For every walk he gives up, he gives up a HR and has only given up nine walks this year (yes, only nine HR). He's done about what he is doing this season to Tampa Bay, so look for a typically awesome game from Lee.

Price has resembled a piece of wood when it comes to the Rangers. Yes, that is correct, he gets hammered. 14 runs in 13.1 innings typically translates into a 0-2 record, which is what Price sports against Texas. He has fanned 11 while walked 10, so it really is a control issue against the Rangers, and with these numbers, you would think that Texas would be batting more than the .250 average, as I would have guessed it would be more in the .290 to .310 range... so, somehow Price hasn't done as bad as the numbers would indicate.

On a side note, I would think that Cliff Lee would have a great shot at a no-no in this one tonight, but maybe it isn't fair for me to pre-call that one, but it seems everybody else is throwing one, either for or against Tampa Bay this season, so why not Cliff Lee? It could happen.

Forecast: Obviously, I like the Rangers for this one. So much so, that I will predict Tampa Bay getting shutout. And the idea of a no-hitter or perfect game from Cliff Lee? I would say so only if Ian Kinsler is at second base, but he isn't going to be back tonight. Score: 5-0.

Boston Red Sox (66-50) at Texas Rangers (65-48)

2010-08-13T16:44:00.000-05:00

The Rangers come into this show riding on their horse with the third best record in baseball, well the American League. As it is, the Padres and Braves sport better records in the National League. The Yankees and Rays have better records in the American League. So, is fifth in the Majors something to be ashamed about? Nope. I'll take it. Especially when you have starters like Cliff Lee on the staff, not to mention C.J. Wilson, Tommy Hunter, and Colby Lewis.

Tommy Hunter starts this three game set against the Red Sox. Lewis goes against Lester tomorrow, then concludes with Wilson against Matsuzaka. Now, I don't like the Red Sox, but there are worse teams on my radar than the BoSox. I hate me some Yankees and I hate me some Angels, although, with the fall of the halos, I have learned to control my attitude against the lowly Angels.

Basic numbers say the Rangers have this one in the bag, as Beckett has a 6.21 ERA and really hasn't been on target this season. He choked huge in April against Texas, coughing up seven runs in seven innings. His return in late July looked good until he choked again against the Yankees, spitting out seven runs in less than five innings. He has lowered his ERA by a full point since returning.

Tommy Hunter tossed 6.1 innings of shutout baseball to grab his ninth win. He's 9-1 right now with a 3.01 ERA. He pitched against Boston earlier this season, throwing 6.2 innings and gave up two runs on five hits, striking out one. The Rangers are 10-2 when he starts.

Forecast: I said it before and I will say it again, I don't pick against Hunter this year. He's been phenomenal at the very least, but I think the heat and long season are starting to wear him down a little. Just a little, but not enough to think he will do poorly tonight. The real question is 'when is Ian Kinsler coming back?' The offense just hasn't been the same without him. Rangers win this 5-3.

Oakland pours it on late, beats Dallas 17-9

2010-08-13T16:01:00.001-05:00

By JAIME ARON AP Sports Writer

Just in case they didn't already know, the Dallas Cowboys got a reminder of the importance of getting touchdowns whenever they're close.

The Cowboys were within 16 yards of the end zone on four drives against the Oakland Raiders on Thursday night, yet managed only three field goals. It came back to bite them when the Raiders got two touchdowns and a field goal in the final 4:58 for a 17-9 victory.

Dallas (1-1) had snaps from Oakland's 16, 13, 9 and 10 without getting into the end zone. One of those drives was stopped on downs, and the others were settled by David Buehler making kicks of 42, 27 and 28 yards.

Oakland went ahead 10-9 with 2:24 left when first-string kicker Sebastian Janikowski nailed a 28-yard field goal. Swayze Waters had badly missed a 34-yarder at the start of the fourth quarter.

Raiders safety Jerome Boyd stretched the lead when he intercepted a deflected pass and returned it 48 yards for a touchdown with 33 seconds left.

Oakland's new starting quarterback Jason Campbell never came close to scoring on his four drives. Then again, he was facing a defense that came out with regular-season intensity.

Linebackers Bradie James and Keith Brooking treated Campbell as if he was still with the rival Redskins. His first two drives went three-and-out. When his final series got rolling, the top nickel unit came back for a fourth-and-1 and Campbell's pass sailed way over his target, tight end Zach Miller.

Campbell finished 7 of 13 for 49 yards. He converted only one third down out of six. He was sacked only once and didn't have a turnover. He indoctrinated himself as a Raiders QB by throwing deep twice, once down each sideline; the first was broken up by a rookie free agent, the other was caught out of bounds.

Kyle Boller came in and was 12 of 21 for 148 yards.

Part of Dallas' offensive woes trace to the line, which gave up four sacks in 20 snaps.

Romo was sacked three times on the opening drive, twice after getting to the 16. Jon Kitna got a series with the starting blockers and wound up getting sacked, too, nearly for a safety.

Romo finished 4 of 7 for 52 yards. Kitna was 8 of 11 for 96 yards.

At least Dallas didn't lose another tight end. Already thin at that position, the Cowboys threw to star Jason Witten only once; he caught it, for 18 yards.

Dallas also can feel better about Buehler, the linebacker-sized kicker who specialized in kickoffs as a rookie last season. By making all three of his tries, he's 6 of 7 this preseason. All four of his kickoffs turned into touchbacks, too.

Cowboys vs. Raiders: What We Learned From Last Night

2010-08-13T11:23:00.019-05:00

By Jonathan Bales

Offense

I need to break down the film, but the Cowboys didn’t seem to run “Double Tight Strong” much tonight. That is probably due to the lack of tight end depth. They did line up in the formation on the first play of the game, however, once again running a strong side dive.
Tony Romo actually struggled a little bit tonight. He definitely held onto the ball too long on a few occasions, which he admitted in a fourth-quarter interview. That probably stems from knowing he has limited opportunities in the second preseason game and wanting to make some plays. There’s no reason to worry.
Deon Anderson blocked well again tonight and even caught two passes. The latter won’t happen much, but the former has become a regularity.
Doug Free wasn’t nearly as dominant as he was against Cincy. He allowed a sack of Jon Kitna and a few pressures. I will watch him more closely on film and report back to you tomorrow.
Kevin Ogletree is having a poor preseason. He dropped at least one pass tonight (two others he could have possibly caught in traffic), and he isn’t performing particularly well on special teams. I don’t know if he thinks his roster spot is guaranteed, but it isn’t.
Stephen McGee is really having trouble throwing underneath routes. He is late on check downs and simply doesn’t appear to have great touch even when he is on time.

Defense

Bradie James was all over the field. He looked particularly impressive in pass coverage, which is good news for a Dallas defense that currently sees a struggling second-year player (Jason Williams) and a rookie (Sean Lee) fighting for nickel duties.
Orlando Scandrick has really impressed me thus far this preseason. He was all over Jordan Shipley last week and played well again tonight. He seems to be more willing to throw his body around to make tackles too, which is important since he struggled a bit in run support last season (he missed 12.3 percent of tackles).
Bryan McCann continues to impress me. He has great speed and playmaking ability at cornerback and he nearly broke a punt return for a touchdown tonight. He showed some poor technique at times tonight, but he’s probably the most naturally talented of the three cornerbacks vying for that fourth spot at the position.
Leon Williams had an up and down night. He is tremendous in tight areas, utilizing his strength to be dominant (at times) against the run. He struggled in space, however, missing a few tackles in the open field and dropping a potentially game-winning interception.
I like what I saw from both Junior Siavii and Josh Brent tonight. Siavii showed some toughness and held up well against the run. Brent is like the energizer bunny. He made what was perhaps the play of the night when he chased down Raiders running back Michael Bennett to make a tackle about 20 yards downfield. I doubt the Cowboys can sneak him on the practice squad at this point.
Jason Hatcher looked really good tonight. He could eventually unseat Marcus Spears as the starting defensive end opposite Igor Olshansky.
Keith Brooking looked solid in coverage, staying step-for-step with Raiders tight end Zach Miller. He shows you don’t have to possess the natural athleticism of a player like Jason Williams to be a Pro Bowl-type player.
Speaking of Jason Williams, he played much better tonight. Ironically, he is excelling against the run, not the pass. He did look more comfortable in coverage tonight, though, and his improvement will at least make it somewhat difficult for Sean Lee to secure the nickel linebacker spot.
I can’t say enough about how much Victor Butler has improved his run defense. He is becoming an all-around player, and he has outplayed Brandon Williams in my opinion. He gives the Cowboys some confidence should Anthony Spencer ever go down.
Jamar Wall struggled again at cornerback, but not as much as on Sunday night. He made a nice drive on a slant route late in the game, breaking up the pass for what should have been an interception. He has trouble covering out-breaking routes and deep balls, however.

Special Teams

David Buehler really looked sensational. He made all three of his field goal attempts, but more importantly, he struck every ball very well. That wasn’t the case against the Bengals on Sunday night. He was also incredible on kickoffs, as expected. It is nice to see his extra duties aren’t hindering his power on kickoffs.
Mat McBriar must be one of the most under-appreciate players in the league. He punted a ball nearly 70 yards while standing inches from the back of the end zone. His ability to not only punt powerfully, but also directionally, is so important to Dallas.

New York Yankees (69-42) at Texas Rangers (64-47)

2010-08-10T12:30:00.000-05:00

Ah, man, I love the Rangers and hate the Yankees. Sadly, the Rangers are a little cold, dropping the last two games by scoring only two runs each. They even had a 2-0 lead on Sunday before dropping it 3-2. The previous game was a game by Harden who will not be allowed another start by the Rangers. I think he is about as done as done could be. They lost his start 6-2, but it was a LOT worse than that...

The Stankies bring A.J. Burnett to the show to start the series (a two-game set) and conclude with Javier Vázquez for Wednesday's game. The Rangers counter with their best two guy punch with C.J. Wilson and Cliff Lee. So, is a C.J. better than an A.J.? We'll find out tonight. Statistically, YES.

A.J. Burnett is a career 4-3 against the Rangers in 10 games (9 starts), posting a 3.58 ERA in 60.1 innings. He walks one every three innings, strikes out more than one per inning, and yields a HR roughly per nine innings against the Rangers.

