Eaves On Sports (And Other Stuff)

Lakers Reach Out To Fans Regarding Cancellation of Preseason

2011-10-04T19:31:00.000-07:00

One team who certainly does not want the NBA season to start any later is the Lakers. Not only is LA eager to atone for its early playoff bounce last season, but Jerry Buss has one of the most profitable teams in the league. The last thing he wants to do is miss games.

But as I would hope you have realized by now, this lockout is now about the teams such as the Lakers, Knicks, Mavericks or Heat. This labor dispute centers mostly around small-market teams--more specifically, small-market teams with relatively new owners.

Regardless of who is spearheading this work stoppages, let's just hope a deal can be reached in the very near future. Too much money and too many jobs are on the line for some type of agreement not to be reached.

In the interim, teams are doing whatever they can to stay in the good graces of their season ticket holders. One way the Lakers are trying to do it is by updating their fan base on the latest developments of the lockout. Below, you will find the latest correspondence between the Lakers and their fans, courtesy of an e-mail from team senior VP Tim Harris:

We appreciate your patience as the NBA and the NBA Players Association negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement. Since an agreement has not been reached at this time, the league has canceled all preseason games.

The league will continue to work toward a new collective bargaining agreement so that we can get back to enjoying the excitement of NBA basketball.

Lakers fans are the passion that drives the team and we appreciate your support and your continued loyalty to the Lakers.

Sincerely,

Tim Harris

Senior Vice President, Operations/CMO

100 Black Men Future Leaders Scholarships Available

2011-08-19T11:19:00.000-07:00

On behalf of Chairman Albert E. Dotson, Jr. and your Executive Leadership, we are proud to announce the next round of 100 Black Men of America Future Leaders Scholarships.

In 2011, the 100 Black Men of America and University of Phoenix launched a partnership that in part, provides $750,000 in scholarships to members of the 100 Black Men of America.

Presently, this partnership has yielded $200,000 in scholarships that were awarded to four members of the 100 Black Men of America at our 25th Annual Conference in San Francisco, CA.

Detaila of the scholarship are listed above. The submission deadline is October 10, 2011.

If you have any questions regarding the Future Leaders Scholarship, please contact Dwayne Crawford at dwayne.crawford@100bmoa.org or scholarships@phoenix.edu.

Dirk Nowitzki Channels Larry Bird Against Heat

2011-06-03T12:05:00.000-07:00

MIAMI-- It’s not wrong, cliche or lazy to compare Dirk Nowitzki to Larry Legend.

Sorry, it’s the only comparison that’s remotely accurate.

Thursday night inside American Airlines Arena, the Germanator impersonated The Hick from French Lick, stunning the Heat with a rope-a-dope-like finishing barrage.

Yes, Thursday night’s Game 2 of the NBA Finals calls for Larry Bird and Muhammad Ali-type hyperbole. The Mavericks’ rally and Nowitzki’s brilliance are worthy of references to a “Legend” and “The Greatest.”

Trailing by 15 points with a little more than six minutes to play, Dallas closed the game and evened this best-of-seven series with a breathtaking, where-did-that-come-from 22-5 run.

Dallas 95, Miami 93.

foxsports.com: The stuff of legends from Nowitzki

HS HOOPS STARS LEARN THE ROPES ON AND OFF THE COURT AT THE 18TH ANNUAL NBPA TOP 100 CAMP

2011-06-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

--The Highest Percentage of Top-Ranked High School Players Ever Assembled at a Single Camp; 18 of the Nation’s Top 20 Ranked Players Confirmed To Attend, 48 of the Top 50--

New York, NY (June 2, 2011)—The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) announced today that the 18^th Annual NBPA Top 100 High School Camp, which exists to prepare up-and-coming players for life on and off the basketball court, will take place at the University of Virginia’s John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville from Wednesday, June 15 through Saturday, June 18. Showcasing the country’s elite high school basketball talent, the roster – which includes an unprecedented 18 of the top 20 players – features the Class of 2012’s Andre Drummond, Shabazz Muhammad, Kaleb Tarczewski, Cameron Ridley, Ricardo Ledo and several others. The Class of 2013 standouts include Jabari Parker, Julius Randle and Nerlens Noel, to name a few.

The Camp offers a unique and valuable curriculum designed to prepare players for competition and life at the next level. The training includes a sophisticated Skills Development Program, highlighted by its Mentoring, Personal Development and Education component. In addition, every camper participates in a series of group discussions and classes on topics ranging from stress management to sex education, handling recruiting pressures, dressing for success, and other life-lesson subjects offered by expert trainers and counselors, as well as NBA players.

On the court, players face off against each other daily in top-quality competition during practices and games. As part of the NBPA’s Coaching Development Program, current and retired NBA players work intensively with campers, coaching teams, teaching basketball fundamentals and leading skill development stations in one-on-one and group settings. The Coaching Development Program is an advanced opportunity for players who desire to explore the coaching profession as their next career to learn coaching skills such as studying game film, scouting players and creating a coaching game plan. Players scheduled to participate include Tony Allen, Raja Bell, Steve Blake, Caron Butler, Brian Cook, Keyon Dooling, Maurice Evans, Stephen Graham, Royal Ivey, Eduardo Najera, Gary Neal, Ime Udoka, Reggie Williams, Tim James, Awvee Storey, Chucky Atkins and Luke Walton.

The Camp, started in 1994, added the Parents Coaching Parents Program in 2003, a diverse educational program available to parents or guardians who attend the camp. This interactive program creates a “team approach” between parents and players, and informs parents about the recruiting process and beyond. This rapidly growing program has dramatically increased in parent attendance in each of its seven years.

Billy Hunter, NBPA Executive Director says, “The NBPA Top 100 Camp offers a personalized game plan for every camper that attends. Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to proactively educate these talented student-athletes about the keys to success in all walks of life, from the basketball court to the classroom and beyond.”

“As the Top 100 Camp continues to grow, so does our talent pool. This year, the competition on the court will be more competitive than ever as we work with the country’s greatest high school athletes. In addition to the tremendous group of basketball stars, our expert educators, coaches and mentors will certainly enhance the learning experience for the young men, says Tim McCormick, Camp Director. “Campers will learn from the pros and compete against the best, while receiving invaluable guidance about developing into successful players and people.”

