Sports Toad

2005-06-05T10:59:00.000-04:00

Check out my new blog

2005-03-26T01:05:00.000-05:00

Two Steps does not equal a Travel

I can't put into words how pathetic that call was.

2004-12-23T14:06:00.000-05:00

It's Miller Time For Red Sox

Wade Miller has new Sox.The Red Sox have reportedly finalized a deal with free agent starting pitcher Wade Miller. This is a huge boost to the Red Sox rotation and even the bullpen as well. With this move the starting rotation will consist of Curt Schilling, David Wells, Matt Clement, Wade Miller, and Bronson Arroyo or Tim Wakefield. The odd man out of the rotation will see bullpen work and both Arroyo and Wakefield have been reasonably effective in that spot. This trade further opens up my hopes for a Bronson Arroyo and Hanley Ramirez for Ben Sheets deal with the Milwaukee Brewers. I'm hoping this deal happens for the Sox anytime between now and the trading deadline, the sooner the better.

2004-10-02T13:00:00.000-04:00

Time to Brush Up on the Tiebreaker Rules

With such close races in the West and NL Wild Card, there is a good chance for a tie or two. Luckily, they have the scenerios and rules figured out, so you won't get too confused.

So you know:

AL West
Anaheim
Oakland 1GB

NL West
Los Angeles
San Fran 2GB

NL Wildcard
Houston
San Fran 0GB
Chicago 2GB

2004-10-01T17:41:00.000-04:00

The Sports Toad College Football Preview for Saturday October 2nd

Part 1

Texas Tech at (2) Oklahoma

Jason White and Adrian Peterson led Oklahoma (3-0) against Texas Tech (3-1) in a key Big 12 match-up. Oklahoma has had 14 days off since their victory over the Oregon Ducks, so they should be well rested for the game. Adrian Peterson is coming off of a 183 rushing yards and two touchdowns in his third career game. He has started his career with three 100-yard games.

Texas Tech is coming off a thrilling 31-30 victory over Kansas last weekend. Texas Tech is a team that is led by their potent offense and susceptible defense, which OU should have no problem scoring on. The real question in this game will be whether or not the defense of OU can stop Texas Tech. I believe they can so The Sports Toad believes that Oklahoma beats Texas Tech by a score of 45-17.

(6) West Virginia at Virginia Tech
West Virginia (4-0) is heading into Virginia Tech (2-2) in this battle of former Big East foes.
“``We'll have to play better than we have in the last four games to win it,'' West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez said. ``That part, I guarantee.'' against this Virginia Tech team who hung in their against a very good USC and a solid NC State team. All-American candidate Kay-Jay Harris who has been battling injuries the last few weeks leads West Virginia. Kay-Jay only had 63 yards rushing on 22 carries against the Dukes of James Madison last week.

Virginia Tech comes into this game with a 2-2 record and facing their worst start since the 1995 season. The Virginia Tech offense this season has been non-existent with last week’s dreadful performance against NC State. Virginia Tech rushed for 36 yards and only gained 192 yards in the entire game. VA Tech fans expect those type numbers in a half not a whole game. The Sports Toad believes that VA Tech beats West Virginia in a squeaker 21-17.

(4) Miami FL at Georgia Tech

Miami (3-0) comes into this game after a solid victory 38-13 over the Houston Cougars last week. Georgia Tech(2-1) on the other hand comes into the game after a week off after their loss to UNC by a score of 34-13. This was after beating then number 20 in the nation Clemson by a score of 28-24 on a last second touchdown.

There is some controversy in Miami with the quarterback position. Brock Berlin is not getting the job done in Larry Coker’s mind, thus Derrick Crudup and Kyle Wright better be ready to play. Brock Berlin has the following stats for the season 43 of 73 passes for 476 yards and two touchdowns. In his career, he has 14 touchdown passes and 19 interceptions since coming to Miami from University of Florida.

Reggie Ball who rushed for 80 yards and threw for 164 yards against University of North Carolina leads Georgia Tech. P.J. Daniels; the starting running back for Georgia Tech is questionable to play. The good news for Georgia Tech is that Eric Henderson returns to the defensive line after missing the first three games with an injury. The Sports Toad believes that Miami will pull out a 28-10 victory over Georgia Tech with very little help from Brock Berlin who tends to make bad decisions at the wrong time.