It should also be noted that Burnett isn't having a great season. He comes into this one with a 4.93 ERA, a full run higher than his career mark and it should also be noted that he was scratched from Sunday's start with back spasms. I wonder how he will do in this Texas heat?

The current Ranger hitters are 29-150 (.193 BA) which translates into AWFUL. They have 5 HR, 12 RBI.

Vladimir Guerrero is 10-45 with 4 doubles, 2 HR, 3 RBI, and has fanned 11 times
Michael Young is 8-30 with a double, a HR, a RBI, and has fanned only 5 times
Josh Hamilton is 4-14 with 2 doubles, a HR, 3 RBI, fanning twice
David Murphy is 4-14, walking twice and fanning three times
Jorge Cantu is 0-12 with 2 RBI and has fanned twice.

I think Cantu is due. Seriously. I would play him just so he can get his dues in on this guy. And heck, Burnett's back is questionable. Chances are he is going to toss awful tonight, combine heat with question marks and you get good news for the Rangers.

C.J. Wilson is struggling with control again in the last start against Seattle, and similar struggles could result in a pair of ugly starts against two of the American League's better offenses, the Yankees and Red Sox this week. He may be used on four days rest, as the Rangers consider going to a four man rotation, and simply pulling the Harden slot out momentarily. If the experiment works the first time through, they may stick with it longer and hold off using a fifth starter.

Wilson pitched against the Yankees earlier this season, taking a loss while tossing six innings. He gave up five runs, although three were earned. He walked three, didn't yield a long ball, but coughed up seven hits and fanned only five (ONLY!). It was considered a complete game, so evidently weather played a part in it. Even though C.J. has shown some rust (really, it should be considered wear and tear, as he has almost twice as many innings pitched as his previous season high), I think he is still a great option to start. I think it should be considered to not only watch his pitch count, but simply his inning count. No longer than seven innings - PERIOD* (*unless, of course there is a no-hitter going, then pitch on, my fella!).

Going back the previous three years, Wilson has done pretty well. Take into account that he wasn't used as a starter with the Rangers coming into this year, except in 2005, but Wilson wasn't the Wilson that he is today back then, so toss those six starts out the window. During 2007-2009, Wilson went 0-1 with two saves in two save opportunities against the Yankees. He threw in 11 games, tossing 13.1 innings and gave up only 8 hits, two which left the house.

Yankees vs. Wilson:

Nick Swisher is 5-15 with two doubles, a HR, 5 RBI, four walks and 4 strikeouts
Robinson Cano is 3-12 with a double
Lance Berkman is 3-11 with a double, four RBI, three strikeouts.
Alex Rodriguez is 0-10 with three strikeouts!!!
Derek Jeter is 4-10 with a HR, two RBI, two walks and four strikeouts.
Mark Teixeira is 0-4 with a strikeout!

Not the best numbers, but I do like them. Especially the A-Rod and Teixeira numbers. It kind of warms my heart. Teixeira could miss the start of the Yankees' six-game road trip because he plans to be with his wife for the birth of their child, the Newark Star-Ledger reports.

Forecast: The Yankees are 3-5 this month thus far, and with a less than sharp Burnett (it really is two-fold. Higher than Normal ERA and a sore back), could spell a lot of runs for the Rangers. You also factor in that Teixeira will more-than-likely miss tonight, it adds more intangibles for the Rangers favor. The Rangers hitters should benefit... I 'll stop drooling on what I think will go down tonight, but the Rangers win this one in stretch baseball fashion, 8-3.

Texas Rangers (61-45) at Seattle Mariners (40-67)

2010-08-04T17:02:00.001-05:00

So, the question continues to linger, how long will the boomsticks be broken? The Rangers can't put together much of an offense of late, much like I was referring to in yesterday's post.

Let us start by what has been happening in the last week. Vlad and Andrus are 6-24. They are tied for the team lead in at-bats, although is should be said that Vlad has nine RBI over the last six games and has been doing what he can to carry this team during the drought. And I do mean carry this team. Do you know in the last six games, the Rangers have 20 RBI. Vlad has nine of those. Nelson Cruz is 6-23 with 4 RBI and he is second in the knocking them in. And if that is the highlights of everything (and it is), something has to change, or this is going to get ugly. Guerrero has hit .358 with 13 homers and 44 RBIs in 50 games at Safeco; his average is the highest for any player with at least 200 at-bats at Seattle's ballpark.

Texas had won eight of 10 against the Mariners this year before Tuesday, including a three-game sweep at Seattle from April 30-May 2. But the Mariners will now have two chances for their first series victory against any opponent since they took two of three at Yankee Stadium from June 29-July 1.

C.J. Wilson comes into this one with a 3.11 ERA and a 10-5 record. He has been phenomenal this season as a starter and what I would call an Ace in the making and definitely a strong #2 guy. He has two starts this season against the Mariners, both going seven innings. He did so in Seattle on May 2nd, giving up one run for a no-decision. The other game was on June 9th, where he gave up two runs. In July, Wilson went seven innings once in six starts (a 1-0 game against the Angels where he tossed eight innings), but despite the lower amount of innings per start, he did go 4-2 (snagging a decision in each of those six starts).

The current Mariners roster is 22-91 off Wilson with 1 HR and six RBI.

Jose Lopez is 8-16 with 2 doubles and 1 RBI
Franklin Gutierrez is 3-7 with a HR and 4 RBI

Now, onto Fister. Doug Fister is the starter for the Mariners and he was the other starter in the May 2nd game against Wilson. He tossed eight shutout innings. Last year, he had one outing against the Rangers and got slammed, handing out hits like cookies to kids. The Rangers knocked him for 10 hits in 4.2 innings and tagged him for only five runs. Fister only managed to walk one batter and he somehow fanned one (I am thinking swinging here), but gave up two homeruns. What is noticeable is that Fister kept the contact to just groundballs (15 to 9 flyouts), and really has done that only once since that time. I can't think that will repeat itself, especially when you consider that there are going to be three new faces this time around.

The current Ranger roster against Fister looks like this (in it's entirety).

Nelson Cruz is1-3
Josh Hamilton is 0-3
Michael Young is 0-3
Vladimir Guerrero is 1-4
Julio Borbon is 1-6 with a RBI
Elvis Andrus is 1-6
David Murphy is 2-6 with a HR and RBI

Combine that all together and you get 6-31 with a HR and two RBI. Another noticeable thing is that there are no walks for any Ranger, but only three strikeouts. Phew. Still, a .194 batting/on-base percentage really does suck no matter how flowery you try to make it. And combine that with the cold baseball bats, it doesn't look good for the Rangers tonight. Maybe it is the anticipation of the auction today, maybe with this drama being over by gametime, things will settle down and get back to hitting a ball, catching a ball, throwing a ball. By the way, Cuban has the top bid right now.

Forecast: Rangers drop this one, 2-1

Alex Rodriguez hits home run No. 600

2010-08-04T14:10:00.018-05:00

Associated Press

Alex Rodriguez became the youngest player to hit 600 home runs Wednesday, reaching the milestone after a 12-game drought - and exactly three years to the day after his 500th homer - with a drive off Toronto's Shaun Marcum in the first inning at Yankee Stadium.

Rodriguez lofted a 2-0 pitch over the middle of the plate for his 17th homer of the season, giving the Yankees a 2-0 lead. The ball sailed over the center-field wall and landed in Monument Park, allowing a stadium worker to retrieve it for him.

A-Rod raised a hand slightly in triumph as he rounded first base, then completed his trot to the roar of the crowd. He joined an elite club that includes Barry Bonds (762), Hank Aaron (755), Babe Ruth (714), Willie Mays (660), Ken Griffey Jr. (630) and Sammy Sosa (609).

After coming out for a curtain call, Rodriguez received congratulations from teammates in the Yankees dugout. Many had raised their arms in joy when he finally connected.

The milestone homer provided a lift during a trying stretch for the Yankees. Not only have they watched the Tampa Bay Rays pass them for first place in the AL East, off the field they are still mourning the recent loss of owner George Steinbrenner, beloved public-address announcer Bob Sheppard and former manager Ralph Houk.

Despite saying he's been more relaxed than he was when trying for his 500th homer, Rodriguez went just 9 for 46 after homering on July 22, the longest stretch between Nos. 599 and 600 for any of the seven to reach the mark. Mays was next at 21 at-bats, according to STATS LLC. A-Rod went 28 without a home run before 500.

The Yankees' slugger turned 35 last Tuesday, putting his home run pace far ahead of the rest. Ruth had been the youngest to hit 600, reaching the mark in 1931 at 36 years, 196 days. The Sultan of Swat did it in fewer games, though - 2,044 to 2,227 for Rodriguez.

In the three years since hitting No. 500, much has changed for him.

During a tumultuous spring training of 2009, Rodriguez admitted to using steroids while playing for the Texas Rangers from 2001-03. He also had major hip surgery that kept him out the first month last year, as the team adjusted to high-profile newcomers CC Sabathia, A.J. Burnett and Mark Teixeira without him.

He returned with a fresh outlook that put the team first, helping lead the Yankees to their first World Series championship since 2000 and reversing a trend of personal playoff failures.

Even though he went homerless in his first 41 at-bats this year and has connected at a much slower rate compared to the rest of his career, the 13-time All-Star has been saying that No. 600 is merely a springboard to better things - mainly helping his team win, but also reaching Bonds' record of 762 home runs.

Being the home run king comes with a tarnished crown, though.

After Bonds eclipsed Aaron's record with his 756th in 2007 amid accusations of steroid use - something Bonds vehemently denies - talk immediately turned to A-Rod, who days earlier had become the fastest to No. 500. He was supposed to be the player who would restore credibility to American sports' most cherished record, but that all changed two years later.

In response to a Sports Illustrated.com report and mounting speculation, A-Rod admitted to using steroids as he hit 156 homers with Texas. He has 255 with the Yankees and 189 with the Seattle Mariners, who picked him No. 1 in 1993 amateur draft.

Rodriguez is among only three players, along with Reggie Jackson and Darrell Evans, to hit 100 home runs for three different teams.

For one of the most scrutinized players in baseball, there was little fanfare in the run-up to No. 600 - perhaps it's Steroid Era fatigue or the fact that Rodriguez became the fourth player to reach the mark in the last 10 years after none in 31 years.

