VoV

– Unfortunately, I’m out tonight and off to the cottage for Saturday & Sunday, so I won’t be able to do any more live coverage of the 2010 MLB trade deadline. Deal with it.

TRADES

– The White Sox have acquired RHP Edwin Jackson from the D’Backs for RHP Daniel Hudson and LHP David Holmberg. Hudson, 23, has a 6.32 ERA over three starts with the White Sox this season, but posted a 3.47 ERA over 17 starts with Triple-A Charlotte and was regarded as the top pitching prospect in the organization. Holmberg, a 19-year-old left-hander, is 1-1 with 4.46 ERA over eight starts with Chicago’s rookie league team in Great Falls this season. He was ranked as the organization’s top left-handed pitching prospect coming into the year by Baseball America. The 3-way deal that would send 1B Adam Dunn to the White Sox, RHP Edwin Jackson to the Nationals, and RHP Dan Hudson and a prospect to the Diamondbacks is still in play, reports Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.

– The Twins have acquired RHP Matt Capps from the Nationals for C Wilson Ramos. The 22-year-old catcher hit .296/.321/.407 with three doubles in seven games for the Twins back in early May but he has a .625 OPS in 278 at-bats for Rochester. Ramos is a defensive rock and posted impressive numbers in a short stint with the Twins in May while Joe Mauer was nursing an injury. He’s struggled a bit at Triple-A Rochester this season, but the 22-year-old has plenty of room to grow and should do just that in the Nationals’ system. Minnesota has had interest in Capps for some time and is now more confident about acquiring a reliever than a starter. Twins assigned a scout to follow Toronto’s relievers. He earns a base salary of $3.5M this year ($1.3M remains) and can be retained as an arbitration-eligible player for 2011, though he’s expected to get a raise. Capps will become the closer, with RHP Joe Rauch moving to setup man. Nonetheless, I give the winning nod to the Nats.

– The Padres have acquired 3B Miguel Tejada from the Orioles for RHP Wynn Pelzer and cash considerations. The 24-year-old Pelzer is a power pitcher whose fastball sits in the mid-90s. As a starter, he has a 4.20 ERA with 7.9 K/9 and 5.3 BB/9 in AA this year, but could become a future closer. Tejada is owed $2M for the remainder of the season.

– The Blue Jays have traded INF Brett Wallace to the Astros for OF Anthony Gose. Wallace, originally a utility infielder, appears to be stuck at first base for now. Gose, 19, is a potential Gold Glove-winning outfielder with tremendous speed and defensive skills. His career potential has been compared to that of Rays’ OF Carl Crawford. Gose stole 76 bases two seasons ago.

– The Rangers have acquired 3B Jorge Cantu and $600K from the Marlins for RHP Evan Reed and RHP Omar Poveda. Cantu, 28, has 10 homeruns and is batting .259/.308/.408 this season. He becomes a free agent at seaason’s end.The 28-year-old becomes a free agent after the season and has said he would like to sign with the Marlins. At this point, the club is considering multi-year deals Reed, 24, has posted a 1.76 ERA and 1.20 WHIP over 41 innings this season between Double-A and Triple-A. Poveda, 27, is currently on the DL recovering from Tommy John reconstructive elbow surgery. Cantu will give the Rangers a solid right-handed bat for the stretch run.

– The Phillies have acquired RHP Roy Oswalt and $11M from the Astros for LHP J.A. Happ, INF Jonathan Villar and OF Anthony Gose. The Astros will pay $11M of the approximately $23M left on Oswalt’s contract through 2011. Oswalt did not demand that his 2012 mutual option for $16M be picked up by the Phillies, but he would receive extra compensation if or when the Phillies decline. The 32-year-old ace leaves Houston with a 3.24 career ERA and a 143-82 career record, just one win shy of the franchise’s all-time leader Joe Niekro. The Phillies look dangerous with a Halladay-Oswalt-Hamels 1-2-3 punch.

– The Braves acquired 2B Michael Noboa from the D’Backs for a PTBNL.

– The Tigers have acquired 3B Jhonny Peralta and cash from the Indians for minor league LHP Gionvanni Soto. The Tigers have now addressed their vacancy at third base, though Peralta has hit just .246 this season with a .698 OPS, seven home runs and 43 RBI. Soto is a 19-year-old left-handed prospect who has had some success at the Single-A level.

– The Dodgers have acquired OF Scott Podsednik from the Royals for a minor leaguer C Lucas May and RHP Elisaul Pimentel. The Dodgers beat out the division-rival Giants to land Podsednik, who has hit .310/.353/.400 with five homers, 44 RBI and 30 stolen bases in 390 at-bats for the Royals. The speedster will be highly useful to the Dodgers. The acquisition crowd the LA outfield for the long run, but for right now, with Johnson and Ramirez on the DL, it works well.

– Cubs’ 1B Derrek Lee has vetoed a trade to the Angels by invoking his 10-and-5 rights, a form of a no-trade clause given to players who have played for at least 10 years and the last five with their current team. Lee, who has a full NTC in his contract, is due just under $5M for the remainder of the season and indicated he wanted to finish the year with the Cubs. He will be a free agent at the end of the season. Lee entered Wednesday’s action hitting .248 with 11 home runs and 44 runs batted in.

RUMOURS

– Astros’ 1B Lance Berkman (NTC) (acquired Wallace to replace him). In: White Sox. According to the NY Post, the Astros have been given the go-ahead by a high-ranking executive that they can move Berkman and begin the rebuilding phase. The White Sox have expressed interest, but only as a backup plan if they fail to acquire Nats’ 1B Adam Dunn. Ed Price of AOL Fanhouse reports that there is buzz about the White Sox “going for” Lance Berkman. Berkman is batting .245/.372/.436 with 13 homers and 49 RBI in 298 at-bats this year. About $5.4M remains on Berkman’s $14.5M salary this season. The Astros hold a $15M option for next year, but they can buy it out for $2M.

– The 3-way deal that would send 1B Adam Dunn to the White Sox, RHP Edwin Jackson to the Nationals, and RHP Dan Hudson and a prospect to the Diamondbacks is still in play, reports Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.

– The Dodgers and Cubs are discussing a trade that could send LHP Ted Lilly and 2B Ryan Theriot to LA. It’s not known whether a deal is close. The Cubs would need to hand over some cash, as Lilly has $4.3M remaining and Theriot has $933K. Theriot received a $2.6M salary for 2010 after losing an arbitration case to the Cubs in February. He’s under team control through 2012; the FOX writers see him taking over at second base for the Dodgers. There aren’t a ton of great matches for Lilly at this point, as action with the Tigers, Twins, and Mets has cooled and the Phillies are out of the mix. I wonder if we’ll hear anything about the Cardinals and Padres looking at the lefty.

– Nationals’ 1B Adam Dunn. In: Rays, White Sox, Tigers. Out: Yankees, Giants. Three-way scenarios involving the Nationals, White Sox, Diamondbacks and RHP Edwin Jackson. Dunn is batting .275 this year with a .916 OPS and 23 homers. The Giants have minimal interest in Dunn at the current asking price. Believed to have asked the White Sox for either SS Gordan Beckha or both RHP Daniel Hudson and RHP Dayan Viciedo.

– Rockies’ OF Brad Hawpe. In: Padres, White Sox, Tigers. Chicago’s interest lies on Nats’ 1B Adam Dunn, while the Padres are believed to be less interested after acquiring 3B Miguel Tejada. Hawpe, 31, has about $2.8M remaining on his contract this year and will earn $10M in 2011 unless his team buys him out for $500K, as expected.

– Jon Heyman of SI.com writes that the Mets are reluctant to trade OF Jeff Francoeur for for the Royals’ OF Jose Guillen.

– Brewers: Pulled OF Corey Hart and 1B Prince Fielder off the block because they feel they are too close to contention to sell, despite being 48-55 and nine games out of first place in the NL Central.

– Cubs’ LHP Ted Lilly. In: Phillies, Dodgers, Twins and Tigers. Out: Mets, Twins (no-trade list). Lilly has $4M+ remaining on his contract for the rest of the season. Lilly, 34, has posted a 3.69 ERA and 1.14 WHIP in 18 starts this season.

– D’Backs’ C Chris Snyder. In: Nationals, White Sox, Red Sox. Trying to move both contracts without taking on any salary. Snyder makes $4.75M this year ($1.8M remains) plus $5.75M next year and either $6.75M or a $750K buyout in 2012. Snyder, 29, is hitting .231/.352/.426 with 10 homers this year.

– Cardinals inquire: LHP Jake Westbrook, LHP Aaron Cook. Cook’s return price is a reliever and a prospect. He’s owed $12M through the end of 2011.

– Cubs’ LHP Tom Gorzelanny. In: Mets.

– Red Sox’ SS Jed Lowrie. Out: Padres.

– Padres: searching for outfielders.

– Orioles’ 3B Ty Wigginton. In: Twins, Phillies and Giants.

– Jays’ LHP Scott Downs. In: Yankees, Red Sox, Mets, Twins. Jays have asked the Yankees for either RHP Joba Chamberlain or C Jesus Montero in exchange for LHP Scott Downs. Have asked the Red Sox for prospect INF Casey Kelly or INF Jose Iglesias for Downs. Mets turned down a deal that would have sent prospect OF Kirk Nieuwenhuis plus another prospect. Downs is hitting .185 against lefties this season. Downs owed $4M this season, free agent in 2011.

– Jays’ OF Jose Bautista. In: Phillies, Tigers, Braves, White Sox, Giants.

– Astros’ RHP Brett Myers. In: White Sox. Out: Mets.

– Brewers’ OF Jim Edmonds: multiple teams.

– O’s LHP Will Ohman. In: Giants.

