NHL

– Leafs’ GM Brian Burke says that it looks, at this point, like D Tomas Kaberle, 32, will be staying with the Maple Leafs, as his NTC goes back in effect tonight at midnight. “If these offers are all we get…he’s staying put,” Burke told TSN on Sunday morning. Burke said that there was no action on Saturday night. The NTC on Kaberle’s contract has been lifted since the NHL Entry Draft in June.

NBA

– Nuggets’ F Carmelo Anthony still hasn’t decided whether to accept the Nuggets’ 3-year/$65M extension. “I’m just taking my time. Everybody knows I’m loyal to the Denver Nuggets community and to the Denver Nuggets. I’ve shown that over my seven-year stint here … But at this point in time, I have to do what’s best for me and my family.” He added that his decision won’t be influenced by the Nuggets’ ongoing search for a new GM.

– Pacers’ management has told F Danny Granger to expect another trade before the regular season, and he assumes they will try to acquire a big man. “If we see a deal we like, we’re going to make it and we’re not going to wait,” said Pacers president Larry Bird. For what it’s worth, Granger seems eager to get some frontcourt help — “I can play (power forward) but I’m not a true (power forward). So we’re definitely going to have to add another big, and I think that will be our main focus.”

MLB

– The Red Sox have placed OF Jacoby Ellsbury (ribs) on the 15-day DL. It’s the third time he’s been on the DL this season due to some form of the same problem. “The results showed some edema to the soft tissue in the same area, suggesting new trauma from the fall,’’ manager Terry Francona said. He added that it’s possible Ellsbury could be in line for another extended stay on the DL. There’s no prediction for a timetable for his return, but it certainly seems possible that his season could be in jeopardy.

– Shannon Drayer of ESPN710 in Seattle is reporting that M’s OF Milton Bradley (left knee) will have arthroscopic surgery on Tuesday. He’s likely to miss the rest of the season.

WWE

– WWE confirmed Friday the death of former performer Lance McNaught (aka Lance Cade). His father, Harley McNaught, told WWE officials that his son,  who had spoken publicly about his battles with pain killers and sleeping pills addictions, died of apparent heart failure. He was 29 years old.

Regarding details of McNaught’s passing, his wife Tanya noticed earlier in the week that he didn’t look healthy and appeared to have trouble breathing. She called an ambulance Tuesday night and he was rushed to an area hospital. McNaught passed out while at the hospital, but was later revived. He asked to be released Wednesday.

McNaught’s father said Lance showed up to his work Thursday and did not appear well. Harley took him to his San Antonio home and was discovered having passed away Friday morning. He was scheduled to leave that day for a two-week tour of All Japan Pro Wrestling. McNaught’s wife believes he had not been drinking.

McNaught was under contract to WWE from March 2003 to October 2008. He returned to the organization’s developmental promotion, FCW in September 2009, and was released in April 2010 following a stint in rehab. McNaught leaves behind two daughters and a stepson.

– During an interview with The Tampa Tribune, three-time WWE Women’s Champion Beth Phoenix (torn ACL) said she hopes to return from her major knee injury in 2 months. Phoenix tore her ACL during a match with former associate Rosa Mendes on the May 6 edition of WWE Superstars. Phoenix dropped the Women’s Championship the following week and was written off television. Phoenix was profiled due to her upcoming appearances for WWE’s developmental promotion, FCW. “The Glamazon” is scheduled to appear at FCW events on Wednesday in Orlando and Friday in Plant City.

– WWE’s developmental territory has added 7 wrestlers to its roster, including former TNA star Consequences Creed.

NFL

– Rams’ VP of football operations Kevin Demoff rejected an ESPN report that his team was close to signing free agent RB Brian Westbrook. Demoff, who handles contract negotiations for the Rams, said he hadn’t spoken to Westbrook’s agent for several days. While he remains optimistic that Westbrook will land in St. Louis, Demoff said that nothing is imminent. The AP report listed the Cowboys as one of the teams Westbrook has visited, but was likely the Redskins.

– The Houston Chronicle’s John McClain believes the injury suffered by RB Ben Tate (ankle) in Saturday’s preseason opener could be season-ending. McClain reports that Tate’s ankle is broken. The Chronicle’s columnist Jerome Solomon also cites a source close to Tate as saying the injury “does not look good and could be major.” The Texans are expected to have an announcement on Sunday.

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NFL

– According to the St. Paul Pioneer Press’ Charley Walters, there is a “hot rumour” that QB Brett Favre (left ankle) will opt against undergoing surgery. “What that means for his future with the Vikings is unclear,” Walters adds. It was previously reported by ESPN that Favre would not be able to play in 2010 barring an operation on the ankle. Walters has a history of unreliability, so take this with a grain of salt. The window of opportunity for him to have the surgery and report to training camp, though, is beginning to close.

– Jets’ All-Pro CB Darrelle Revis said talks with the Jets regarding a contract extension are underway. Revis is slated to earn $1M this season, the fourth year of his rookie deal that is set to void after this season. The best corner, and arguably best defender in the NFL, will likely command a historic contract. The CBA situation clouds things a little, but it sounds like the Jets are serious about getting this done before the season starts.

– The San Diego Union-Tribune suggests that DE Shawne Merriman’s recent agent switch to David Dunn could expedite a trade out of San Diego. Former agent Tom Condon reportedly had exorbitantly high demands for a contract extension during draft weekend, nixing at least three possible trades. Merriman is expected to stay on the block “through the October trading deadline.” The Saints were among many interested late last month. It’s believed that the Chargers wanted a first-round pick in return.

– The Eagles are expected to run a more traditional West Coast offense this season with QB Kevin Kolb at the helm. As Paul Domowitch of the Philadelphia Daily News points out, QB Donovan McNabb had tremendous arm strength and poor accuracy, but Kolb is the the opposite – the Eagles will run more short slants and curls to give explosive WR DeSean Jackson and WR Jeremy Maclin chances for big yards after the catch. Kolb’s great accuracy allows receivers to catch the ball in stride.

– Texans SLB Brian Cushing has retained his Defensive Rookie of the Year award after a re-vote by 50 voters for the AP. The outcome is surprising, but over the last two days it became increasingly evident that voters were bothered by the idea of a re-vote. The re-vote count, though, was much closer. Cushing received 39 first-place votes on the January 5 ballot. He got 18 first-place votes this time. Bills’ S Jairus Byrd again finished second with 13 votes (he received six in January).

MLB

– Mets’ OF Carlos Beltran (knee) told NY Newsday that he is running without pain. “Thank God there’s no pain. It’s a learning process for me to start running again, so right now I’m thinking about how to make it perfect. Today was the first day I ran and didn’t have to think about it. I was happy with today. Today was a pretty good day.” He began a running program at the team’s minor league complex on Monday. Beltran also took batting off a machine on Wednesday and launched several balls over the fence. He hopes to begin sprinting by the end of next week, but declined to offer a timeline on his potential return.

– The Nationals confirmed Wednesday that RHP Jason Marquis (elbow) will undergo surgery on Friday and is likely to miss two months. Marquis was diagnosed with bone chips in his throwing elbow after a disastrous rehab start Tuesday for Single-A Potomac. The righty was 0-3 with an ERA of 20.52 and a WHIP of 2.88 in his first three starts.

– The Giants will decide by Friday whether to place 3B Mark DeRosa (wrist, hand) on the DL. DeRosa underwent more tests on Wednesday relating to the aggravated nerve in his left wrist and numbness in the bottom part of his hand.

– OF Eric Byrnes, who was released by the Mariners earlier this month, told Scott Ostler of the San Francisco Chronicle that he is done playing baseball. “People keep asking me, ‘Are you really done’ ” with baseball? I’m beyond OK with (retirement). This is awesome for me.” Byrnes, 34, is currently playing every Wednesday in a slow-pitch softball league in Menlo Park, California and figures to find a career in broadcasting once he’s ready.

– Mariners’ manager Don Wakamatsu said Wednesday that OF Milton Bradley isn’t likely to rejoin the club until late next week. Bradley is not traveling with the Mariners at the moment and the team doesn’t return to Seattle until next Wednesday. The disgruntled outfielder was placed on the restricted list on May 6 in order to provide him some time to work out some of his emotional issues. “I think everything is going well,” Wakamatsu said. “Tentatively, we’re hoping that at some point in the [next] homestand, he’ll be able to rejoin the team.”

– Phillies’ bullpen coach Mick Billmeyer pulled out some binoculars Monday night during a game against the Rockies to supposedly take a gander at Coors Field and see how C Carlos Ruiz was setting himself up, but the Rockies are saying that Philadelphia must have been stealing signs when Billmeyer had his binocs trained on their catcher, C Miguel Olivo, according to ESPN. OF Shane Victorino also spent a little time on the bullpen phone around the same time the binocs were out, leading some to speculate that the Flying Hawaiian was getting info to help him at his next at-bat. (Not that he needed it; he tripled to start off the game.)

The Mets said the Phillies were stealing signs back in 2007 and former Phils’ manager Larry Bowa brought up the rumored sign-stealing when the Phillies were in the World Series last year, facing the Yankees Manager Charlie Manuel emphatically denies stealing signs via the bullpen and said that no team stealing signs would ever have someone so obviously in the bullpen with binocs. “We were not trying to steal signs. Would we try to steal somebody’s signs? Yeah, if we can. But we don’t do that. We’re not going to let a guy stand up there in the bullpen with binoculars looking in. We’re smarter than that.”

