Popo in my crib

Top of the Pops

2009-11-10T08:38:00.005-05:00

Baseball: The Rays have exercised Carl Crawford's $10 million option but declined those of Brian Shouse and Gregg Zaun...With the Red Sox keeping C/1B Victor Martinez it should come as no suprise that they declined Jason Variteke's option...The Dodgers declined Will Ohman's $2.2 million option...They also announced they are keeping their entire coaching staff for 2010...Mike Cameron was among five Brewers who filed for free agency. Good idea considering Milwaukee just traded for a young centerfielder...Are the Yankees looking at adding John Lackey?...With the GMs meeting in Chicago, the rumor mill is a buzz..."The list" as it has come to be known may not see the light of day until at leas t 2011...Giants prospect Angel Villalona has been freed on bond after the family of the man he is accused of killing asked a judge to drop the case. Que interesante!

Basketball: Get well wishes go out to legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar who announced he is battling a rare form of leukemia...The Suns topped the 76ers, 119-115, to win their third straight...With the injured Tim Duncan and Tony Parker on the bench, the Spurs were still able to beat the Raptors, 131-124...The Jazz edged the Knicks, 95-93, to get their first win at MSG in five years. That's crazy considering the rag tag group of guys the Knicks have been putting the floor for the past five years.

(Photo: AP)

College Football: Oregon has reinstated their running back LeGarrette Blount after he famously punched a Boise State player...Michigan athletic director Bill Martin has some explaining to do after he pushed a student and grabbed the wind breaker of another during two football games. Once is bad enough but twice should result in your firing or at least that anger management program Sean Avery went through.

Football: The Steelers knocked out the Broncos, 28-10...The Chiefs have officially dumped Larry Johnson...The Bills are mixed on the prospect of acquiring Michael Vick...Meanwhile current Bills QB Trent Edwards says he's ready to go...The Vince Lombardi story is coming to Broadway. Finally something I'd be willing to go see.

Hockey: The newest members of the Hockey Hall of Fame were inducted on Monday in Toronto...The Blackhawks routed the Kings, 4-1 in captain Jonathan Toews' first game back from injury...Flames forward Curtis Glenross was supsended three games by the NHL for his dirty hit on Rangers forward Chris Drury. Thank goodness!...In other concussion news, the Wild's Petr Sykora is out indefinitely after sustaining the head injury in Saturday's win over the Dallas Stars...The Canes signed veteran goalie Manny Legace while Cam Ward is on the mend...Get well wishes go out to Penguins president David Morehouse who is recovering from a heart attack suffered in San Jose, CA.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Nascar: Carl Edwards is sitting on a big fat zero in the win column for 2009 after winning nine races in 2008...Happy Thanksgiving Richard Petty Motorsports employees. You've just been fired. But on the upside you won't have to worry about getting the Friday after Thanksgiving off.
Best of the Rest: Congrats to Jim Boeheim who captured his 800th career coaching victory as Syracuse annihilated Albany, 75-43...UNC spoiled Isiah Thomas' coaching debut with a 88-72 win...Former No.1-ranked tennis player Marat Safin thinks Andre Agassi should give his tennis titles back after confessing he tested positive for a banned substance. Let's not get ahead of ourselves here...Michael Phelps failed to make 2-out-of-3 finals at a World Cup short-course meet. Is it the suit?...Congrats to Joe Cada of Shelby Township, MI on winning the World Series of Poker. The 21-year-old walked away with $8.55 million.

Check this Out: ABC has decided not to order anymore episodes of Eastwick, but if you're a fan of the forgotten, there is some good news, the network has decided to give it five more episodes.

Endless Options

2009-11-09T08:33:00.004-05:00

Baseball: The Brewers traded J.J. Hardy to the Twins for Carlos Gomez. A nice trade for everyone but probably Mike Cameron...The Twins also picked up Michael Cuddyer's $10.5 million option for 2011...The Phillies have declined Pedro Feliz's $5.5 million option...But picked up Cliff Lee's...Raul Ibanez, Brad Lidge and Scott Eyre will undergo surgery...The Dodgers are sticking with Manny Ramirez...But the Red Sox are not keeping Alex Gonzalez...The White Sox bought out Jermaine Dye for $950,000...And acquired Mark Teahan from the Royals...Add J.J. Putz and Carl Pavano to the growing list of free agents...Tim Lincecum has reached a deal with Washington prosecutors. Timmy will receive a $250 fine for possing a marijuana pipe. Watch out Tim, because the popo are on your tail!...Scary news, the mother of former Major Leaguer Victor Zambrano has been kidnapped in Venezuela. We hope for her swift and safe return...In related frightening news, click here for the most recent photo of Sammy Sosa. And warning this photo is not for the faint at heart!

Basketball: Stephen Jackson is really working on getting out of Golden State. He even got his agent to do his dirty work...The Lakers hammered the Hornets, 104-88...The Grizzles have given Allen Iverson an indefinite leave of absence. Is it because he's thinking about retirement?...Nets forward Chris Douglas-Roberts has swine flu. Oh no, it's getting too close!

College Football: Good news, Cal's Jahvid Best is out of the hospital after a terrifying fall during the Golden Bears' 31-14 loss to Oregon State...TCU moved up to #4 in the BCS.