– Angels potentially shopping OF Bobby Abreu, LHP Brian Fuentes, OF Hideki Matsui, and 2B Maicer Izturis might interest contenders. Abreu, Fuentes, and Matsui could be moved via waiver wire in August. Abreu is signed at $9M for next year and may have another $9M salary vest for 2012 and is hitting just .253/.347/.416 with 12 homers and 56 RBI over 380 at-bats this season.. Fuentes has been homer-prone and has over $3M left on his contract. Matsui’s market is limited by his DH profile, though he has tallied 122 innings in left field this year. *UPDATE* The Angels will not be selling at the deadline, as they believe they have a shot at the playoffs despite being 8.5 games back in the AL West and 12.5 games back in the hunt for the Wild Card.

– Indians are NOT shopping RHP Fausto Carmona. He’s potentially under team control through 2014.

– Yankees NOT shopping for a catcher.

– The NY Post reports that the Rays, Twins and Phillies are the most motivated buyers, while the Cubs, D’Backs and Blue Jays are the most motivated sellers.

– Mets may shop OF Jeff Francoeur after the non-waiver trade deadline.

– Yankees inquire: Scott Downs, Ty Wigginton

– Red Sox inquire: Rafael Perez, Will Ohman, Mike Gonzalez, Matt Capps, Michael Wuertz, Craig Breslow, Sean Marshall, Kerry Wood, David Aardsma, and Kyle Farnsworth. Searching league-wide for a reliever.

– Rockies inquire: 2B Ryan Theriot.

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Marc Valeri – captaincharisma@hotmail.com
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MLB

– According to the NY Post, the Jays have asked the Yankees for RHP Joba Chamberlain in exchange for LHP Scott Downs. While the Yanks are currently down on Joba, the team still does not want to trade him. In addition, Jon Heyman of SI.com reports that the Jays asked the Yankees for top prospect C Jesus Montero in exchange for Downs. The Red Sox have been asked for prospect INF Casey Kelly or INF Jose Iglesias for Downs. Downs is hitting .185 against lefties this season. The Yanks have also asked the Orioles’ 3B Ty Wigginton.

– The San Francisco Chronicle reports that the talks between the Giants and Brewers regarding 1B Prince Fielder and OF Corey Hart are “dead in the water.” MLBTR reports that the Giants have also been linked to Royals’ OF Jose Guillen and OF Scott Podsednik as well as Nats’ OF Josh Willingham and 1B Adam Dunn.

– FOXSports is reporting that “multiple teams,” including the Nationals, are talking to the D’Backs’ front office about what it would take to acquire RHP Edwin Jackson. The Nats want to trade 1B Adam Dunn for pitching and then trade the pitching to Arizona for Jackson, according to the site. In Ken Rosenthal’s scenario, the White Sox would likely have to include RHP Daniel Hudson in order to acquire Dunn. In turn, the Nationals would then have the option to send Hudson, or one of their own prospects, in exchange for Dunn. This doesn’t make a ton of sense for the National. Jackson is set to make $8.35M next year and has about $1.5M left on his salary for this season.

– Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com reports that the Twins have inquired about Cubs’ LHP Ted Lilly. The Twins are on Lilly’s “no-trade list,” so other teams may have an advantage. Lilly is owed $4M for the rest of this season and would require additional compensation if he was to accept a deal to Minnesota.

– Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com reports that the Giants “have stepped up” for Marlins’ 3B Jorge Cantu. The Rangers and Rockies have also been in the mix for Cantu, but it looks like the Giants may have the advantage now. According to Rosenthal, the Marlins are believed to be looking for a young lefty pitcher. It’s not clear who the Giants are willing to offer, but prospects Eric Surkamp and Clayton Tanner could be the return.

– The D’Backs are considering using RHP Brandon Webb (shoulder) as a reliever. Webb hasn’t even faced live hitters yet, so there’s still quite a bit of ground to cover. Pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre said, “We’re going to have to discuss that. I think he would be up for that, but I need to sit down with (interim General Manager Jerry Dipoto) and find out the direction we want to head with this.” The bullpen could be the quickest way to ensure his return this season, as he wouldn’t need to build up his workload over several weeks in the minors. That said, the clock continues to tick on what looks like a wasted season.

– The Denver Post is reporting that the Rockies are interested in trading for Cubs’ 2B Ryan Theriot, who is hitting .281 with one homer and 21 RBIs. Current 2B Clint Barmes is eligible for arbitration and his salary will likely jump to $5M annually, the paper reports. The Rockies are also asking about Marlins’3B Jorge Cantu and Jays’ RHP Kevin Gregg.

– Tigers’ RHP Jeremy Bonderman told the Detroit Free Press that he is considering retirement. Bonderman, 27, will be a free agent after the 2010 season. He would likely return if the Tigers offer him a contract, but would otherwise only be open to signing with a team out west in order to be closer to his family in Pasco, Washington.

“(Owner Mike Ilitch) and the Tigers’ organization have given me an opportunity to provide for my family really well, and I feel like I’ve saved a lot of money and I have the ability to be able to do what I want — whether it’s be with my kids every day or go on fishing trips with my dad or brothers. At times I love it. At times I’m like, ‘Man.’”

– Former OF Dave Roberts, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in March, has completed chemotherapy. Roberts said he had eight chemotherapy treatments over four months. He is now scheduled to undergo three weeks of radiation in mid-August. Roberts, who was hired as a special assistant for the Padres, continued to move around the team’s minor league affiliates during chemotherapy, working with players on baserunning and outfield play. “Watching these guys each night has been very therapeutic…it’s made me feel very good.”

NHL

– The Blue Jackets have re-signed D Anton Stralman to a 1-year/$1.95M deal. Stralman and the Blue Jackets reached an agreement minutes before Stralman’s arbitration hearing was scheduled to begin. Stralman was expected to be awarded a raise, but the Jackets would’ve likely walked away and allowed him to become a UFA. Stralman scored six goals and 34 points in 73 games last season.

– Time is running out for the Blackhawks to sign G Antti Niemi before his arbitration hearing on Thursday. The Blackhawks probably won’t be able to work something out before Niemi’s arbitration date. Niemi is expected to ask for $3-4M next season while Chicago will probably argue that he deserves about $2M. Chicago has been dealing with significant cap problems this summer and if Niemi is awarded that much in arbitration, they’ll likely send him packing. Chicago also has the option of allowing Niemi to become a UFA rather than accepting his arbitrator awarded 1-year contract.

NFL

– Patriots’ WR Wes Welker (knee, shoulder) is still expected to be ready to go come Week 1, according to the Boston Globe. Though Welker is on active/PUP, the Globe is says that he could play in a playoff game if there was one today, and adds that he’ll get some preseason action. The Patriots are holding him out of the start of camp “to protect Welker against himself.” At this point, no one expects him to begin the year on reserve/PUP. It’s looking more and more likely that Welker will be there when the Pats play the Bengals in Week 1.

– Panthers’ WR Steve Smith (broken left arm) arrived at Panthers’ camp without a cast on his broken left arm. Smith hasn’t been able to lift weights and it’s unknown when he’ll be cleared to practice. He should be ready by the end of the preseason and ready for Week 1.

– The Panthers have signed 2nd-round pick QB Jimmy Clausen to a 4-year/$6.3M deal with $2.533M guaranteed. Clausen looks to be the second-string quarterback to start the season.

– Bengals’ WR Antonio Bryant will open training camp on the practice field, according to PFT. The Bengals’ website also says that Bryant could be used in the slot, where the team “liked what they saw” from him during the offseason. Other reports regarding Bryant’s health haven’t been nearly as positive, but he’ll be ready to compete with WR Terrell Owens for snaps to open camp.

– Redskins’ DE Albert Haynesworth is back in D.C. and ready to practice, confirms Jason Reid of the Washington Post. Haynesworth is reportedly optimistic after having conversations with teammates, and it doesn’t look like he’ll be a distraction. The Skins will need to keep him financially motivated all season long.

NBA

– The Oregonian reports that the Blazers are talking to the Knicks, Celtics and Bulls about G Rudy Fernandez. The 25-year-old Spaniard who set a rookie record when he made 159 three-pointers two seasons ago. “Some of the teams interested in Fernandez have offered a future first round draft pick, while other offers would pair Fernandez with another Blazers player,” the paper reports.

– Sources tell the Cleveland Plain Dealer that the Lakers are trying to package the G Sasha Vujacic, 26, who averaged 2.8 points, 1.2 rebounds, and .6 assists in the 8.6 minutes per game he played last season with a future 1st-round pick in order to unload his $5M salary for the year from the books.

TNA

– TNA star Kurt Angle posted the following message Twitter this morning, putting Hulk Hogan over in a big way:

“Hulk hogan could be one of the best human beings I ever knew. I have wrestled him. Now I work for him. I love you hulkster. Kurt.”

While this is just speculation, I reported earlier that Hulk Hogan is looking to become the next big Billy Mays in terms of infomercials, and is already making moves within the industry to reach that goal. Oddly enough, Kurt Angle runs Angle Foods – a company that sells “affordable gourmet and performance meals,” similar to NutraSystem program. Could they be partnered? Stay tuned.

VoV

Marc Valeri – captaincharisma@hotmail.com
VoV – www.voiceofvaleri.com
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NBA

– G Dwyane Wade and F Chris Bosh are expected to announce they’ll be joining the Heat on Wednesday. As for F  LeBron James? Cleveland still looks like his destination, but that is not final. Bosh, who may or may not be part of a sign-and-trade deal, and Wade to Miami is not final either, but it sure sounds like they’ve both agreed to go play for Pat Riley. Bosh reportedly turned down the chance to go to Cleveland, but it does still sound like it’s possible that LeBron will join them in Miami. We’ll likely not hear much out of LeBron’s camp until Thursday night, when he’ll hold the world hostage for an hour on the World Wide Leader.