(13) LSU at (3) Georgia

LSU (3-1) heads to Athens to play the University of Georgia (3-0) in a rematch of the SEC championship game last year. LSU is coming off a victory over a very weak Mississippi State team 51-0 and Georgia is coming in off a bye week after a victory over Marshall 13-3.

The question at LSU is “Who is going to be the QB?” Did Marcus Randle set himself up for the starting job in the victory over Mississippi State with a seven completion in seven attempts with 103 yards in a little over a half of football? I don’t think so. The running game at LSU is not in trouble at all with Alley Broussard having a break out season. In the game against MSU, he had 13 rushes for 75 yards and three touchdowns with about a half of work also. The star of the MSU game was the defense by creating 5 turnovers and scoring a defensive touchdown.

Georgia is coming into this game off of a bye week after a squeaker against a very good Marshall team. Their All-American candidate in David Greene leads Georgia. He has been lackluster this season with 194.3 yards a game and only completing 54.9% of his passes. It seems to be a down year for the senior quarterback or the defenses are figuring out how to defend him and the bulldogs. I just don’t know about this Georgia team there was high expectations for this team and I just have not seen them get it done on the field this season. The Sports Toad predicts Georgia to lose to LSU by a score of 31-28.

2004-09-29T13:04:00.000-04:00

Intervention from Above?

In a 60 Minutes interview that airs tonight at 8pm, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. discusses the possibility that his Dad pulled him out of a fiery wreck.

2004-09-28T22:21:00.000-04:00

Sports Toad NFL Pick 'Em - Week 4

Rballer's Best Bet: 3-0

My Best Bet for this week are the Philadelphia Eagles. This week they play in Chicago against the Bears. Even though they are on the road, I think they will win handily as the Mcnabb-Owens connection has been virtually impossible to stop throughout the first three weeks of the season. Eagles 31 Bears 13.

Toad Writers: Please click "Edit" under postings and then please proceed to bold AND italicize your picks as I have done, it only takes a minute or two. Thank you guys.

Rballer's Picks

Cin @ Pit
NE @ Buf
Oak @ Hou
Was @ Cle
Ind @ Jax
NYG @ GB
Phi @ Chi
NO @ Ari
Atl @ Car
Den @ TB
NYJ @ Mia
Ten @ SD
STL @ SF
KC @ Bal

Last Week: 7-7
Overall: 24-22

ZLax45's Picks

Cin @ Pit
NE @ Buf
Oak @ Hou
Was @ Cle
Ind @ Jax
NYG @ GB
Phi @ Chi
NO @ Ari
Atl @ Car
Den @ TB
NYJ @ Mia
Ten @ SD
STL @ SF
KC @ Bal

Last Week: 9-5
Overall: 26-20

Christy's Picks

Cin @ Pit
NE @ Buf
Oak @ Hou
Was @ Cle
Ind @ Jax
NYG @ GB
Phi @ Chi
NO @ Ari
Atl @ Car
Den @ TB
NYJ @ Mia
Ten @ SD
STL @ SF
KC @ Bal

Last Week: 9-5
Overall: 29-17

SexyWombat's Picks

Sorry for my lack of posts as I've been busy w/ school and 4 tests coming up w/in a 2 week span. Plus my schedule consists of the same stuff everyday. Wake up, eat, class, then go to work, then try to do some work but usually end up relaxing. I'm also trying to work on a project.