Football: It was nice of the Giants to allow the Chargers to win the game with less than 30 seconds left. Otherwise their trip across the country would have been for nothing. On the reverse side, I have a bruise on my knucles from punching the wall. So that's not so nice...Kris Brown's missed field goal allowed the Colts to stay a perfect with their 20-17 win over the Texans...Also staying perfect were the Saints who took out the Panthers, 30-20...The Bucs are winless no more after rookie QB Josh Freeman lead Tampa Bay to a 38-28 victory over the Packers...The Cowboys stung the Eagles, 20-16 to take over first place in the NFC East...The Pats held off the Dolphins, 27-17...For the rest of the scores from Sunday click here...Tony Dungy thinks Michael Vick will be heading to Buffalo...The Browns are planning to contract Mike Holmgren.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Hockey: The Oilers handed the Avs their first home loss, 5-3...The Thrashers rallied from two goals down in the third to beat the Blues, 3-2 SO...As if a 12 game losing streak is not enough, Hurricanes goalie Cam Ward could miss four weeks after he was cut by a skate during Saturday's loss...The Islanders will be without Radek Martinek for the rest of the season after he tore his ACL...The Capitals are denying reports saying Alexander Ovechkin will miss four to five weeks...Movember is back!

Nascar: Don't look now, but we may actually have a Chase race after Jimmie Johnson crashed at Texas early, finishing 36th...Meanwhile, congrats go out to Kurt Busch who won the race...Click here for full results...And here for the updated Chase standings...Martin Truex, Jr.'s car failed post race inspection...Denny Hamlin thinks Jeff G (Gordon for those not in the know) should stop being such a baby.
(Photo: Getty Images)

Best of the Rest: Virgina center Assane Sene has been supsended for the team's first three games for conduct detrimental to the team. Although that conduct has not been released...Novak Djokovic has ended Roger Federer's reign at the Swiss Indoors, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2.

Check this Out: It maybe a little early, but here' s a look at Oscar's front runners.

Fan of the Week

2009-11-06T12:37:00.000-05:00

These guys dressed up as the Hanson brothers, and yeah, that’s pretty much all you need to do to be named a fan of the week!
(Photo: Getty Images)

Sgt. Slaughter in the house

2009-11-06T08:12:00.004-05:00

Baseball: Since the World Series is now over, it's time to focus on the free agent/trade market. The Red Sox have acquired Jeremy Hermida from the Marlins for prospects Hunter Jones and Jose Alvarez...The Angels re-signed Bobby Abreu to a two year, $19 million contract...While the White Sox locked up Mark Kotsay for a year...And the Braves are reportedly very close to re-signing Tim Hudson to a three year deal...79 players including Matt Holliday and John Lackey have filed for free agency...The Dodgers have declined Jon Garland's $10 million option. It's all about fiscal responsiblity out in LA. That's probably why Frank McCourt has fired his soon-to-be ex-wife...The Mets also declined J.J. Putz's option instead offering him an incentive laden deal...Joe Girardi had a busy day on Wednesday between mananing his team to their first World Series victory since 2000 and then helping a stranded motorist on the side of the road...Giants ace Tim Lincecum was pulled over by the popo in Washington state and charged with possession of marijuana. Like you didn't see this scenario coming. Watch out Timmy, because the popo are on your tail!

Basketball: The Bulls held off the Cavs, 86-85...The Jazz ended their two game slide after hammering the Spurs, 113-99...Big Baby wants to play in the NFL one day. Remember Glen, there's no crying in football...After the Flames diaster, Ontario will investigate the Raptors' swine flu shots.

(Photo: Reuters)

College Football: Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant will enter the 2010 NFL draft...Virginia Tech finally got a win, trouncing East Carolina, 16-3...Temple won their seventh straight slipping past Miami (OH), 34-32.

Football: Tony Romo is claiming the Dallas Cowboys are not divided. The way your teammates are whining it's like the Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders are playing...A rare blood disorder will keep Ryan Clark out of the Steelers game against the Broncos on Sunday...A jury convicted Tyrone Hartsfield of attempted murder in the shooting of Jacksonville Jaguar Richard Collier in 2008. He faces up to life in prison when he is sentenced in December. Watch out Tyrone, because the popo are on your tail!

Hockey: Ales Kotalik had a goal and two assists as the Rangers doubled up the Oilers, 4-2...The Kings topped the Penguins after a four goal third...The Red Win gs edged the Sharks, 2-1 in SO...San Jose placed Rob Blake on IR with an undisclosed upper body-injury...Another day, another swine flu victim. This time its Boston's David Krejci who missed out on the Bruins 2-1 loss to the Canadiens...The Columbus Blue Jackets are the latest hockey team in financial trouble. The team says its losing $12 million a year.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Nascar: If Danica Patrick decides to move over to Nascar, Texas Motor Speedway president Eddie Gossage believes she must help the sport by promoting her involvement...Jimmie Johnson is only three races away from making history as the first ever fourpeat champion. Tell me this, wasn't the Chase supposed to be exciting? This is kind of a borefest.

Best of the Rest: IZOD has signed on as the new title sponsor of IndyCar...In an upcoming 60 Minutes interview, Andre Agassi is asking for compassion.

Check this Out: The latest installment of A Christmas Carol is hitting theaters today. The animated retelling of this Christmas classic features the voices of Jim Carey and Colin Firth and is made by the same team that did The Polar Express. Click here for the trailer.

Foggy Weather

2009-11-05T08:16:00.006-05:00

Baseball: The Phillies are thinking about giving Cliff Lee a long term deal. What is there to think about? Just do it!...Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly underwent shoulder surgery...Meanwhile the Cubs are thinking of moving their spring training facility...The Padres have sent Edgar Gonzalez to Triple-A Portland...Jason Stoneburner has pleaded guilty to stealing the Cal Ripken monument outside of Camden Yards. Watch out Jason, because the popo are on your tail!

Basketball: Dwyane Wade helped push the Heat past the Wizards, 93-89 with his 40 points...Also hitting the 40 point mark was Kobe Bryant whose 41 came in the Lakers 103-102 OT win over the Rockets...The Celtics remain undefeated after edging the Timberwolves, 92-90...The Magic pounded the Suns, 122-100.

College Football: Urban Myers is upset the refs missed a late hit delivered to Tim Tebow during the Gators game against Georgia...In other Florida news, Brandon Spikes is benching himself for the entire Vandy game...The WAC has hired a PR firm to help Boise State get into a BCS Bowl.