– Mariners’ LHP Erik Bedard (shoulder) threw a simulated game on Wednesday. He said he didn’t feel great after the 30-pitch session, but it’s a step in the right direction. There’s still no timetable for Bedard’s return, but a lengthy minor league rehab assignment should be expected before he makes a start for the Mariners.

– The Rockies have placed 3B Melvin Mora (strained right glut) and LHP Franklin Morales (shoulder) on the 15-day DL retroactive to May 6 and OF Carlos Gonzalez on bereavement.

– The Orioles have transferred 2B Brian Roberts to the 60-day DL.

– The Rangers have placed LHP Matt Harrison (left bicep tendinitis) on the 15-day DL retroactive to May 7.

– The Yankees have placed RHP Alfredo Aceves (bulging disc in lower back) on the 15-day DL retroactive to May 9.

– The Mariners have placed SS Jack Wilson (strained right hamstring) on the 15-day DL retroactive to May 6.

– The Twins have placed SS J.J. Hardy (left wrist contusion) on the 15-day DL retroactive to May 5.

– The Angels have placed RHP Brian Stokes on the 15-Day disabled list retroactive to May 10, 2010. Right shoulder fatigue.

– The Padres have placed RHP Kevin Correia on the bereavement list and RHP Tim Stauffer (appendicitis) on the 15-day DL retroactive to May 10.

– The Brewers have placed OF Carlos Gomez (strained left rotator cuff) on the 15-day DL retroactive to May 6.

– The Dodgers have placed RHP Charlie Haeger (plantar fasciitis in right foot) on the 15-day DL retroactive to May 9.

– The Rockies have released RHP Tim Redding, and the Yankees have signed him and optioned him to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Redding, 32, even fielded offers from the Dodgers and a few Korean teams before settling with Yankees. He had a 4.32 ERA and a 1.56 WHIP in 25 innings at Triple-A Colorado Springs this season before his release and, barring something unforeseen, is unlikely to climb his way onto the Yanks’ 25-man roster.

NBA

– Cavaliers’ F LeBron James (elbow sprain) may be hurt worse than expected, as he said yesterday that the elbow is “an issue I’ll deal with in the offseason.” Not good for a guy heading into the biggest free agent pool in NBA history.

– Heat’ G Dwyane Wade faces trial in a $25M lawsuit filed by his former partners in a failed restaurant venture. Wade’s former partners claim he broke a contract by demanding higher compensation and then abandoning the deal in 2008. Wade contends in court documents he had every right to end the business relationship. His lawyer says the all-NBA guard plans to attend the two-week trial and is likely to testify. He’s also involved in a divorce and faces two other lawsuits over business dealings. One of them involves Miami-based charter schools that were supposed to bear his name.

– Thunder’ F Nick Collison (knee) underwent successful arthroscopic surgery. Collison will begin rehabilitating the knee immediately and should resume offseason training this summer.

– According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Hawks may let coach Mike Woodson walk this summer. “They will call me whenever they want to talk. Monday I will become a free agent, so I’ll just see what goes from there.” Stay tuned.

– Nets’ team president Rod Thorn has asked the rep for former Mavericks head coach Avery Johnson if he would have any interest in coaching the team in New Jersey, according to FanHouse. Johnson has already interviewed for the same job with the Sixers and Hornets. The rumour is that Johnson does have interest and an interview is being scheduled. Thorn supposedly wants a new coach in place before the draft.

WWE

– In an interview with the UK Sun, RAW superstar Chris Jericho spoke about his love of music and what let to him perusing a full time career in wrestling over music. The most newsworthy item of the interview came when Jericho was asked about his future in WWE and whether he’s be leaving the ring for the stage any time soon. Good news for Jericho fans, as he responded, “I think now is the time to stay for a couple of years to help those around me. I want to help the young talent.”

- WWE champion John Cena has been answering fan questions on his new Twitter page and fired back at people who criticize his on-air character and WWE’s family-friendly PG programming. Cena wrote:

“Guys, I am sorry to disappoint but what u see on TV is what u get. That’s pretty close to me in real life. I’m sorry if u think I’m watered down, I’ve been called worse.”

Cena also responded to a fan who asked whether he’d considering bringing back his old “rapper” gimimck. Cena said it’s unlikely,

“Guys, I really appreciate the respect for the freestyle. It would have no home in today’s environment. It would be a weak, watered down, rehash of something that was very fun to be a part of while it lasted. I still freestyle all the time, it just wouldn’t be right for me right now, I really like the place where I am, and where WWE is.”

– WWE Hall of Famer Bret “Hit Man” Hart has posted a new blog on Facebook talking about his United States title match with The Miz next week on RAW, becoming a grandfather this week and what it’s been like working with WWE since WrestleMania. Here are some highlights of what Bret said about:

Wrestling The Miz Next Week: “My son, Blade, just told me I’ve got a U.S. title shot next week in Toronto. News to me. The Hartbeat goes on.”

Working With WWE Since WrestleMania: “Sometimes I can barely remember this stuff. Being stuck in Europe, the volcanic ash, Joe Legend, Monday Night Raw in London, touring both Smackdown and Raw, and before that, WrestleMania 26. Did all that stuff really happen? What an adventure. Life is good.”

Becoming a Grandfather: “I finally became a proud grandfather yesterday when my oldest, Jade, gave birth to a 8lbs., 11oz. beautiful baby girl named Kyra Beans Hart. To be a grandpop is such an important role in a child’s life and I look forward to being a big part of her life and the best grandpa ever. Like all proud grandfathers, I truly feel blessed at this time and I also congratulate her mother, Julie, on a job well done from the very beginning.”

– WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog at JRsBarBQ.com with his thoughts on the following:

Tuesday’s NXT Broadcast:“NXT was a surprising show Tuesday night. I am a reality show fan by and large and have always thought that NXT would be more effective it we fans could see the NXT rookies outside the arena environment to be able to get to know them better. Perhaps the 2nd version of NXT will provide that. ”

Bryan Danielson’s Future: “Daniel Bryan aka Bryan Danielson is by far the best pure wrestler of the NXT group, eliminated or not, and no matter what his name may or may not be today.”

Comparing Randy Orton to Steve Austin: “Randy is merely being his TV persona but it does have some Austin-esque qualities. Randy just has to continue to put his own, individual touches on his fan favorite persona of which I have very high hopes for as time goes on.”

Brock Lesnar vs. Shane Carwin on 7/3: “No…Brock Lesnar vs. Shane Carwin won’t go 5 rounds on July 3 in Las Vegas. I hope to secure a pair of decent seats to this one and enjoy a few days in ‘Lost Wages’ with the Mrs.”

TNA

– Last Wednesday, Mick Foley published a blog on his MySpace account criticizing Triple H for mocking Lilian Garcia during her appearance on Raw last month. Garcia was back on Raw to fill in as a ring announcer with most of the Raw crew grounded overseas.

The event in question occurred during Hunter’s show-opening monologue on the April 19 Raw in which he made a crack about Garcia “horsing around.” The comment stems from those in the WWE’s “inner circle” often joking that Lilian has a horse-shaped face. Foley wrote:

“Why does someone like Triple H, one of the most talented, well paid guys in the business, do something so shallow and mean? Why would a multi-millionaire, with millions of fans around the world, feel the need (several times over the years) to say something that is only meant to hurt? I don’t get it. I don’t get why it’s done, I don’t get why it’s condoned, I don’t get what possible satisfaction anyone involved gets from demeaning someone like Lillian Garcia. I just don’t get it.”

Breaking her silence on the matter, Garcia wrote the following message to Foley on her Twitter account today,

“Mick Foley, this tweet’s for you!! I really appreciate your kind words and the compassion you showed in your blog. Your care for my feelings proves what a loving, caring and wonderful human being you are. This is why I truly miss working with you. You are one of a kind!! Thank you, love you!!”

Foley acknowledged feedback he’s received since last week for chastising Triple H for his dig towards Garcia in a follow-up blog. He acknowledged that he may have cost himself professionally down the road, not to mention that some people may see him as a hypocrite, but felt he had to stand for certain principles in this situation. Foley explained further:

“I could go into great detail about why some of the issues raised (it was innocent joking around on Triple H’s part, I’m a hypocrite because I made fun of Al Snow, Test, etc., where was I during the Mickie James angle?) but I think it would be far more productive for readers to try to figure out the differences for themselves.”

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NHL

– Bruins’ F David Krejci (dislocated right wrist) will miss the rest of the NHL playoffs. The Czech had surgery to repair the wrist at a Baltimore hospital hours later. Krejci injured the wrist in the 4-1 win over the Flyers in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Krejci collided with Flyers’ captain F Mike Richards just before Boston scored the winning goal. The Bruins lead the best-of-seven series 3-0. He’ll be ready to start the 2010-11 season.

– Flyers’ F Simon Gagne (toe) practiced with the Flyers on Thursday. Gagne had surgery on his big toe on his right foot on April 23 after taking a couple of shots off it, in Game 4 of the first round against the Devils. He had two screws put in, and the fact that he’s already skating is remarkable. The Flyers down 3-0 in the series, so he may have to wait until next season to lace ‘em up.