The pursuit of the home run record gets lucrative now. As part of his $275 million, 10-year deal signed after opting out of his contract during the 2007 World Series, Rodriguez can earn up to $30 million more for six milestone homers. The first would be tying Willie Mays. He'd get $6 million more each time for matching Ruth, Aaron and Bonds and breaking the record.

Rodriguez hit No. 100 in August 1998 with Seattle, No. 200 in May 2001 and No. 300 in April 2003 with Texas. His 400th home run came on June 8, 2005, against Milwaukee during his second season with the Yankees.

Mavs News Alert - Da Maniacs are on America's Got Talent Tonight!

2010-08-03T16:39:00.000-05:00

Texas Rangers (61-44) at Seattle Mariners (39-67)

2010-08-03T15:46:00.000-05:00

The Rangers are trying to rebound from some sad offense of late, mustering next to nothing after coming out of the All-Star break sprinting. Texas has averaged 3.09 runs in the last 11 games since the Rangers topped Detroit 8-0. Over that same stretch, the Rangers have yielded 3.45 runs. Despite the run deferential, the Rangers are 6-5.

The previous six games, the Rangers had gone 5-1 coming out of the All-Star break, scoring eight runs three times and there was another game in which seven. Despite the run drought, the Rangers have avoided being shutout, but have been held to one run four times (just look at a Cliff Lee start, normally happens then).

Colby Lewis (9-7, 3.40) has received no run support in losing his last two starts but may not need that much from Hamilton and his teammates. He has gone 2-0 with a 0.78 ERA in three starts versus Seattle this season and struck out 10 in nine innings of a 2-0, 12-inning victory at Safeco Field on April 30.

The Mariners have dropped seven in a row after mustering two hits in a 4-0 defeat at Minnesota on Sunday - their second straight shutout loss and third during the slide. The sweep by Texas started a season-high eight-game skid from April 30-May 8.

Seattle has been outscored 45-14 while hitting .212 with one homer during the current slide.

Jason Vargas (6-5, 3.20) takes the mound after going 0-3 with a 4.58 ERA in six starts.

The left-hander gave up five runs while serving up three homers in 4 1-3 innings and did not get a decision in Wednesday’s 6-5 loss at Chicago.

Vargas has struggled in five games - three starts - against the Rangers, going 0-2 with a 6.16 ERA. However, only one of those games came at Safeco, where he’s 5-2 with a 2.23 ERA in 11 starts this year. (some experts from Yahoo Sports)

Forecast: When the bats go sour, it's hard and difficult at best to predict when the will pick up again. And here, there are two conflicting trends. The first trend is that the bats will pick up due to the Rangers success against Vargas. The second trend is just what the bats have been doing over the majority of the last eleven games. Combine that with Vargas' success at home, and it could be another low-scoring affair. As far as Lewis is concerned, I think his trend this season will continue, if not be better. He has pitched 9 innings IN Seattle on April 30th, tossing the entire regular game for a shutout (9 innings no runs, went extra innings before the Rangers won it 2-0). He also tossed two games in Arlington against the Mariners, giving up a run in seven innings, BOTH times. That is a 0.78 ERA against the Mariners. I like the Rangers chances on this game. If the Rangers put up two or three runs early, it is in the bag. And even though the bats are cold at best, Hambino returns for this series, and he should be a big enough spark to ignite something. Rangers win this 3-1.

Postgame Alert for the White Sox

2010-08-03T14:41:00.001-05:00

Chicago White Sox Postgame Alert
August 3, 2010

Chicago White Sox 12, Detroit 2 at Comerica Park
Chicago White Sox Record: (60-45)
Detroit Record: (52-53)

Winning pitcher - Mark Buehrle (10-8)
Losing pitcher - Rick Porcello (4-10)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
CWS	0	0	4	1	2	0	4	1	0	12	15	0
DET	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	1	0	2	8	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit whitesox.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Chicago White Sox Game: August 3, 2010 07:05 PM ET vs. Detroit Tigers

Upcoming Chicago White Sox Home Games:
vs. Minnesota Twins, August 10, 2010 07:10 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. Minnesota Twins, August 11, 2010 07:10 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. Minnesota Twins, August 12, 2010 07:10 PM CT Purchase Tickets

Postgame Alert for the A's

2010-08-02T23:37:00.001-05:00

Oakland Athletics Postgame Alert
August 2, 2010

Kansas City 0, Oakland 6 at Oakland Coliseum
Kansas City Record: (45-61)
Oakland Record: (53-52)

Winning pitcher - Trevor Cahill (11-4)
Losing pitcher - Brian Bannister (7-11)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
KC	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	3	0
OAK	1	0	0	2	2	0	0	1	X	6	9	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit oaklandathletics.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Oakland Game: August 3, 2010 07:05 PM PT vs. Kansas City Royals

Upcoming Oakland Home Games:
vs. Kansas City Royals, August 3, 2010 07:05 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Kansas City Royals, August 4, 2010 12:35 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Texas Rangers, August 6, 2010 07:05 PM PT Purchase Tickets

*****

It is interesting that Oakland isn't either trading away pieces or trading for pieces.

Orioles introduce Buck Showalter as new manager

2010-08-02T14:41:00.009-05:00

Buck Showalter is pledging to restore the luster to the Baltimore Orioles, a legacy franchise that has fallen on hard times.

"All competitive people like the idea sometimes that people say it can't be done. ... I love the town, the tradition, the people, the feeling," said the 54-year-old Showalter, introduced Monday as the Orioles' new manager. "It's a challenge, it's our challenge."

Showalter built contenders with the New York Yankees, Arizona Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers, but the 32-73 Orioles — the majors' worst team — will be a test for his renowned preparation, attention to detail and ability to work with young players.

"We have currently, in our franchise, a young core of players that are struggling, taking a step backwards. They haven't been exposed to a winning-type environment," Orioles president of baseball operations Andy MacPhail said. "We ... have been trying to find somebody who has had some experience in creating that winning environment."

Hired last week, Showalter's first game will be Tuesday night at Camden Yards against the Los Angeles Angels.

Showalter inherits a lineup without a slugger, a rotation without a winning anchor, and an owner with deep pockets who hasn't always given his front office free reign to do its jobs.

"I'm not naive," Showalter said.

Showalter, who has a 882-833 career record, takes over a team full of problems and question marks. He succeeds for interim manager Juan Samuel, who was 17-34 after Dave Trembley was fired June 4.

MacPhail said he had targeted early August as a perfect time for a transition of power because it gave a new manager enough of the season to evaluate the roster before moving forward.

The job, MacPhail said, required experience.

"It didn't feel ... we could bring somebody in that had never managed at the major league level before. It was essential, in our view, that we being somebody in that had been there and done that before," MacPhail said.

Baltimore's rich tradition intrigued Showalter, who will be tasked with reversing some of the fundamental breakdowns that have plagued a team spiraling toward its 13th straight losing season.

"I understand some of the weaknesses that I've seen physically on the field. You want to identify why," Showalter said. "The '27 Yankees botched a rundown now and then, OK? It happens, but you want to identify why and not repeat it."

The Orioles are banking on Showalter repeating the successes he's already experienced.

In 1992, Showalter took over a Yankees team that hadn't reached the playoffs and led them to their first postseason birth in 14 seasons. Let go by New York, he joined the Diamondbacks before expansion and helped create them before taking over a manager and winning 100 games, a major league-record 35-game improvement, and an NL West title in 1999.

Arizona cut Showalter loose the season before winning the World Series, and Showalter ended up in Texas, where he oversaw an 18-game improvement in 2004, his second season at the helm. With the Rangers, he won his second AL Manager of the Year award.

"We need an identity as a franchise. We need somebody that can put his stamp on this team, have us play a certain brand of baseball that we're going to have to play to win," MacPhail said. "Again, (Showalter) has a reputation that excels and equals all others in that category."

Showalter said he intends to restore respectability to a moribund franchise that hasn't had a winning season since it last reached the playoffs in 1997.

"I don't think there's a prouder organization in baseball. ... I really, sincerely feel it can happen again, but it's about the product on the field," he said.

Only this time, he intends to see the process through.

"It's kind of like raising your daughter and then letting somebody else walk her down the aisle. ... I hope to get to walk down the aisle here," Showalter said.

MacPhail said Samuel will assume a special assignment role instead of returning to his previous job as third base coach. One of Samuel's first tasks will be to report on the Orioles' presence in the Dominican Republic.

The rest of the coaching staff will remain intact, at least through the remainder of the regular season. Gary Allenson, the Triple-A manager who took over as third base coach when Samuel was promoted to interim manager, will remain on the staff.

Blackhawks turn to Turco

2010-08-02T00:00:00.010-05:00

The Associated Press

Stanley Cup champions walk away from Niemi arbitration decision, sign former Stars goalie

For Marty Turco, the bottom line is to play for a Stanley Cup contender.

By agreeing to a one-year deal with the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday, the veteran goaltender made that clear.

Turco, who will replace Stanley Cup hero Antti Niemi as the Blackhawks' top goalie, could have earned more money and gotten a longer contract elsewhere, according to his agent, Kurt Overhardt. The deal is worth $1.3 million.

"We spoke to four different teams and turned down different opportunities and amounts," Overhardt said. "He turned down teams with higher considerations and longer terms ...

"Marty's priority was joining as team that could win a Stanley Cup, and he chose Chicago."

Blackhawks general manager Stan Bowman said the team expects "immediate" contributions from the 34-year-old Turco, who has played all nine of his NHL seasons with Dallas. The three-time All Star has never advanced past the conference finals in six playoff appearances with the Stars.

"Part of the reason for going there (Chicago) is now you're on a team that has a chance to win every night and won a Stanley Cup last season," Turco said.

The 26-year-old Niemi helped the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup this past season after earning $826,875 as a rookie. He was awarded a $2.75 million salary for next season by an arbitrator last week, putting the Blackhawks in a tough spot.

Bowman declined to say whether the team could have squeezed Niemi's award under the NHL's salary cap, set at $59.4 million next season.

"The salary cap has been talked about too much," Bowman said.

However, Bowman said he made several attempts to sign Niemi to a multiyear contract before the goalie's case went to arbitration.

"We exhausted all of our options to make this work," Bowman said. "This is the direction that made the most sense. You have to have flexibility within your roster and this was the best way to defend the Cup."