Football: The Eagles are hopeful Brian Westbrook will be able to play on Sunday...The Colts have placed Tyjuan Hagler on IR with a ruptured biceps...Browns linebacker Kamerion Wimbley was fined $7,500 by the NFL for hit on Bears QB Jay Cutler...Cleveland running back Jamal Lewis will retire at the end of this season...Congrats to Rams kicker Josh Brown on being named Special Teams Player of the week. Brown's first career NFL pass resulted in a 36-yard touchdown pass to Daniel Fells.

Hockey: With Alexander Ovechkin out of comission, the Devils were able to slip past the Caps, 3-2...A measly 11,012 fans showed up to watch the Avs beat the Coyotes, 4-1. That's the smalled home crowd ever for Colorado...The Sharks extend their win streak to six after topping the Blue Jackets, 3-2 in SO...Speaking of streaks, the Hurricanes dropped their 10th in a row after being hammered by the Panthers, 3-0...The Sabres blanked the Islanders, 3-0...Rangers forward Dane Byers has been suspended one game for his involvement in a fight during Tuesday's game against the Canucks...A senior staff member for the Alberta Health Services has been fired over flu shot gate.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Best of the Rest: Former USC coach Tim Floyd broke up a fight at a food court in a casino in Palm Springs, CA. Classy joint I am sure...Marcus Jordan's decision to wear Jordan shoes has cost the University of Central Florida millions in a sponsorship deal with Adidas. I hope daddy doesn't mind opening up his wallet...Florida International fell to Northwood, 71-61 in Isiah Thomas' debut...Get well wishes go out to UFC heavyweight title holder Brock Lesnar who has mono. Now who have you been kissing?

Check this Out: For all of you Southland fans (which I most certainly consider myself) there is great news, TNT has picked up the series. They will air all of season 1 and then the six episodes already shot for season 2. And if you guys get your friends to watch, maybe there will be even more to come!

27 and counting: 2009 MLB Playoffs

2009-11-05T08:16:00.004-05:00

World Series

Yankees v. Phillies

Yankees 7, Phillies 3
The Yankees wrapped up their 27th World Series title in front of their home fans thanks to a monsterous effort by Godzilla. Hideki Matsui had six RBIs included the games first two in the second inning when he hit a two run homer that gave the Yankees an early lead. He followed that with a two run single in the fourth and added his final two RBIs in the bottom of the fifth when hit a double to deep centerfield that gave the Bombers a lead to big for the Phillies to overcome.
WP: Andy Pettitte (2-0) LP: Pedro Martinez (0-2)
Yankees Win Series 4-2

News&Notes: After his performance on Thursday, it’s no surprise that Hideki Matsui was named World Series MVP. Although Chase Utley certainly made a case in the losing effort…Derek Jeter, Andy Pettitte, Jorge Posada and Mariano Rivera now have one for their thumb…But that’s still behind George Steinbrenner who won his seventh as Yankees owner…Ryan Howard set a World Series record with 13 strike outs. That’s a record you’re probably not to thrilled to be breaking…Mark your calendars, the ticker tape parade down the Canyon of Heroes will take place on Friday at 11 AM. I am sensing a lot of people calling out sick tomorrow.

(Photo: Reuters)

Two worlds colliding

2009-11-04T15:48:00.002-05:00

The biggest free agent looming in Nascar garages, Danica Patrick, is rumored to be close to signing a deal. But which team has wooed the 2005 IndyCar Rookie of the Year? That reportedly would be JR Motorsports owned by Nascar’s biggest star Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Under the agreement, Patrick would race exclusively for JR Motorsports in the Nationwide Series while still pursuing her full time gig with Andretti Green in IndyCar.

While this path certainly isn’t unique - two time Cup Series Champion Tony Stewart did the same thing in the late 90s – it would be the highest profile double duty to date. And if Patrick moves over to Nascar fulltime, it would be the greatest defection ever. Sorry Juan Pablo Montoya, but Danica is basically the Britney Spears of racing minus the umbrella incident.

The union between IndyCar and Nascar’s most popular drivers is a PR agent’s wet dream. But it is also a very smart move on Patrick’s part. JR is supplied by Hendrick Motorsports which happens to race the most competitive cars in Nascar. In addition, She’ll be working with probably the only other driver in the world that understands how to deal with the magnitude of outside pressures and expectations.
(Photo: Getty Images; source)

Hump Day Hair

2009-11-04T15:29:00.002-05:00

Is there a more perfect day for Pedro Martinez to pitch game 6 of the World Series? Hump Day Hair says no way!
(Photo: Getty Images)

Getting the Whole Team Involved

2009-11-04T08:59:00.003-05:00

Baseball: Former Rockies manager Clint Hurdle will reportedly be the next Rangers hitting coach...The Pirates have acquired second baseman Akinori Iwamura from the Rays for reliever Jesse Chavez...Josh Beckett will meet with the Red Sox to discuss his future...Dodgers pitcher Vincente Padilla is recovering from a "hunting accident" in which he shot himself in the leg. The real question is, was he wearing sweat pants...Happy Birthday wishes go out to Bob Feller who turned 91 on Tuesday.

Basketball: The Suns remain unbeaten topping the Heat, 104-96. It was Miami's first loss of the season...Also suffering their first loss of the season were the Magic who fell to the Pistons, 85-80...The Lakers edged the Thunder, 101-98 in OT...Dirk Nowitzki scored 29 points in the fourth quarter as the Mavs rocked the Jazz, 96-85...The Cavs rolled over the Wizards, 102-90...But it wasn't all good news for the Cavs, guard Delonte West was indicted on additional weapons and traffic charges stemming from his September 17th arrest. Watch out Delonte, because the popo are on your tail!