Cin @ Pit
NE @ Buf
Oak @ Hou
Was @ Cle
Ind @ Jax
NYG @ GB
Phi @ Chi
NO @ Ari
Atl @ Car
Den @ TB
NYJ @ Mia
Ten @ SD
STL @ SF
KC @ Bal

Last Week: 9-5
Overall: 24-22

BrumZ' Picks

Cin @ Pit
NE @ Buf
Oak @ Hou
Was @ Cle
Ind @ Jax
NYG @ GB
Phi @ Chi
NO @ Ari
Atl @ Car
Den @ TB
NYJ @ Mia
Ten @ SD
STL @ SF
KC @ Bal

Last Week: 10-4
Overall: 27-19

2004-09-28T01:16:00.000-04:00

Clinchin'

The Boston Red Sox clinched a playoff spot today for the second consecutive year. They defeated the Devil Rays 7-3 by way of the longball, this victory secured the spot. As of now, the Red Sox would play the Minnesota Twins in the playoffs. In any case, I'm confident, but I have to say that I'd rather face Oakland (or Anaheim or Texas) instead of facing Minnesota. Reason being, in a 5-game series, Johan Santana will pitch twice if it goes the full 5 games. This equals up to one hard series to win. Without Santana, the Twins would be good, but very beatable. With him, they are going to be hard to stop.

In any case, good luck to my Boston Red Sox in the 2004 playoffs. I will be behind them the whole time, no matter what happens. Go Sox!

2004-09-27T01:43:00.000-04:00

That is what I call Rain

2004-09-26T11:28:00.000-04:00

Down goes Jones Again!

Roy Jones Jr. lost to Glen Johnson last night in Memphis Tennessee. Jones was hit by an overheard right which sent him to the canvas where he lived nearly motionless for 4 minutes and had to be helped out of the arena and into an ambulance by his trainers.

Glen Johnson said about Roy Jones Jr.

``Listen, I'm not claiming I'm the best this or the best that. I'm the guy who is willing to fight the self-claimed best,''

Antonio Tarver said about Roy Jones Jr. after this fight

``I want to see the man go on and enjoy his life after boxing,'' Tarver said. ``We don't need to see Roy Jones go through the things he went through tonight, the things he went through on May 15. Let the man ride off into the sunset.''

2004-09-24T14:39:00.000-04:00

College Football Preview for 9/25

Here is the SportsToad's preview of the upcoming weekend's college football games.

The games Zlax45 will be watching
Boston College at Wake Forest noon on ESPN 2
BC is coming in with a 3-0 record and are trying to avenge last year's opening day defeat by the Demon Deacons in Chestnut Hill. BC is lead by Paul Peterson who has been the key figure in the offense in this young season. He is able to move the pocket, throw the ball on the run, or even pull it down to get the extra yards. Wake Forest is one of the worst teams in the ACC so BC should be able to take them this week in Winston Salem.

Iowa at Michigan 3:30 on ABC

This was suppose to be a HUGE game for both teams but has turned into an elimnation game for both teams. Michigan has shown very little abilty on the offensive side of the ball by struggling against San Diego State and losing to Notre Dame. Iowa is coming off of a 44-7 drubbing by Arizona State. Both teams are going nowhere and Michigan pulls it out in the big house.

Northwestern vs Minnesota 9pm on ESPN2

Minnesota has been my pick all year to win the Big Ten because of their returning tallent and because of their underrated coach in Glen Mason. Northwestern has not had a good season since Gary Barnett was the head coach. I predict Minnesota 35-7.

2004-09-23T11:19:00.000-04:00

Is Vijay going to break the Money record?

Vijay Singh is within $489,000 of breaking Tiger Woods record for most money in a season. Vijay has 5 tournaments left in the season to break the record. He could break the record this week if he finishes in second place or better. Do the toad readers think He will break the record?

Click here for the link.

2004-09-21T23:40:00.000-04:00

World Golf Rankings

The World Golf Rankings are skewed to the United States players instead of looking at all the other tours around the world liek the European Tour. Miguel Angel Jimenez has won 4 tournaments in Europe during this season and he is only 20th. Come on! Do I smell conspiracy?

Even Tiger Woods agrees with me.

Paraphasing here on ESPN Sportscenter on 9/22

I think the World Golf Rankings are skewed because the Europeans are not getting enough credit. Look at Miguel Angel Jimenez he has won 4 tournaments this year and is not getting any credit in the rankings.

The World Golf Rankings were set up by International Management Group also known as IMG. Mark McCormack set up these rankings to make his players have stronger STAR power.

2004-09-21T23:02:00.000-04:00

Oh Foulke!