ESPN’s Chris Broussard, who broke the Bosh/Wade-to-Miami story, called the Heat the ‘clear frontrunner’ to land LeBron. Broussard also said he might change his mind in an hour, and that he still didn’t know if LeBron was going to Miami or not. Broussard has been as connected as anyone to what’s going on in free agency, and while nothing is set in stone, this is just another piece of LeBron news that is going to make the city of Cleveland lose sleep on Wednesday night.

Meanwhile, Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports writes that the Cavaliers are “confident” that Bosh won’t play for them next season — but LeBron will. Wojo cites “multiple sources” but goes on to say that the “Cavs understand there are still looming threats to pry LeBron, but getting Bosh isn’t make or break on keeping LBJ.” There has been a palpable shift toward Cleveland lately, but until LeBron breaks his silence anything is possible.

On Tuesday night, ESPN reported that LeBron will announce where he’ll play next season during a one-hour TV special. James’ publicist is expected to release a statement later Wednesday.

– Thunder’ F Kevin Durant has agreed to a 5-year extension with the team. Durant, who is in Orlando watching the OKC summer-league team, announced the signing on Twitter Wednesday. “Exstension for 5 more years wit the thunder….God Is Great, me and my family came a long way…I love yall man forreal, this a blessing!” he wrote.

– The Heat have discussed a sign-and-trade with the Mavericks to acquire F Brendan Haywood in exchange for F Jermaine O’Neal and/or F Michael Beasley, according to the Miami Herald. Miami had a “productive” meeting with Haywood last weekend, and if they land him it could be a coup for the Heat — Chris Bosh should be satisfied that he wouldn’t be forced to play center in South Beach.

– ESPN reports that if LeBron doesn’t sign with the Knicks, the team will pursue Jazz’ F Carlos Boozer as a backup plan. The Heat have also expressed interest in Boozer.

– ESPN reports that G Raja Bell is interested in signing with either the Mavericks, Magic or Heat. Bell will wait until Bosh/Wade/LeBron have made their decisions before signing.

– Bucks’ GM John Hammond conceded that G Luke Ridnour is likely to leave Milwaukee via free agency. The Bucks can’t spend big money on a backup for G Brandon Jennings, and they’ve shown interest in G Travis Diener, a more affordable free agent. The Knicks have emerged as a strong candidate to sign Ridnour.

– The Suns are still pursuing F David Lee to replace F Amare Stoudemire.

– Vinny Del Negro has agreed to become the Clippers next head coach, though the deal has yet to be finalized. Del Negro beat out finalist Dwane Casey for the job, and takes over a roster full of intriguing young talent -  the only two players under contract older than 21 are Baron Davis and Chris Kaman. While panned for some of his play-calling (especially late in games), Del Negro did a fair job in a turbulent situation as a rookie coach in Chicago.

– Nuggets’ F Kenyon Martin (knee) has no timetable for a return. K-Mart spoke briefly after arriving at his basketball camp in the Rocky Mountains on Tuesday, and in his first public comments since his latest operation, Martin told The Associated Press his surgically repaired left knee was feeling better but that he had no idea when he’ll hit the NBA hardcourt again. “The timetable is when I’m ready. When the knee is ready. No timetable has been set. As far as coming back, when I’m ready, I’m ready. I’m doing all I can. I am rehabbing every day. Twice a day some days. So I’m definitely making progress.”

MLB

– The Tampa Tribune reports that the Rays and Mariners are rumoured to have a trade involving OF B.J. Upton and LHP Cliff Lee. Rays owner Stuart Sternberg told the world that he plans to be a buyer at the upcoming trade deadline and that the team is willing to spend some extra dough to add salary. “Our eye is really about making the postseason. Money won’t be an object. Players are always an object for us and the money will be an impediment, but we’ll figure it out if it makes all the sense in the world for this team.”

– A soucre confirmed to FOXSports.com Tuesday that the Yankees are “kicking the tires” on M’s LHP Cliff Lee. It sure sounds like GM Brian Cashman doesn’t want to give up any of his top prospects, which makes sense given that the Yankees are expected to attempt to sign Lee as a free agent this winter. The Twins, Rays, Cardinals and Mets have also shown interest in the Seattle southpaw.

– Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle hears that the Giants would prefer to acquire OF Corey Hart from the Brewers. There’s been some chatter that the Giants also have interest in 1B Prince Fielder — and they very well might — but Schulman writes that Hart is the one Brewers player they have their sights on. Hart is under team control for another season, but if the Brewers are serious about keeping Fielder, it’s unlikely they will be able to keep both. From the Giants perspective, though he won’t come cheaply, Hart will cost less in the way of prospects.

– According to Mark Castrovince of MLB.com, Indians’ OF Shin-Soo Choo “might not” need surgery on his right thumb. Slightly updated from what Paul Hoynes reported a short while ago, Choo will have his sprained right thumb in a brace for 7-to-10 days before being re-evaluated. If he doesn’t need surgery, he could be back sooner than the six-to-eight week timetable reported earlier.

– Yankees’ RHP Mariano Rivera (rest) has withdrawn from pitching in the All-Star Game next week. “I’ve been pitching hurt,” said Rivera. Don’t panic, as there aren’t many players that aren’t playing with various bumps and bruises right now. At 40 years old, Rivera could use the break.

NHL

– Russia’s Sport Express is reporting that the KHL’s SKA St. Petersburg is close to signing F Ilya Kovalchuk. Take this report with a grain of salt, but it certainly wouldn’t shock us if Kovalchuk ended up bolting for the KHL. He might have priced himself out of the NHL, as the competition for him has been sparse. It’s looking more and more like Kovalchuk’s options have been narrowed down to the KHL, the Devils, and the Islanders. The Devils have reportedly offered Kovalchuk a 7-year/$60M deal. Stay tuned.

– F Mike Modano said he will play for the Detroit Red Wings next season or not at all. “There isn’t any other team. It will be here or I’m not playing. I think it’s narrowed to that.” After spending his entire career within the Stars’ organization, GM Joe Nieuwendyk publicly stated that the Stars would not be offering him a new contract. Modano was born in Michigan and he’d have a chance to finish his career on a high note with the Red Wings. Detroit GM Ken Holland has already said that Modano would be pencilled in as the team’s third line center if he signed with them, a role that Modano is still capable of excelling at. If Modano decides to play one more season, he should score 15-20 goals and 30-40 points.

– The Canucks have a new name for their home next season: Rogers Arena. The rink had been known as GM Place since it opened in 1995. But the agreement between the Canucks and General Motors of Canada has expired and the team has signed a naming rights deal with the communications giant.

– The Capitals have re-signed RFA F Boyd Gordon to a 1-year/$800K deal. The 26-year-old Gordon, who did not file for salary arbitration by Monday’s 5 p.m. deadline, had four goals and six assists in 36 games last season. He missed time with back injuries, but won 61 percent of his faceoffs, which would have led the NHL had he played enough games to qualify.

– The Red Wings have re-signed F Drew Miller to a 1-year deal. Miller played 14 games with Tampa Bay before being waived. The Red Wings claimed him in November, and he played in 66 games for Detroit last season, scoring 10 goals and adding nine assists.

NFL

– The Titans and the player rep for RB Chris Johnson are reportedly working on a contract compromise that would ideally get the star tailback to report to training camp on time. The Titans certainly aren’t prepared to meet Johnson’s expectations of $30M in guarantees, but they’re at least trying to get creative with a “short-term solution” that would give him a “smaller bump in pay.” They could convert $2.5M in already earned escalators for 2012 to a signing bonus this summer. It’s a way to reward a extraordinary player without setting a precedent for ripping up contracts after just two seasons.

– Virginia Beach Police announced Tuesday that Eagles’ QB Michael Vick is not a suspect in the shooting of Quanis Phillips at Vick’s 30th birthday party. Police say they know who shot Phillips, but they’ve yet to charge the suspect because the victim and witnesses remain uncooperative. There are no other suspects, and the investigation is considered closed at this time. With Vick being cleared of suspicion, the Eagles are unlikely to take action barring a surprise plot twist.

– Rams’ DE O.J. Atogwe’s 5-year/$32M contract is essentially a guaranteed 1-year/$4.1M commitment by the Rams. St. Louis can void the remaining four years on Atogwe’s contract the day after the Super Bowl in February. If the team opts against the void, the $8M roster bonus in March can still be declined before Atogwe’s $3.5M base salary kicks in. The Rams will certainly balk at paying Atogwe $11.5M next season, so he’ll be back on the open market again.

– Bucs’ RT Jeremy Trueblood will not face charges after being arrested Tuesday night in Indiana for public intoxication and failing to cooperate. A drunken Trueblood made a nuisance of himself at a gas station, knocking items off the shelves and disrupting business, before leaving in a car driven by his mother. At a subsequent traffic stop, Trueblood became “belligerent and uncooperative” with police, leading to his arrest. He was released this morning, and prosecutors have opted against pressing charges. Trueblood doesn’t seem to have the past to warrant a suspension.

VoV

Marc Valeri – captaincharisma@hotmail.com
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NHL

– According to CSN, the Flyers have acquired the rights to G Evgeni Nabokov from the Sharks for a 7th-round pick if they are able to sign Nabokov prior to July 1st when he is scheduled to become a UFA. TSN reports that Nabokov has indicated to the Flyers that he is likely to test the market and become a UFA on July 1. Nabokov is also expected to get several offers from various KHL teams.

– The Sharks have re-signed F Scott Nichol and D Niclas Wallin to 1-year deals. Nichol set career highs in points (19), assists (15) and games played (79) last season and finished first in the NHL by winning 60.6 percent of his faceoffs. He was also 12th in the League with 226 hits.