Young Black Scholars Fundraiser

2011-05-17T11:03:00.000-07:00

NASCAR Announces College Scholarship Program

2011-05-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

--UPS Supports Return Of Diversity Initiative--

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (May 12, 2011) – NASCAR today announced the return of the NASCAR Wendell Scott Scholarship Program and the University of Central Florida, DeVos School of Management Scholarship.

For a second consecutive year, the NASCAR Wendell Scott Scholarship Program is funded in part by long-time NASCAR partner UPS. The program was established to provide financial support to deserving African-American and Hispanic students currently enrolled in college who are pursuing degrees in areas of study related to motorsports, including marketing, engineering and public relations.

The scholarship program is part of NASCAR Diversity Affairs’ integrated initiative that includes a scholarship program, mentorship program and summer internship program.

“We are continually seeking ways to further engage students as fans and as future employees of the sport,” said Marcus Jadotte, NASCAR vice president, public affairs and multicultural development. “The goal is to create permanent employment prospects for diverse college students entering the work force through viable, real-world opportunities.”

The NASCAR Wendell Scott Scholarship Program provides annual scholarships administered by the Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities (HACU) and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). In addition, NASCAR and UPS support a scholarship program for students attending the University of Central Florida, DeVos School of Management which offers a master’s program in sports management.

“UPS’s commitment to diversity extends beyond our workforce, and we’re excited to continue our support with NASCAR in this important initiative,” said Ron Rogowski, UPS vice president, global sponsorships & events.

The scholarships are based on the following award criteria:
* 3.0 GPA requirement
* Documented financial need
* College juniors, seniors and graduate students with majors in: business, communications, engineering, mass media, public relations or technology
* Participation in the NASCAR Diversity Internship Program (NDIP) is encouraged but not required

Facts about Wendell Scott
Wendell Scott was the first African American driver to win a NASCAR Cup race. He won in NASCAR's premier series on Dec. 1, 1963, on a 1-mile dirt track in Jacksonville, Fla. Wendell Scott made 495 starts during his career and posted 147 top-10 finishes before retiring in 1973. Scott died in 1990. As part of an ongoing effort to recognize trailblazers in the sport, Wendell Scott was recognized during the Las Vegas Race the weekend of March 4-6, 2011, which coincided with the 50th anniversary of his first start – March 4, 1961 in Spartanburg, SC.

For additional information, contact:
Leslie Maxie, NASCAR Integrated Marketing Communications, (212) 326-1840 or (347) 254-8638 lmaxie@nascar.com

BLAKE GRIFFIN TO DONATE 2011 KIA OPTIMA TO BENEFIT STAND UP TO CANCER

2011-05-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

In Tribute to Friend and Former Teammate Wilson Holloway

Auction Begins on Thursday, May 5 at 6 PM PST/ 9 PM EST at www.autotrader.com/BlakeDunk
Additional Donations Can Be Made at www.su2c.org/BlakeDunk

LOS ANGELES – May 5, 2011 – Shortly after being named the NBA’s 2010-11 Rookie of the Year, Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin donated the autographed 2011 Kia Optima midsize sedan used in his jaw-dropping dunk in the Sprite Slam Dunk at NBA All-Star 2011 for an upcoming public charity auction on AutoTrader.com to benefit Stand Up To Cancer.

Proceeds from the auction of the automobile will go directly to cancer research funded by Stand Up To Cancer in tribute to Griffin’s friend and former high school teammate, Wilson Holloway. A Tulsa native, Wilson passed away on February 16 after a three-year battle with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Griffin will work with Stand Up to Cancer to identify the best way to utilize the funds to target research done specifically for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

The 10-day charity auction will run on AutoTrader.com, beginning at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on Thursday, May 5, and will run through 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on Sunday, May 15. To find out more information and to bid on the auction package, go to www.autotrader.com/BlakeDunk

“I am honored to memorialize Wilson’s legacy by helping to raise funds for cancer research,” said Blake Griffin. “Wilson was an inspiration to everybody who knew him, and a very dear friend and teammate. I dedicated my All-Star weekend to him.”

To further support Griffin’s commitment to raise funds for cancer research in honor of Holloway, Stand Up To Cancer has created a fundraising team called Team Blake: In Honor of My Friend, Wilson Holloway, through which the public can donate any amount of money at www.su2c.org/BlakeDunk.

“Wilson Holloway’s memory lives on through the generosity of his friend Blake Griffin,” said Laura Ziskin, a cancer survivor and co-founder of Stand Up To Cancer. “Basketball fans and all of us who have loved or lost someone in the fight against cancer can be a part of Blake’s tribute to Wilson, to help fund critical cancer research that can make a difference.”

AutoTrader.com doesn’t normally offer vehicle auctions, but was pleased to support an auction solution on this occasion to help raise the most money possible. “As the Ultimate Automotive Marketplace, what better place to showcase this unique car, help generate excitement behind this vehicle and raise the most money possible in the fight against cancer,” said AutoTrader.com Chief Marketing Officer Clark Wood.

Griffin dedicated his NBA All-Star 2011 debut to Holloway, and said he plans to give Holloway's family the Sprite Slam Dunk championship trophy he earned with his spectacular dunk over the hood of the Kia Optima.

About Stand Up To Cancer
Stand Up To Cancer -a program of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, the 501 (c) 3 charitable organization of the film and television businesses - raises funds to accelerate groundbreaking cancer research that can get new therapies to patients quickly and save lives. SU2C brings together the best and brightest in the cancer research community, encouraging collaboration instead of competition, and draws on the assets of the entertainment industry in unique ways to create awareness and build broad public support for this effort. For more information, go to www.standup2cancer.org.

ANGELS ANNOUNCE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

2011-04-21T10:52:00.000-07:00

--SERIES TO FEATURE TOP 40, COUNTRY, HIP- HOP, AND CHRISTIAN RECORDING ARTISTS--

ANAHEIM, CA -- The Angels announced today that the club will feature a series of post-game concerts as part of the 50th Anniversary celebration beginning Saturday, June 11th. The five-date “Summer Concert Series” presented by SRS Labs, sponsored by Budweiser will take place at Angel Stadium following Saturday night home games and feature top recording artists from a wide genre of music.