Niemi, a Finn who signed with the Blackhawks in May 2008, becomes an unrestricted free agent. He played all but one period of the Blackhawks postseason run to the championship, going 16-6 with a 2.63 goals-against average, .910 save percentage and two shutouts.

Niemi is the eighth player to leave the Blackhawks since the team won its first Stanley Cup in 49 years, joining Andrew Ladd, Ben Eager, Dustin Byfuglien, Brent Sopel, Adam Burish, Colin Fraser and Kris Versteeg. John Madden, a 37-year-old unrestricted free agent, has yet to sign with a team.

Niemi's agent, Bill Zito, said his client was disappointed by the Blackhawks' decision.

"Just imagine how anyone would feel in his situation," Zito said. "His situation is exacerbated a little bit more than those guys the Blackhawks traded away because of going through all the drama of the arbitration.

"You're 26 years old, just had your breakout year and win the Cup," Zito added. "It's all cap management. I have to respect the hockey decision they made and live with it."

Zito said he was talking to several NHL teams and expects Niemi to land with a new club before the start of the season.

Bowman said he had been eyeing Turco for some time and trying to coordinate the timing of the signing so another NHL team wouldn't take him.

"We talked it over and Marty is the guy we certainly had interest in for a long time here," Bowman said via conference call. "We're fortunate that he had some patience with us, which speaks to the kind of guy he is and that he wants to be here. We've been working on parallel paths for a while."

In his NHL career, Turco is 262-154-63 in 509 regular-season games with a 2.31 goals-against average and 40 shutouts. Last season, he went 22-20-11 with a 2.72 GAA, .913 save percentage and four shutouts.

The 5-foot-11 native of Sault Ste-Marie, Ontario, who turns 35 this month, is 21-26 with a 2.17 goals-against average in 47 playoffs games.

The Stars, however, have missed the postseason for two straight years.

"I haven't lost my confidence, although the last few years have been tough mentally because we haven't made the playoffs," Turco said. He said he has "never been better physically" and that it was a "dream come true" to play for an Original Six NHL team that once had Tony Esposito, another Sault Ste-Marie native, in net.

"I had offers from other teams and multiyear deals, but I had a chance to be a part of this great organization," Turco said. "Waiting, especially looking at it from today, doesn't seem that difficult."

With the addition of Turco, Bowman said his team's roster is nearly set for 2010-11.

"We need to add a defenseman, but we're not going to be making wholesale changes at this point," he said. "We're satisfied with what we have."

Postgame Alert for the Rangers

2010-08-01T17:11:00.002-05:00

Texas Rangers Postgame Alert
August 1, 2010

Texas 1, LA Angels 4 at Angel Stadium of Anaheim
Texas Record: (61-44)
LA Angels Record: (54-53)

Winning pitcher - Jered Weaver (10-7)
Losing pitcher - Cliff Lee (9-5)
SV - Brian Fuentes (20)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
TEX	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	1	5	0
LAA	2	0	0	1	0	0	0	1	X	4	9	1

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit texasrangers.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Texas Game: August 3, 2010 07:10 PM PT vs. Seattle Mariners

Upcoming Texas Home Games:
vs. New York Yankees, August 10, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. New York Yankees, August 11, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. Boston Red Sox, August 13, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets

Now, if only we can score a couple of runs for Cliff Lee, we could be completely dominating...

1st Half Cy Young Contenders

2010-08-01T09:05:00.000-05:00

Every year, Major League Baseball gives out a Cy Young Award for the best pitcher in both the AL and NL, as voted on by members of the Baseball Writers Association of America. If a comparable award were given in fantasy baseball, the results likely would not match.

Many baseball pools focus primarily on wins, strikeouts and ERA, while others require the versatility and dominance of a flame-thrower who can pile up complete games and shutouts while eating innings.

Here's a look at the frontrunners for this year's Cy Young awards:

The NL contenders

Ubaldo Jimenez (COL - SP)

As discussed among baseball's first-half surprises, Ubaldo Jimenez has easily been the most improved pitcher from last season. He's gone from posting a 15-12 record in the 2008-09 campaign to having a 15-2 record this season through July 26. Jimenez has pitched three complete games, two shutouts and one no-hitter while striking out 120, but his ERA has dropped to 10th in the majors at 2.75 after two recent rough outings. Plus, he has walked 55 batters. Unlike the other NL Cy Young candidates, Jimenez isn't a perennial top draft choice, so he's brought some unexpected fantasy value to his owners as the current league-leader in wins.

Josh Johnson (FLA - SP)

Like Jimenez, Florida's Josh Johnson has been an all-around star pitcher this season, but has been exceptional in one particular category. Johnson leads the majors with a sparkling 1.61 ERA. The only other starter below 2.00 is St. Louis's Adam Wainwright at 1.94. At 10-3 with 141 strikeouts, which is good for second in the NL, just 29 walks allowed and a stellar 0.97 WHIP, Johnson likely has the edge over Jimenez at this point in the NL overall — and in terms of the best NL pitcher in fantasy baseball.

Roy Halladay (PHI - SP)

Roy Halladay doesn't seem to mind pitching in the National League. Although he spent his entire career up until this season in the AL with the Blue Jays, Halladay has shown little need for a learning curve and is still the same dominant pitcher. Case in point: he is first in complete games (seven), shutouts (three) and innings pitched (162). He's fourth in ERA (2.28), seventh in strikeouts (140) and tied for eighth in wins (11). What's even more impressive is that Halladay has allowed the second-fewest walks (20) of any of the top 70 strikeout leaders in the majors, behind Cliff Lee, although Doc also has eight losses.

Adam Wainwright (STL - SP)

You know that the crop of pitchers in the NL is phenomenal when we're talking about Adam Wainwright fourth on this list. He's actually been the best pitcher in the majors over the past month. He's gone 4-0 with a complete game, 29 K's and an unbelievable 0.25 ERA. On the season, Wainwright is second in wins with a record of 14-5, fourth with four complete games, fourth among pitchers with at least 100 innings pitched with a 1.00 WHIP and second with an enviable 1.94 ERA. He's also fifth in the NL with 136 strikeouts.

Chris Carpenter (STL - SP)

The other half of St. Louis's one-two punch is also having a stellar season, as usual. Chris Carpenter is 11-3 with 122 strikeouts and a 3.09 ERA in 22 starts. The 2005 NL Cy Young Award winner has pitched 148.2 innings, good for third in the majors, but he has no complete games through July 26.

Tim Lincecum (SF - SP)

This list wouldn't be complete without two-time reigning Cy Young Award winner Tim Lincecum. Lincecum has a ways to go if he's to catch the aforementioned contenders or even match his stats from the past two seasons. San Francisco's ace is 10-4 with a 3.12 ERA in 21 starts. He leads the NL with 143 strikeouts, but has already surrendered 53 walks. By comparison, in 2009 Lincecum was 15-7 with a 2.48 ERA and just 68 walks, while in 2008 he went 18-5 with a 2.62 ERA.

The AL contenders

Cliff Lee (TEX - SP)

If you haven't been paying attention to Cliff Lee's stats, you may think he was shipped out of Seattle because he's been underperforming. It's quite the opposite. The Texas Rangers acquired one of the best pitchers in baseball. Yes, he's only 9-4, but that's in just 16 starts. The 2008 Cy Young winner leads the American League with a 2.56 ERA and six complete games. He has also walked a measly seven batters all season, which is the fewest walks allowed among pitchers in the top 70 in strikeouts. Throw in the fact that Lee has the best WHIP among starters at 0.92 to go along with 101 strikeouts and you have yourself a frontrunner for the AL Cy Young Award.

Carl Pavano (MIN - SP)

More than any other pitcher on this list, Carl Pavano is an excellent example of a pitcher who likely won't win the Cy Young, but probably would have won a fantasy baseball version if there was one. He doesn't lead any pitching categories after 20 starts with the Twins, but he's near the top in several of them. More important, though, he went largely undrafted or was a very late steal in Yahoo fantasy leagues. Pavano is tied for fourth in the majors in wins (12-6), tied for third in complete games (five), tied for second in shutouts (two) and is seventh in innings pitched (143.2). He has a respectable 3.26 ERA, 81 strikeouts and just 19 walks. Additionally, Pavano is fifth among pitchers with at least 100 innings pitched with a minuscule 1.01 WHIP and has pitched complete games in his previous two starts.

CC Sabathia (NYY - SP)

Baseball fans have become accustomed to the consistent dominance of CC Sabathia and again this year he's not disappointing. He's tied for first in the AL in wins with 13 and is third with 144.1 innings pitched. Sabathia also has three complete games, two shutouts, a 3.18 ERA, 119 K's and just three losses on the season. More important, he is 9-0 in his last 10 starts for New York.

David Price (TB - SP)

The American League's starter at the 81st all-star game has had an up-and-down month, but David Price is still squarely in the race for the top pitcher award. The Tampa Bay starter is tied for first in the AL in wins with a career-high 13 (to go along with five losses) and, despite being higher up the list until recently, Price finds himself in fifth with a 2.90 ERA. The 2007 first overall pick has also obtained new personal benchmarks in strikeouts (108), complete games (two) and shutouts (one) and will add games started and innings pitched to that list shortly. You couldn't ask for much more from a late-round pick in your draft.

Felix Hernandez (SEA - SP)

With Cliff Lee now in Texas, Felix Hernandez has resumed his role as the Mariners' ace. He's third in the majors in strikeouts with 145, second in innings pitched with 160.2 and tied for third with five complete games. Hernandez is also third in the AL with a 2.86 ERA, but has a record of just 7-7 in 22 starts. Like last year, it seems Hernandez could possibly be on pace for a better second half of the season though. In the past month, he's 2-2 with a 1.88 ERA, 40 strikeouts, three complete games and a shutout.

Jon Lester (BOS - SP)

One fairly surprising candidate for the award this season is Jon Lester. In a stacked Red Sox rotation, which includes another potential contender in Clay Buchholz, Lester has a record of 11-5 with two complete games. He's tied for fourth in the majors with 143 strikeouts and has a 2.92 ERA, which is good for sixth in the AL.

Jered Weaver (LAA - SP)

Though his record and ERA are not leading the league through 21 starts (9-6, 3.22 ERA), Jered Weaver is one of the MLB's top flame-throwers in 2010. Weaver is second in the majors in strikeouts, just two behind his new teammate Dan Haren, with 147 and he has walked just 30 batters. Not bad for a guy who had a career-high 174 punch-outs last season in 33 starts.