Colllege Football: Florida State defensive coordinator Mickey Andrews is retiring after 47 years in coaching...Georgia running back Washuan Ealey aka the kid poked in the eye by Florida's Brandon Spikes thinks Spikes shouldn't be suspended at all. That's only because you had your eyes closed!...It has not been a good few days for Syracuse sports. Wideout Mike Williams has quit the team while Antwon Bailey, Torrey Ball and Andrew Tiller have all been suspended. And I haven't even mentioned their basketball team.

Football: The Seahawks cut Edgerrin James...Meanwhile the Chiefs claimed WR off waivers. Now is it better to be unemployed or employed by the Chiefs? I guess it's better than being with the Browns right now...Dan Snyder is embarrassed that the Redskins have let everyone down.

Hockey: Good news Maple Leafs fans, Phil Kessel made his debut. Bad news Maple Leafs fans, they lost to the Lightning, 2-1 in OT. But remember Kessel made his debut. So that should make you feel a little better right?...Pittsburgh clipped the Ducks, 4-3 for their seventh straight road victory...The Canucks stunned the Rangers with three goals in the third on their way to a 4-1 victory. Where's the Rangers I knew and loved in the beginning of the season? Probably somewhere with the Giants team of the first five games of the season...The Wings shut out the Bruins, 2-0...The Senators have filed a grievence against Dany Heatley and his big fat bonus...Members of the US Olympic team will be announced during this year's Winter Classic. Because playing hockey outside in Fenway Park is not a big enough gimmick.
(Photo: AP)

Nascar: HBO is hoping to show Jimmie Johnson in a new light. I still think this show will put me to sleep faster than a Bob Ross "Joy of Painting" episode that includes happy trees.

Best of the Rest: UCONN Women are ranked #1. Suprise, suprise!...Let's just say Syracuse's warm up game against Division II Le Moyne could have gone better...Duke's Nolan Smith has been suspended two games after he played in an unsactioned Summer League...Sad news, three missing North Dakota softball players were found dead in Jeep that was pulled from a pond...Toyota will reportedly leave Formula 1.

Check this Out: Yesterday was election day. (Did you vote?) But the bigger news (yes even bigger than Corzine being outsted in NJ) is that Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin are hosting the Oscars. Yes, my priorities are a bit off.

Tea for Two

2009-11-03T08:40:00.003-05:00

Baseball: Blue Jays outfielder Vernon Wells will undergo surgery to fix his wrist...Also going under the knife was the Mets' Jeff Francouer...The Braves have entered the race to Cuban defector Aroldis Chapman...The Giants signed second baseman Freddy Sanchez to a two year, $12 million contract...They also hired Hensley Meulens as their hitting coach...Former President George W. Bush threw out the ceremonial first pitch before game 3 of the Japan Series.

Basketball: The Grizzles and Rudy Gay were unable to come to an agreement - on a contract that is...Meanwhile the Celtics and Rajon Rondo have reportedly agreed to a five year, $55 million deal...The NBA is looking into a post game incident involving Chris Paul and Rajon Rondo...Looks like Manu Ginobili's bat routine has resulted in a few rabies shots...It was a double whammy for the Nets who remain winless after falling to the Bobcats, 79-68 and also lost Yi Jianlian.
(Photo: AP)

College Football: The Florida gators have suspended Brandon Spikes for the first half of Saturday's game against Vanderbilt. What's wrong with benching him for the full game?...Good news, Notre Dame receiver Michael Floyd will play against Navy on Saturday.

Football: The Saints are still undefeated after taking out the Falcons, 35-27...For a complete wrap up of week eight, click here...It's safe to say the Cleveland Browns are mess right now...And linebacker Eric Barton's neck injury is only part of the problem...The Pats could be without starting defensive lineman Jarvis Green for two to four weeks...Also out for at least two weeks is Bills cornerback Terrence McGee...The Chiefs have agreed to cut Larry Johnson's suspension to just one week...The Chargers have released WR Chris Chambers.

Hockey: The Capitals are hoping Alexander Ovechkin will only miss two weeks with an upper body strain...Of course that's no where near Simon Gagne's injury which will force him to have abdominal and hip surgery...Although on the plus side, the Flyers did hammer the Lightning, 6-2...The Islanders won their fourth straight, with their 3-1 victory over the Oilers. I am sorry, are these the same guys who play in Long Island?...A hearty crowd of just under 6,000 watched the Kings top the Coyotes, 5-3. Well that's like 5,997 more people than were watching the Yankees/Phillies game in my living room last night so that says something...Stop holding your breathe, Phil Kessel may make his Maple Leafs debut tonight.

Nascar: Congrats to Jamie McMurray who won at Talladega...Click here for complete results...And here for updated standings...Ryan Newman is alright, but not happy about his wreck on Sunday...Brad Keselowski will replace David Stremme in the #12 car for the final three races of the season.

Best of the Rest: Doug Barron became the first player to be suspended by the PGA Tour for testing positive for PED...The Colbert Report is sponsoring the US speadskating team...Another day, another swine flu victim. This time its tennis ace Tommy Haas.

Check this Out: Carrie Underwood's latest album Play On featuring her hit single "Cowboys Casanova" is out in stores today.