Following the June 11th Angels vs. Royals game, International pop sensation Taio Cruz will take the stage to kickoff the concert series. Cruz’s hit song “Dynamite” has been on the charts for 45 consecutive weeks and his song “Break Your Heart” peaked at #1 on the charts in both the US and UK. He has performed on many current pop-culture prime time TV shows and is currently writing songs for Justin Bieber. Cruz is scheduled to perform during this seasons’ American Idol ® finale and his third album “Black and Leather” will be released in the coming months.

The second post-game concert will take place following the Saturday, July 9th Angels game against the Seattle Mariners. Taking the stage will be multi-platinum country star Dierks Bentley. Bentley recently released his new rowdy sing-a-long party single “Am I The Only One” to radio, as the lead single off his upcoming sixth Capitol Nashville studio project. Bentley’s new album follows in the footsteps of his critically acclaimed UP ON THE RIDGE, which earned Album of the Year nominations at the ACM, CMA and GRAMMY Awards® this year. His previous five albums have sold over five million copies, earned 10 GRAMMY nominations and spawned seven No. 1 hits. Bentley is currently headlining the 30-city 2011 Jägermeister Country Tour through mid-May.

For post-game concert number three, major Hip-Hop mogul Ludacris will perform following the Saturday, August 6th game as the Angels host the Mariners. Ludacris’ current album debuted at #1 on the charts in 2010, had the #1 single in 2006 with “Money Maker” and has won multiple Grammy Awards ® for his music. Ludacris has also played roles in numerous blockbuster movies as well as the 2004 Academy Award® winning film for Best Picture “Crash”. Additionally, he started the Ludacris Foundation to motivate middle and high school students in the field of creative arts.

As the summer winds down, the contemporary Christian band MercyMe will perform post-game on Saturday, August 20th against the Baltimore Orioles. MercyMe has sold over 6 million albums, garnered 23 multi-format #1 Christian radio singles, won awards on all major award shows and appeared on some of the biggest network television programs. The band made recent history as “I Can Only Imagine” surpassed 1 million digital downloads, making it the first song in Christian music to go platinum in the digital domain. MercyMe has had all of their recordings certified as Gold or Platinum.

Concluding the concert series on Saturday, September 3rd (Angels vs. Twins) will be smash-hit maker NE-YO. He has delivered such singles as “Miss Independent,” “Closer” and “Because of You.” He also had two albums top the charts as well as five top 10 singles. Additionally, NE-YO has written songs for music’s biggest names (Beyonce & Rihanna to name a few) as well as appearing in featuring films and prime time television.

Tickets and more information on all five concerts dates are now available on angels.com/concerts

CVS Offering Free Health Services In LA Area

2011-04-12T14:00:00.000-07:00

ANGELS ANNOUNCE “GNAME THE GNOME" ONLINE CONTEST

2011-04-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

ANAHEIM, CA – The Angels announced today an online contest to “Gname the Gnome.” The contest gives fans an opportunity to name the much anticipated gnome bobblehead that will be given to all fans when the Angels face the Texas Rangers on Thursday, August 18^th at 7:05 p.m. The online contest is open to all fans with a creative interest.

The winner with the most unique and Angels related name will receive four field box game tickets to the August 18^th game, a parking pass, online and in-game recognition, and four autographed baseballs. All entries must be under 12 characters in length and submitted by April 26, 2011.

To participate, fans can enter at angels.com/gnome. The winner will be announced online the week of May 2^nd.

For more information, log-on to angels.com/gnome.

2011 Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List Announced

2011-04-12T12:14:00.000-07:00

NEWPORT BEACH, Ca. – The 2011 Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List, honoring the top collegiate defensive player in the country, was announced today at a luncheon hosted by Ronnie Lott and the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation.

This is the eighth year that the IMPACT Foundation has recognized the student-athletes throughout the nation who have had the biggest IMPACT on their teams both on and off the field. IMPACT is an acronym for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity, characteristics that Ronnie Lott exhibited throughout his brilliant Hall of Fame career at both USC and in the National Football League.

The 2011 list of 42 (Lott’s uniform number) includes 19 defensive backs, 14 linebackers and nine defensive linemen. There are 11 players from the ACC, eight from the SEC, seven from the Big Ten, six from the Pac-10, six from the Big 12, one from the Big East, one from the Mountain West, one from the Western Athletic Conference and one from Notre Dame.

Eleven of the nominees received All-American honors a year ago and 10 were accorded academic honors in their respective conferences.

The Lott Trophy has now donated nearly $850,000 to charities since its inception in 2004, including $275,000 to 23 different universities. The winners’ school receives $25,000 annually, each of the three runner-ups $5,000 and the Lott IMPACT Player of the Week $1,000.

A national voter panel, made up of more than 200 former collegiate stars, former college coaches, members of the media and both the Lott IMPACT Board of Directors and Board of Advisors, will select the four finalists who will be honored at the annual Lott IMPACT Trophy banquet Dec. 11 in Newport Beach.

The 2011 Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List

Emmanuel Acho, Texas, LB,

Ray-Ray Armstrong, Miami, DB

Mark Barron, Alabama, S

Jake Bequette, Arkansas, DL

Omar Bolden, Arizona State, CB

Nigel Bradham, Florida State, LB

Brodrick Brown, Oklahoma State, CB

Tank Carder, TCU, LB

Quinton Coples, North Carolina, DE

Jared Crick, Nebraska, DL

Lavonte David, Nebraska, LB

Matt Daniels, Duke, S

Tony Dye, UCLA, S

Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina, CB

Cliff Harris, Oregon, CB

Aaron Henry, Wisconsin, DB

Dont’a Hightower, Alabama, LB

Joe Holland, Purdue, LB

Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech, CB

Delano Howell, Stanford, DB

Brandon Jenkins, Florida State, DE

Janois Jenkins, Florida, CB

Mychal Kendricks, Cal, LB

Jordan Kovacs, Michigan, S

Luke Kuechly, Boston College, LB

Travis Lewis, Oklahoma, LB

Chris Marve, Vanderbilt, LB

T.J. McDonald, USC, S

Matt Merletti, North Carolina, S

Chase Minnifield, Virginia, CB

Tyler Nielsen, Iowa, LB

Kendall Reyes, Connecticut, DT

John Simon, Ohio State, DT

Shayne Skov, Stanford, LB

Jacquies Smith, Missouri, DE

Sean Spence, Miami, LB

Kenny Tate, Maryland, S

Brandon Taylor, LSU, S

Manti Te’o, Notre Dame, LB

Prentiss Waggner, Tennessee, S

Billy Winn, Boise State, DE

Jerel Worthy, Michigan State, DT

Past winners of The Lott Trophy:

2004 – David Pollack, Georgia

2005 – DeMeco Ryans, Alabama

2006 – Dante Hughes, California

2007 – Glenn Dorsey, LSU

2008 – James Laurinaitis, Ohio State

2009 – Jerry Hughes, TCU

2010 – J.J. Watt, Wisconsin

Named after Pro Football Hall of Fame member, Ronnie Lott, The Lott Trophy is awarded to college football’s Defensive IMPACT Player of the Year. Founded in 2004 by The Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation, The Lott Trophy is the first and only college football award to equally recognize athletic performance and the personal character attributes of the player. The Lott Trophy is given to the player who exhibits the same characteristics Lott embodied during his distinguished career: Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity. Voters for the award include selected members of the national media, previous finalists, the Board of Directors of the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation and the Legends Coaches which is a distinguished group of former college football head coaches. To date, the Foundation has donated more than $850,000 to various charities throughout the country. The eighth annual Lott Trophy dinner will be held December 11th at The Pacific Club in Newport Beach, California. For more information on The Lott Trophy visit: www.LottTrophy.com.

Wilkes Snubbed By Hall of Fame.. Again!

2011-04-02T14:09:00.000-07:00

Dennis Rodman is a Hall of Famer, but Jamaal Wilkes is not?

The Worm is in, but Silk is not? Seriously?

It may be hard to believe, but it’s true.

Rodman let it slip Friday night during his Pistons jersey retirement ceremony that he had been asked to fly to Houston for Monday’s announcement of the latest class to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Wilkes, unfortunately, found out recently that he is, once again, not invited to attend.

This is not a knock on Rodman, who was a tremendous player during his NBA career, but his overall basketball resume falls well short of Wilkes’.

Some might argue that Rodman earned his place in the Hall by being one of the best rebounders of all-time and one of the best defenders of his generation. I have no argument with that rationale.

However, Wilkes was also one of the best of his generation at every level of competition.

As a prep All-American at Santa Barbara High School, Wilkes led the Dons to a championship.

At UCLA, Wilkes became a two-time All-American en route to winning two national titles under legendary coach John Wooden, averaging 15.0 ppg and 7.4 rpg while shooting 51.4 percent from the field. He was named to the 1972 NCAA Tournament All-Tournament team, and helped the Bruins win a NCAA record 88 games in a row.

During his 12-year NBA career, Wilkes won Rookie of the Year honors in 1975 (from a draft class that included Bill Walton, Bobby Jones, Maurice Lucas, and George Gervin), earned three trips to the All-Star game, and played on four championship teams.

Wilkes wasn’t just a winner at every level; he was a star at every level.

Plus, the last time I checked, it’s the “Basketball” Hall of Fame, not the Defense, Rebounding, or NBA Hall of Fame.

Just because Rodman earns praise for being one of the best specialists the game has ever seen, it doesn’t mean Wilkes should be overlooked because he was a better well-rounded basketball player.

And if you want to talk about defense, you might want to go back and review the film, stats and quotes regarding Wilkes ability to shut down opposing players. Marques Johnson likes to tell the story that after his first day of practice at UCLA, after being the top-rated recruit in the country, he called home crying to his father because Wilkes wouldn’t let him get a shot off during practice.

Johnson’s father responded by saying, “Boy, stop crying. Wilkes is the best defensive player in the country!”

After Johnson dried his tears and rose to the challenge of facing Wilkes in practice every day, he went on to become the first-ever recipient of the John Wooden Award signifying the best player in college basketball.

And speaking of Wooden, who won 10 national titles and coached tens of All-Americans at UCLA, he was once asked to describe his ideal player. This was his response: “I would have the player be a good student, polite, courteous, a good team player, a good defensive player and rebounder, a good inside player and outside shooter. Why not just take Jamaal Wilkes and let it go at that?"

Could there be higher praise for a player? Don’t forget, John Wooden is in the Hall of Fame as both a player and a coach. I believe the man knew a little something about talent. Or as the kids like to say, game recognizes game. Especially Hall of Fame game!

DODGERS DREAM FOUNDATION, LA84 FOUNDATION DEDICATE NEW DODGERS DREAMFIELD AT MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. RECREATION CENTER

2011-04-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

--Field is the second Dodgers Dreamfield dedicated in 2011--

LOS ANGELES – The Dodgers Dream Foundation, in partnership with the LA84 Foundation and the Los Angeles City Department of Recreation and Parks, unveiled a new Dodgers Dreamfield this morning at Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center. Those on hand for the dedication ceremony included Dodger Owner and Chairman Frank McCourt, LA84 Foundation Vice President of Grants and Programs Patrick Escobar, Councilmember 8^th District, Bernard C. Parks, Councilmember, 9^th District Jan Perry, State Senator, 22^nd District Kevin de León, General Manager of the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation Jon Kirk Mukri and President, University Little League Raul Claros.

Former Dodgers in attendance included Fernando Valenzuela, Maury Wills, Tommy Davis, Bobby Castillo and Kenny Landreaux. Valenzuela and Wills are depicted in murals recently painted overlooking the field, as is former Dodger manager Joe Torre. Former Dodger outfielder and current broadcaster Rick Monday emceed the event.

“Baseball teaches the value of teamwork, dedication and many other important life skills, and we hope this field at Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center will provide those opportunities for thousands of kids for years to come,” said Dodger Owner Frank McCourt. “We are grateful for this partnership with LA84 and the Department of Recreation and Parks that is making a difference in the lives of the youth of Los Angeles.”