Schilling pitched a gem. He went 8 strong and whiffed 14 batters, but it wasn't enough for his 21st win. He left after the 8th inning, and going into the 9th, the Red Sox had a 1-0 lead on the Orioles. Javy Lopez came up with 2 outs and a man on second in the top of the 9th. Foulke then gave up a fat one, and Lopez hit it out. The Orioles then left the top of the 9th with a 2-1 lead. The Red Sox had men on 2nd and 3rd with no outs. McCarty fouled out, Damon followed him with a strikeout. It appeared that the Red Sox had blown another golden opportunity, but then came Mark Bellhorn. He ripped a Jorge Julio pitch into centerfield, and both Red Sox runs scored. Game over, Sox win. The win kept them from falling further behind New York (they are currently 4.5 back) and helped them possibly gain or at least keep pace with Anaheim.

The win was an important one for the Red Sox because they needed it to move closer to clinching the playoffs. But more important was the way that Curt Schilling pitched. Him and Santana are battling for the Cy Young, and they both deserve it (even though I think Santana will win it). But besides this, it says to me that Curt Schilling should be the Red Sox #1 starter in the playoffs, with Pedro #2, Lowe #3, and Arroyo #4. If Wakefield can't get it back together, he should be relegated to the bullpen. If Wakefield can get it back together, it might not be a bad move to relegate Arroyo to the bullpen.

In any case, I'm not sure who I would rather face in the first round. The A's have such a solid rotation (Mulder, Hudson, Zito, Harden) with no weaknesses, but Minnesota has one pitcher that is absolutely dominant, and the prospect of seeing him twice in a 5-game series scares me to death. So I'm thinking that I would rather have the Red Sox face Oakland right now, but who knows. It's just getting started, and it will only get better. This is my favorite time of year (when the Sox are still in contention). I can't wait!

2004-09-20T22:30:00.000-04:00

Sports Toad NFL Pick 'Em - Week 3

Rballer's Best Bet: 2-0

My Best Bet for this week is the Minnesota Vikings, who are playing on their home turf, to defeat the Chicago Bears. Daunte Culpepper looked strong in week 1 and he's not playing too bad thus far tonight. Not to mention they also have Randy Moss and I view the Bears as punchless even though Thomas Jones is finally living up to his hype. Vikings 31 - Bears 13.

Toad Writers: Please click "Edit" under postings and then please proceed to bold AND italicize your picks as I have done, it only takes a minute or two. Thank you guys.

Rballer's Picks

Ari @ Atl
Chi @ Min
Hou @ KC
NO @ STL
Pit @ Mia
Bal @ Cin
Cle @ NYG
Jax @ Ten
Phi @ Det
SD @ Den
GB @ Ind
SF @ Sea
TB @ Oak
Dal @ Was

Last Week: 9-7
Overall: 17-15

Zlax45's Picks

Ari @ Atl
Chi @ Min
Hou @ KC
NO @ STL
Pit @ Mia
Bal @ Cin
Cle @ NYG
Jax @ Ten
Phi @ Det
SD @ Den
GB @ Ind
SF @ Sea
TB @ Oak
Dal @ Was

Last Week: 8-8
Overall: 17-15

Christy's Picks

Ari @ Atl
Chi @ Min
Hou @ KC
NO @ STL
Pit @ Mia
Bal @ Cin
Cle @ NYG
Jax @ Ten
Phi @ Det
SD @ Den
GB @ Ind
SF @ Sea
TB @ Oak
Dal @ Was

Last Week: 9-7
Overall: 20-12

SexyWombat's Picks

Ari @ Atl
Chi @ Min
Hou @ KC
NO @ STL
Pit @ Mia
Bal @ Cin
Cle @ NYG
Jax @ Ten
Phi @ Det
SD @ Den
GB @ Ind
SF @ Sea
TB @ Oak
Dal @ Was

Last Week: 9-7
Overall: 15-17

BrumZ' Picks

Ari @ Atl
Chi @ Min
Hou @ KC
NO @ STL
Pit @ Mia
Bal @ Cin
Cle @ NYG
Jax @ Ten
Phi @ Det
SD @ Den
GB @ Ind
SF @ Sea
TB @ Oak
Dal @ Was

Last Week: 8-8
Overall: 17-15

2004-09-20T09:39:00.000-04:00

Week 2 - Upset City

Stud of the Week: Aaron Brooks - 25/34 with 279 yards and 3 TD passes.