Trivia: Who was the last Ranger pitcher to get a Cy Young award?

Postgame Alert for the Rangers

2010-07-31T22:28:00.004-05:00

Texas Rangers Postgame Alert
July 31, 2010

Texas 2, LA Angels 1 at Angel Stadium of Anaheim
Texas Record: (61-43)
LA Angels Record: (53-53)

Winning pitcher - Rich Harden (4-3)
Losing pitcher - Dan Haren (7-10)
SV - Neftali Feliz (29)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
TEX	0	0	0	2	0	0	0	0	0	2	5	1
LAA	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	1	5	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit texasrangers.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Texas Game: August 1, 2010 12:35 PM PT vs. Los Angeles Angels

Upcoming Texas Home Games:
vs. New York Yankees, August 10, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. New York Yankees, August 11, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. Boston Red Sox, August 13, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets

Postgame Alert for the Astros

2010-07-31T20:50:00.001-05:00

Houston Astros Postgame Alert
July 31, 2010

Milwaukee 0, Houston 6 at Minute Maid Park
Milwaukee Record: (48-57)
Houston Record: (44-59)

Winning pitcher - Wandy Rodriguez (9-11)
Losing pitcher - Dave Bush (5-9)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
MIL	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	6	1
HOU	2	3	0	0	1	0	0	0	X	6	12	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit astros.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Houston Game: August 1, 2010 01:05 PM CT vs. Milwaukee Brewers

Upcoming Houston Home Games:
vs. Milwaukee Brewers, August 1, 2010 01:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. Atlanta Braves, August 9, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. Atlanta Braves, August 10, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets

Postgame Alert for the A's

2010-07-31T20:44:00.004-05:00

Oakland Athletics Postgame Alert
July 31, 2010

Oakland 6, Chicago White Sox 2 at U.S. Cellular Field
Oakland Record: (52-51)
Chicago White Sox Record: (58-45)

Winning pitcher - Dallas Braden (6-7)
Losing pitcher - John Danks (11-8)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
OAK	0	4	1	0	0	0	0	1	0	6	10	1
CWS	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	0	0	2	8	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit oaklandathletics.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Oakland Game: August 1, 2010 01:05 PM CT vs. Chicago White Sox

Upcoming Oakland Home Games:
vs. Kansas City Royals, August 2, 2010 07:05 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Kansas City Royals, August 3, 2010 07:05 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Kansas City Royals, August 4, 2010 12:35 PM PT Purchase Tickets

Why Strasburg may be shut down in 2011

2010-07-31T20:21:00.000-05:00

Stephen Strasburg, by spending any significant time on the DL, would be putting a pinch on his 2011 campaign. The Nationals, [Jim] Riggleman said, will not be motivated to pitch Strasburg in order to raise his potential innings limit for next season. Strasburg will be capped at 160 total innings this season, a 20 percent increase from last year's total. The Nationals will make the same rate of increase for next season. So if Strasburg only throws a handful of innings, the Nationals will have to shut him down in the middle of next season.

Postgame Alert for the Mariners

2010-07-31T20:19:00.005-05:00

Seattle Mariners Postgame Alert
July 31, 2010

Seattle 0, Minnesota 4 at Target Field
Seattle Record: (39-66)
Minnesota Record: (58-46)

Winning pitcher - Kevin Slowey (10-5)
Losing pitcher - Felix Hernandez (7-8)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
SEA	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	4	2
MIN	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	X	4	9	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit mariners.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Seattle Game: August 1, 2010 01:10 PM CT vs. Minnesota Twins

Upcoming Seattle Home Games:
vs. Texas Rangers, August 3, 2010 07:10 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Texas Rangers, August 4, 2010 07:10 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Texas Rangers, August 5, 2010 07:10 PM PT Purchase Tickets

Top 10 Athletes' Beers To Be Made

2010-07-31T19:38:00.001-05:00

By Ross Lipschultz

What’s the number one sports drink in the world?

Gatorade? Yeah, right.

Powerade? Think again.

Vitamin Water? Not even close.

The real man’s answer? Beer.

That’s right, those frosty cool suds are what makes sports go round. Sports fans everywhere guzzle down beer like it’s coming from their mother’s teet.

Which would make her the world’s best mom.

But after a Cleveland Brewery released a LeBron James inspired brew recently, the sports world had a new marketing method. Thirty gallons of the beer, appropriately named “Quitness,” sold out in three hours during it’s original release.

The inspiration, however, was not a good thing. “Quitness” is a dry-hopped pale ale with a notably bitter aftertaste, which parallels the feeling of Cav's fans everywhere.

Imagine the drink they’d make if the Browns left again.

Beer is such a profitable market in sports, so it wouldn’t surprise anyone if more athletes got a cool one named after them.

Whether out of admiration or spite, some stars just deserve it more than others.

Guess who they are!

10. Manny Ramirez

The Name: Manny Being Drunky

Whether you love him or hate him, everyone knows Manny Ramirez is one of the better hitters of the past decade.

However, he only plays every once in a while as of late, so he’s not exactly reliable year round.

Can you say “Holiday Beer?”

Manny’s brew would only be available during the months of the year he decides to play. It could be one, it could be the whole season.

Who doesn’t love surprises?

Low on hops due to his lackluster speed, the MBD has a grainy and oxidized taste due to his overexposure during aging.

Fans might call it yeasty as well, considering the beer has definitely been sitting too long on sediment.

Sounds like Manny to me.

9. Venus and Serena Williams

The Name: Shwasted Sisters

Venus and Serena have been on top of the tennis world for quite some time.

Frankly, having so many good genes in one family is just so unfair.

So why not spread the love, and bottle some greatness?

Just like the ladies, the beer would have a full body with a shelf-life for ages.

However, Serena’s would have a sweet finish, while Venus’ would be sour, making going halfsies on each with a friend a perfect way to spend a summer day.

And for a limited time only, when you twist off the top, the beer grunts at you.

8. Helio Castroneves

The Name: Speed Brewer

The only way to make Helio Castroneves look tall is to take a picture at this very angle.

And ask him to leave his part-time job as a Smurf chauffeur.

So he’s a perfect sponsor for a light beer!

The driver’s wheat beer would be perfect for taste buds all over.

He’s pale in color, and so is his beverage of choice. His tongue is acidic, and so is his brew.

Sadly, the nose of the beer would not be so pleasant, so it’s only for Helio die-hards.

When he gets out of his car, his head smells like a used diaper full of Thai food, so his beer will have an equally dank scent.

But it sure has plenty of hops!

7. Lou Pinella

The Name: Ol’ Reliable

Maybe Lou’s not an athlete anymore, as walking to the mound requires him to grab an oxygen tank.

Back in the day, he was quite the ball player, so his beer is going to reflect all of his achievements.

First off, it only comes in a keg, which makes it perfect for parties.

The hang of the drink is notoriously harsh, which is required for anyone who wants to be just like Lou.

Although, I’m sure that list shortened after his time with the Cubs.

Second, this beer would be an India Pale Ale due to it’s high level of hops.

Since hopping and screaming at umps are all Lou can do lately, his astringent ale will have you puckering your scowl at any one who dares take a sip.

6. Dirk Nowitzki

The Name: Ich Bin Ein Tasty

Seriously, it’s unbelievable he doesn’t have a beer to his name already. The Western hemisphere may drink less than Dirk’s homeland.

So this one’s getting heavy.

Nowitzki’s lager will have you face down on a floor somewhere in no time.

While it will go down silky smooth like his jumper, the beer’s, as well as Dirk’s, lack of hops will leave a tangy impression in the mouth.

Why? Because just like Dirk’s Mavericks, it can never be perfect.

The beer, however, will look just like any top of the line ale, and it’s crisp, golden color matches its inspiration’s locks.

5. Chris Johnson

The Name: Dreads’ Delight

Chris Johnson is smooth, fast, light on his feet and oh so sassy with the press.

Now, you can get all that in your beer for free!

As long as you follow him on Twitter.

Vitamin C.J. gets his own black malt, and he couldn’t be happier. The creamy concoction out of Tennessee has the brightness of a black hole, but unquestionable sweetness due to its mash.

Also, he will hand deliver it to you, since it takes him under 10 seconds to run anywhere on Earth.

The beer also comes in a gold bottle, which Johnson hand-crafted himself. He has experience building shiny teeth and he decided to take his talents into brewery.

At least he didn’t take them to South Beach.

4. Charles Barkley

The Name: Turrible Trasendence

If Barkley is willing to support Taco Bell, a company that sells one thing in hundreds of shapes, there’s no way he’d turn down marketing his own beer.

And he wouldn’t have to share the spotlight with Lamar Odom!

Chuck’s brew would only come in cans, seeing as he was never the full size of most power forwards.

But his caramel bouquet would be ridiculously irresistible, despite its alcohol content guaranteeing that you pass out within an hour of consumption.

Well at least you’d slur your words. Like Barkley on TNT.

The one feature delight of the Round Mound’s ale is that the ester would range from fruity to spicy, covering his wide array of emotions.

It’s like a mood ring, but in a can!

3. John Daly

The Name: Public Enemy

John Daly is known for his unconventional behavior and clothing.

He loves a good cigar on the first tee, and it wouldn’t surprise anyone if he put it out on the tablecloth he decided to wear as pants.

That’s why Daly’s beer is only for the most refined palate.

Only true legends of drinking will appreciate this fruity malt liquor, just like only true golf fans will appreciate what Daly has done for the sport.

Everyone else wonders when he’s going to rehab.

The golfer’s ale would be known for it’s chill haze, which makes the beer cloudier than everything except Daly’s mind. The smell of the beer changes depending on the temperature going from clove-like to vinous.

Sadly, that part is unlike Daly’s golf game, which hasn’t adjusted in years.

2. Ben Roethlisberger

The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback has had his off the field issues with alcohol in the past.

Which makes him off limits for his own beer, right?

Wrong!

It’s time to get fratty!

Instead of being embarrassed of going after 20-year-olds, this beer is all about embracing it.

While the pale amber may appear light to the untrained babe, the heavy level of hops and barley make this bad boy thick.

Insert sexual pun here.

Sadly, it would be a limited time offer. Only alcohol providers within 15 miles of a college campus are allowed to sell it, and only during the games Big Ben plays this year.