Renovations to the new Dodgers Dreamfield at Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center include a new batting cage, a new outfield windscreen, a new LED scoreboard and new field signage. The field fencing and dugout covers were also refurbished.

“I am very pleased that even in this difficult financial time, through the efforts of the Dodgers Dream Foundation, the LA84 Foundation and the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, we will be able to install a total of eight new Dodgers Dreamfields in parks throughout the City of Los Angeles,” said Mukri. “Through this partnership we will rebuild and renovate these fields to give them a myriad of upgrades, as well as a whole new look and better playability. The rebuilding of these eight fields is a big step forward in achieving our collective goal of providing youth a safe and clean place to play. We are sincerely thankful to both the Dodgers Dream Foundation and LA84 for their generous donations."

All 17 University Little League teams were on hand for the dedication ceremony, which was followed by a clinic led by the Dodger alumni in attendance.

"Youngsters who love to play baseball deserve quality facilities where they can play the game to the best of their abilities,” said Escobar. “This is why the LA84 Foundation has teamed up with the Dodgers Dream Foundation and the City of Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Department to improve the field at MLK Park and others throughout the area. MLK Park has a long tradition of instilling the love for the game and developing excellent players. We are pleased to be a small part in helping this tradition continue."

"On behalf of the families and volunteers of University Little League, Life Skills Sports Academy and the MLK Park community, I'd like to thank the great people at LA84 Foundation, the Department of Recreation and Parks and the greatest organization in professional sports, the L.A. Dodgers, for partnering with us in structuring the lives of tomorrow's leaders,” said Claros.

This past summer, the Dodgers Dream Foundation, the LA84 Foundation and the Los Angeles City Department of Recreation and Parks committed to creating eight new Dodgers Dreamfields in the Los Angeles area, with a ninth field in partnership with LA County. The commitment will double the current number of Dreamfields to a total of 18. The Dodgers Dreamfield at Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center marks the second of those nine and the second completed Dreamfield in 2011.

Seven of the next planned fields are within Los Angeles City Department of Recreation and Parks properties in the San Fernando Valley, Eastside, South Los Angeles and Central and Harbor areas. An additional field is located in Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley Thomas' district.

Isaiah Thomas To Enter His Name Into NBA Draft

2011-03-31T13:03:00.000-07:00

SEATTLE – Washington junior guard Isaiah Thomas has decided to enter his name into the upcoming NBA Draft. The two-time first team All-Pac-10 member issued the following statement:

“Although it was a tough decision, I have decided to forego my senior season and enter my name into this year’s NBA draft. At this time I will not hire an agent. Over the past 3 years I've enjoyed every single minute of my Washington Husky career. I am very thankful to have played for a great coach like Coach Romar and our entire coaching staff. I have just over two quarter left to earn my degree, and I fully plan on finishing school. Also, I would like to take the time to thank all of my teammates and Husky fans for their support and the unforgettable memories. Go Dawgs!”

Coach Lorenzo Romar, who is in Houston for the NCAA Final Four, issued the following statement:

“Isaiah Thomas has had an unbelievable impact on our program during his time with us. We will definitely miss him, but we are behind him in his quest to fulfill a lifelong dream to play in the NBA.”

Thomas (Tacoma, Wash./Curtis HS/South Kent Prep [Conn.]), an honorable mention Associated Press All-American after averaging 16.8 points and 6.1 assists per game for the Huskies during their 2010-11 campaign, led the Pac-10 in assists, ranked fourth in scoring, 8th in steals (1.3 spg) and 8th in three-point makes per game (1.7). His 213 assists are the second most in UW single-season history.

Thomas helped the Huskies to their second-consecutive Pac-10 tournament championship and a 24-11 overall record. He was named the Most Outstanding Player of the conference tournament for a second time, joining Arizona's Sean Elliott as the only two-time winner.

Thomas also led Washington with 15.5 points and 7.5 assists in the Huskies two NCAA tournament games.

Thomas ended his junior season ranked among the Huskies all-time leader in points (1,721/6th), assists (415/3rd), 3-point makes (164/3rd) and steals (122/8th).

Clayton Kershaw To Donate $100 Per Strikeout To Arise Africa

2011-03-30T11:58:00.000-07:00

“Kershaw’s Challenge” created to help build orphanage in Zambia

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers’ Opening Day starter, Clayton Kershaw, announced today that he and his wife, Ellen, will donate $100 for each of his strikeouts during the 2011 season to Arise Africa, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping end poverty on the continent through health care, education, business and discipleship.

The Dodgers Dream Foundation will also make a financial commitment to Arise Africa on behalf of Kershaw. As part of “Kershaw’s Challenge,” the 23-year-old left-hander is encouraging fans to join the cause by visiting www.kershawschallenge.com.

A native of Dallas, TX, Kershaw took his first trip to Zambia during the offseason, where he and Ellen helped to build a school and spent time with numerous orphans. Their goal is to raise $70,000 to start an orphanage in Lusaka, Zambia that will be called Hope’s Home, named for an 11-year-old orphan who is HIV positive and whom Clayton and Ellen befriended on their recent trip.

“It’s one thing traveling around the United States playing in different cities, even going to different parts of the world,” Kershaw told Dodgers Magazine in an April cover story. “But when you go to a third-world country and see how other cultures live, it’s very different. You think it’s something that happened way back in the day, but plenty of people are living in houses that would be considered shacks here without running water or electricity. It makes you thankful for what you have.”

Kershaw ranked fifth in the National League with 212 strikeouts last season and has fanned 497 batters in 483 big league innings. He struck out 276 batters in 220.1 minor league innings from 2006-08.

The trip to Zambia was Ellen Kershaw’s fifth.

“I always say the first time you’ve hugged a Zambian orphan it’ll change your life,” she told Dodgers Magazine. “It’s because that whole blanket of poverty becomes very personal, and you see the one life that you can impact and what a difference you can make… Going to Zambia really broadened both of our perspectives. I think we’re just trying to leave a legacy, leave a mark.”

Dodgers To Celebrate Life of Hall of Famer Duke Snider

2011-03-30T09:39:00.000-07:00

--Team to wear a memorial patch in 2011 and host a celebration on Aug. 9,which will include a bobblehead of the late Dodger outfielder--

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers announced today that the team will wear a patch in memory of Hall of Fame outfielder Duke Snider throughout the 2011 season and will host a celebration of his life on Aug. 9 at Dodger Stadium.