– Sources confirm that the Kings are ready to make a “substantial offer” to F Ilya Kovalchuk. Kovalchuk would be a jewel in LA, a team that can use a jolt. While undergoing a successful season, they lacked the true goal scorer needed to put them over the edge. The Kings tried to acquire his rights over the draft, though New Jersey remains in the bidding war for the Russian sniper.

– The Ducks have traded F Mike Brown to the Leafs for a 5th-round pick (F Chris Wagner).

– The Hurricanes picked up two former 1st-round draft picks in D Bobby Sanguinetti from the Rangers for the #157 pick and a 2011 2nd-round pick, as well as F Riley Nash from the Oilers for the #46 pick (D Martin Marincin), and finally F Jonathan Matsumoto from the Flyers for a 7th-round pick. The Hurricanes sent the 46th selection to the Oilers, who drafted Slovakian defenseman Martin Marincin.

– F Brett Connolly, Tampa’s first-round selection in Friday night’s draft, is expected to spend another year with his junior team in Prince George of the WHL. Despite this news, this is a guy to watch. When he does arrive in Tampa, he’ll blend in perfectly with Steven Stamkos.

– The Capitals expect F Evgeny Kuznetsov to honor at least the first year of his two-year contract with Chelyabinsk of the KHL. That said, Washington GM George McPhee indicated that Kuznetsov, who patterns his game after Penguins’ F Evgeny Malkin, was talented enough to play in the NHL right now and that he wouldn’t rule out seeing Kuznetsov in a Capitals’ uniform this upcoming season.

NBA

– An unnamed NBA executive believes that F LeBron James is “strongly leaning toward joining the Bulls in tandem with another free agent, F Chris Bosh.” “I think it’s a done deal,” the executive said. This is not the final word, of course, and LeBron will still meet with at least five teams (the Bulls, Cavaliers, Knicks, Clippers, Nets and Heat) once free agency begins. Stay tuned.

– There is a growing concensus that the Spurs will sign F Tiago Splitter this summer, whom they drafted back in 2007. Splitter is considered the best big man in Europe, and said recently that his intention is to join the NBA. Adding the hard-nosed big man would certainly upgrade the Spurs frontcourt, but it may also be their only significant FA signing — the Spurs will likely have to use their mid-level exception as part of a long-term contract to lure him away from Spain.

– Nets’ president Rod Thorn will officially step down in July, expected to be on July 15. It remains unclear whether he will remain with the team in another capacity.

MLB

– Brewers’ GM Doug Melvin told Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that the team is not currently discussing a contract extension with 1B Prince Fielder. “There’s nothing going on at this time,” said Melvin. According to Haudricourt, “word around Miller Park” is that talks reached an impasse when Fielder and Boras shot down the club’s initial offer. Fielder, who will be a free agent after the 2011 season, just happens to be in the midst of a down season by his lofty standards, batting .260/.392/.473 with 15 homers and 31 RBI. With the chance of an extension looking doubtful, Melvin could be faced with a very difficult choice to trade Fielder during the offseason. If he continues to play like this, Brewers fans might not be happy about what they get in return.

– The Red Sox have placed 2B Dustin Pedroia (non-displaced fracture in left foot) on the 15-day DL. The Red Sox are still reviewing Pedroia’s CT scan and won’t have a timetable for his return until maybe Sunday morning. The scrappy second baseman was injured during Friday night’s game and showed up to the ballpark on Saturday with crutches at his side. He could be out for over a month.

– The Mariners have re-acquired 1B Russell Branyan from the Indians for OF Ezequiel Carrera and SS Juan Diaz. Branyan, 34, has batted .263/.328/.491 this season for the Tribe with 10 home runs and 24 RBI, and is working on a seven-game hitting streak. He should provide the Mariners with some much-needed offense, just as he did when he posted an 867 OPS and 31 home runs last season in Seattle. Of course, it probably won’t matter. The Mariners are 14 games out of first place in the AL West.

– Red Sox’ RHP Clay Buchholz (knee) is expected to avoid the DL. Buchholz suffered a hyperextended knee while running the bases on Saturday afternoon and was pulled after throwing just one scoreless inning against the Giants. He may need to miss a start, but the Sox have a few off days coming up and can get plenty flexible.

– Orioles’ 2B Brian Roberts (back) has begun light baseball activities. “What that means, there’s no description to it, but he just added very light [baseball activities],” interim manager Juan Samuel said Saturday. “That’s what my report says.” Roberts has been on the 60-day DL since April 10 and isn’t expected to return until late July or early August.

– The Giants have transferred 3B Mark DeRosa (wrist) to the 60-day DL.

– The Tigers have transferred RHP Zach Miner to the 60-day DL.

– The Red Sox have acquired OF Eric Patterson from the A’s.

NFL

– Jets’ WR Braylon Edwards will reportedly escape NFL suspension after pleading no contest in January to misdemeanor assault for an incident outside a Cleveland nightclub. Edwards was in danger of facing a one-game suspension for punching a friend of LeBron James last October. Similar to the precedent set by the league in Joey Porter’s beating of Levi Jones, Edwards will receive a hefty fine in lieu of a suspension. Vince Young should expect a similar fate. With Edwards available in Week 1, the Jets are no longer believed to be interested in signing Laveranues Coles for insurance.

WWE

– The following matches have been announced for WWE’s inaugural Money in the Bank pay-per-view, taking place on July 18:

World Heavyweight Championship Match
Rey Mysterio vs. Jack Swagger

SmackDown Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Eight SmackDown Superstars to be announced (Winner earns right to challenge SmackDown’s WHC at any time, at any place, for up to one year)

– Kelly Kelly reportedly suffered an injury at last night’s SmackDown house show in Portland, Maine. Facing WWE Women’s Champion Layla, she was injured receiving a dropkick to either the back of her shoulder or neck. The bout was prematurely concluded by the referee.

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NHL

– Bruins’ F Marc Savard (concussion) has been cleared to play for the next round of the playoffs. Savard was tested by Dr. Jeremy Schmahamann the previous day and got the OK to return to the ice. Savard suffered a Grade 2 concussion on March 7 after a hit by Penguins’ F Matt Cooke. Savard started skating again last Monday.

– Flyers’ F Ian Laperriere (brain contusion, mild concussion) is out for the remainder of the playoffs. Laperriere was hit by a puck blocking a shot in the face during the third period of Thursday’s first-round playoff game with the Devils. Flyers’ GM Paul Holmgren said in a statement on the team’s website Tuesday that Laperriere saw doctors in Philadelphia on Monday and in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, and “Right now, it’s not safe for him to play.” Laperriere will not require surgery and will have another CT scan in about four weeks.

– The NHL Players’ Association will rename the Lester B. Pearson Award for Red Wings’ great Ted Lindsay. An official announcement will be made at the Hockey Hall of Fame on Thursday morning. Lindsay was one of the driving forces behind the creation of the NHLPA in the 1950s. The Hall of Famer won the Stanley Cup four times and led the NHL in scoring during the 1949-50 season. The NHLPA’s MVP award was first handed out during the 1970-71 season and named for Pearson, the former Canadian prime minister. It was one of the few major awards not named for someone associated with the league.

MLB

– Phillies’ OF Jayson Werth’s agent, Jeff Borris, is saying the two sides are at an “impasse” on contract talks, according to CSNPhilly.com. “I’ve had dialogue with [GM] Ruben [Amaro Jr.] since the winter meetings. I don’t want to rule out the possibility of his re-signing with the Phillies, but it would appear right now we’re at an impasse.” The soon-to-be 31-year-old is making $7M this season and he’s hitting .323 with three homers in 65 at-bats so far. He’s reportedly willing to wait until season’s end to work out a deal.

– To update a previous item, WEEI reports that Red Sox’ DH David Ortiz plans to retire in two or three years. Big Papi will likely be a free agent at the end of this season since it’s doubtful that the Sox will pick up its $12.5M option for next year, especially since he’s hitting a paltry .160. And that’s after he changed his offseason diet and workouts and dropped 20 pounds. Last year, he ended up hitting 28 homers but only .238.

– The Chicago Tribune speculates that the Brewers don’t have enough money to re-sign 1B Prince Fielder, and that he may go on the trade block. The report lists the Red Sox and White Sox are potential suitors. Don’t look too much into this.

–The Athletics have placed LHP Brett Anderson (left elbow inflammation, left forearm strain) on the 15-day DL retroactive to April 25.

– The Rockies have placed RHP Jason Hammel (strained right groin) on the 15-day DL, LHP Jorge De La Rosa (torn tendon in left middle finger) on the 15-day DL retroactive to April 26, and have transfered RHP Greg Reynolds to the 60-day DL.

NBA

– Updating a previous item, ESPN reports that Heat’ G Dwyane Wade is leaning towards re-signing with the Heat.

“I’ve said where my heart is, and I think any player that’s thinking about wanting to come to Miami, they know where my heart is. You just have to see things being done and accomplished. We see that, and we’ll be talking again…I can’t predict the future. It’s going to be a very important summer, it’s going to be a busy summer. We’ve got some work to do, the front office has to do it, and there’s no pressure on me.”

– The Sacramento Bee reports that Kings’ G Tyreke Evans will win the Rookie of the Year award tomorrow. Evans finished off the season with an average of 20.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, making him the fourth rookie in league history after Oscar Robertson, Michael Jordan and Cavaliers’ F LeBron James to average at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists. Warriors’ G Stephen Curry and Bucks’ G Brandon Jennings are expected to round out the top 3.

– Pistons’ G Ben Gordon (ankle) recently had surgery remove bone spurs and loose bodies from his left ankle. Gordon will wear a cast for three weeks and rehabilitation will begin immediately thereafter. He also battled hamstring and groin issues this season, but a summer of rest and rehab should have him 100% for the start of the 2010-11 campaign.