– The finalists for the inaugural NHL GM of the year award are Don Maloney (Coyotes), George McPhee (Capitals) and David Poile (Predators). Maloney’s Coyotes had the most successful regular season in franchise history. McPhee’s Capitals set a club record with 121 points and the first Presidents’ Trophy in franchise history. Poile’s Predators recorded 100 points and qualified for the playoffs for the fifth time in the past six seasons. The winner will be announced during the Stanley Cup final, the NHL said in a release Thursday. Voting was conducted among the 30 club GMs and a panel of NHL executives, print and broadcast media.

– The sale of the Phoenix Coyotes to Jerry Reinsdorf is in jeopardy. According to TSN, the city of Glendale has asked Ice Edge Holdings to return to the bargaining table as a back up plan to buy the Coyotes, in the event the deal with Reinsdorf falls through. Glendale reached out to Ice Edge late last week amid growing concern Reinsdorf’s accepted bid to purchase the Coyotes from the National Hockey League is at risk of falling apart.

– The Sabres have signed defenseman Nick Crawford to a three-year entry level contract. Crawford finished second in voting for the OHL defenseman of the year, after a career high 70 points in 68 games split between Barrie and Saginaw. Among Canadian junior defensemen, Crawford was fourth in points last season. He finished with 23 goals and 117 assists in 264 career games.

NFL

– Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor has been arrested for rape. According to the report, Taylor is accused of beating and raping a 15-year-old “runaway from New York City controlled by a pimp.” The alleged incident occurred early Thursday morning at the Holiday Inn Holidome Hotel in Suffern, and charges are expected to be filed once police complete their investigation. LT has a very extensive history of off-season trouble. Very extensive. In 2001, Taylor was convicted of possessing drug paraphernalia in New Jersey. The conviction stemmed from the September 1998 discovery in a hotel room of a butane torch and other materials commonly used to smoke crack. In 1996 and 1997, he was arrested in South Carolina and Florida on drug charges. In those cases, he either admitted his guilt or agreed to enter a pretrial intervention program. In 2000, he drew five years of federal probation for filing false tax returns and for tax evasion.

– The Raiders have released QB JaMarcus Russell. Russell didn’t show enough at last week’s minicamp to justify carrying him as a $6.5M risk throughout the spring and summer. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 draft finishes his Raiders career with a 7-18 record, 52.1 completion percentage, 18:23 TD-to-INT ratio and a 65.2 passer rating. Considering his bloated contract ($40M over the past 3+ years), Russell may have bypassed QB Ryan Leaf as the biggest bust in NFL draft history. Don’t expect to see any other teams rushing out to sign Russell, but there are rumours that the Colts may kick his tires down the road.

– Bengals agreed to terms with CB Pacman Jones on a two-year contract for the veteran minimum with incentives. Pacman will officially sign on Monday. Owner Mike Brown had a busy day, also putting the finishing touches on FS Gibril Wilson’s contract. Defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer confirmed that the Bengals believe they have nothing to lose by signing Pacman, other than taking shots from the media. Unless Jones significantly improves on his play from 2008, they have little to gain as well. He could be in the mix for nickel duties as well as punt returns, assuming he survives until September.

– Ravens’ S Ed Reed (hip surgery) is fully committed to playing football in 2010, according to his friend and financial adviser, Brad Davis. “Ed is as committed to football as I have ever seen. He told me he feels like he’s 25 again.” Reed is ahead of schedule in his return from a hip procedure that had doctors amazed he could finish out the season. Davis said Reed believes he could play for “several” more years barring another setback. The Ravens will take it easy with Reed during training camp, aiming for all systems go in Week 1.

– A Minnesota judge ruled Thursday that Vikings defensive tackles Kevin and Pat Williams must serve four-game suspensions stemming from the StarCaps case. The two are expected to appeal the ruling. The case will likely be taken to the state Court of Appeals. From there, the losing party could appeal to the state Supreme Court. The Williamses will ask to be able to play during the appeal process as they continue to argue that the NFL didn’t allow them to explain their use of StarCaps. If the Williams Wall does end up missing four games, it’s a big blow to the Vikings. Jimmy Kennedy and Fred Evans would be thrust into major roles.

MLB

– Astros’ 1B Lance Berkman told Jereome Solomon of the Houston Chronicle that he would consider waving his no-trade clause. “I would say yeah. I think it would benefit the organization, and in the end, it would be a benefit for whoever it is — whether it’s me, or Roy (Oswalt) or Carlos. I’m not saying we’re at the point where they should start pulling the plug on us, but they need to start thinking forward. If this thing keeps going like this, they’ve gotta do something.” Berkman said he’d still like to retire as an Astro and is in the final year of his contract, though the club holds a $15M option for next season.

– OF Eric Byrnes, who was released by the Mariners on Sunday, told MLB.com that he may retire. “I think this is the end. You never say never, but I think this is it. Parts of 11 seasons, man — I gave everything I had to the game. I can look myself in the mirror and know that I gave it my all. I’m proud of that.” Byrnes, 34, has a .258/.320/.439 batting line in the major leagues, but played a crucial role in helping the Diamondbacks make it to the NLCS in 2007. Injuries have slowed him in recent seasons and the Mariners gave up on him over the weekend after he batted just 094/.237/.156 over 38 at-bats.

– Brewers’ broadcaster Bob Uecker has been released from the hospital after undergoing heart surgery last Friday. Uecker says in Thursday’s statement that he’s extremely grateful for all the kind words from Brewers fans, friends and associates and looks forward to returning to the broadcast booth later this summer. Uecker is expected to miss up to three months while recovering from the surgery to replace the 75-year-old broadcaster’s aortic valve, aortic root and part of his ascending aorta. Dr. Alfred C. Nicolosi also performed a coronary bypass during the six-hour procedure. The team says Uecker will not be available for interviews, but will come to Miller Park at a later time to provide an update on his recovery.

– Astros’ OF Carlos Lee said Thursday that he “may retire” after the 2012 season when his contract is up. Lee, 33, is probably having all sorts of depressing thoughts as he continues to struggle at the plate and may reconsider the idea once he regains his composure. He’s batting .200/.245/.280 with just five extra-base hits in 100 at-bats this season. He’s a .290/.342/.499 career hitter with 308 home runs.

– According to the Washington Post, the Nationals and 1B Adam Dunn have not made any progress toward a contract extension. Dunn said, “I don’t think there’s any rush. If it happens, great. If it doesn’t happen this year, we have the whole offseason. I’m really not too concerned.” He’s expressed a strong desire to stay with the Nationals and they seem to like him at first base. He’s batting .237/.388/.484 this season with five home runs on the season.

– The Mariners have placed OF Milton Bradley on the restricted list one day after asking the team for help in dealing with “emotional stress” from personal issues. While on the restricted list, Bradley cannot be in uniform or with the team. He will miss at least five days, and manager Don Wakamatsu said he won’t go on the Mariners’ eight-game road trip that begins next Tuesday in Baltimore. Bradley is expected to be away from the club for “five, six, seven days for sure,” and then the situation will be re-evaluated.

– According to CSNBayArea.com, the Giants are planning to place SS Edgar Renteria (groin) on the 15-day DL and could miss three weeks. Renteria has battled a groin injury for the past week and it finally came to a head Thursday while he was running down the first base line.

– Orioles’ LHP Mike Gonzalez (shoulder) has begun throwing from 60 feet on flat ground. Gonzalez, who opened the season 1-for-3 in save opportunities, is aiming to rejoin the Orioles’ bullpen around early June and, so far, appears to be right on track. He was placed on the DL retroactive to April 10 with a strained left shoulder.

– The Marlins have signed veteran 1B Doug Mientkiewicz to a minor league contract. Mientkiewicz, 35, has spent 12 seasons in the majors and played 20 games for the Dodgers last season.

– Hall of Fame pitcher Robin Roberts has died at his home in Florida due to natural causes. Roberts was 83.

WWE

– As part of WWE’s Q1 2010 financial report, in which WWE achieved operating income of $37.3M and net income of $24.7M off revenue of $138.7M, the company also announced the PPV buyrates for Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania 26. While the Rumble and Chamber events improved over their counterparts last year, WrestleMania 26 declined from last year’s already-disappointing number.

Royal Rumble 2010 drew 462,000 buys, up from last year’s 450K. Elimination Chamber did 272K buys, down from No Way Out 2009, which did 285K. WrestleMania XXVI drew 885K buys, down from last year’s 960K. The strong UFC 111 PPV, which aired the night before WrestleMania, will likely receive some credit for adversely impacting the WM26 buyrate.

WrestleMania’s popularity has been eroding sharply over the past few years, despite the fact that WWE claims the decreased buyrates are due to more fans gathering together for “PPV parties.” The past 4 years WrestleMania buyrates have been:

2007 – 1.18M
2008 – 1.06M
2009 – 0.96M
2010 – 0.89M

It’s interesting to note that despite WWE’s price increase to $44.95, and the increase in buys for Rumble and Chamber, revenue was slightly down compared to last year. The January and February shows garnered $13.6M in 2009 and $13.4M in 2010. This can be attributed to a relative increase in international buys, for which WWE does not receive as much revenue.

NBA

– According to the Dallas Morning News, Mavs’ owner Mark Cuban says that F Dirk Nowitzki will remain with the team next season. “We had a good talk. He knows our priority is to keep him and win a championship, which is his goal as well. I’m optimistic things will work out.”