The memorial patch, will feature Snider’s uniform No. 4 and will be worn on the Dodgers’ home, road and alternate Brooklyn uniforms at every 2011 game beginning tomorrow night when the team opens the season against the San Francisco Giants. Snider’s uniform number was retired on July 6, 1980 and is one of just 10 retired numbers in franchise history.

The club also announced it would celebrate the life of the legendary Dodger outfielder at the Aug. 9 game against the Philadelphia Phillies. The first 50,000 fans in attendance will receive a bobblehead featuring the likeness of Snider, whose family will participate in a special pregame ceremony honoring the franchise’s all-time leading home run hitter. The sixth bobblehead of the season is presented by Kaiser Permanente.

Snider passed away on Feb. 27 at the age of 84. He was born Edwin Donald Snider in Los Angeles, CA on Sept. 19, 1926 and became one of the game’s most feared hitters during his 16 seasons with the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers (1947-1962), playing on a pair of World Championship teams (1955 and 1959) and in six World Series overall.

The eight-time All-Star center fielder ranks as the franchise’s all-time leader in home runs (389) and runs batted in (1,271) and during the 1950s, he topped all Major Leaguers with 326 homers and 1,031 RBI. He slugged four home runs in both the 1952 and 1955 World Series.

The last time the Dodgers wore a memorial patch on the team’s uniforms was in 2000 in memory of Snider’s teammate and fellow Hall of Famer Pee Wee Reese. Other memorial patches worn by the Dodgers were done so in tribute to Jim Gilliam (1978), coach Don McMahon (1987), Tim Crews (1993) and a combination patch for Hall of Famers Don Drysdale and Roy Campanella, who passed away within a week of one another in 1993.

Snider is survived by his wife, Bev, children Kevin, Kurt, Pam and Dawna and 10 grandchildren.

Lakers are turning it on, but is it the right time?

2011-03-29T21:31:00.000-07:00

By Billy Witz FOXSportsWest.com

LOS ANGELES — It's hard to erase the embarrassment in Cleveland, whitewash the Christmas Day debacle, or forget the days when the Lakers would rarely beat anybody that harbored any real ambitions.

But maybe it's time to slap a new label on everybody's favorite slackers.

How about Overachievers?

Don't look now, but the Lakers – at 53-20 after winning 15 times in 16 games since the All-Star break – are likely to surpass last year's win total of 57, and have a shot at finishing with the second-best record in basketball.

foxsportswest.com: Lakers Are Turning It On, But Is It Right Time?

Tyler Honeycutt Declares For NBA draft

2011-03-29T21:22:00.000-07:00

By Victoria Sun
FOXSportsWest.com

The UCLA men's basketball team lost one of its key contributors on Monday when Tyler Honeycutt announced he would be turning pro.

The Los Angeles native said he made up his mind Sunday after talking with his family, advisors and coaches.

"We finished out on a good year, for the most part I finished strong and I'm pretty hot right now and I feel this year being considered a weak draft is a good reason to leave," Honeycutt said via a teleconference Monday afternoon. "The biggest factor that would keep me from going is the team next year and how good we could be.

"We could be a great team, but I feel like what's best for me is to leave this year."

Honeycutt averaged 12.8 points, 7.2 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game as a sophomore this season for the Bruins. The 6-foot-8 forward led or tied for the team lead in rebounding in 10 games and shot 36.2 percent from 3-point range.

foxsportswest.com: Tyler Honeycutt Declares For NBA Draft

Ryan Gomes Raises Awareness of Sudden Cardiac Arrest

2011-03-29T16:04:00.000-07:00

Clippers forward Ryan Gomes was honored on March 26 during the Clippers vs. Toronto Raptors game at STAPLES Center during a very special presentation. Through his non-profit organization, Hoops For Heart Health, Gomes works to raise awareness and educate people on the growing problem of sudden cardiac arrest in children and adolescents.

Gomes has donated automated external defibullators (AEDs) to schools and recreation centers in all 30 NBA cities.

On March 26, Gomes donated a Cardiac Science Power Heart G3 AED to San Dimas High School and made the presentation to a representative from the school in a pre-game ceremony on the court.

DODGERS SIGN BILLINGSLEY TO CONTRACT EXTENSION

2011-03-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

--All-Star right-hander will remain in Los Angeles through 2014--

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers signed right-handed pitcher Chad Billingsley to a three-year contract extension with a club option for a fourth year, keeping him in a Dodger uniform through at least the 2014 season. General Manager Ned Colletti made the announcement.

“Through his professional career Chad has shown that he is very capable of winning games and taking the ball,” said Colletti. “His won-loss record speaks to that as well as his innings pitched totals.”

Billingsley, 26, has posted a winning record in each of his five Major League seasons and all eight of his professional campaigns. As a Los Angeles Dodger, the right-hander is 59-41 (.590) with a 3.55 ERA in 160 career games (131 starts). His winning percentage since his 2006 debut ranks 12^th in the NL over that time and his 52 victories since 2007 are tied for eighth among current NL hurlers. Since his first full season as a starter in 2008, Billingsley has averaged 196.0 innings per season and his 588.2 frames over that time ranks 13^th in the NL.

His 59 career victories are more than any other big league pitcher from the 2003 draft class by a wide margin. Billingsley led the Dodgers in wins in 2008 and 2009 while ranking second in 2010 and tied for second in 2007. His 52 wins over the last four years are more than any Dodger.

During the last three seasons, Billingsley’s 551 strikeouts rank sixth in the National League. In 2008, he became the first Dodger to fan 200 batters (career-high 201) in a season since Chan Ho Park in 2001. He has struck out a career-high 13 batters in a game on two different occasions (July 13, 2008 at Florida and Sept. 26, 2010 at Arizona).

In 2009, Billingsley was selected by the players and coaches to his first All-Star team after going 9-4 with a 3.38 ERA in the first half. He went on to record a career-high 16 wins and a career-best 3.14 ERA in that season.