You might think that’s bad, but this beer is one that people will flock to the stores just to wiff the bouquet.

The beer is so dry, it finishes sharp in the mouth, just like Roethlisberger.

What, too soon?

1. Ron Artest

The Name: Showtime Stopper

Some may think this is a hometown pick, but let’s be honest here.

Artest is so eccentric, if someone could manage to put all his qualities into a bottle, it would probably taste like heaven.

With a slight hint of Hennessey.

Ron-Ron’s beer would be a premium stout with caramel sugar, making the drink a dark brown hue, slightly burnt (like his reputation in Detroit), and with a full body.

No more poppin’ champagne after championships. It’s all about Stopper!

All Lakers fans over 21 will have a chance to get a free cup of the beverage after the game if L.A. holds its opponent to under 100 points.

It’s either that, or two tacos at Jack-In-The-Box.

But let’s not ignore this dream drinks’ flavor. With a perfect balance of a crisp, nutty and hoppy nose to its sweet, yet tart, bouquet, Artest’s beer will have you stocking your fridge in no time.

However, all purchases must be made while wearing a Lakers jersey. Even if your going to the club after, you must obey that rule.

Because we know Ron would.

Postgame Alert for the Braves

2010-07-31T18:10:00.001-05:00

Atlanta Braves Postgame Alert
July 31, 2010

Atlanta 2, Cincinnati 5 at Great American Ball Park
Atlanta Record: (59-44)
Cincinnati Record: (58-47)

Winning pitcher - Bronson Arroyo (11-6)
Losing pitcher - Jair Jurrjens (3-4)
SV - Francisco Cordero (28)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
ATL	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	8	2
CIN	0	0	0	1	0	0	4	0	X	5	8	1

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit braves.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Atlanta Game: August 1, 2010 01:10 PM ET vs. Cincinnati Reds

Upcoming Atlanta Home Games:
vs. New York Mets, August 2, 2010 07:10 PM ET Purchase Tickets
vs. New York Mets, August 3, 2010 07:10 PM ET Purchase Tickets
vs. New York Mets, August 4, 2010 07:10 PM ET Purchase Tickets

Rangers acquire Guzman from Nationals

2010-07-31T16:23:00.003-05:00

The Rangers have acquired infielder Cristian Guzman from the Washington Nationals in exchange for Minor League pitchers Ryan Tatusko and Tanner Roark.

Guzman, a shortstop for most of his career, has played 63 games at second base this season, while making 20 appearances at shortstop. The 32-year-old switch-hitter is batting .282 with two homers and 25 RBIs. He has a .327 on-base percentage and a .361 slugging percentage. The 11-year veteran, who spent his first six seasons with the Minnesota Twins and last five with the Nationals, has a .272 lifetime batting average.

The Rangers also announced today that they have acquired righthanded pitcher Roman Mendez, first baseman Chris McGuiness, a player to be named later and cash considerations from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia.

Newberg Report Update: Saltalamacchia traded?

2010-07-31T15:44:00.001-05:00

According to tweets from at least 13 different sources, including WEEI Sports in Boston, the Red Sox have acquired catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia from the Rangers. No confirmation, and no further details yet.

7/31: Rangers Farm Report

2010-07-31T13:53:00.001-05:00

The Newberg Report surpassed 9,000 subscribers yesterday. Thanks for reading. I’m assuming I still have a job despite the loss of so many minor leaguers. I can expand my focus if things get slow. Real estate trends. Russian history. How to properly saute Brussels sprouts.

Stars of the Day
AAA: Omar Beltre, Tanner Scheppers, Pedro Strop / Craig Gentry, Brandon Boggs
AA: Richard Bleier / Johnny Whittleman, Joey Butler
High-A: Cody Podraza, Jake Kaase, Mike Bianucci
Low-A: Jake Brigham, Ovispo de los Santos / Jared Bolden
Short-A: Andrew Doyle, Tim Stanford
Rookie: ugh

AAA: at Oklahoma City 4, Round Rock 1
Record: 57-48, +3.5

Texas didn’t trade its whole system; its AAA squad featured three pitchers who could help in September (or sooner). Omar Beltre (2.50 ERA) worked six innings on just 75 pitches and limited the Express to a run on two hits, two walks, and five strikeouts. Tanner Scheppers threw 16 of 21 pitches for strikes in a two-innings, two-strikeout appearances. Pedro Strop fanned two in a clean 9th.

Brandon Boggs (pictured) was 2-3 with a double and walk. Craig Gentry reached on two HBPs and a walk.

AA: at Frisco 4, San Antonio 7
Record: 19-15, -1.0

To the disappointment of my attending sister and nephew, Frisco coughed up its 4-1 lead in the 8th.

Frisco suited up ten pitchers and 10 position players. CF Engel Beltre departed after hitting the outfield wall in the 1st, leaving the Riders with no bench. Reliever Tim Murphy can play an outfield corner (and did so in Bakersfield a while back), but if MIFs Marcus Lemon or Renny Osuna goes down, the alternatives are… interesting. Elio Sarmiento, second baseman?

Given the overuse of the bullpen lately, Richard Bleier (4.76 ERA) was the ideal starter, and he lasted 7.1 innings. A walk and hit batter ended his evening. Both would score, giving him three earned runs in total on eight hits, a walk, and four strikeouts. Tim Murphy allowed four runs on four hits including a three-run homer with two out after an Emerson Frostad error.

DH Johnny Whittleman drove in three on a single and double. He’s batting .233/.333/.383 since rejoining Frisco. Joey Butler singled and tripled.

Marcus Lemon has started 16 consecutive games at second base after spending most of the season in left or at DH. He’s batting 300/.347/.371 during that span but has committed five errors.

Frisco did in fact receive reliever Mark Hamburger yesterday. Texas acquired Hamburger for Eddie Guardado in 2008, and the 23-year-old has pitched very well in Bakersfield, compiling 49 strikeouts in 45.2 innings and a 1.77 ERA. Elizardo Ramirez also dropped down from AAA.

Kasey Kiker was shipped to Arizona and placed on the DL with shoulder fatigue.

High-A: Bakersfield 10, at Lancaster 5
Record: 23-12, +4.0

Thanks to an extremely unbalanced schedule, Bakersfield rarely visits Lancaster, one of the most hitter-friendly parks on the planet. Often, the wind blows out to center at 25 MPH or higher. In 2007, Lancaster and its opponents averaged 16.2 runs per game at home. That figure has fallen to 12.4 this season (in part because Lancaster’s offense is awful), but the park is still inflating scoring by 18%. I would rather Texas keep its affiliation with Bakersfield than play in Lancaster or High Desert. If you’ve wondered how Bakersfield can play offense-neutral despite a center-field wall a modest 356 feet from home plate, look to Lancaster.

The goal for pitchers is survival, and Wilfredo Boscan (4.13 ERA) survived last night. In seven innings, Boscan walked none, struck out eight, and allowed five runs on 11 hits.

DH Mike Bianucci (.249/.302/.407) went 3-5 with two doubles. LF Cody Podraza (.636 in three high-A games) collected two singles and a walk.

Low-A: at Hickory 3, Kannapolis 2
Record: 19-14, -3.0

Vin DiFazio singled home Jared Bolden in the 9th for the victory. Bolden’s two-run homer in the 6th had erased a 2-0 deficit. SS Jonathan Roof (.282/.317/.282) was 2-3.

Jake Brigham (4.21 ERA) fanned three in a seven-inning, 97-pitch outing. He allowed two runs on five this and a walk. Ovispo de los Santos threw two perfect frames with three strikeouts.

Short-A: Spokane 1, at Eugene 2
Record: 1-2

Spokane four-hit the Emeralds to no avail. Starter Andrew Doyle yielded an unearned run in four innings on two hits and two strikeouts. Tim Stanford fanned two in two innings. Colby Killian (2.63 ERA) allowed one hit and struck out three in two innings, but his two-error 7th helped to pushed Eugene’s go-ahead run across in the 7th.

CF Jake Skole (.281/.350/.360) went 2-4 and scored Spokane’s run.

Rookie: Rangers 0, Brewers 14
Record: 15-16, -6.5

Yipes. Shawn Blackwell couldn’t escape the 1st (0.2 IP, 4 H, 5 R), and Korean import Tae-Kyung Ahn can’t find the plate (0.2 IP, 4 BB, 11 walks in 4 IP this season). Edward Alfonzo made a successful professional debut as a pitcher (1 IP, 0 R) after converting from the outfield. Richard Alvarez (1.1 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 2 BB) pitched for the first time in three weeks.

DH Drew Robinson (.286/.415/.364) had two of the team’s five hits.

Today’s Starters
AAA: Mike Ballard
AA: Maybe Elizardo Ramirez, who threw two innings three days ago. Or, as I tweeted yesterday, Frisco will have three folks throw ceremonial first pitches, and the one with the best velocity joins the rotation.
High-A: Carlos Pimentel
Low-A: Braden Tullis
Short-A: Randol Rojas
Rookie: Ezequiel Rijo
-Scott Lucas

Astros acquire Mark Melancon and Jimmy Paredes from Yankees

2010-07-31T13:12:00.001-05:00

HOUSTON -- Two days after sending Roy Oswalt to the Phillies, the Astros continued their wholesale youth movement on Saturday and completed another major trade by sending five-time All-Star first baseman Lance Berkman and cash to the Yankees in exchange for two Minor Leaguers.

Berkman, who spent his entire 11-year Major League career with the Astros and is considered one of the franchise's greatest players, will be in uniform on Saturday night for the Yankees when they face the Rays in St. Petersburg, Fla. The Astros received pitcher Mark Melancon, 25, and infielder Jimmy Paredes, 21, from the Yankees and will send $4 million to the Yankees, according to a person close to the negotiations.

The deal was all but completed on Friday, but it couldn't be announced until Saturday afternoon.

Berkman spent his entire career with the Astros since being selected in the first round of the 1997 Draft and ranks in the top three in franchise history in batting average (.296), home runs (326), runs scored (1,008), walks (1,040) and RBIs (1,090). He was hitting .245 with 13 homers and 49 RBIs in 85 games this year.

"I never thought I would be in this position -- never had to go through it," Berkman said on Friday. "It's unsettling, because you just don't know what's going to happen and there are all sorts of possibilities. I guess in one sense it's good because there are teams that want me to play for them, particularly in a down season."