C&C Music Factory: 2009 MLB Playoffs

2009-11-03T08:39:00.003-05:00

World Series
Yankees v. Phillies
Game 3 Recap:

Yankees 8, Phillies 5
Jayson Werth’s two homeruns were no match for the powerful Yankee line-up as they grabbed a two games to one lead in the World Series. The second inning proved magical for the Phillies once again after Shane Victorino rounded out their three run inning with a sac fly to left which scored Carlos Ruiz. But Alex Rodriguez used being hit twice as motivation to get his bat started when he hit a two run homer that scored Mark Teixeira. Even Andy Pettitte and Nick Swisher got into the offensive groove providing an RBI a piece in the victory.
WP: Andy Pettitte (1-0) LP: Cole Hamels (0-1)

Game 4 Recap:
Yankees 7, Phillies 4
With one swing of the bat by Alex Rodriguez, all of Philadelphia’s fears about their closer Brad Lidge came true. Down by one run in the eighth, Pedro Feliz delivered a game tying solo homerun for the Phillies. But a half inning later, Lidge was sitting one out away from getting out of the inning when Johnny Damon battled through a long at bat with a single that kept the game alive. Mark Teixeira followed, reaching base after being hit by a pitch which then sent Alex Rodriguez to the plate. The once Mr. April put a nail in the coffin with a two run double that sent the Phillies to the brink of elimination.
WP: Joba Chamberlain (1-0) LP: Brad Lidge (0-1) S: Mariano Rivera (2)

Game 5 Recap:

Yankees 6, Phillies 8
Chase Utley provided the offense while Cliff Lee kept the Yankees’ bats at bay allowing the Phillies to force a game 6 in New York. Utley got the Phils on the board in the first inning after popping a three run homer. He would later add a solo shot in the seventh but it was not all smooth sailing for Philadelphia. The Yankees clawed back with three runs in the eighth and had the tying man at the plate when Mark Teixeira was struck out by Ryan Madson who came in to get the save over Brad Lidge who had blown the win the night before.
WP: Cliff Lee (2-0) LP: A.J. Burnett (1-1) S: Ryan Madson (1)

News&Notes: Shane Victorino remained in the game after being plunked on the finger in the first inning…A.J. Burnett made it only 2 plus innings in his second start in the World Series…Cole Hamels is not giving up on his team…Ramiro Pena has replaced Melky Cabrera on the Yankees roster...MLB baseball is not loving all those mound meetings Jorge....Congrats to Derek Jeter and Albert Pujols on receiving the Hank Aaron Award.
(Photos: Getty Images & Reuters)

Friday Funnies

2009-10-30T12:22:00.001-04:00

If I didn’t already have an amazing costume (Blossom Russo from “Blossom”) I would totally have gone as Subtle Sexuality!

Crazy Eyes

2009-10-30T08:47:00.008-04:00

Baseball: Albert Pujols wants to spend the rest of his career in St. Louis...Looks like Melvin Mora will be on the move after the Orioles decided not to pick up his option...If your name is not Thad Bosley, Rusty Greer, Clint Hurdle or Gerald Perry, then I am sorry you are not in the running for Texas Ran gers hitting coach...Tampa Bay will cut nearly 40% of ticket prices for 2010.

Basketball: The Bulls topped the Spurs, 92-85 in Derrick Rose's return to the lineup...Carmelo Anthony had 41 as the Nuggets edged the Blazers, 97-94...

College Football: UNC stunned Virginia Tech, 20-17...Chad Dawson will honor Japser Howard prior to his next fight in Hartford...In other Howard news, the popo has arrested Christopher Mutchler after placing an anti-snitch posting on a message board. Good job idiot. Oh and watch out Chrissy, because the popo are on your tail!

Football: Vince Young is the Titans new starting QB...Seattle's middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu was place on IR after having surgery to repair a torn left pectoral muscle...Meanwhile the Saints did the same with fullback Heath Evans who tore his ACL...Giants backup running back Ahmad Bradshaw says he will play despite having a cracked bone in his foot. That's my boy!

Hockey: Their balance at the luck bank must be very low after the Red Wings lost Valtteri Filppula for six to eight weeks with a broken wrist during their 6-5 shootout loss to the Oilers...The Wings aren't the only team reeling, the Penguins will be without Evgeni Malkin for two-to-three weeks with a shoulder injury...Alexander Ovechkin netted two goals in the Capitals 4-3 win over the Trashers...Not to be out done, Steven Stamkos had two power play goals as the Lightning struck the Senators, 5-2...Canucks topped the Kings, 2-1 SO...The Devils remain undefeated on the road thanks to Dainius Zubrus' third period goal which gave them a 2-1 lead over the Bruins.

(Photo: AP)

Nascar: Elliott Sadler will be in a Ford this weekend at Talladega...Juan Pablo Montoya had t acos yesterday. Thank you twitter for that update.

Best of the Rest: According to Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather, Jr. does not want to fight him. I'd be careful what I'd say about him, his family members are crazy!...The NCAA is trying to clean up its members' recruiting practices. Good luck on that one...Bob Knight has rejected a request to enter the Indiana University Hall of Fame...In their first ever postseason appearance, the Sounders tied the Dynamo, 0-0. Gee, I just don't know why the MLS is not catching on in America.
(Photo: AP)

Check this Out: The San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge remains closed today. I can only imagine what kind of diaster this has been for commuters.

Battling Back: 2009 MLB Playoffs

2009-10-30T08:47:00.006-04:00

Worlds Series
Yankees v. Phillies
Game 2 Recap:

Yankees 3, Phillies 1
A night after the Phillies got a dazzling pitching performance by Cliff Lee, it was the Yankees turn to dominate. A.J. Burnett was steady going seven innings and allowing just one run while Mariano Rivera pitched a two inning save that allowed the Yankees to tie the Series at 1 game a piece. The Phillies got a run off of Burnett early in the second after Raul Ibanez hit a double that just narrowly stayed fair and then Matt Stairs followed with a single that drove in Ibanez to give the Phils an early lead. But the Yankees bounced back. Mark Teixeira hit his first homerun since the ALDS, a long bomb that hit the glass enclosure in the Yankees bullpen and tied the game at one. Hideki Matsui followed in the sixth inning with a go ahead homer that put the Yanks out front for good.
WP: A.J. Burnett (1-0) LP: Pedro Martinez (0-1) S: Mariano Rivera (1)
Yankees Lead the Series 1-0
Next Game: Saturday, October 31 at 7:57 PM/est on FOX

News&Notes: If you missed the Jay-Z/Alicia Keys performance, click here to check it out…Even though they pretty much cancelled each other out, those two errant calls are still not good news for the already embarrassing umpiring this postseason…The Yankees replaced Nick Swisher with Jerry Hairston, Jr.…With Greg Dobbs home with the flu, the Phillies called on Matt Stairs. Which was a good thing considering he got the only Philadelphia RBI in Thursday’s game…Game 1 of the World Series had the highest ratings since 2004…Congrats to Derek Jeter who received the Roberto Clemente Award.
(Photo: Reuters)

It’s Always Sunny on Thursdays

2009-10-29T16:43:00.001-04:00

On tonight’s all new episode of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, the gang is giving back, although this time it’s all for the troops. And since Rowdy Roddy Piper is making a guest starring appearance, you kind of can’t miss it.