Last year, Billingsley posted the longest scoreless innings streak of his career, blanking the opposition over 24.2 innings from July 21-Aug. 5. He also did not allow a home run in 2010 from May 31-Aug. 28, a span of 92.0 innings, which was the longest in the Majors last season.

After tossing 2.0 scoreless innings of relief in the 2006 Division Series, Billingsley went on to win his very first postseason start, allowing just one run over 6.2 innings at Wrigley Field in Game 2 of the 2008 NLDS. In all, the Ohio native has appeared in six postseason contests.

Billingsley has remained involved in the Dodgers’ charitable efforts through the Dodgers Dream Foundation and the team’s official charity, ThinkCure! In 2008, Billingsley began the “Chad’s Champs” community program in which he hosts 10 youngsters from Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA at a Dodger game during every homestand. As part of the program, the kids receive tickets, food and a meet-and-greet with Billingsley before the game. In 2010, Billingsley was nominated by his teammates for the Dodgers’ Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award, which is won by those whose on-field performance and contributions to his community inspire others to higher levels of achievement.

Billingsley was originally drafted by the Dodgers in the first round (24^th overall) of the 2003 First-Year Player Draft and went on to win the Dodgers’ Branch Rickey Minor League Pitcher of the Year Award in both 2004 and 2005. According to Baseball America, he was the club’s top minor league prospect entering the 2006 season and made his Major League debut that season on June 15 against the Padres at PETCO Park.

A native of Defiance, OH, where he is a member of the Defiance High School Athletic Hall of Fame, Billingsley and his wife, Tiffany, make their offseason home in Robesonia, PA.

Angels Will Host FanFest March 27th

2011-03-25T15:53:00.000-07:00

-Interactive Fan Experience will kick off 2011 Season at Angel Stadium-

ANAHEIM, CA -- The Angels will host FanFest on Sunday, March 27th at Angel Stadium. This marks the return of the interactive fan experience that was last held in February 2007. FanFest will run from 8am – 4pm and
follows the Angels 5K & Fun Run. Tickets for FanFest are $5 and include a FREE game ticket (while quantities last) to the 2 pm Angels vs. Padres exhibition game.

The club has planned a wide range of activities during FanFest that are perfect for families and passionate Angel fans alike. Activities include appearances & autographs by members of the Angels 40-man roster, Rally Monkey photo booth, sponsor village, Angels merchandise sale, silent auction, main stage activities with live music and take me out to the ball game contest, a family zone featuring arts & crafts, carnival rides and much more. All activities are free with the price of admission.

Tickets for FanFest go on-sale at 10 am on Monday, February 28th and can be purchased at the Angel Stadium Ticket Window, angels.com/fanfest or any Ticketmaster locations.

For more details surrounding the Angels 50th Anniversary visit: angels.com/50

Too Slick, Too Loud, Too Successful Why John Calipari Can't Catch A Break

2011-03-24T20:11:00.000-07:00

The NCAA hasn't held him accountable for any major violation, and dark rumors about his recruiting methods have never stuck. Still, no matter what good the Kentucky coach does—visiting the sick, helping at-risk kids—he's assumed to have an ulterior motive.

S.L. Price

There was a time, early on, when it seemed easy to peg John Calipari. Back in the late '80s he was just another pretty face, one more Pat Riley clone with the slick hair and dazzling patter, the just-so suits and shoes. Talent flocked to him, but he radiated a knockoff's flimsiness: too much talk and an ambition about as subtle as sharkskin. Opposing recruiters wanted to beat him bloody. Opposing coaches tried to sabotage his hiring. Omens? His first game as a head coach, the scoreboard caught fire. You just didn't figure Calipari for the long haul.

These days, of course, he is basketball's great survivor, the ever-moving (Gas up the private jet!), ever-hustling (four McDonald's All-Americans for 2011!), ever-tweeting (1.1 million followers!) head coach of the University of Kentucky. And while his eight-year, $31.7 million contract—the richest in the college game—is the most obvious measure of his success, it's hardly the most telling. Like the sharpest scavenger after a storm, Calipari has prospered more than any other coach in college basketball's broken system, gathering up top recruits, winning 30 games a season and then happily waving his one-and-done players goodbye. Last spring an unprecedented five Wildcats, four of them freshmen, went in the first round of the NBA draft. And if this season has been a relative struggle, most of Kentucky's rivals would gladly take a morning after that includes a 22--8 record, a No. 15 ranking, a 34-game home winning streak and more than enough talent to play deep into March.

FORMER HALOS RETURN FOR OPENING HOMESTAND

2011-03-24T17:09:00.000-07:00

Honorary Alumni first pitches set for opening homestand April 8-13

ANAHEIM, CA – As part of the 50th Anniversary celebration, the Angels announced six alumni ceremonial pitches for each game of the opening homestand at Angel Stadium (April 8-13). Over the course of the regular season, all 81 home games will feature a first pitch from a former Angel player. This program will give fans a chance to embrace and celebrate Angels’ alumni and commemorate the club’s history.

For the home opener on Friday, April 8th vs. Toronto (7:05 p.m.), Eli Grba will toss out the ceremonial pitch. The right-handed pitcher was the first Angel taken in the expansion draft prior to the inaugural 1961 campaign. The following day, April 9th, the 1958 A.L. Rookie of the Year Albie Pearson will throw out the honorary pitch before the 6:05 p.m. game against the Blue Jays. Wrapping up the Toronto series will be Bob Lee – Angels’ 1965 American League All-Star, with the alumni first pitch for the 12:35 p.m. Kaiser Permanente Family Sunday day game.

When the Cleveland Indians come to town on Monday, April 11th at 7:05 p.m., four-time Angel All-Star Mark Langston will throw out the first pitch. Jim Fregosi, who played and managed the Halos, will throw the honorary pitch prior to the Tuesday, April 12th contest with Cleveland (7:05 p.m.). To wrap up the opening homestand, Roger Repoz tosses the ceremonial pitch on Wednesday, April 13th at 4:05 p.m.

For more details surrounding the Angels 50th Anniversary visit: angels.com/50

Charger Girl Auditions Begin April 3

2011-03-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

The San Diego Charger Girls are holding open auditions on Sunday, April 3 at the University of San Diego’s Jenny Craig Pavilion. Registration and check-in begins promptly at 9 a.m., followed by a preliminary dance audition at 10 a.m.