Atlanta Falcons defeat St. Louis Rams? Jacksonville Jaguars defeat Denver Broncos?? Chicago Bears defeat Green Bay Packers in Lambeau??? It was a wild Sunday in the NFL which was capped off with a game winning field goal last night by Shayne Graham of the Cincinnati Bengals to defeat the Dolphins.

The 49ers pissed away another win, but played well, it was another stupid turnover that killed them.

Deshaun Foster looked nasty yesterday, he is a player, and I think we have controversy in Carolina now. I think Stephen Davis and Deshuan Foster will be used as Kevan Barlow and Garrison Hearst were used last year in Sanfrancisco.

Carolina and Kansas City both needed a win yesterday to prevent going 0-2, Carolina came away with the victory despite being without starting runningback Stephen Davis, and stud wide recevier Steve Smith.

The Cowboys got their first win yesterday against the Browns as Kellen Winslow Jr. went down with a leg injury late in the game, he is now out 6-8 weeks.

The lowly Buffalo Bills lost again yesterday, they've lost 2 close ones and have had lots of stupid mistakes that have killed them.

St. Louis can blame Michael Vick on their first loss, he ran for over 100 yards for the 3rd time in his career (NFL Record: 4 times). He looked terrible in preseason but he's looking like the guy everybody thought he would be when he first came onto the scene a few years back.

2004-09-19T01:25:00.000-04:00

Maine knocks off Mississippi State

For the second straight week a team from the A-10 has knocked off a BCS team. The University of Maine-Orono knocked off Sylvester Croom's Mississippi State team today by a score of 9-7. I guess Mississippi State is in for a rebuilding year after this.

2004-09-18T23:15:00.000-04:00

USA IN A HUGE HOLE AT RYDER CUP

The United States Ryder Cup team is losing to the European team heading into Sunday by a score of 11-5. Europe only needs 3 points out of the 12 up for grab on Sunday to get the Ryder Cup. Will the USA team be able to get the necessary 9.5 points to win the Ryder Cup? I do not think it is possible because that is a HUGE deficit like being down 9-0 after 2 innings of baseball. I blame some of this loss on Tiger Woods and some of his teammates taking a least then stellar attitude to these matches. Tiger has shown very little life when he has been on the course and it has shown on his record. There is no way Tiger Woods and Davis Love III should lose to Paul McGinley and Padraig Harrington 4 and 3 after being up two holes on the front nine. I guess I am being a little harsh but I think it is a major problem.
Click here to read the British view of these matches

Click here for the USA's view of these matches

2004-09-17T01:25:00.000-04:00

Zlax45's College Football Random Thoughts

I am heading to the BC-Uconn game which is the only New England matchup in Division 1-A this year. BC should be able to take this team by at least 21 points because BC is bigger, stronger, and all around a better team. BC could come out and get caught in a battle and overlooking this game too much after the victory of Penn State last week and Wake Forest next week. We should see what happens on ESPN 2 Friday night.

I still am wondering how UNH went down to Delaware and beat the Fighting Blue Hens.(Michigan JV Team). They follow up the win over Delaware by going down to Rutgers and beating them. They won both of these games under the direction of 3rd string QB Ricky Santos from Massachusetts. Some people get under center and have the "IT" factor. I hope my alma mater can pull off a victory over the William and Mary Tribe this weekend in the remnants of Ivan. We will see what will happen....

2004-09-14T01:01:00.000-04:00

Sports Toad NFL Pick 'Em - Week 2

Rballer's Best Bet: 1-0

My Best Bet for this week are the New England Patriots who happen to be playing against the Arizona Cardinals (The 2nd week in a row I have made my Best Bet against them). I believe that the Patriots will smother the Cardinals 27-3.

Toad Writers: Please click "Edit" under postings and then please proceed to bold AND italicize your picks as I have done, it only takes a minute or two. Thank you guys.