Houston has already identified Berkman's replacement, having purchased the contract of first baseman Brett Wallace from Triple-A Round Rock. Wallace was acquired from the Blue Jays on Thursday for a prospect the Astros acquired when they sent Oswalt and cash to Philadelphia in exchange pitcher J.A. Happ and two Minor Leaguers.

Wallace is in the starting lineup for Saturday's game against Milwaukee.

The trades of Berkman and Oswalt -- two of the franchise's cornerstones in the 2000s -- signal a full-fledged commitment to youth by the Astros, who were already starting three rookies routinely: third baseman Chris Johnson, catcher Jason Castro and shortstop Angel Sanchez.

Left-hander Wandy Rodriguez is the only holdover from the 2005 World Series team, and left fielder Carlos Lee is the only big-money player left on the roster. Lee, who has two years left on his six-year, $100-million contract, has a no-trade clause and has repeatedly indicated a desire to remain in Houston.

Wallace, 23, hit .301 with 24 doubles, 18 home runs and 61 RBIs in 95 games at Triple-A Las Vegas this season. The Cardinals' first-round selection in the 2008 Draft, Wallace will report to the Astros' Triple-A affiliate at Round Rock and play first base.

"Brett Wallace is a hitting machine," Astros general manager Ed Wade said on Thursday. "No question about that. We've had our eye on him since the 2008 Draft. He was a first-round pick of the Cardinals at that point and has been in some pretty big trades."

Wallace, who attended Major League Spring Training with the Blue Jays this year, played college baseball at Arizona State and was named Pac-10 Player of the Year in 2007 and '08. In '07, he won the conference's Triple Crown by hitting .423 with 16 homers and 78 RBIs while leading the Sun Devils to the College World Series.

Melancon, who had Tommy John surgery in October 2006, throws in the mid-90s, with a power breaking ball and good changeup. He was taken by the Yankees in the ninth round of the 2006 Draft and is 18-3 with a 2.84 ERA and 14 saves in 123 career relief appearances. He's pitched 15 games in relief for the Yankees, posting a 4.87 ERA and spending most of this year at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Paredes, a Dominican switch-hitter, had been in the Yankees organization since being signed as a non-drafted free agent in 2006 and hit .282 with five homers, 48 RBIs and 36 stolen bases at Class A Charleston this year. He played 71 games at second, but he has also seen action at shortstop and third base.

Brian McTaggart is a reporter for MLB.com.

Postgame Alert for the Rangers

2010-07-31T00:11:00.000-05:00

Texas Rangers Postgame Alert
July 30, 2010

Texas 7, LA Angels 9 at Angel Stadium of Anaheim
Texas Record: (60-43)
LA Angels Record: (53-52)

Winning pitcher - Ervin Santana (10-7)
Losing pitcher - Tommy Hunter (8-1)
SV - Brian Fuentes (19)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
TEX	3	2	1	1	0	0	0	0	0	7	12	1
LAA	0	4	0	4	0	1	0	0	X	9	10	1

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit texasrangers.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Texas Game: July 31, 2010 08:05 PM CT vs. Los Angeles Angels

Upcoming Texas Home Games:
vs. New York Yankees, August 10, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. New York Yankees, August 11, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. Boston Red Sox, August 13, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets

Postgame Alert for the Mariners

2010-07-30T22:11:00.000-05:00

Seattle Mariners Postgame Alert
July 30, 2010

Seattle 3, Minnesota 5 at Target Field
Seattle Record: (39-65)
Minnesota Record: (57-46)

Winning pitcher - Scott Baker (9-9)
Losing pitcher - Doug Fister (3-7)
SV - Matt Capps (27)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
SEA	0	0	0	0	0	3	0	0	0	3	9	2
MIN	0	2	1	0	2	0	0	0	X	5	8	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit mariners.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Seattle Game: July 31, 2010 06:10 PM CT vs. Minnesota Twins

Upcoming Seattle Home Games:
vs. Texas Rangers, August 3, 2010 07:10 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Texas Rangers, August 4, 2010 07:10 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Texas Rangers, August 5, 2010 07:10 PM PT Purchase Tickets

Postgame Alert for the Braves

2010-07-30T21:59:00.001-05:00

Atlanta Braves Postgame Alert
July 30, 2010

Atlanta 6, Cincinnati 4 at Great American Ball Park
Atlanta Record: (59-43)
Cincinnati Record: (57-47)

Winning pitcher - Jesse Chavez (3-2)
Losing pitcher - Francisco Cordero (3-4)
SV - Billy Wagner (24)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
ATL	0	0	1	0	2	1	0	0	0	6	12	0
CIN	0	0	3	0	0	0	0	1	0	4	11	0
	10	11	12	13	14	15	16	17	18	R	H	E
ATL	2	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	6	12	0
CIN	0	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	4	11	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit braves.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Atlanta Game: July 31, 2010 04:10 PM ET vs. Cincinnati Reds

Upcoming Atlanta Home Games:
vs. New York Mets, August 2, 2010 07:10 PM ET Purchase Tickets
vs. New York Mets, August 3, 2010 07:10 PM ET Purchase Tickets
vs. New York Mets, August 4, 2010 07:10 PM ET Purchase Tickets

Postgame Alert for the A's

2010-07-30T21:47:00.000-05:00

Oakland Athletics Postgame Alert
July 30, 2010

Oakland 1, Chicago White Sox 6 at U.S. Cellular Field
Oakland Record: (51-51)
Chicago White Sox Record: (58-44)

Winning pitcher - Lucas Harrell (1-0)
Losing pitcher - Brett Anderson (2-2)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
OAK	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	7	1
CWS	1	0	0	3	0	1	1	0	X	6	13	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit oaklandathletics.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Oakland Game: July 31, 2010 06:05 PM CT vs. Chicago White Sox

Upcoming Oakland Home Games:
vs. Kansas City Royals, August 2, 2010 07:05 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Kansas City Royals, August 3, 2010 07:05 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Kansas City Royals, August 4, 2010 12:35 PM PT Purchase Tickets

Postgame Alert for the Astros

2010-07-30T21:32:00.000-05:00

Houston Astros Postgame Alert
July 30, 2010

Milwaukee 0, Houston 5 at Minute Maid Park
Milwaukee Record: (48-56)
Houston Record: (43-59)

Winning pitcher - J.A. Happ (2-0)
Losing pitcher - Manny Parra (3-8)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
MIL	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	4	0
HOU	0	1	0	3	0	0	0	1	X	5	6	1

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit astros.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Houston Game: July 31, 2010 06:05 PM CT vs. Milwaukee Brewers

Upcoming Houston Home Games:
vs. Milwaukee Brewers, July 31, 2010 06:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. Milwaukee Brewers, August 1, 2010 01:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. Atlanta Braves, August 9, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets

Newberg Report Update: Could Rangers be sellers?

2010-07-30T17:42:00.000-05:00

Fascinating: according to a local report, Texas is testing the market to gauge interest in Scott Feldman and Rich Harden, the two pitchers who are candidates to make tomorrow night's start, hours after the non-waiver trade deadline passes.

According to the story, the Mets and possibly the Brewers could be interested. Still, surely a longshot.

-Jamey

Rangers Auction Will Proceed Despite Higher Offer

2010-07-30T17:10:00.007-05:00

By Angela K. Brown (AP)

FORT WORTH, Texas — A bankruptcy judge Friday rejected a last-minute higher bid on the Texas Rangers from Major League Baseball's preferred buyer, a deal that would have canceled next week's auction.

Since U.S. Bankruptcy Judge D. Michael Lynn said Wednesday's auction will proceed as planned, the higher bid from a group led by Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan and Pittsburgh attorney Chuck Greenberg is now off the table. That means the starting price at the auction will still be $306.7 million, which is the cash portion of Greenberg-Ryan's $520 million bid for the team. The group's total offer includes an additional $55 million or so for parking lots.

The court-appointed restructuring officer, William Snyder, had asked the judge to forgo an auction. He said the Greenberg-Ryan group had substantially increased its offer and removed "stinky" side deals considered favorable to team owner Tom Hicks.

The new bid was filed under seal, but an attorney for the team, Ronit Berkovich, indicated in court that it was $40 million higher.

Lynn said Friday that he did not believe creditors' claims that Snyder was trying to make "an end run" to sell the team to Greenberg-Ryan's group, which was chosen as the buyer after the team's original bidding process last year.

Creditors who have blocked that deal, saying the group's bid was not the highest, urged the judge Friday to proceed with the auction.

Lynn made his decision after lawyers for Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban and Houston businessman Jim Crane said their clients were preparing to bid at the auction.

Cuban is reviewing documents, and the auction date and bidding procedures are not a problem for him, said his lawyer, Clifton Jessup.

Now, the initial Greenberg-Ryan bid — which includes legal costs and damages if Hicks is sued after the sale, an office building lease and $9 million in adviser fees — will be submitted at the auction.

The Greenberg-Ryan group has been under fire from creditors because those items were transferred to the Rangers from Hicks' other companies that are not part of the bankruptcy case. But the Greenberg-Ryan group may choose to sweeten its bid during the auction by removing those items, which won't be in other parties' bids.

The bid also includes the Rangers Ballpark lease, which JP Morgan Chase, a creditor, is trying to sever from the team's sale. The judge will not decide that issue until next year.

Redskins' No. 4 pick Trent Williams gets 6-yr deal

2010-07-30T14:32:00.009-05:00

By JOSEPH WHITE (AP)

ASHBURN, Va. — Trent Williams never got to sleep Thursday night as he waited to hear from his agent. The No. 4 overall pick in the draft had already missed one day of Washington Redskins training camp and wanted to be a holdout no longer.

At 4:30 a.m. Friday, the call came. Williams would get a six-year, $60 million contract that includes $36.75 million in guaranteed money. The team's new starting left tackle needed to be at Redskins Park by 6 a.m. to sign the deal and suit up for the 8:30 a.m. practice.

By the team the 2 1/2-hour workout was done, Williams was running purely on adrenaline.

"I'm going to try to get me a nice little nap here in a couple of minutes," he said.

Williams became the first top-five draft pick to report to camp in a year in which first-rounders have been especially slow to sign. He was determined to have a deal done quickly, even changing agents at one point because he wanted a representative who would get him to camp on time — or close to it.