– LeBron James and Dwight Howard were unanimous choices for the All-NBA Team, while Kobe Bryant received 119 of 122 votes from writers and broadcasters. James was a unanimous pick for the second straight season and made his fourth All-NBA Team. The Cleveland star won the MVP award for the second year in a row.

Kevin Durant and Dwyane Wade completed the first team Thursday. Durant led the NBA in scoring for Oklahoma City with a 30.1 average, and James was second at 29.7. Howard led the league in rebounding with a 13.2 average and also averaged 18.3 points. Carmelo Anthony, Dirk Nowitzki, Amare Stoudemire, Steve Nash and Deron Williams were selected to the second team. Tim Duncan, Pau Gasol, Andrew Bogut, Joe Johnson and Brandon Roy were third-team picks.

– F Antoine Walker will attempt an NBA comeback next season. Walker hasn’t played in the NBA since 2008 and has suffered legal and financial woes since stepping away from the game. Walker agreed to pay three Las Vegas casinos over $900K to settle three bad cheque charges last fall. Walker was a three-time all-star with the Boston Celtics and won a championship with the Miami Heat in 2006. He played briefly in Puerto Rico during the 2009-10 season.

– The Thunder have exercised their option on head coach Scott Brooks to keep him with the team through 2012.

– The Philadelphia Daily News reports that ESPN analyst Mark Jackson has turned down a head coaching position – and even an interview altogether – with the Sixers. Jackson is expected to get interviewed for the Hornets position, as well as the Clippers and Nets.

– Danny Ainge has been fined $25K for throwing a towel and trying to distract Cavaliers’ F J.J. Hickson at the foul line in Game 2. Ainge apologized in hopes of avoiding the hit to his wallet, but to no avail. It is a little interesting that he got a $10K break compared to guys who dare to talk about the officiating of a game.

– According to the AP, the Hornets have interviewed TNT analyst Mike Fratello. Fratello hasn’t coach since 2006 with the Grizzlies.

TNA

– According to the PWTorch,  it has been indicated that Lisa Marie Varon (a.k.a. Tara) has buried her peers behind their backs to management. Among the stories cited are reports of Varon complaining about various female wrestlers on house show tours, refusing to work with certain individuals altogether, and squashing numerous storylines — all of which she denies. For those curious as to who she is having these issues with, they are all three members of The Beautiful People — Madison Rayne, Velvet Sky and Lacey Von Erich. The root of the matter is that The Beautiful People have refused to take some of her moves not to mention that she doesn’t respect their in-ring ability.

As noted, Varon took her issues directly to management rather than discussing the matter with the trio. When the group received word of this, they confronted Varon and told her they should have come to them rather than breaking locker room protocol by going to management. The friction was bad enough that when Varon was called in to work a recent house show loop, she specifically asked to work with ODB on the tour — who wasn’t originally scheduled for the set of live events. Company officials complied with Varon’s request due to Madison Rayne being unable to appear (note – there is a unique reason for Rayne’s absence and it will be disclosed in a separate report).

Varon never had a reputation for being difficult to work with during her time in WWE and it should be noted that various sources have stated that she’s been easy going for the most part during her time thus far in TNA. Furthermore, some feel the matter may be more of personality clash as opposed to one side being right and one side being wrong. Varon has been telling people that she hopes to return to WWE once her deal with TNA expires.

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WWE

– According to those close to Batista, it is not 100% certain that he will be leaving WWE, although it is believed that Over the Limit will be his final show. He was said to be furious that a film project initially based around him was taken from him, particularly since it was at the last minute. He is listening to outside offers and it should be noted that there is interest on the part of TNA. The belief is that it’s highly unlikely “The Animal” would jump ship to the competition, though, since they would never be able to offer him anything close to what he’s making in WWE, which is in the neighborhood of several million dollars annually.

– According to the Wrestling Observer, the plan for NXT is for Daniel Bryan to win the show and challenge The Miz for the US title at whatever PPV is up after the show ends. If not, the likely scenario would be Barrett or Slater winning and then going after the tag belts with their pro. They are planning on doing another NXT season after this one ends, although it would be done quicker due to NXT being off Syfy in September.

– Though he’s still listed on the SmackDown roster page on WWE.com, Finlay is no longer listed on the company’s depth chart as an active performer. The reason for this is because he’s not scheduled to wrestle any longer. Vince McMahon decreed removing Finlay from the talent roster because he felt he was too old (52). He will, however, remain with the company as an agent.

NFL

– Ravens’ FS Ed Reed (hip) is currently recovering from offseason surgery. A hip injury cost Reed four games in 2009, though he returned for the regular season finale and two playoff games, recording two interceptions. The surgery indicates that Reed does intend to play this season, despite rumors of his impending retirement. It’s unknown when he’ll be cleared to practice.

– Bengals beat reporter Joe Reedy confirms that the team is currently finalizing a contract with free agent CB Pacman Jones. A deal should be finalized by week’s end. The contract is expected to involve minimum salaries, but include incentives that could boost Pacman’s earnings.

NHL

– Penguins’ F Jordan Staal (foot) skated with his teammates only five days after undergoing surgery to repair a severed tendon in his right foot. Staal skated for about an hour on Wednesday after cutting his foot on the skate of Canadiens’ D P.K. Subban in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinal series on Friday. Staal was clearly favoring his right foot in practice but said he felt “great” after the session. Penguins coach Dan Bylsma said he was comfortable with how Staal skated but stopped short of saying Staal was a possibility for Game 4 on Thursday night in Montreal. It was the second straight day Staal put on his skates. He skated for about five minutes in a track suit on Tuesday.

– Flyers’ F Simon Gagne (toe) is now able walking without crutches. Gagne had surgery on his big right toe on April 23rd. “I’m able to walk on the foot a little bit, trying to walk normal, and it’s getting better every day. I haven’t started skating yet, but it’s getting close.” Gagne might be able to skate this weekend, but first he needs to undergo another MRI on Friday. Stay tuned.

NBA

– Raptors’ F Chris Bosh has changed his Twitter profile to say that he’s from “everywhere” instead of Toronto, and removed information that listed him as the Raptors’ captain. All signs are pointing to Bosh leaving Toronto this summer, and Raptors fans appear to be coming to terms with it. Bosh has also asked his followers what team he should sign with, making it sound as if he will not be back. He’ll become a UFA in July.

– The NBA All-Defensive first team consists of Kobe Bryant, Rajon Rondo, Dwight Howard, Gerald Wallace and LeBron James. Bryant is on the first team for the fifth straight year, with Rondo (1), Wallace (1) and James (2). The second team consists of  Tim Duncan, Dwyane Wade, Thabo Sefolosha, Josh Smith and Anderson Varejao.

– Kentucky coach John Calipari is intrigued by the Bulls’ vacant head coaching job. According to Yahoo! Sports, “a combination of roster talent, tradition and market make Chicago one of the few NBA jobs that could pry Calipari out of Kentucky … [but] the Bulls have been hesitant to pay the $4-5M annual packages it would take to lure high-profile coaches.” Bulls’ GM Gar Forman said on Tuesday that money won’t be an issue and NBA experience isn’t mandatory.

MLB

– Rockies’ RHP Huston Street (shoulder) could begin a minor league rehab assignment as soon as Monday. Street is set to throw in a simulated game this weekend at the Rockies’ spring training complex in Tucson, Florida. If all goes well, he will return to Denver for a checkout then hook up with one of the club’s minor league affiliates. It sounds like he is only about a week or two from returning to the bigs.

– According to Geoff Baker of the Seattle Times, Mariners’ OF Milton Bradley asked the Mariners for help with his “issues” in an emotional meeting Wednesday. He got into an altercation Tuesday with a home plate umpire and reportedly left the M’s clubhouse in the sixth inning.

– The Braves have placed RHP Jair Jurrjens (strained left hamstring) on the 15-day DL retroactive to April 30. Jurrjens suffered the injury during a start last Thursday and hadn’t made much progress when the Braves’ medical team checked in on him Tuesday morning. Jurrjens was off to a 0-3 start this season with a 6.38 ERA and 15/11 K/BB ratio.

TNA

– TNA star Mick Foley is calling out WWE superstar Triple H for his “shallow” and “mean” joke about Lilian Garcia’s appearance on RAW two weeks ago. Garcia returned to WWE for one night to guest ring announce when the RAW crew was stranded in Europe. During the opening segment of the show, Triple H had a microphone and went over to her and said, “Even Lillian Garcia. If Lillian wants to come back here for night to the WWE just to horse around, she can do it.” After Triple H’s remarks, Jerry Lawler make a horse sound on commentary. Triple H’s “horsing around” comment reportedly a reference to a backstage joke about Lilian that her face resembles that of a horse.

Foley wrote on his MySpace.com blog that Triple H’s joke was the latest incident in a pattern of cruel on-air behavior from Vince McMahon’s son in law:

“Why does someone like Triple H, one of the most talented, well paid guys in the business, do something so shallow and mean? Why would a multi-millionaire, with millions of fans around the world, feel the need (several times over the years) to say something that is only meant to hurt? I don’t get it. I don’t get why it’s done, I don’t get why it’s condoned, I don’t get what possible satisfaction anyone involved gets from demeaning someone like Lillian Garcia. I just don’t get it.”