– Hawks’ G Jamal Crawford was named the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year Tuesday afternoon, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. No-brainer. Crawford was second on the Hawks in scoring at 18.0 points per game and shot 44.9 percent from the field — his best mark since the 2001-02 season.

– Magic’ F Dwight Howard was fined $15K by the NBA last November criticizing NBA refs on his blog, DwightHoward.com. He’s at it again, this time, about the series with the Bobcats.

“Ya’ll know that that series against Charlotte drove me crazy. I mean, it was almost comical at times how I was getting fouls called on me. There was nothing I could do out there and I felt like I couldn’t move without getting that whistle blown on me.

“I’m not looking to say anything to get myself in trouble with the league, but I just don’t see other star players getting called for fouls the way I get them. No star player in the league is outta games the way I am.”

WWE

– Monday’s 3-hour WWE RAW featuring the 2010 Superstar Draft and Randy Orton vs. Batista in the main event scored a 3.1 cable rating (2.6, 3.27, 3.34 for 4,628,000 viewers). The final 2 hours, RAW’s usual timeslot, did a 3.3 rating. Hours two and three of this week’s RAW were the two highest rated hours of TV on basic cable last night. Hour one was the fifth highest rated hour of the night.

Monday’s TNA iMPACT on Spike TV with Ric Flair vs. Abyss in the main event scored an 0.5 cable rating. and averaged 739,000 viewers. This is the lowest rating iMPACT! has done on Monday nights so far. It’s safe to say that the three-hour Draft took a big chunk out of TNA’s rating this week.

– The latest word on Ted DiBiase’s new stable with Brett DiBiase and Joe Hennig is that they will debut within the next two weeks.

– As we reported a few months back, Vince McMahon pulled the plug on WWE Survivor Series after a very weak buyrate last November. There had been talk of a “War Games” (double cage team elimination match) event replacing it this year, but that talk has died down and the fate of WWE’s November PPV is still up in the air.

– Jim Ross has updated his blog, which you can read in its entirety at JRsBarBQ.com. The highlights:

The 2010 WWE Draft: “The 3 hour WWE Draft featured a mix bag of results. RAW loaded up as USA and WWE prepares for Monday Night Football this fall. It is imperative for any Monday night wrestling program to plan long term and to be able to roll into the fall with some degree of momentum and interest from a storyline perspective.”

Women’s Wrestling: “We get lots of emails from fans of women’s wrestling. I hate to break the news to you die hards of this specific genre but unless the decision makers change their philosophy, and my money is on them not doing so, women’s wrestling is essentially going to remain a supplement to the overall product that will remain positioned to appease to the male demo by providing sex appeal. Don’t kill the messenger on this one but one can see this play out each week on TV. Yes, there are some very athletic women in wrestling, and, yes, there are some very lovely and hard working, dedicated ladies in wrestling, but the days of these ladies athletic abilities being fully utilized don’t see to me to be eminent. Provocative entrances and ring attire along with suggestive language seem to indicate that the dye has been cast and the women in today’s wrestling world know their role and most seem to be happy to have the work and to be getting TV exposure. Perhaps the athletic side of these women will become somewhat more of a focus.”

Talent Development: “While the soap box is out….nothing a wrestling company does is more important than establishing a viable, scouting program to find charismatic, world class athletes who have the aptitude and desire to become wrestling stars. This must be paired with a comprehensive training program whereby the rookies can learn different styles from a variety of instructors. If everyone learns the basic same nuances then what is accomplished other than a cookie cutter system that helps no one? Plus, the same instructors who never vary their teaching methods or techniques have likely found their comfort zones and a comfort zone is the proverbial kiss of death.”

His Future in Wrestling: “Conversations regarding one aspect of my pro wrestling future are scheduled to take place this week which should help me address this particular matter to some degree. As much as I love “the business” and I sincerely do, I have to decide what direction I need to take at this stage of my life as it relates to how I earn the grocery money.”

– In addition to yesterday’s Supplemental Draft, WWE made six more changes to the RAW and SmackDown rosters. Tyler Reks and Vance Archer’s were moved from ECW to SmackDown. The remaining ECW talents – Abraham Washington, Tony Atlas and Byron Saxton – have been removed from the WWE website. Curt Hawkins has also been removed from the SmackDown roster.

– F4WOnline is reporting that before last week’s round of talent cuts went down, the most recent set of drug test results had come in and there was at least one Wellness Policy violation. It was not specified who the violating party was, though, and WWE hasn’t made anything official.

NFL

– The Raiders are “preparing the process” of releasing QB JaMarcus Russell, according to ESPN’s John Clayton. NFL Network’s Michael Lombardi was all over this story as soon as the QB Jason Campbell trade went down. Despite coach Tom Cable’s protestations to the contrary, the Raiders were simply not going to risk an injury that would guarantee Russell $6.45M more than he’s already stolen. Al Davis’ hand-picked No. 1 overall pick in 2007 will likely be axed before this weekend’s minicamp, and he may struggle to find a second opportunity elsewhere.

– The Cardinals have signed OG Alan Faneca to a one-year/$2.5M contract. Faneca rejoins his old line coach and OC. Faneca won’t be handed a starting job, and he’s expected to compete for Wells’ left guard spot. Beat writer Kent Somers suggests a trade could be in the Cardinals’ future.

– Free agent S Darren Sharper will visit the Jaguars on Wednesday. It’s Sharper’s first visit of the offseason. He’s coming off an All-Pro season, but turns 35 in November and underwent arthroscopic knee surgery after the Super Bowl. The Cowboys are also thought to be in the mix for Sharper after dumping Ken Hamlin before the draft.

– The Bears have acquired SS Chris Harris from the Panthers in exchange for LB Jamar Williams. No word yet on the Panthers also receiving a future draft pick. Harris is expected to rework his original five-year/$13.3M contract. Though he’s dealt with injuries in each of the past two seasons, Harris is an immediate upgrade at strong safety for the Bears.

TNA

– TNA is interested in signing Shelton Benjamin, who was released from WWE last week. With Benjamin’s former tag team partner Charlie Haas currently a free agent, many within TNA want to see the company sign both Haas and Benjamin and reunite them with their former on-screen “mentor” in WWE, Kurt Angle. “Team Angle” was a dominant force on the SmackDown brand almost 10 years ago and that gimmick was arguably the peak of Haas and Benjamin’s WWE careers. Benjamin is the only recent WWE release that TNA is looking to pick up at this time.

– Taylor Wilde’s contract with TNA is expiring soon and there is talk it may not be renewed. She, along with Sarita, have been sparingly used since dropping the TNA Knockout Tag Team Championship this past January.

– Shark Boy’s contract with TNA is set to expire soon and many feel it will not be renewed. Though he has only worked one television match dating back to last year (a squash match loss to the debuting Brutus Magnus), he is still used at house shows as either a wrestler or referee. There was talk of having him come back unmasked as a backstage announcer, but it appears unlikely at this point.

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MLB

– A source familiar with the talks tells Jon Heyman of SI.com that the $180M contracts handed out to Yankees’ 1B Mark Teixeira and Twins’ C Joe Mauer are considered “mere starting points” for a contract extension with Brewers’ 1B Prince Fielder. If that’s the case, he’s as good as gone, especially with Scott Boras as his representative. That’s saying nothing of another source, who told Heyman that Fielder is looking for about eight-years/$200M. In other words, the biggest contract ever aside from Yankees’ 3B Alex Rodriguez. Fielder, who turns 26 in May, will be a free agent after the 2011 season. The Cardinals are facing a similar situation with 1B Albert Pujols. Stay tuned.

– Sources tell Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly.com that Phillies’ SS Jimmy Rollins has a Grade 2 calf strain. Such an injury would normally require a stint on the DL, but we should have a clearer picture about his timetable after he undergoes an MRI on Tuesday. Stay tuned.

– D’Backs’ C Miguel Montero (right knee) will seek a second opinion. He’s likely to undergo surgery by the end of the week. If it is determined that he has a torn meniscus, he will most likely miss around six weeks, however if ligament damage is found, it could be a much lengthier absence. Stay tuned.

– The Blue Jays have placed 2B Aaron Hill (right hamstring) on the 15-day DL, retroactive to April 6. Hill hasn’t played since last Tuesday, so if all is well, he could return in a little over a week from now.

– The Orioles have placed 2B Brian Roberts (abdominal strain) on the 15-day DL, retroactive to April 10. The O’s have already called up infielder Justin Turner from Triple-A Norfolk to replace him. Roberts suffered the abdominal injury on Friday and was unable to play all weekend. He’s 2-for-14 with a double and a run scored thus far and should be back before the end of April. Roberts also received an epidural in his back on Monday. The slide that injured his abdominal muscle appears to have also irritated the nerve in his troublesome back. He will have to rest for at least four or five days before resuming any baseball-related activities, so it’s safe to say he’ll be out for longer than the minimum. Roberts previously received an epidural in his back on March 15.

NHL

– Oilers’ D Sheldon Souray has again stated that he would like to be traded this summer. Souray might have been dealt before the trade deadline, but his value was killed when he broke his hand in late January.

“It’s not a players thing. It’s not a fans thing or a city thing. It’s a management thing. They’ve given up on me, and it’s a two-way street…management has soured on me, and I’ve soured on them,” Souray said.

After finishing dead last in the NHL this season, the Oilers probably don’t have high hopes for 2010-11, so it would make sense to trade the 33-year-old blueliner and try and grab some picks and prospects. Souray is one of the league’s top offensive defenseman when he’s healthy, but his career history of injuries makes him unreliable. Souray missed most of the 2007-08 and 2009-10 seasons, but he recorded 53 points in 81 games in 2008-09.

– Ducks’ F Saku Koivu wants to re-sign with the team before his contract is set to expire on July 1. Koivu scored 19 goals and 52 points in his first season with the Anaheim Ducks.