Click here for a preview of tonight’s show and here to catch up on past episodes.

Don’t forget to tune into FX tonight at 10 PM/est!

PS – Since every place I looked to find a picture of the green man costume said it’s sold out, I am thinking it’s going to be a hot Halloween costume. So if you see anyone wearing it, take a picture and send it in. I’ll post them next week!
(Photo: FX)

This Bud is Not for You

2009-10-29T15:48:00.004-04:00

I maybe going out on a limb here, but I think the worst offense anybody could make who drives cars at high speeds around a track for a living would probably be getting arrested for DUI. Unfortunately for Richard Petty Motorsports’ A.J. Allmendinger that is just what happened when the former open wheel star was pulled over by the popo early Thursday Morning.

In a statemnt, Allmendinger admitted to having a bit too much to drink while out to dinner with friends and then reiterated his complete stupidity:

“I made an error in judgment last night for which I take full responsibility…I honestly felt fine but I obviously should have erred more on the side of caution particularly given what I do for a living.”

He blew a .08 on a breathalyzer test.

It was announced on Wednesday, that RPM would be moving the sponsor Best Buy from Elliott Sadler’s ride to Allmendinger, who will be taking over the famed #43 in 2010. But with his recent arrest, the team may want to reconsider things. He still, however, is scheduled to race at Talladega this weekend.

Watch out A.J., because the popo are on your tail!
(Photo: Getty Images; Source)

There is nothing wrong with a little blood

2009-10-29T08:25:00.004-04:00

Baseball: Tim Hudson is close to signing a three year deal to stay with the Braves. YEAH!!!....Cuban pitcher Aroldis Chapman has met with the Red Sox...Gary Matthews, Jr. doesn't feel like being an Angel anymore...Rusty Greer has interviewed for the open batting coach position with the Texas Rangers...The Rangers also met with the third potential buyer...Is Sandy Johnson's return to the Mets a bad sign for GM Omar Minaya? I am confused, isn't Jeff Wilpon secretly the GM anyway...This McCourt divorce is hititng new lows and thusly will be left out of the blog until a settlement is made, so somewhere around 2015...Camden Yards may undergo its first major facelift since opening in the early 90s.

Basketball: The Cavs fell to the Raptors, 101-91 to open up the season 0-2. Try not to panic Cavs fans, it's literally just the second game of the season...The Celtics, meanwhile, are 2-0 after hammering the Bobcats, 92-59. Ok Bobcats fans, it is time to panic...The Heat retired Tim Hardaway's #10 and then the Knicks, 115-93...Tony Parker was injured in a hard fall, but cheer up San Antonio, at least you whipped the Hornets, 113-96...The Rockets had a very Amazing Race like trip to their game against Golden State...If you were excited to get your hands on the Tim Donaghy tell all, well you're out of luck.

College Football: The Chick-fil-A Bowl and the ACC have agreed to a four year extension. Now I am just hunger for their waffle fries. Thanks a lot!

Football: I know you're on pins and needles, so luckily Jeff Fisher will end your wondering and announce the QB for the Titans on Thursday...The Bucs are going with Josh Freeman...Reggie Bush thinks the Saints can undefeated. It's always good to have goals, even if they are unattainable Reggie...Roger Goodell defended the NFL on Capital Hill.

Hockey: The Rangers dropped their third game in four tries, falling to the Islanders, 3-1. What the frick?...Marian Gaborik was noticeably absent due to his latest injury which may also keep him out of Friday's game in Minnesota. Isn't that a shame on multiple levels?...Sidney Crobsy scored a hat trick before the third period even started in the Penguins 6-1 romp over the Habs...The Sabres shelled the Devils, 4-1 to sweep their three game road trip...The Avs rallied to snuff out the Flames, 3-2...The Senators edged the Panthers, 4-3...Roberto Loungo is going to be out for a bit.
(Photo: AP)

Nascar: Best Buy will move from Elliott Sadler's car to the #43 which will be driven by AJ Allmendinger...Texas Motor Speedway president Eddie Gossage is expecting a hearty crowd at next Sunday's Dickies 500...Sad news, longtime PR man for Martinsville Speedway Dick Thompsno has died. He was 74.

Best of the Rest: Kansas is number one in the first college basketball poll of the year...Not only was Andre Aggasi doing meth, but he also hates his father. Oh this book sounds like a real page turner...Venezuela has decided to help conserve energy by hosting daytime soccer matches.

Check this Out: Still stuck on what to be for Halloween? Let EW help you out.