– As reported earlier, Lisa Marie Varon (a.k.a. Tara) has just over two weeks remaining on her TNA contract as her current deal expires on May 21. In a blog post last week, she indicated leaving the promotion as company officials declined her request for a “modest pay increase.” She also expressed her displeasure with unnamed sources claiming she’s difficult to work with and that she has not given her best effort for the promotion.

“My only response is that TNA made an aggressive effort to re-sign me, among other things saying that they want to build the women’s division around me,” Varon wrote in response to an online report. “And I think wrestling fans see, both on TV and at live events, that I always give 100%. I take pride in that. Smearing me on the way out the door is an act of second rate character.”

For what it’s worth, a second party has indicated Varon being difficult to work with as the Wrestling Globe Newsletter reports receiving a number of stories on the multi-time champion burying her peers behind their backs to management. Among the stories cited are reports of Varon complaining about various female wrestlers on house show tours, refusing to work with certain individuals altogether, and squashing numerous storylines — all of which she denies.

Some time ago, management addressed her issues and told talent to handle their personal problems amongst themselves. It’s been said that company president Dixie Carter wants no part of any backstage turmoil and doesn’t want the office to get caught up in political games. She has made it clear that if the problems continued, the solution would be something talent will not like.

– According to FWOnline, Though the stars of TNA Wrestling are famous and appear on a national television show viewed by millions per week, it does not necessarily translate into huge pay checks for a good portion of the roster. This fact especially rings true with the company’s Knockouts as multiple sources have indicated that majority of its female performers earn between $200-400 per appearance. It’s been said that Daffney, SoCal Val and reigning Women’s Knockout Champion Madison Rayne garner slightly more than $200 per appearance. However, they are not the lowest paid members on the roster as that dubious distinction reportedly belongs to Generation Me — Max and Jeremy — both of whom earn $200 per appearance.

– It was announced yesterday on TNA Today that backstage announcer Christy Hemme is getting married this weekend in Hawaii. Hemme and her fiancee , Charley Patterson, got engaged last December.

VoV

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WWE

– WWE Hall of Famer has announced on his website JRsBarBQ.com that he’s signed a short-term contract extension with WWE.

“My contract status with WWE has changed somewhat. We have agreed to terms on a contract extension for a few months to allow me to completely heal from Bells palsy #3.

“I don’t expect to go back on the road until, at the earliest, March but that is an approximate time frame. The story making the rounds that I’m targeting WM26 to return to the airwaves makes for a good story but it is not accurate as I am hoping that I heal quicker and can get back in the game in some form sooner than March 28. That particular issue isn’t up to me.”

– WWE Raw superstar The Miz spoke was interviewed by Phil Strum of the PojoSlam blog this week and spoke about a number of topics including working with the various Raw celebrity guest hosts, wanting to feud with former partner John Morrison and more. Here’s what the Miz said about:

Working With Mary Jannetty: “You have no idea how excited I was. I wanted to prove I wasn’t the Marty Jannetty of the team. I almost felt bad because I was ripping on him right in front of his face. It’s terrible, but it was something I can do because I’m the Miz and that’s what I’d do.”

His Tribute to the Troops Experience. “It brought me a whole new respect for our armed forces. It was incredible seeing them and seeing the smiles on their faces. They don’t get to see their families during Christmas and birthdays. It was incredible to meet these people and bring smiles to their faces.”

Bret Hart Returning To WWE: “I’m really curious on the whole situation. Will Bret be a little bitter? Will Vince (McMahon) be bitter? It’s one of those things: This will be very entertaining and definitely shocking. That would be fantastic if he came in. He hasn’t been with us since he was inducted into the Hall of Fame and hasn’t been in a WWE ring in over 12 years.”

– WWE Champion Sheamus was interviewed in-character this week by IrishCentral.com and spoke in-depth about his big win last weekend at WWE’s TLC PPV, Saturday’s Tribute to the Troops special and more. Here are some highlights of what Sheamus said about:

His WWE Title win: “I came here to make a statement, to be the top wrestler in the world. That was the goal, and the goal has been achieved.”

The Response from His WWE Title Win: “My family stayed up until 3 a.m. watching the show. They are in their element. I’m getting response from people I haven’t heard from in years.”

His Tables Match With John Cena: “I’m pretty beaten up. It was pretty crazy. There were a lot of tables used, rafters used. I’m a bit battered but it doesn’t really matter. The fact that I’m the first Irish WWE champion – that overwhelms everything.”

Saturday’s Tribute To The Troops show: “It’s a big show on NBC. I have a lot of respect for the troops. I know there are a lot of Irish Americans who go to war and I’ve met a lot of them. To put your life on hold to go and serve your country, well, no matter what, you’ve got to have a lot of respect for that.”

NHL

– Red Wings F Henrik Zetterberg (shoulder) is out at least two weeks.

MLB

– The Dodgers have signed UTIL Jamey Carroll to a two-year/$3.85M contract. The contract also contains up to $525K in performance-based incentives for both 2010 and 2011. Carroll, 35, hit .276/.355/.340 in 93 games with the Indians in 2009 and will serve as a utilityman for the Dodgers next season.

– Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News has heard that the Cubs are “close to getting a deal done” with free agent OF Marlon Byrd. The Cubs saved $6M when they shipped OF Milton Bradley to Seattle and now have a vacancy in their outfield. Byrd, 32, batted .283/.329/.479 with 20 homers, 89 RBI and 43 doubles in ’09.

– The Rangers will put Red Sox 3B Mike Lowell through a physical this weekend, according to ESPNDallas.com. The Red Sox and Rangers have worked out the framework of a trade that would send C Max Ramirez and $3M to Boston in exchange for Lowell and his $12M 2010 salary. Texas management first wants to examine the veteran’s thumb, which they believe may need surgery.

– According to Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com, free agent RHP Matt Capps is “high” on the Angels’ wish list this winter. Capps has drawn interest from close to a dozen teams since the Pirates non-tendered him a week ago. The 26-year-old had a disappointing 2009 season but boasts a 3.61 career ERA and has issued only 50 walks in 271 2/3 career innings. He’s thought to be in search of a ninth-inning role.

TNA

– Things are looking in regards to Ric Flair joining TNA as both sides are said to be close on money. However, a major point said is Flair wants a guaranteed contract with Panda Energy and not TNA, so he’d get paid in case the wrestling organization folds.

– Former WWE diva Ashley Massaro is planning a return to the ring and is hinting at joining TNA.

VoV

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MLB

– A source told Tim Brown of Yahoo! Sports that a trade between the Dodgers and Reds for RHP Aaron Harang is “not happening.” Dylan Hernandez of the LA Times first reported news of the talks Thursday morning, but it never made a whole lot of sense. The Dodgers don’t have a clear budget this offseason due to the Frank and Jamie McCourt divorce proceedings and probably can’t commit to the two-years/$27M left. The 31-year-old finished with a 6-14 record, 4.21 ERA and 1.41 WHIP in ’09 and a 6-17 record with a 4.79 ERA in ’08.

– John Harper of the NY Daily News writes that the Mets are “willing to show patience” in their negotiations with OF Jason Bay. The Mets feel they are currently bidding against themselves and are not prepared to offer Bay more than a four-year contract. He’s seeking a five or even six-year deal. The 31-year-old hit .267/.384/.537 this past season with 36 home runs, 119 RBI and 13 stolen bases in 531 at-bats for the Red Sox.

– According to the Seattle Times’ Larry Stone, the Cubs have agreed to trade OF Milton Bradley to the Mariners for RHP Carlos Silva. It’ll be interesting to see what kind of money is being exchanged. Silva, who is owed $24M over the next two years, posted an 8.60 ERA and 1.70 WHIP in 30 innings this past season and a 6.46 ERA in 153 1/3 innings the year before. Bradley, owed $21M, batted a disappointing .257/.378/.397 this season with Chicago but is only one year removed from a career-best .321/.436/.563 batting line. For now, it appears the Mariners have pulled off another excellent deal.

– Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic reports that the Diamondbacks have made a formal offer to free agent 2B Kelly Johnson. Johnson became a free agent when he was non-tendered by the Braves last weekend. The 29-year-old hit just .224/.303/.389 with eight home runs and 29 RBI in ’09 but had a respectable .795 OPS during his first three years in the major leagues. Piecoro guesses the offer is a one-year deal worth $2 million. The Cardinals, Astros, Nationals and Pirates are also thought to have interest.

– Ed Price of AOL Fanhouse has confirmed that the Angels are still trying to deal OF Gary Matthews Jr. Matthews, 35, has hit just .248/.325/.383 since signing a five-year/$50M contract with the Angels in November of 2006 and had a .697 OPS this past season. He’s owed $23M over the next two years, which will make any deal complicated and very difficult to pull off.

WWE

– WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart appeared on yesterday’s edition of Wrestling Observer Radio on F4Wonline.com. Here are some highlights:

Bret said he doesn’t have faith in Eric Bischoff or Hulk Hogan when it comes to recreating the Monday Night Wars with TNA. He respects TNA as a company and hope it brings competition for the sport but doesn’t think they’re going to do anything major. Bret said Hogan has played himself out to the American audience and doesn’t have anything to offer anymore.

He feels he still has lots of ideas and different things he can contribute to wrestling. His ideal job in the business right now would be something similar to what John Laurinaitis does for WWE. He would want to be involved in planning matches and storylines.

TNA has always been good to him as far as extending offers go.