The day-long dance audition welcomes more than 400 hopefuls annually from across the nation and overseas, each of which seek 28 coveted positions. The Charger Girls are known as one of professional sports’ most talented and respected cheer and dance teams.

Applications are only available online at www.chargers.com and applicants must be at least 18 years old. The application along with a $20 registration fee should be submitted via mail or hand-delivered no later than March 30 for pre-registration status. Women are encouraged to send a 5x7 (or larger) headshot and/or full body shot with their application. Walk-ups will be accepted at the door with a $25 registration fee. Please make check or money order payable to e2k Sports.

Applicants are required to wear a two-piece leotard and flesh colored tights/hosiery as well as jazz, dance or athletic shoes. Applicants should arrive early and bring plenty of fluids and a light snack.

Judges will be looking for the brightest young talent with dance ability, crowd appeal and showmanship. Finalists can expect an interview and final dance audition during the week following the audition.

Team members must have flexible schedules for twice-weekly rehearsals, games and public appearances prior to and during the season.

For more information, visit www.chargers.com.

SCOT SHIELDS ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

2011-03-18T16:13:00.000-07:00

TEMPE, AZ – Scot Shields, selected by Sports Illustrated as the “setup man of the decade” for 2000-2009, Friday announced his retirement following a distinguished Major League career with the Angels. In doing so, Shields is only the third player in club history to have played in 10-or-more seasons with the Angels (appearing in at least one game a season) and not play for any other team in his career. Shields released the following statement:

“I am very thankful to have had the privilege and opportunity to play this great game at the Major League level. I retire with memories and experiences I will carry with me the rest of my life and for that I am extremely grateful. I would like to thank my wife Jaimie, my daughters Kayla and Ella, and my family and friends for their love and support. I would also like to extend my thanks and appreciation to the Angels organization for giving me a chance when they drafted me in 1997. Also, my thanks belong to Mr. & Mrs. Moreno, Tony Reagins, and Bill Stoneman. My respect and thanks as well to all those who helped me along the way, especially Mike Scioscia, Mike Butcher, Buddy Black and the entire front office.”

“I do not think it’s possible to express my respect and admiration for so many teammates I had the privilege to play with through the years. The lifetime friendships created are one of the great rewards of my career.”

”The Angels are a first-class organization and I am proud to have been an Angel for my entire career. At the same time, I remain humbled and thankful to all of the Angel fans who supported me through the years. That relationship will long remain one of my fondest memories as a Major League player.”

“Scot was a huge part of our success over the course of his career here,” said Angels Manager Mike Scioscia. “He definitely understood the challenge of pitching late in games and in doing so, became the best set-up man in baseball. He will always be part of our family.”

“Scot’s contributions to our organization are self-explanatory,” said Angels General Manager Tony Reagins. “He was durable, dependable and dedicated. I know he wore the Angels uniform with a great sense of pride each and every day throughout the course of his career. I know Scot is looking forward to spending time with Jaimie, Kayla and Ella. We wish he and his family the very best.

Born July 22, 1975 in Fort Lauderdale, FL, Shields attended Fort Lauderdale High School and later spent his collegiate career at Lincoln Memorial University where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology. Shields would go on to play his entire career with the Angels after being drafted in the 38^th^th player overall) in the 1997 Major League Baseball Amateur Draft. round (1,137

In all or parts of 10 seasons, Shields finished with a 46-44 record and 3.18 ERA (697 IP – 246 ER) in 491 career games. He also recorded 631 lifetime strikeouts, or an average of 8.1 strikeouts per nine innings. Since the “hold” stat was created in 1999, Shields holds the American League career record in that category with 155. Mike Remlinger (Atlanta, Chicago Cubs) holds the National League mark with 140, while Arthur Rhodes owns the major league mark with 215. From 2006-2008, he led the A.L. in holds with 31 per season.

Shields began his professional career as a reliever with Boise (short Single-A) in 1997, posting a 7-2 record with 61 strikeouts in 52 innings pitched while leading the circuit with 30 games. He remained in the bullpen the following season at Cedar Rapids (Single-A) prior to splitting his time a year later with Lake Elsinore (Single-A) and Erie (Double-A). Selected as the Angels Minor League “Pitcher of the Year” in 1999, the Northville, MI resident registered 182 innings pitched along with three complete games and a pair of shutouts. In addition, he fanned a combined 194 in those innings.

His standout campaign in 1999 earned him a promotion to Edmonton (Triple-A) in 2000 where he struggled with a 7-13 record in 27 starts, despite fanning 156 in 163 innings. A year later he began the season again at the Triple-A level with Salt Lake City, prior to his first recall to the Major Leagues on May 25, 2001. The following day he made his major league debut against Tampa Bay (1+ IP, 1 H, 1 BB).

Though he began 2002 with Salt Lake City, Shields was recalled to the major leagues for good on June 14. In his final 38 relief appearances, he allowed seven earned runs, while allowing opponents just a .176 average, best in the circuit. The final member of the 2002 World Championship team to play in an Angels uniform, Shields made one appearance during the Angels memorable October run, pitching in Game Five of the World Series.

In 2003 he appeared in 44 games, 13 of those starts. Out of the bullpen, Shields posted a 1.68 ERA, working at least three innings 12 times. Though he was 4-6 wi6th a 3.89 ERA as a starter, pitching at least seven innings in six of his 13 starts, he finished the season with an overall record of 5-6 and a 2.85 ERA.

The decision was made for him to return to the bullpen on a full-time basis in 2004. During a five-year stretch from 2004-2008, Shields would average 69 appearances, 85 innings pitched and 86 strikeouts. From May 9 to June 11, 2004, he recorded 22 consecutive shutout innings, and worked three scoreless innings five times during the season. That same campaign saw he and closer Francisco Rodriguez become the first pair of relievers to post 100-or-more strikeouts in the same season since 1997.

Shields retires as the Angels’ all-time leader in relief victories (46) and ranks second in appearances (491) behind former teammate Troy Percival (579). He also holds the record for most appearances in a single-season, pitching in 78 games in 2005.