K-Zone: 2009 MLB Playoffs

2009-10-29T08:24:00.001-04:00

World Series
Yankees v. Phillies
Game 1 Recap:

Phillies 6, Yankees 1
Cliff Lee dominated while Chase Utley added two homeruns as the Phillies took game 1 of the 2009 World Series. Lee opened the game with a strike out of Derek Jeter - who ironically was the only Yankee able to get anything going against the 2008 Cy Young Award winner, going 3-for-4 on the night – and then finished off the night striking out Alex Rodriguez and then Jorge Posada to close out the win.
WP: Cliff Lee (1-0) LP: CC Sabathia (0-1)
Phillies Lead Series 1-0
Next Game: Thursday, October 29 at 7:57 PM on FOX

News&Notes: Was it just me, or was the strike zone a bit iffy last night…Chase Utley has set a postseason record for reaching base safely in 26 straight playoff games…Along with all the celebs (Alec Baldwin, Loren Michaels, Jeff Gordon, Mark Messier…) and the first ladies (Michelle Obama and Jill Biden) last night, George Steinbrenner was also in attendance…Pedro Martinez was a wealth of information during Wednesday’s press conference. Apparently at times, he’s the most influential person at Yankee Stadium and he’s sorry he drop kicked Don Zimmer…The Jay-Z and Alicia Keys performance was postponed to Game 2 due to the crappy weather.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Hump Day Hair

2009-10-28T13:38:00.002-04:00

Nick Swisher debuted his World Series hair. I think Joe Girardi really likes it!
(Photo: AP)

For All the Marbles: 2009 MLB Playoffs

2009-10-28T10:51:00.001-04:00

World Series
Yankees v. Phillies

Entering into this year’s fall classic, the Yankees and Phillies present one of the best match-ups in recent years. Both teams feature powerful lineups which have seen their former MVPs – Alex Rodriguez and Ryan Howard – leading the way. They both have spectacular number one starters – CC Sabathia and Cliff Lee – who both happen to be former Cy Young Awards winners with the Cleveland Indians. Sabathia and Lee are both backed by veteran pitchers – Andy Pettitte and Pedro Martinez – who have come through in the clutch this October and shaky starters – A.J. Burnett and Cole Hamels – who are question marks in their respective rotations. Finally each teams’ bullpens have had mixed results over the last three weeks, mixing steady holds with game ending blunders. It is anyone’s to take but it’s not going to be easy.

Game 1: Wednesday, October 28 at 7:57 PM/est on FOX

News&Notes: Jimmy Rollins is saying Phillies in 5. Which lead to Chase Utley’s response: "I think if this one sticks I think I'll take him to Vegas with me."…Philadelphia has added Brett Myers and Eric Bruntlett to the roster while dropping Miguel Cairo…Tickets for Game 1 have dropped in price if your interested…Maybe it has something to do with today’s forecast…If you are planning on attending the World Series, arrive early…Apparently NJ is the real Yankees/Phillies battleground…You know how much I love my separated at birth. Click here for SI.com’s World Series edition.
(Photos: Reuters & AP)

Hot Dogging

2009-10-28T08:17:00.002-04:00

Baseball: The Houston Astros hired Brad Mills as their new head coach. Mills spent six seasons as the bench coach with the Boston Red Sox...The Blue Jays have dropped the interim tag off Paul Beeston's title as the clubs' President and CEO...The Nationals have been forced to pay Jose Baez $75,000 for wrongful termination...The Rays have re-signed Gabe Kapler to aone year deal...Tigers prospect Scott Sizemore has undergone surgery on his fractured left ankle...The Braves have pulled prospect Jason Heyward out of the Arizona Fall League.

Basketball: It was a night to celebrate for the Los Angeles Lakers who picked up their championship rings and a 99-92 win over the Clippers...Lakers foward Pau Gasol missed the opener with a strained right hamstring...The Celtics topped the Cavs, 95-89...Cleveland was without their troubled guard Delonte West...Meanwhile Rajan Rondo and the Celtics are still talking contract...Glen Davis is claiming he injured his hand protecting himself after a friend hit him while he was driving. With friends like that

College Football: Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant will remain suspended for the rest of the year...John William Lomax III has been charged with murder in the stabbing death of UCONN football player Jasper Howard. Watch out John, because the popo are on your tail!

Football: Mark Sanchez is spreading his love of hot dogs to the less fortunate. The Jets QB donated 1,000 hot dogs and hamburgers to the Community Soup Kitchen of Morristown...Eagles running back Brian Westbrook could miss this week's game against the Giants with a concussion...Chris Cooley will undergo surgery to repair his broken ankle...Are the Chiefs ready to cut Larry Johnson after his twitter outburst?

Hockey: The Capitals won their fifth straight on the strenght of two goals by Alex Ovechkin...The Red Wings rallied with four goals in the third period to nip the Canucks, 5-4...Vancouver center Ryan Johnson was carried off the ice after sliding headfirst into the boards during the second period...The Avalanche blanked the Oilers, 3-0...Colorado back-up goalie Peter Budaj has swine flu...And so does the Oilers defenseman Ladislav Smid...Rangers foward Marion Gaborik was held out of practice. I am not panicking, it's just practice. Better to save him for the game anyway...The Blue Jackets' center Andrew Murray will miss four weeks with an injured shoulder...Flyers forward Simon Gagne has two small hernias in his right groin and could be looking at surgery...Sidney Crosby and Trevor Linden have been tapped to run the Olympic torch across Canada...An Idaho junior hockey team has been temporarily banished from a local rink for engaging in a game of strip hockey. I guess it's best to leave things like that to the professionals.

Nascar: Joe Gibbs is probably not going to return to the NHL...Speaking of JGR, Kyle Busch and teammate Joey Logano were on WWE Raw.

Best of the Rest: Andre Agassi reportedly has admitted to using Meth in his soon to be released autobiography. Well if it's good enough for Fergie and Stephanie Tanner...Bob Knight is returning a check offered by Indiana...Michael Whan will reportedly become the new commissioner of the LPGA.

Check this Out: The long awaited arrival is here. (And no I am not talking about Lucky returning to General Hospital, even though it's awesome news) This Is It, a documentary following the final days of Michael Jackson has hit theaters. Click here for the trailer.