Bret says he is a big fan of Randy Orton’s work these days but not impressed with the storylines he’s been involved in. He also said he’s impressed with Kofi Kingston and is a mark for Melina, calling her creative and very imaginative when it comes to doing her moves. He also feels everything Sheamus is doing right now is impressive and also is a big fan of Jack Swagger. Bret feels Swagger has good potential to be a top wrestler and character.

He would loved to have wrestled Kurt Angle and David Hart Smith. He also would have loved to work as a heel against John Cena because he feels they could have told a good story together. He hinted that Cena’s abilities in the ring are limited but he is still good.

As far as all the news about his WWE return, Bret said he can’t talk about the rumors but did say that he was talking with WWE and “we will see what happens.”

– CM Punk ripped into Hulk Hogan during an appearance on the B.J. Shea Morning Experience radio show on KISW-FM in Seattle on Thursday morning. Punk explains that everybody wins if WWE has legit competition – but Hulk Hogan is a selfish old man who doesn’t have what it takes to get TNA out of first gear.

“My take is first of all that we have Tribute to the Troops on Saturday. That’s probably going to be a much better show than whatever that TNA is going to put on. I have a lot of friends that work there and I do watch the show, but I seem to watch it on perpetual fast forward.

“I hope, I really hope that something comes of it. I have zero faith in Hulk Hogan as a man who is what 60 years-old and tries to dress like he’s 18 and lives on the Jersey Shore. For a guy I’ve never met, I’ve formulated enough opinions about him just from being around him and like his business acumen and stuff like that, I really trust that he’s not in this for TNA and he’s not in this for the business. He’s in this for himself.”

“Hulk Hogan, I hope you prove me wrong. I hope there’s competition because when there’s competition we step up, everybody makes more money, and I think it makes the business healthier and that’s what I’m looking forward to, but I don’t have much hope.”

– WWE officials are said to be unsatisfied with the performance of Raw guest host Dennis Miller. According to sources who were backstage at Monday’s 3-hour WWE Raw, Miller was late to arrive at the building and showed up just hours before the show went live on the air. Miller made a remark during the show that Vince McMahon was trying to give him some comedy pointers -  it turns out Miller’s remark was unscripted and a “shoot” – as McMahon really did try to give Miller some jokes to tell. Overall, Miller’s performance was considered sub-par. Many felt his humour missed the mark and he was unable to connect with the live crowd.

NBA

– The Warriors and Suns have recently contacted the Wizards in regards to F Caron Butler. Butler has been struggling this season under Flip Saunders’ offense, as his field goal percentage (41.4%) and scoring average (16.7 PPG) are both well below his averages over the past five years. The Wizards may be looking to shake things up after a disappointing start.

NFL

– According to the Denver Post, ex-Broncos coach Mike Shanahan has been in discussions with the Redskins about the head coaching job for 2010. ESPN’s Chris Mortensen also believes Shanahan will end up in D.C. The sides are reportedly still working out the specifics and an agreement has yet to be reached, but there is obvious mutual interest. Shanahan is tight with new Redskins GM Bruce Allen, telling the Bills last month that the two were a package deal. Both share negative experiences with Raiders owner Al Davis, strengthening their bond. Shanahan would likely clean house on offense while maintaining a voice in personnel matters.

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MLB

– Jon Heyman of SI.com reports that the Mets offered free agent OF Jason Bay a four-year/$65M deal. Bay turned down a similar contract from the Red Sox before hitting free agency, so the Mets would likely need to kick in another year to get a deal done. Interestingly, Heyman writes that the Mets didn’t want to get into “protracted talks” for OF Matt Holliday, who could make up to $100M this winter. The Mets are confident that Bay’s pull-hitting style will translate to Citi Field, so it looks like they’ve finally made their preference known. The Mets are also going to offer C Bengie Molina a two-year contract in the coming days. Stay tuned.

– Daniel Barbarisi and Joe McDonald of the Providence Journal reports that a trade that would send Red Sox 3B Mike Lowell to the Rangers is “roughly 75% done.” There’s still a number of issues at play before a deal is finalized, including Red Sox ownership signing off on the deal, medicals and an approval from major league baseball, since up to $9M could change hands. The Red Sox are expected to acquire C Max Ramirez in return and pursue 3B Adrian Beltre to play third base.

– Cubs officials say they are “close” to trading OF Milton Bradley, with all indications saying he’ll be headed to the Rays, reports Bob Nightengale of USA Today. We’ve heard reports of “imminent” and “close” involving Bradley before, only to have them fall through. That said, Tampa has made the most sense all along. It’s been rumoured that OF Pat Burrell would head to Chicago to complete the trade, but Nightengale doesn’t name who the Cubs would receive in return. What he does say is that the Cubs would look to sign OF Mike Cameron or OF Marlon Byrd once they shed Bradley.

WWE

– Amid speculation that he will be retiring after WrestleMania, Raw superstar Shawn Michaels spoke to MySanAntonio.com this week and implied that he might be taking another extended hiatus from WWE after WrestleMania 26 min MArch.

“I take four months off in the summer and just spend time with the family. It’s a tough line of work. Those injuries hang around longer and those injuries are tougher to deal with. When I stop, my body will have an opportunity to heal and rest. That comes along with the territory.”

Michaels took four months off after his match against The Undertaker at WrestleMania 25 earlier this year and now that he’s back still only works a limited schedule.

“I actually don’t have to take on the schedule that the other guys have to take on,” Michaels said. “I wrestle more on a part-time basis.”

– As reported earlier, I have now received confirmation that the late Eddie Fatu (Umaga) was to return to the WWE around the Royal Rumble, as he was off doing Hulk Hogan’s tour.

– Shane McMahon has not been working for WWE since announcing his resignation, which takes effect January 1. It’s said that morale is the lowest with workers in the office since anyone can remember. One person close to Shane says that him leaving WWE had to do with being passed over for power and that he was tired of being humiliated publicly by Vince.

– In an interview with Sky Sports, Kofi Kingston talked about this coming Sunday’s TLC pay-per-view and more. Below are some highlights of what Kofi said about:

Kofi’s Native Ghana In The World Cup: “Hopefully we can make our mark. We did alright the last time. We’ll try and take it to the top this time. I’ll definitely be rooting for them. It’s not going to be easy for sure. I know they’re all very good teams. We’ll see how we’ll stack up against them but I know Ghana are ready to bring it.”

Wrestling Randy Orton On Sunday: “I’ve been training hard. It’s going to be a battle. I think I have learned a lot these past weeks. I know that I don’t just fight one member of Legacy, I’m always having to fight all three. This is going to be a brawl to say the least.”

Sheamus; Rise In WWE: “I don’t think Sheamus would have stepped up to that role if he wasn’t ready to carry the ball. If you pick a fight with John Cena you better bring it. I hope Sheamus knows what he is doing. Some people might be jealous, I wouldn’t be surprised. But me, I’m not jealous for sure. I’m sure that for Sheamus and I, our paths will cross in the near future.”

TNA

– The Wrestling Observer reports that Hulk Hogan is telling people that Spike TV signed TNA Wrestling to a two-year deal to run full time on Monday’s against Raw. Stay tuned for confirmation.

– TNA is speaking with RVD in regards to a contract, with money being the main obstacle to get him signed.

NHL

– Red Wings F Dan Cleary (separated shoulder) is out four weeks. Cleary was injured when he was hit by the Blues D Darryl Sydor on Wednesday.

NBA

– Celtics G Marquis Daniels (thumb) has undergone successful surgery to repair a torn ligament and is out six weeks.

VoV

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MLB

– The Yankees have re-signed LHP Andy Pettitte to a one-year/$11.75M contract. The price is certainly above market value, but the Yankees feel confident he can replicate or even top his stat line from this past season. The 37-year-old Pettitte went 14-8 in 2009 with a 4.16 ERA and 1.38 WHIP in 32 starts. He’ll serve as New York’s No. 3 starter in 2010.

– Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com reports the Brewers have agreed to terms with LHP Randy Wolf on a three-year/$29.75M deal, pending a physical. The 33-year-old left-hander went 11-7 this past season with a 3.23 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 160 strikeouts in 34 starts. He immediately brings a bit of respectability to a Milwaukee staff that posted a dismal 4.83 team ERA in 2009.

– Carrie Muskat of MLB.com believes there is no “mystery team” for Cubs OF Milton Bradley and the Rays remain the most likely trade partner. A few reports surfaced during Tuesday’s Winter Meetings action claiming that a “mystery AL team” was nearing a trade for the disgruntled outfielder. Now we’re back to square one, and time is ticking for the Cubs. They arrived in Indianapolis with a goal to deal Bradley and have pushed their offseason game plan aside in order to focus on getting a trade completed.

– According to Tim Brown of Yahoo! Sports, the Yankees, Mets, Nationals, Cubs, Orioles and Angels have shown early interest in RHP Joel Pineiro. Most of the teams above are bidding on RHP John Lackey, however, and will wait to see where he goes before looking at secondary options. Pineiro, a 31-year-old Type B free agent, went 15-12 this past season with an impressive 3.49 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and MLB-leading 60.2 GB% in 32 starts.