“Obviously now we have until the end of June to hopefully get it done here. That’s our first priority. We’d love to stay and come back. Obviously right now it’s going to take a little time for management to review the season and everything they want to do and the direction they want to go in. I’m hoping and expecting to start the negotiating at one point. At this point, I’m not even looking at really the possibility of becoming a free agent again.”

– Stars’ F Mike Modano is part of a group trying to buy the Dallas Stars. The group includes former Stars president Jim Lites and William J. “Billy” Quinn, who is a managing partner of Natural Gas Partners based in Irving.

“I can’t tell you how excited I am about this. It’s the first step in this process, and we all know it could very complicated, but I think we can do this. It would be great for us and great for the team,” Modano said.

Modano scored 14 goals and registered 16 assists in 59 games this season. He may have played in his last NHL game, but he doesn’t plan to announce his intentions for next season for a while.

– Some NHL hardware is going out already. The Capitals have been awarded the President’s Trophy awarded to the team that finishes with the most points in the league during the regular season; Canucks’ F Daniel Sedin has won the Art Ross Trophy for the player who leads the league in points scored at the end of the regular season; Penguins’ F Sidney Crosby and Lightning’ F Steven Stamkos will share the ‘Rocket’ Richard Trophy for most goals in the season; Capitals’ D Jeff Schulz wins the Plus/Minus Award, Bruins’ G Tuukka Rask wins the the Roger Crozier Saving Grace Award for having the best save percentage in the NHL with a minimum of 25 games played; and Devils’ G Martin Brodeur wins the William M. Jennings Award for allowing the fewest goals by any team this season with a minimum of 25 games played.

Sedin became the first player to win the Art Ross Trophy as a member of the Canucks. He also broke the franchise record for the most points in a single season, previously held by F Pavel Bure, who scored 110 points 17 years ago. “It is a great honour to win this trophy. The names of the past winner are many of the players we looked up to growing up in Sweden. Many of my teammates have had career seasons offensively and this trophy is a reflection of our hard work.”

NBA

– Blazers’ F Brandon Roy (torn meniscus in right knee) will miss the Blazers’ final two regular season games. He will be re-evaluated Friday to determine his playoff availability, although beat writer Jason Quick says it would take a “remarkable” recovery. Essentially, we’ll find out soon whether Roy risks further damage by returning — if so, then he’ll likely sit out the postseason. Roy will eventually need surgery, but considering Portland will face either the #1 or #2 seed they can’t afford to have their MVP sitting out.

– Lakers’ F Kobe Bryant (rest) will miss the remainder of the regular season.

NFL

– The Packers are reportedly showing interest in free agent RB Brian Westbrook. Reporter Tom Silverstein isn’t sure about Green Bay’s level of interest in Westbrook, but two sources say he’s definitely on GM Ted Thompson’s radar. In Green Bay, Westbrook would battle RB Brandon Jackson to be the team’s third-down back. Jackson can pass block, but offers little as a ball carrier.

– “Multiple Steelers sources” told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Monday that club president Art Rooney is considering disciplining QB Ben Roethlisberger. Discipline being discussed involves “suspension from a game or games in 2010.” ESPN’s Chris Mortensen also says that Roethlisberger may land in the league’s substance-abuse program after allegedly supplying his underage, 20-year-old sexual assault accuser with alcohol prior to the incident. The girl and her friends were reportedly provided with “shots of alcohol” at the Middleville (GA) bar, and became “highly intoxicated.

– The Redskins have re-signed RFA QB Jason Campbell to a one-year/$3.14M contract. Campbell, 28, posted career highs in completion rate (64.5), touchdown passes (20), passing yards (3,618), and yards-per-attempt average (7.1) last season. He’d be an upgrade as a starter for numerous teams, and will be on the trade block over draft weekend. The Bills, Raiders, Jaguars and Panthers are expected to have interest.

– The Dolphins will reportedly make a last-ditch effort to retain free agent DE Jason Taylor when coach Tony Sparano meets with the future Hall of Fame pass rusher this week. The report comes from ESPN’s Chris Mortensen, who is close with Fins VP of Football Operations Bill Parcells. It’s believed Taylor would much prefer to stay in Miami rather than go to the Jets, so he’s probably willing to take less money to re-sign. New York can only offer around two-years/$3.5M.

– The NFL has suspended Jets’ WR Santonio Holmes four games for violating the league’s drug policy. He’ll participate in all of training camp, and is eligible to begin playing in games in Week 5. The Jets consider it a great problem to have, but Holmes’ role when his season starts is uncertain. His upside will be limited since the Jets are so run-heavy.

– Jets’ RFA RB Leon Washington is not part of the Santonio Holmes trade, according to SI’s Peter King. It’s still possible that he could be dealt after signing his one-year tender, but King is certain that Leon is not part of this trade. King also updates that the pick acquired by the Steelers was the 151st overall, not the 155th. As long as Washington doesn’t end up in Pittsburgh, this deal is robbery for the Jets.

– Seahawks’ WLB LeRoy Hill was arrested over the weekend for allegedly assaulting his girlfriend. Hill recently pleaded guilty to marijuana possession, and was likely already facing at least a one-game suspension. During the latest incident, police found “marks and injuries” on the body of Hill’s girlfriend after being dispatched to deal with a domestic dispute. He was booked for fourth-degree assault. He likely won’t play before Week 5.

WWE

– Ezekiel Jackson (torn quad) is out three-to-six months. Stay tuned.

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MLB

– The Brewers have signed RHP Yovani Gallardo to a five-year/$30.1M extension that could become a six-year/$42.5M deal. The agreement covers the right-handers arbitration-eligible years and the first season after he would have become eligible for free agency.

Gallardo receives a $1.25M signing bonus: $500K payable when the contract is approved by MLB, $500K on July 15 and $250K on Nov. 15. He gets salaries of $500K this year, $3.25M next season, $5.5M in 2012, $7.75M in 2013 and $11.25M in 2014. Milwaukee holds a $13M option for 2015 with a $600K buyout.

Gallardo could void the option if he accumulates six points under a system in which he earns five points for winning a Cy Young Award, three points for finishing second in voting and one point for finishing third. He has a full no-trade provision through the 2012 season. After that, he can select 10 teams he cannot be dealt to without his consent.

Gallardo’s agreement replaced a one-year contract that Milwaukee had renewed for $450K last month. The 24-year-old was a second-round pick of the 2004 amateur draft. He went 13-12 with a 3.73 ERA in 30 starts last season after missing all but four starts the previous year with a torn ligament in his left knee. There’s obviously some risk signing him to a six-year deal, but getting the 24-year-old down is a great idea.

– The Brewers continue to discuss a long-term deal with 1B Prince Fielder.

WWE

– Batista is apparently working on a contract that is set to expire in the near future. The multi-time champion said in interview published on May 5, 2009 by The Sun that he had just under a year left on his deal at the time.

“I have just under a year on my contract. I’ve just come off this injury and I turned 40 while I was out. I realize that I am closer to the end of my career than I am to the beginning. It’s something I’m really going to have to take a look at. I don’t want to hang around past my welcome. I also don’t want to hang around to the point where I’m so beat up that it’s hard for me to get out of bed. I don’t want to be that guy.”

Shortly after the interview took place, Batista suffered a legitimate torn left biceps and was sidelined for three months as a result. In case of injury, WWE has the option of extending a performer’s contract for the duration of his or her sabbatical. Hence, it appears likely that his contract will expire sometime this summer rather than within the next few weeks.

It should be noted that Batista has been telling friends in the locker room that he is planning to take a break soon. He’s even gone so far as to claim that he’s looking to wind down his in-ring career and focus on acting.

– In an interview with ESPN.com to promote his new show “Garage Mahal” on the DIY cable network, former WWE & WCW Champion Bill Goldberg says he’s open to wrestling one final match at next year’s WrestleMania from Atlanta, Georgia.

“It’s not something that I’m seeking out to do at 43 years old. But you know, WrestleMania is next year in Atlanta. Hulk Hogan and I put 43,000 people in the Georgia Dome with three days notice. I’ve got a fairly big following in Atlanta. Is it out of the realm of possibility? I’d say no.”

Goldberg recently began working with WWE again on a new deal for WWE to use his likeness for merchandise (toys, appearing in WWE video games, etc.) and says he’d put himself back in the spotlight so his young son can see him in action.

“The doors are kind of open to negotiation as far as a merchandising deal. If it leads to something else? It’s a wonderful day. If not, I’m totally content with the way I went out. To be able to get merchandise out there not only satiates the fans but hopefully there have been a lot of people wondering where my merchandise is. The reason why I want to do this is my boy; just trying to be a good father.”

– WWE has announced two more RAW guest hosts: Flava Flav and comedian Jon Lovitz. Flav will host RAW on May 10 from Pittsburgh and Lovitz will host on May 24 from Toledo.

– In an interview with the MondayNightMayhem radio show, WWE Hall of Famer Ted DiBiase had some harsh words for former co-worker The Ultimate Warrior, who was in talks with WWE about being part of this year’s Hall of Fame class.

DiBiase says he’s glad Warrior was not inducted into the Hall of Fame this year over WrestleMania weekend.

“I’m glad he wasn’t there. I’m glad he wasn’t there because he’s somebody I don’t particularly care for, and quite frankly, he was somebody who got a big push. He’s one of those guys that has never really appreciated what was done for him, and all you have to do is watch the DVD. There’s a lot of guys that did well in the industry that may have been lacking in some areas.”

DiBiase worked with the Ultimate Warrior during Warrior’s run at the top of the World Wrestling Federation, but the only way the man from Parts Unknown would have a good match is if his opponent carried the match.