Going the extra Mile

2009-10-27T15:43:00.002-04:00

Getting World Series tickets can be a hard thing, especially if you’re not rolling in dough. That’s made some Phillies phans a bit creative, but unfortunately for this buxom blonde, her idea turned out to be illegal. 43-year-old Susan Finkelstein was arrested on Tuesday after offering sex in exchange for two tickets for the Series.

In an ad posted on Craigslist, Finkelstein advertised she was a huge Phillies fan in dire need of tickets. She went onto write that she was “the creative type! Maybe we can help each other!” When an undercover popo officer responded to the ad Susie ended up with a set of handcuffs instead of the tickets. She has been charged with prostitution among other offenses.

Watch out Susan, because the popo are on your tail!
(Photo: New York Post; Source - thanks Howard)

Big Baby’s Childish Behavior Could Cost Him Big Time

2009-10-27T13:21:00.003-04:00

Celtics forward Glen Davis will likely be suspended by the team after being involved in an altercation on Sunday that resulted in a broken thumb. Davis will undergo surgery to repair the thumb on Tuesday and be out for sometime although that’s not stopping the team from teaching him a lesson.

"We'll deal with it," Celtics co-owner Wyc Grousbeck told WFXT. "I'm not going to call him 'Big Baby' anymore. He's Glen. He needs to act like Glen. We'll decide what to do once I talk to him, once we talk to him today."

"It's very likely he'll be suspended. And he'll have some time to think about it. It'll be a message, a teachable moment for the rest of the guys on the team."

Davis signed a two year, $6 million contract to stay in Boston this off season and was expected to be a major asset coming off the bench for the team.

(Photo: AP; Source)

Fan of the Game

2009-10-27T12:30:00.000-04:00

In this week’s edition we have a flair off between this crazy Pats fan who flew all the way to England to show his love of all things Patriotic and this down on her luck Redskins fan who could show Jennifer Anniston a thing or two about flair. So which one should be declared this week’s fan of the week? Make suggestions in the comments section below.
(Photos: Getty Images & Reuters)

Definition of Awkward Family Photo

2009-10-27T08:15:00.005-04:00

Baseball: The Indians have hired Manny Acta as their new manager...Meanwhile the Cardinals added Mark McGwire as their hitting coach. Which is totally ok with Commissioner Bud Selig...And brought back Tony LaRussa for another year...Former Mariners catcher Kenji Johjima signed a four year deal with the Hanshin Tigers of Japan...Speaking of opting out, Tyler Yates is kissing Pittsburgh goodbye...The sale of the Cubs has been completed...Ratings for Sunday's game 6 of the ALCS actually topped that of the Giants/Cardinals football game...World Series news: Pedro Martinez will start game 2 for the Phillies...George Steinbrenner is coming to New York...Jay-Z and Alicia Keys will perform during Game 1.

Basketball: The NBA season officially begins tonight, but Blake Griffin won't be joining the fun for at least six weeks with a broken knee cap...The Bulls have exercised contract options for Derek Rose and Joakim Noah for the 2010-11 season...Charles Barkley wants to be a NBA GM. A reporters dream I am sure...The wife of Cavs star Delonte West has filed a domestic violence report against her husband. Kimberly West claims she and her husband had an argument "in which he grabbed her and took her wedding ring and purse." Watch out Delonte, because the popo are on your tail!

College Football: Oklahoma's Sam Bradford has decided to undergo surgery for his broken shoulder. He will also enter the NFL draft. Good call kid...Michigan is being investigated by the NCAA.

Football: The Eagles pounced on the Redskins, 27-17...Both Eagles running back Brian Westbrook and Redskins tight end Chris Cooley sustained injuries during the game...Titans owner Bud Adams wants Vince Young to start. Why not, things couldn't be any worse?...The 49ers are going with Alex Smith as their QB after this weekends improved play...Speaking of this weekend, click here for a complete wrap up of scores...The Cowboys have extended DeMarcus Ware's contract...Larry Johnson put down the keyboard and stop twittering! Or whatever it's called...Former Browns/current Jets wide receiver Braylon Edwards has been charged with misdemeanor assault after alledgedly beating up LeBron James' friend. Watch out Braylon, because the popo are on your tail!

Hockey: Coyotes owner Jerry Moyes has agreed to sell the franchise to the NHL...The Rangers finally got of their three game slide hitting up the Coyotes, 5-2...Although it wasn't all good news, after netting two goals, Marion Gaborik left with an injury. Gee, it took longer than I thought...In other injury news, Thrashers Ilya Kovalchuk is out three to five weeks with a broken right foot...The Devils Paul Martin and Jay Pandolfo will both miss four to six weeks...The Avalanche placed Darcy Tucker on IR after suffering a concussion from a Tuomo Ruutu check...Panthers winger David Booth is out of the hospital after sustaining a concussion from a hit by Flyers captain Mike Richards...Congrats to the Maple Leafs who finally got a win after doubling up the Ducks, 6-3...The Canadiens topped the Islanders in OT, 3-2...Patrick Kane added some flash to the Blackhawks 3-1 victory over the Wild...Both Jonathan Toews and Brent Seabrook missed the game for the Hawks.

Nascar: Congrats to Denny Hamlin for winning at Martinsville...Click here for complete results...And here for updated standings...Kyle Busch has a new crew chief, Dave Rogers...ESPN's Bob Griese has been suspended a week for his taco joke. I don't think Juan Pablo Montoya was laughing Bobby...Dale Earnhardt, Jr. is hitting up the CMAs.

Best of the Rest: The Swine Flu is hitting the Premier League hard. After announcing three players and two staff members at Blackburn had the virus, Bolton reported that four players and an employee are also affected...An illness has caused Brock Lesnar to postpone his fight with Shane Carwin.

Check this Out: Congrats to Jennifer Esposito and tennis ace Mark Philippoussis on their recent engagement. Not that I have kept up with Mark's life since his reality show Age of Love, but this announcement kind of came out of left field. Click here for more details