– According to Ed Price of AOL Fanhouse, the Mets “feel they are in contention” for free agent OF Jason Bay. The Mets may have strong interest, but they’re going to really have to buck up in order to land the free agent outfielder. He’s drawing interest from some of baseball’s top spenders and won’t be giving out any discounts. The 31-year-old Bay hit .267/.384/.537 this past season with 36 home runs, 119 RBI and 13 stolen bases in 531 at-bats.

– According to the Baltimore Sun’s Peter Schmuck, Orioles officials “are getting more confident” that they can complete a deal for Rangers RHP Kevin Millwood. The Orioles and Rangers have shared conversations on the topic throughout this week’s Winter Meetings. According to one rumored scenario, Baltimore would send reliever 27-year-old Chris Ray to Texas and pick up most of Millwood’s $12M salary for next season. The 34-year-old Millwood went 13-10 in 2009 with a 3.67 ERA and a 1.34 WHIP over 31 starts.

– According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Brewers are “moving fast” on free agent setup man RHP LaTroy Hawkins and could land him soon. Hawkins had a meeting with Astros management in Indianapolis on Tuesday and it sure sounds like it wasn’t fruitful. The 36-year-old right-hander posted a 2.13 ERA and 11 saves this past season while earning a base salary of $3.5M. He’s looking for a multi-year contract.

– According to Rob Bradford of WEEI.com, the Red Sox are putting themselves in a position to make a run at free agent 3B Adrian Beltre. First the Red Sox will have to find a suitor for 3B Mike Lowell, which won’t be easy. The guy is 35 years old and is owed $12M in 2010. On top of it all, he’s an injury risk. Beltre, 30, hit .265/.304/.379 in 2009 while playing superb defense and would fit in well in Boston, but there are hurdles that must be jumped before any deal can come close to happening.

– ESPN’s Jorge Arangure reports both the Yankees and Red Sox will be in attendance at LHP Arolids Chapman’s workout next week in Houston. Chapman recently hired a new group of representatives and is hoping to land a lucrative contact this winter. The 21-year-old left-hander has immense talent and there are reports of him hitting 101 mph with his fastball. Now MLB teams will finally get to see him up close and personal.

WWE

– To put an end to the speculation that Steve Austin may join TNA, “Stone Cold” is still under contract to World Wrestling Entertainment. A few years ago, Spike wanted to feature Austin in a non-wrestling project considering he would have been a great fit for the network geared towards men. Hence, WWE offered him a lucrative contract to not work for the USA Network competitor. The agreement also allows WWE to sell new Austin merchandise.

VoV

-– You can keep up with VoV through Twitter by clicking here.

MLB

– Jon Heyman of SI.com hears that the Red Sox will not give up RHP Clay Buchholz or 1B Casey Kelly for Jays ace RHP Roy Halladay. Heyman notes a potential “market crash” and he’s potentially right. It’s difficult to dismiss the Yankees as a potential suitor for Halladay, but GM Brian Cashman may be more inclined to keep top prospects now that they’ve dealt RHP Ian Kennedy and OF Austin Jackson. There’s certainly no reason for the Red Sox to deal Buchholz or Kelly if the Yankees won’t participate in the bidding. Stay tuned.

– According to MLB.com’s Joe Frisaro, the Marlins are expected to re-open long-term contract negotiations with RHP Josh Johnson at some point. Johnson, 25, went 15-5 in 2009 with a 3.23 ERA and 1.16 WHIP. He’s under team control through 2011 so the Marlins don’t have to budge just yet, but they clearly want him to be a part of their organization for a long time to come. The stud right-hander turns 26 in January.

– According to Tim Brown of Yahoo! Sports, the Cubs and Mariners are discussing a swap of OF Milton Bradley for RHP Carlos Silva. Silva, 30, posted an 8.60 ERA and 1.70 WHIP in 30 innings this past season and a 6.46 ERA in 153 1/3 innings the year before. Quite a feat if the M’s can do it.

– Mark Feinsand of the NY Daily News reports that the White Sox have emerged as a “serious contender” for free agent DH Hideki Matsui. The Angels have also confirmed their interest. The White Sox covet a left-handed bat, so Matsui certainly fits the bill. According to Feinsand, Chicago only has $5-6M budgeted for the spot, but Matsui might not have many offers to choose from. After the trade for OF Curtis Granderson, the Yankees could choose to cut bait on Matsui, OF Johnny Damon, or both.

– Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said Tuesday that he believes the Cardinals “have a legitimate shot” at re-signing OF Matt Holliday. Holliday is drawing interest from all of baseball’s biggest spenders this offseason, but he seemed to enjoy his time in St. Lou and would probably be comfortable with a return. After all, the 29-year-old hit .353/.419/.604 with 13 home runs and 55 RBI once he joined the Birds.

– Ken Rosenthal reports that RHP John Smoltz may still end up back in St. Louis. The FOXSports.com reporter says that the Cardinals are not sold on a fifth starter, and may look to Smoltz to fill that role. And if Jaime Garcia claims the role, the team could simply shift Smoltz to the bullpen. Seven other teams, five in the NL, have shown interest in the future Hall of Famer.

– The Nationals are expected to discuss a long-term contract extension this season with LHP John Lannan. Lannan, who doesn’t turn 26 until next September, clearly established himself as the Nationals’ ace this past season, finishing with a 9-13 record, 3.88 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 89 strikeouts in 33 starts (206 1/3 innings). He should be a major part of Washington’s rebuilding efforts.

– The Cardinals have officially signed RHP Brad Penny to a one-year/$7.5M contract. Penny, 31, can earn close to $9M through performance-based incentives on the one-year contract. He posted a 4-1 record and 2.59 ERA in 2009 after returning to the NL and should only bolster a St. Louis rotation that already boasts RHP Chris Carpenter and RHP Adam Wainwright.

– According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Cardinals manager Tony La Russa acknowledged Tuesday that his club has interest in free agent SS Miguel Tejada. Speaking with a group of reporters, La Russa said he’s hoping the Cardinals will find a No. 4 or No. 5 hitter on the market this winter.

“I still think we have a better chance to have legitimate guys (who are already on the team) to hit in front of (Pujols). We could use the guy to hit behind him.”

Miguel Tejada, though climbing up in age, certainly comes close to fitting that bill. He batted .313/.340/.455 with 14 home runs and 86 RBI in 2009 and could slide into the Cardinals’ opening at third base.

– The Giants are interested in 2B Orlando Hudson, major league sources told Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com. If the Giants signed O-Dog, the team would move 2B Freddy Sanchez to third base. While it wouldn’t address the Giant’s lack of power, it would still upgrade their offense – and defense too, with Pablo Sandoval shifting to first-base. The team has a lot of different directions it can go in. Another suitor for Hudson that has popped up in recent days are the Rockies.

– Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that LHP Randy Wolf’s agent Arn Tellem is shopping the Brewers’ three-year contract offer around, while the Mets appear to be out of the running now. According to Haudricourt, the Brewers offered Wolf a three-year/$27M deal. If true, the offer would be pretty hard to top, but that hasn’t stopped Tellem from talking to the Mets and even the Yankees, albeit briefly. Wolf, 33, was 11-7 with a 3.23 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 160 strikeouts in 2009. His value was enhanced after the Dodgers failed to offer him arbitration last week.

– Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald reports the Red Sox are unlikely to have interest in trading for Braves RHP Rafael Soriano. GM Frank Wren said reliever Rafael Soriano has granted clearance to be traded. Soriano accepted the Braves’ offer of arbitration on Monday, but after giving permission, he can now be dealt to any team. The Red Sox liked him as a free agent, but don’t want to give up prospects and certainly aren’t attracted to his $8M arbitration-influenced price tag. The right-hander posted a 2.97 ERA, a 1.06 WHIP and a 102/27 K/BB ratio in 75 2/3 innings this year and recently accepted salary arbitration from Atlanta. The Yankees, Astros and Orioles may still have interest.

– According to Tracy Ringolsby of FOXSports.com, the Rockies are interested in signing 3B Melvin Mora as a backup infielder. Mora had his $8M option for 2010 declined by the Orioles in October and was denied an offer of arbitration in November. The 37-year-old hit .260/.321/.358 this season with just 28 extra-base hits in 484 plate appearances, but the Rox obviously feel he will come cheap.

– Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports that while the Dodgers have talked to the agents for free-agent pitchers LHP Randy Wolf, RHP Vicente Padilla and RHP Joel Pineiro, they will not talk about multi-year contracts. According to Gurnick, the Dodgers believe that one-year bargains will be available late in the offseason, similar to the one they handed out to Randy Wolf in February. While the Dodgers were fortunate with Wolf, they could be left at the alter this time.

– Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports that Phillies RHP Joe Blanton could be traded. Once source told Zolecki that Blanton “is on the market,” while adding that the Phillies would like to acquire “a big bullpen piece.” They’re more likely to find a bullpen piece in free agency, but the Phillies will listen to offers on the 28-year-old during a weak market for starting pitchers. Blanton was 12-8 with a 4.05 ERA and a 1.32 WHIP in ’09.

– MLB.com’s Adam McCalvy reports the Brewers are close to re-signing RHP Claudio Vargas and will have him serve as a reliever. Vargas posted an impressive 1.74 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 30/15 K/BB ratio in 40-plus innings this past season. A new deal is in place, according to McCalvy, and is just awaiting approval from Vargas and his agent.

– Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com reports that the market for free agent RHP Jose Valverde is “very limited.” Valverde denied himself a chance to earn up to $10M Monday evening when he declined the Astros’ offer of salary arbitration. Now he’s drawing little interest because the teams who need a closer the most aren’t willing to break the bank. The 31-year-old posted a 2.33 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 25 saves in 29 opportunities for Houston this past season.

– Free agent UTIL Robb Quinlan has drawn interest recently from the Twins, among other teams, reports MLB.com’s Lyle Spencer. The Rockies are scheduled to meet with Quinlan’s representatives at this week’s Winter Meetings. It’s quite surprising that he’s drawing so much interest. The 32-year-old hit just .243/.275/.339 with two homers and 14 RBI in 2009 while playing shoddy defense at a variety of positions.

WWE

– WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog, which you can read in its entirety at JRsBarBQ.com. Some highlights:

HBK Retiring at WrestleMania: “We get emails all the time with fans assuming that WM26 will be HBK’s last Wrestlemania. I have not heard that confirmed whatsoever and if it is true wouldn’t one think that WWE would be preparing to make it a HUGE deal? In my mind’s eye, Wrestlemania season officially launches at the Royal Rumble. I am excited about the March 2010 release of the next HBK DVD which is a countdown of Shawn’s Best Matches. Good luck in narrowing that list down to a three disc set.”

Ross on his own health: “It’s back to the doctor’s today for me as I will be seeing a Rheumatologist today which is a first. I had to go on line to find out what a Rheumatologist does in their world of specialty medicine. However, I’m feeling better every day and remain upbeat and optimistic that I have not called my last match and that my next one might be sooner than some expect.”

Mark Cuban: “Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban likely got cheered in the only major arena in America as the controversial, young billionaire is essentially one of the most vilified individuals in pro sports. Cuban is defiant, has been fined by NBA Commissioner David Stern many times and basically has been caught on TV court side acting like a tool. Nonetheless Cuban did a solid job on Raw and one could tell that the Mavs owner keeps up with the product or was tremendously prep.”

NFL

– Redskins RB Clinton Portis (concussion) has been placed on the IR and is done for the season. Portis will make a complete recovery for 2010, but he, however, was less optimistic.

“If it’s my time, I think I had a great career. The doctor feared that if I took another hit like that, [the vision problems] would get worse … He said it rattled the vision and that was his main concern.”

Portis believes he can get back to normal with rehab, but his future is cloudy at this point.

NBA

– Blazers G Rudy Fernandez (back) will undergo a microdisectomy Tuesday to relieve pressure from a nerve root in his lower back that is causing pain in his right leg. He is expected out four-to-six weeks.

NHL

– Flyers G Ray Emery (abdominal tear) has been placed on the IR and is expected out four-to-six weeks.

VoV

-– You can keep up with VoV through Twitter by clicking here.

MLB

– Geoff Baker of the Seattle Times has heard that free agent OF Jason Bay will “stand on his head” to play for the Mariners. Bay is from British Columbia and would like to get closer to home. The M’s have already expressed interest despite his mediocre defense, so talks have the potential to run smoothly. That said, the Red Sox still have interest in bringing him back and could probably outbid the Mariners if they truly want to retain the outfielder.

– Tom Haines of PhillyBurbs.com reports that Rays OF Pat Burrell has been traded to the Mets. According to Haines, Burrell was traded to the Cubs, then swapped to the Mets. Obviously, this could be as part of the rumoured three-way deal involving Cubs OF Milton Bradley and Mets 2B Luis Castillo, but this is the only outlet reporting the trade at the moment.

According to the St. Petersburg Times, Cubs officials are “confident” they’ll be able to deal Bradley at this week’s Winter Meetings. A deal involving the Rays’ Pat Burrell has been in the works for several weeks, but the Cubs will have to eat more of Bradley’s contract than they’ve been willing to. Both players will make $9M next season, but Bradley has another $13M left on his deal for 2011. The Rays also have to decide how to approach Bradley’s reputation as a “clubhouse cancer.” Stay tuned.

– According to C Victor Martinez’s agent, Alan Nero, the Red Sox plan to ink his client to a long-term extension this offseason. Talks have not yet begun because GM Theo Epstein and Co. are focusing on this week’s Winter Meetings, but Nero believes things will heat up for his client in January. Martinez, who turns 31 in December, hit .336/.405/.507 once he arrived in Boston and is thought to have strong interest in staying. He is under team control for just one more year.

– According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post,the Yankees “really want” Tigers OF Curtis Granderson. If the Tigers are truly listening to offers for Granderson, the Yankees will be near the top of the list of potential suitors. The Yanks are correct to consider younger alternatives for their outfield while 36-year-old OF Johnny Damon tests free agency. Granderson is owed $25.75M over the next three seasons, with a $13M club option for 2013.

– The Diamondbacks were in attendance at a recent throwing session featuring free agent RHP J.J. Putz, according to FOXSports.com. The Phillies and Astros have also been linked to Putz this offseason. Teams are aware of his raw ability and are hoping he’ll be open to a cheap contract, but with so much interest he may be able to step up his demands. The 32-year-old Putz had a 5.22 ERA and 1.64 WHIP in 2009, but he’s only two years removed from a lights-out season as closer of the Mariners.

– According to Joel Sherman of the NY Post, LHP Andy Pettitte turned down a one-year contract from the Yankees worth around $10M. Though Pettitte turned down the Bombers’ initial offer, the club privately believes the 37-year-old southpaw wants to continue to pitch in New York. According to the report, one NL official insisted that a deal would eventually get done. If Pettitte returns, which he almost certainly will, the Yankees are not expected to pursue free-agent RHP John Lackey.

– Jon Paul Morosi of FOXSports.com reports that Pirates LHP Zach Duke and LHP Paul Maholm are available, however they would need to be “overwhelmed” in order to trade one of them. A few clubs have checked in on the pair of left-handers. Maholm, 27, is owed a very reasonable $11M through 2011, while Duke, 26, figures to earn between $3-4M in arbitration this winter. He is under team control through 2011.

– According to LHP Doug Davis’ agent, Steve Canter, “multiple clubs” are showing interest in the free agent lefty. Davis finished the 2009 season with a 9-14 record, a 4.12 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP over a NL-leading 34 starts. He’s an innings eater that could work well as a fourth or fifth starter on a number of teams. It’s not immediately clear what clubs have been calling, but it sure sounds like he may have his pick of a number of organizations. Davis is a Type B free agent.

– Free agent RHP Jose Valverde may accept the Astros’ offer of arbitration, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com. Valverde could command close to $10M through arbitration. The 31-year-old posted a 2.33 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 25 saves in 29 opportunities for Houston this past season.

TNA

– As reported over the weekend, TNA Wrestling has announced that a live three-hour iMPACT! special will air on Monday 1/4 from Orlando, Florida. It will be the first time TNA goes head-to-head with WWE Raw on a Monday night.

According to the Wrestling Observer, testing the waters on a Monday night has been on TNA’s radar for quite some time. When TNA met with Spike TV and a Monday night show was discussed, original plans called for a live 2-hour broadcast from 8-10PM, with only the second hour opposing WWE Raw. TNA and Spike liked the idea of getting a 1-hour unopposed lead-in and then competing with Raw’s first hour. It was then thought that WWE would counter TNA by asking the USA Network for a third hour to combat TNA, so the decision was made to make iMPACT! a 3-hour show.

At this time, January 4 is a one-time experiment with a lot riding on it. Should TNA hold their own and get their usual 1.0 rating or better, we could see iMPACT! move to Monday nights permanently in 2010.

It’s also worth noting that Spike TV is going head-to-head with WWE Raw the following week after Monday Night iMPACT! with a live UFC Fight Night special. You can be sure all parties involved (Spike, USA, WWE, TNA, UFC) will be watching to see how TNA and UFC stack up against WWE Raw in early January.

WWE

– WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog, which you can read in its entirety at JRsBarBQ.com. Here’s what Ross said about the untimely death of former WWE superstar Umaga:

The sudden passing of Eddie “Umaga” Fatu certainly put a damper on the weekend as Eddie’s death on Friday came as a total shock to me. Eddie had moved his family to Houston a while back as many WWE performers now base out of the Houston area and some of them actually are neighbors. Nonetheless, when I think of Eddie I think of the many, many conversations that we had over the years and how they usually ended up with Eddie talking about his wife and children. I recall discussing with Eddie that one of his sons, who has the potential to be a special football player, was already on Oklahoma’s radar and I think at the time the young man was only in the 9th or 10th grade. OU coaches were recruiting an upper classman at the same school that Eddie’s son attended but coaches told the OU folks, ” just wait until you see this really young kid we have. His Dad’s a wrestler and this kid is special.” Eddie was elated to know that his son had already distinguished himself on the gridiron and we talked of Eddie sending his son to the OU Summer Football Camp.

Eddie Fatu was very proud of his children and loved his wife tremendously and Eddie was proud of the home that he was able to create for them in Houston. “Umaga” may have been a “Samoan Savage” or “Samoan Bulldozer” but in reality Eddie Fatu was a gifted athlete with amazing agility and quickness for a 300+ pounder who was one of the most sensitive and likable athletes that I have had the honor of being around in the past 35 years.

NFL

– Vikings MLB E.J. Henderson (fractured femur) will miss the rest of 2009. The brutal injury occurred on a basically meaningless fourth-quarter play. Coach Brad Childress said that Henderson will require surgery.