“Here’s a guy who the only reason he ever had a great match, every great match he had was directly depended upon who he was wrestling. And if the guy across the ring from him couldn’t lead him around by the nose, he couldn’t have a good match. So the fact that he wasn’t called on doesn’t bother me at all. I thought that since he lived out in that area, I thought that could have happened, and quite honestly, it would have been a very tense backstage environment if he and I were together. He’s one of those guys who has been given so much in terms of an opportunity in our industry, who even to this day doesn’t appreciate it, and I don’t know for the life of me who he thinks he is.”

NBA

– The Spurs have signed G Manu Ginobili to a three-year/$39M extension. Ginobili was set to make $10.7M this season, but will make $11.9M, $13M and $14.1M in each year respectively.

– According to the Houston Chronicle, the Rockets will match any offer that RFA F Luis Scola signs.

– The NY Post reports that Hawks’ G Joe Johnson will re-sign with the club next season.

– Ohio State’s Evan Turner is skipping his senior season to make himself available for the NBA draft. The 6’7″ point guard is expected to be a top-three pick in the June 24 draft after receiving almost every national player of the year honour. The Chicago native averaged 20.4 points, 9.2 rebounds and 6 assists a game while shooting 52 per cent from the field, 36.4 per cent behind the arc and 76 per cent at the line.

NFL

– According to the Philadelphia Daily News’ Paul Domowitch, the Eagles still hope to trade QB Michael Vick. Though coach Andy Reid enjoys the luxury of Vick as a Wildcat option, he’s not a great candidate to run the offense if Kolb gets injured. More importantly, it wouldn’t take long for Philly fans to turn on Kolb and starting chanting Vick’s name if the first-year starter stumbles out of the gate. Domowitch suggests free agent QB Marc Bulger as a candidate to replace Vick as the main backup.

– ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently named Bills’ RB Marshawn Lynch the player most likely to be traded, ahead of Broncos’ WR Brandon Marshall and Redskins’ QB Jason Campbell. “They have a new coach, a new GM and any time there are new people in charge, they bring in their own players. Marshawn Lynch could be traded on or before the draft.” It’s looking more and more likely that he’ll be replaced by a change-of-pace complement to Fred Jackson.

– According Ken Laird, of 1250 ESPN in Pittsburgh, Steelers’ WR Santonio Holmes doesn’t believe the Steelers will pay him market value when his contract is up after the 2010 season. The Steelers would have the option to franchise Holmes if he has a breakthrough season, but the organization is said to be “furious” over the receiver’s troubling twitter rants of late. The Steelers also have promising WR Mike Wallace ready to for a larger role.

– According to coach Rex Ryan, free agent DE Jason Taylor is heading home to think things over before deciding whether to join the Jets. Per beat reporter Jane McManus, the “general feeling around the Jets clubhouse” is that Taylor’s interest in the Jets is genuine. There’s been no report of an actual offer, though. Stay tuned.

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NHL

– According to Hockey Night in Canada, is that the NHL’s salary cap is going up next season. Meanwhile, the NBA has long hinted that the salary cap in its league will likely go down this summer. The cap in the NHL will supposedly go up $900K to $57.7M. This will put the cap floor at $41.7M. Meanwhile, the NBA has long hinted that the salary cap in its league will likely go down this summer.

MLB

– RHP Pedro Martinez plans to begin a throwing program this week with the intention of signing a free agent deal around the middle of the season. “I’m in good shape, real good – it doesn’t take me that long to get ready,’’ Martinez told the Boston media after throwing out the first pitch at Sunday’s Red Sox season opener. He’s been linked to the Phillies and could sign a contract similar to last year’s prorated $2M deal.

– The Red Sox have signed RHP Josh Beckett to a four-year/$68M extension. The new deal, to be announced Monday afternoon at a press conference, will pay Beckett a $5M signing bonus and annual salaries of $15.75M from 2011-2014. The 29-year-old righty has gone 65-34 with a 4.08 ERA since joining the Red Sox back in 2006, strong numbers in baseball’s toughest division.

– Brewers’ owner Mark Attanasio said Monday that contract extension talks with 1B Prince Fielder are “ongoing.” The talks will apparently continue into the regular season. Fielder’s agent, Scott Boras, met a few times with Brewers management this spring, but it doesn’t sound like anything is being rushed. After all, the big man is currently locked up through 2011. He’s also fresh off a 46 HR and 141 RBI season.

– ESPN.com’s Buster Olney hears that there are currently no contract negotiations taking place between the Nationals and 1B Adam Dunn. Dunn told MLB.com two weeks ago that he is willing to allow talks to carry over into the regular season, so there’s no reason to panic. Dunn, 30, smacked 38 home runs and 105 RBI last season while earning $8 million. He’ll make $12M this year, but is set to become a free agent in the fall.

NBA

– Lakers’ F Kobe Bryant’s extension is a three-year/$83.5M deal with a no-trade clause. The extension begins in the 2011-12 season when Kobe will earn $25.2M. He’ll get $27.8M in 2012-13 and $30.5M in his final year, 2013-14, when he turns 35. Under his current contract, Bryant is due to earn $24.8M next season. Bryant also had a no-trade clause in his previous contract. If he were to agree to a trade, his extension includes a trade kicker that would trigger an additional payment to him.

– According to the Arizona Republic, Suns’ F Channing Frye is declining his player option for next season. Frye reportedly would like to stay in Phoenix but figures he can make more than the $2.1M he was scheduled to make for the team next season.

– Scottie Pippen and Karl Malone will headline the 2010 NBA Hall of Fame class. Lakers’ owner Jerry Buss, high school coaching great Bob Hurley, Sr., and WNBA star Cynthia Cooper also were in the class announced at the Final Four. NBA veterans Dennis Johnson and Gus Johnson and international star Maciel “Ubiratan” Pereira will be honoured posthumously. The 1960 and 1992 U.S. Olympic teams, which both won Olympic gold medals, will be part of the induction ceremony on August 13.

– The Bergen Record reports that the Nets are looking at Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski as their next head coach. Coach K declined a Lakers offer for five-years/$40M in 2004. The belief is that Prokhorev is ready to offer between $12-15M per season to Krzyzewski to coach as well as to possibly be GM.

– Lakers’ coach Phil Jackson has been fined $35K for criticizing game officials.

WWE

– WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated the Q&A section of his official website (JRsBarBQ.com) with some more insight into his future – how long he’ll be with WWE, whether he’ll announce again and if he’d consider a General Manager role on television. Some highlights:

Jim Ross: General Manager: “I am not interested in traveling to Raw each week and becoming a character. The GM role feels tired to me and I don’t want to attempt to resurrect a broken down horse. I personally think that, by and large, the GM biz/role has started to run its course. I’m talking full time or Guest General Managers, especially guest GM’s who have not the first clue about the product and engage others in lame skits featuring poor acting.”

Will He Return to announcing? “WWE has moved on in another direction and I am not in their broadcasting plans. It is not my call to not call WWE bouts any longer but I am fine with it nonetheless.”

His WWE Contract Status: “There are no guarantees that I will be staying in WWE when my contract expires at the end of April. That’s simply the nature of negotiations. Both sides have to win to make it a successful deal.”

– The word amongst friends of Chris Kanyon is that an empty bottle of Seroquel was found near his body when he died on Friday night, reports ProWrestling.net. This particular drug is used to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. His death is being investigated as a suicide.

– In light of Chris Kanyon’s passing over the weekend, it’s interesting to note that a total of twenty-two talents who performed for World Championship Wrestling in 1998 have since passed away – nearly equal to a 25-man MLB roster. Likewise, a total of six wrestlers who performed for the World Wrestling Federation the very same year have since passed on (Big Boss Man, “Dr. Death” Steve Williams, Golga, Owen Hart, Road Warrior Hawk and Test). However, only two WWF performer deaths have been attributed to drug use while the WCW list is significantly greater.

In its entirety, here is the list of deceased talents who performed for WCW in 1998. With the exception of one performer, all deaths listed occurred before the age of 50.

Bam Bam Bigelow – 2007 / 01 / 19 (45)
Bobby Duncum, Jr. – 2000 / 01 / 24 (34)
Brady Boone (referee) – 1998 / 12 / 16 (40)
Brian Adams – 2007 / 08 / 13 (44)
Chase Tatum – 2008 / 03 / 23 (34)
Chris Adams – 2001 / 10 / 07 (46)
Chris Benoit – 2007 / 06 / 24 (40)
Curt Hennig – 2003 / 02 / 10 (44)
Davey Boy Smith – 2002 / 05 / 17 (39)
Eddie Guerrero – 2005 / 11 / 13 (38)
Elizabeth – 2003 / 05 / 01 (42)
Emory Hale – 2006 / 01 / 28 (36)
Johnny Grunge – 2006 / 02 / 16 (40)
Joey Maggs – 2006 / 10 / 15 (37)
Kanyon – 2010 / 04 / 02 (40)
Louie Spicolli – 1998 / 02 / 15 (27)
Mark Curtis (referee) – 1999 / 09 / 08 (37)
Randy Anderson (referee) – 2002 / 05 / 05 (42)
Ray Traylor – 2004 / 09 / 22 (41)
Renegade – 1999 / 02 / 23 (33)
Rick Rude – 1999 / 04 / 20 (40)
Rocco Rock – 2002 / 09 / 21 (50)

Additionally, six more talents who joined WCW after 1998 have since passed on – Chris Candido, “Dr. Death” Steve Williams, Mike Awesome, Rhonda Singh, Sherri Martel and The Wall. All six deaths listed occurred before the age of 50.

On a final note, Kanyon’s passing marks the fifteenth consecutive year in which at least one talent who performed for WCW between 1991 and 2001 has died.