"If I'm going to be plugged in at a key position, I can't be out too many days," Williams said. "This is a new offense, and we need chemistry."

Williams worked with the starting unit right away, taking the spot held for much of the past decade by retired six-time Pro Bowl left tackle Chris Samuels. Williams was taken aback by the speed of NFL practices when he came to minicamp in the spring, but this time he was more in the flow.

"I didn't get off to a slow start like I did last time," he said. "I realize, hey, they're paying me a nice bit of change. I can't be no little rookie trying to get things together."

Perhaps because of his lack of sleep, Williams created new metaphors by botching his cliches. He said he had been "nipping at the bit" to get to camp and credited teammate Brian Orakpo for giving advice on "the loopholes that all rookies face."

Williams said he's going to buy a car and a house and try to save the rest of the money, although he realizes the veterans will run up the traditional mammoth restaurant bill in his name at some point during training camp.

He also had no qualms about toting veterans' gear off the field after practice. Fellow first-round pick Dez Bryant caused a stir at Dallas Cowboys camp earlier this week when he refused to carry Roy Williams' shoulder pads.

"I understand everybody's a rookie one day," Trent Williams said. "You've got to pay your rookie dues. It could be a lot worse than carrying shoulder pads."

Does Mark Cuban Have a Chance?

2010-07-30T13:39:00.000-05:00

Mark Cuban might not even get to the plate in his potential attempt to buy the Texas Rangers.

It was announced in court on Friday that chief restructuring officer William K. Snyder had worked out a "substantially enhanced" offer for the team from Pittsburgh attorney Chuck Greenberg and Rangers president Nolan Ryan, according to multiple reports.

The deal means that next Wednesday's auction for the team may be off, leaving potential bidders like Dallas Mavericks owner Cuban and Houston businessman Jim Crane on the sidelines.

Snyder eliminated all side deals in the Greenberg-Ryan bid. Arrangements had originally been made in which owner Tom Hicks could sell parking lots and a building at Rangers Park to the group and pocket nearly $70 million, even while creditors clamor for their money from the bankrupt team.

Those deals are out, and the new bid from Greenberg-Ryan is reportedly about $40 million higher than the original cash price of about $310 million.

Still, Cuban's attorney, Clifton Jessup, attacked the backroom deal, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. He said that Cuban could have beaten other bidders if the auction had gone off as planned.

Crane's attorney said his client had found new investors and could have also made a solid bid, either with Cuban or alone.

On Wednesday, New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez filed an objection to auctioning off the team, raising concerns about whether he would receive the $24.9 million he's owed in deferred compensation.

Major League Baseball, the Major League Baseball Players Association and the team's lenders also filed objections to the plan.

Other current and former players listed as creditors include Rangers third baseman Michael Young ($4 million), Kevin Millwood ($12.9 million), Vicente Padilla ($1.7 million), Mickey Tettleton ($1.4 million) and Mark McLemore ($970,051.97).

Richard Durrett of ESPNDallas.com

Postgame Alert for the Mariners

2010-07-29T21:56:00.000-05:00

Seattle Mariners Postgame Alert
July 29, 2010

Seattle 5, Chicago White Sox 9 at U.S. Cellular Field
Seattle Record: (39-64)
Chicago White Sox Record: (57-44)

Winning pitcher - Freddy Garcia (10-4)
Losing pitcher - David Pauley (0-3)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
SEA	1	0	1	0	0	1	2	0	0	5	10	1
CWS	0	0	4	1	0	2	2	0	X	9	13	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit mariners.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Seattle Game: July 30, 2010 07:10 PM CT vs. Minnesota Twins

Upcoming Seattle Home Games:
vs. Texas Rangers, August 3, 2010 07:10 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Texas Rangers, August 4, 2010 07:10 PM PT Purchase Tickets
vs. Texas Rangers, August 5, 2010 07:10 PM PT Purchase Tickets

Postgame Alert for the Rangers

2010-07-29T21:54:00.001-05:00

Texas Rangers Postgame Alert
July 29, 2010

Oakland 4, Texas 7 at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington
Oakland Record: (51-50)
Texas Record: (60-42)

Winning pitcher - C.J. Wilson (10-5)
Losing pitcher - Vin Mazzaro (6-3)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
OAK	1	0	0	0	0	2	0	0	1	4	10	0
TEX	2	0	1	0	1	3	0	0	X	7	14	0

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit texasrangers.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Texas Game: July 30, 2010 07:05 PM PT vs. Los Angeles Angels

Upcoming Texas Home Games:
vs. New York Yankees, August 10, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. New York Yankees, August 11, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets
vs. Boston Red Sox, August 13, 2010 07:05 PM CT Purchase Tickets

Rangers Acquire Jorge Cantu from Marlins

2010-07-29T18:12:00.000-05:00

The Rangers acquired infielder Jorge Cantu and cash considerations from the Florida Marlins on Thursday in exchange for right-handed pitchers Omar Poveda and Evan Reed.

Cantu, 28, has batted .262 with 10 home runs, 25 doubles, and 54 RBIs in 97 games with Florida this season. Cantu has a pair of 20-homer seasons as well as two different 100-RBI campaigns. Cantu has played primarily first and third base the past several years after seeing action at second base and third base over his first three big league seasons from 2004-06.

7-29 Newberg Report TROT COFFEY* v.6

2010-07-29T16:40:00.001-05:00

(* Trade Rumor Offerings To Chew On For Fun, Even Yuks)

Not to be confused with Brewers journeyman reliever Todd Coffey, the TROT COFFEY is a mailing list-only update on various trade and free agent rumblings unearthed, if not hatched, by the media:

Jorge Cantu has been lifted in the 8^th inning of Florida's game against San Francisco, with Florida ahead, 5-0

Postgame Alert for the Braves

2010-07-29T15:47:00.000-05:00

Atlanta Braves Postgame Alert
July 29, 2010

Atlanta 3, Washington 5 at Nationals Park
Atlanta Record: (58-43)
Washington Record: (44-58)

Winning pitcher - Scott Olsen (3-2)
Losing pitcher - Derek Lowe (10-9)
SV - Matt Capps (26)

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
ATL	0	0	0	2	0	1	0	0	0	3	6	0
WSH	0	2	0	2	0	0	0	1	X	5	7	1

GAME LINKS:
Recap | Full Box Score | Photo Gallery | Highlights

Visit braves.com for more information »
Standings »
Game Notes »

Next Atlanta Game: July 30, 2010 07:10 PM ET vs. Cincinnati Reds

Upcoming Atlanta Home Games:
vs. New York Mets, August 2, 2010 07:10 PM ET Purchase Tickets
vs. New York Mets, August 3, 2010 07:10 PM ET Purchase Tickets
vs. New York Mets, August 4, 2010 07:10 PM ET Purchase Tickets

Newberg Report Update: More on Kinsler

2010-07-29T11:29:00.001-05:00

Local reports now indicate that it’s a strained left groin, rather than a left leg injury, that will force Ian Kinsler to the disabled list.

Also, Tampa Bay has apparently pulled righthander Jeremy Hellickson from his AAA start after three scoreless innings this morning. He’s a deep blue chipper. If he’s being pulled to preserve him for an imminent trade, it’s going to be a big one.

-Jamey

Newberg Report Update: Kinsler injured?

2010-07-29T11:03:00.002-05:00

Take this for what it’s worth, as there’s been no confirmation from the organization, but according to a local report, Texas will place second baseman Ian Kinsler on the 15-day disabled list today with a minor injury to his left leg, and will purchase the contract of Oklahoma City first baseman-outfielder Mitch Moreland. To make room for Moreland on the 40-man roster, according to this story, righthander Mark Lowe could be shifted to the 60-day disabled list.

The Kinsler injury isn’t considered serious but the club reportedly wants to take this opportunity to get him right physically before the stretch run.

The article goes on to suggest that this development could vault Baltimore’s Ty Wigginton over Florida’s Jorge Cantu as a trade target over the next three days, as Wigginton is capable of playing not only on the infield corners but at second baseball as well.

Also, Tim Kurkjian said on ESPN SportsCenter this morning that he didn’t expect Milwaukee to trade Prince Fielder this week unless Texas were to bowl them over with an offer.

More as details develop.

-Jamey

Haren Says He'll Start Saturday for Angels

2010-07-29T10:36:00.000-05:00

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Newly acquired Angels pitcher Dan Haren expects to make his next start as scheduled despite a bruised forearm.

The three-time All-Star plans to make his second start for Los Angeles on Saturday against the AL West-leading Texas Rangers. The right-hander was acquired Sunday in a trade that sent lefty Joe Saunders and three minor league prospects to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

He was drilled on his pitching arm by a line drive off the bat of Boston's Kevin Youkilis in the fifth inning of his Angels debut on Monday night. X-rays were negative.

"As of now, barring any setbacks, I should be good to go," Haren said Wednesday. "It's obviously still bruised and a little tight, but I don't see it being a problem. I'm staying on top of it and getting treatment before, during and after the games. And I'm doing my best to be out there. My arm feels great. I only threw 62 pitches Monday, so I feel real fresh, so I'll have plenty in the tank on Saturday."

Haren returned to the clubhouse Wednesday morning after spending a day in Arizona to pick up some personal belongings at his home and get in a workout at the team's Tempe training facility.

"I didn't know if there would be any restrictions or anything, so I was a little cautious at first. But I was able to pretty much just let it go," Haren said. "I threw all of my pitches, and by the end, I had no restrictions. So I'm definitely encouraged."

Manager Mike Scioscia shared Haren's optimism. But he had very little choice with a rotation already showing signs of cracks. Scott Kazmir is on the disabled list with shoulder fatigue. Joel Pineiro was a last-minute scratch before Wednesday's matinee against the Red Sox due to an oblique strain while he was warming up, and is expected to miss six to eight weeks.

"We'll look at Dan again the next couple of days and make sure he's still progressing," Scioscia said. "But it looks like he had no problem manipulating the ball and making all his pitches. So he should be good to go on Saturday."

The eight-year veteran has made 190 consecutive starts without missing a turn since 2005.

"It's scary. You don't really even have time to react," he said. "It's just kind of instinct. I kind of moved my arm up into the ball. I've had some close ones, but that was about as hard as I've ever been hit. I've gotten hit below the waist quite a few times, but never above. It got me good. Someone said the bat might have been broken — but it didn't feel like it."