NFL

– The Redskins will reportedly allow the player rep for RFA QB Jason Campbell to seek a trade for his client. Washington is “open” to retaining him as QB Donovan McNabb’s backup, but Campbell would obviously prefer a chance to start elsewhere. Redskins coach Mike Shanahan is expected to address Campbell’s situation further at McNabb’s introductory press conference Tuesday. In the unlikely scenario that Campbell sticks around, he’d collect $3.14M per his one-year tender.

– The Rams have released QB Marc Bulger. The move saves $8.5M in salary, which will come in handy when the Rams make QB Sam Bradford one of the league’s highest paid quarterbacks later this month. Bulger, who turned 33 today, has seen his YPA average drop in six consecutive seasons and his completion rate fall in five straight while looking shell shocked in the pocket behind a swinging-gate offensive line. He’ll likely generate interest, just not as a starter.

– The Texans have signed K Neil Rackers to a two-year contract. The Texans will hold an open competition between Rackers and Kris Brown in camp. Rackers has a stronger leg for touchback purposes and has been more accurate over the last two seasons, missing just four regular season field goal attempots compared to Brown’s 14, including 11 last year alone. Neither is especially great in the clutch.

– The Lions have acquired OG Rob Sims from the Seahawks in exchange for a 5th-round draft pick. Sims, 26, will likely move into the Lions’ starting lineup immediately at left guard. Sims has racked up 31 starts over the last three seasons and is a low-risk acquisition because he’s only under contract through 2010 at just $1.176M.

– The Colts are “actively pursuing Chargers RFA LT Marcus McNeill,” according to local San Diego radio host Lee Hamilton. Signing McNeill away from the Chargers would cost the Colts a 1st and 3rd-round pick along with a huge contract extension, so an offer sheet may not happen. That said, upgrading the power on their offensive line is a priority for the Colts.

TNA

– TNA star Mick Foley has updated his MySpace.com blog with more thoughts on the tragic death of former WWE & WCW wrestler Chris Kanyon. With yet another young life lost, Foley once again shines a light on the less-than glamorous transition from wrestling superstar to everyday civilian.

“Unfortunately, suicide is a solution that far too many wrestlers have opted for. I really wish there was some kind of emotional crash pad for wrestlers to land on when the bright lights dim, or when injuries take their toll, or when one is finally forced to face the fact that the next big break just might not come around.”

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NFL

– The Colts have signed MLB Gary Brackett to a five-year contract. Brackett, who turns 30 in May, has averaged 112.8 tackles per season over the last five years.

– The Lions have signed WR Nate Burleson to a five-year/$25M contract, including $11M guaranteed. Burleson caught 63 passes for 812 yards and three touchdowns in 13 games for a poor Seahawk offense one season ago.

– ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirmed on NFL Live early Friday that the “league-wide expectation” is that free agent DE Julius Peppers will sign with the Bears. Peppers’ first official free agent visit will be to Halas Hall on Friday. The first visit often means the team has offered the most money. The Eagles dropped out of the bidding, while the Seahawks were never seriously in it.

– The Jets acquired CB Antonio Cromartie from the Chargers in exchange for a conditional 3rd-round pick in 2011. Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the pick can upgrade to a 2nd-rounder depending on Cromartie’s playing time and the Jets’ performance. If Cromartie ever gets his head on straight, Rex Ryan’s secondary will rise to a new level of dominance.

– According to San Diego Union-Tribune, the Chargers have surprisingly decided to place a 1st and 3rd-round tender on free agent RB Darren Sproles. Sproles had been informed last week that he would not receive a tender, which would let him to test the FA market. The Bolts apparently had a change of heart after seeing the buzz around Sproles as a coveted free agent expected to draw $5M per year. The Chargers’ tender offer comes with a $7.27M salary while removing the best free agent running back from the market. Sproles was expected to visit the Chiefs, Rams, Eagles, and Redskins in the coming days. Sproles is still expected to be available “for the right deal.” The Chargers had planned to let Sproles walk until they realized they had a shot to extract compensation from another team. Per beat writer Kevin Acee, it won’t take “a one and a three” to get the Bolts to part with Sproles.

– The Panthers have released QB Jake Delhomme. Delhomme began as an undrafted free agent in 1999 before taking over as Carolina’s offensive leader in 2003. Though he sports a 50-31 career record and a pair of impressive playoff runs, Delhomme has been a wreck since his six-turnover game against the Cardinals two years ago.

– According to the Palm Beach Post, free agent QB Chad Pennington is expected to re-sign with the Dolphins. Pennington doesn’t have a deal in place yet, but he’s expected to return to Miami “barring something crazy.” Even considering Pennington’s strong relationship with the Dolphins’ front office, it’s surprising that they would bring him back with Pat White and Tyler Thigpen also under contract. The obvious inference is that Thigpen will be available in trade.

– The Lions and Texans are expected to “lead the charge” for free agent RB  Chester Taylor. Taylor was expected to continue talking with the Vikes, but he’s now a prized commodity with Darren Sproles off the market. Houston is slightly surprising, as they’ve insisted their preference is for a young running back. Also believed to be interested are the Bills, Broncos, Chiefs, Giants, Bears and Steelers.

– The Cowboys have extended a 1st- and 3rd-round tender offer to RFA WR Miles Austin. Austin would have received plenty of free agent interest after blowing up for 1,320 yards and 11 touchdowns, but the Cowboys have made it known that they will top all offers. Austin is certain to be back in Dallas. He’s slated to earn $3.168M.

– The Cardinals have released FS Antrel Rolle, as expected. The Cardinals made their plans known two weeks ago. The move is designed to avoid Rolle’s $4M roster bonus on top of his $8.1M salary. Though ‘Zona is still considered the favourite to re-sign Rolle, he’s expected to draw interest from the Bears and Redskins. Rolle is said to be seeking $8M per year.

The Bears have already begun contract negotiations with Rolle. It’s been just hours since the Cardinals released him, to the Bears are getting down to business promptly. Ideally, they’ll have Rolle signed up before the free agent market opens at midnight ET, and be able to turn their attention to DE Julius Peppers at that point. According to the Chicago Tribune, a deal with Rolle “could be in place within the next few hours.”

– The Bengals have released WR Laveranues Coles. Coles’ four-year/$27.5M deal was a high-risk, low-reward gamble from the start. Coles was a major factor in the Bengals’ passing game falling apart at the seams down the stretch. The Bengals now have an obvious void at No. 2 receiver.

– According to PFT, the Eagles have thus far refused to entertain offers for QB Donovan McNabb. The Eagles have fielded phone calls from several teams, but they’ve told those teams that they’re not yet ready to entertain offers. PFT’s source also confirms earlier reports that the Rams have not been in contact with the Eagles. Expect McNabb to remain in Philly unless the Eagles receive an overwhelming offer.

– Team sources tell the NY Daily News that the Giants will not be serious bidders for free agent LB Karlos Dansby. The Giants looked like frontrunners in the Dansby sweepstakes at one point, but are no longer expected to be active in the first wave of free agency. GM Jerry Reese has decided to get back to building through the draft after a high-priced 2009 offseason that went sour when the real games started. Dansby continues to draw interest from the Dolphins, Redskins and Eagles.

MLB

– Jon Heyman of SI.com reports that the Diamondbacks are “believed to have offered” 3B Mark Reynolds a two-year/$13.5M offer. The proposed extension wouldn’t likely begin until 2011, as Reynolds is not eligible for arbitration until after the 2010 season. The 26-year-old hit .260/.349/.543 last season with 44 home runs, 102 RBI and 24 stolen bases last season.

– Brewers’ 1B Prince Fielder told Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that the Brewers met with his agent Scott Boras on Wednesday. Fielder says the two sides talked about an extension, however no offer was made. Fielder, 26 in May, remains under team control through the 2011 season. He’s slated to make $10.5M this season.

– The St. Petersburg Times’ Marc Topkin has confirmed that the Rays have “legit” interest in adding free agent 1B Hank Blalock. The 29-year-old Blalock batted just .234/.277/.459 last season but still slugged 25 home runs. He’d fit in well in Tampa, but it’s not clear if he is willing to accept a minors contract. The Marlins have reportedly offered him the same thing.

– According to Mike Puma of the NY Post, LHP Joe Beimel remains firmly on the Mets’ radar. Beimel posted a 3.58 ERA and 1.37 WHIP in 55 1/3 innings last season for the Nationals and Rockies. He was asking for a contract in the $2M range as recently as last week, but that is sure to come down as spring training rolls on. The Mets acquired reliever RHP Kiko Calero on Thursday.

NBA

– F Michael Finley will sign with the Celtics in the next couple of days, a source tells Yahoo’s Marc Spears. The Celtics are stocking up on scoring off the bench. Finley was waived by the Spurs on Monday after complaining about his role and is expected to report to the Celts on Saturday.

– Sixers’ G Allen Iverson’s wife, Tawanna Iverson, has filed for divorce and for custody of their five children.
The Sixers cut ties with Iverson for the remainder of the season yesterday.

TNA

– TNA Wrestling released Traci Brooks this morning. Details regarding Brooks’ departure have yet to be disclosed. She had been with the company since 2003. Her most recent run saw her become a part of the since departed Main Event Mafia. She had been one of the company’s original female performers and was an original member of the Knockouts division.

WWE

– WWE Diva Mickie James underwent surgical procedures Monday and Thursday in an attempt to remove a staph infection. There is currently no time frame available for when she’ll be able to be able to return to action. She posted on her Twitter;

Sorry I’ve been mia the last few days James Gang! Fact is your leader has taken a bad hit. Surgery Monday & today.

Being laid up in the hospital is no fun but I didn’t want u all to worry. So now we show just how tough we r! How we can’t be stopped!

Nothing ever worth fighting for is ever easy… So we ride! To glory… To Wrestlemania… Embracing Strangers & Angels… Are you with me?!

VoV

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