Rballer's Picks

Car @ KC
Chi @ GB
Den @ Jax
Hou @ Det
Ind @ Ten
Pit @ Bal
SF @ NO
STL @ Atl
Was @ NYG
Sea @ TB
Buf @ Oak
Cle @ Dal
NE @ Ari
NYJ @ SD
Mia @ Cin
Min @ Phi

Last Week: 8-8
Overall: 8-8

ZLax45's Picks

Car @ KC
Chi @ GB
Den @ Jax
Hou @ Det
Ind @ Ten
Pit @ Bal
SF @ NO
STL @ Atl
Was @ NYG
Sea @ TB
Buf @ Oak
Cle @ Dal
NE @ Ari
NYJ @ SD
Mia @ Cin
Min @ Phi

Last Week: 9-7
Overall: 9-7

Christy's Picks

Car @ KC
Chi @ GB
Den @ Jax
Hou @ Det
Ind @ Ten
Pit @ Bal
SF @ NO
STL @ Atl
Was @ NYG
Sea @ TB
Buf @ Oak
Cle @ Dal
NE @ Ari
NYJ @ SD
Mia @ Cin
Min @ Phi

Last Week: 11-5
Overall: 11-5

SexyWombat's Picks

Car @ KC
Chi @ GB
Den @ Jax
Hou @ Det
Ind @ Ten
Pit @ Bal
SF @ NO
STL @ Atl
Was @ NYG
Sea @ TB
Buf @ Oak
Cle @ Dal
NE @ Ari
NYJ @ SD
Mia @ Cin
Min @ Phi

Last Week: 6-10
Overall: 6-10

BrumZ'z Picks

Car @ KC
Chi @ GB
Den @ Jax
Hou @ Det
Ind @ Ten
Pit @ Bal
SF @ NO
STL @ Atl
Was @ NYG
Sea @ TB
Buf @ Oak
Cle @ Dal
NE @ Ari
NYJ @ SD
Mia @ Cin
Min @ Phi

Last Week: 9-7
Overall: 9-7

2004-09-13T22:49:00.000-04:00

Controversy over Tiger Woods' High School Visit

"PGA superstar Tiger Woods is speaking at a luncheon at Detroit Country Day School on Monday, but not without some controversy, Local 4 reported. Some female high school students are reportedly upset because they will not be allowed to attend the annual father-son event.

The school invites guest speakers to the luncheon each year, but when word got out that Tiger Woods would be attending, many of the girls at the school requested that the event be open to the entire student body, the station reported.

The school also holds an annual mother-daughter luncheon in the spring. Cindy Obermeyer, a parent, said she's OK with the girls- and boys-only events. "It's an annual event that they have every year and it's always a father-son thing, just like the one in the spring is mother-daughter," she said." - Channel 4

As I've posted in a previous entry, I attend the high school mentioned above. Tiger Woods did, in fact, attend my school today. He came to speak at our father-son banquet, which every year has high-profile speakers (GM CEO, Diamler Chrysler CEO, Mitch Albolm have been the last three). He discussed his close relationship with his father and the impact it had on his golf career. However, since I am a girl, we had to sit in our auditorium and watch him speak on a close circuit tv. Many girls were in fact upset because for our mother-daughter banquet, we get no speaker, which is totally unfair.

But anyways, I just found the article amusing and thought you might too. And just so you know, he isn't a fantastic speaker and his favorite words seemed to be "cool" and "neat." My headmaster introduced him as the best golfer in the world, and Tiger corrected him. That provided plenty of amusement and when it was question & answer session, someone asked about what he thought about being ranked 2nd now and he responded with something like "I think I have another level and I'm currently working on a new style of play that seems to be working." I also hear (not from his speech) that he broke up with his fiance.

2004-09-13T14:14:00.000-04:00

Week 1

Stud of the week: Daunte Culpepper - 17/23 for 245 yards and 5 TDs. Daunte also had 6 Rushes for 25 yards.

Terrell Owens made a strong debut for the Eagles. He didn't have many yards but had 8 catches, 3 of them being touchdown grabs.

Clinton Portis scored a touchdown in his first carry as a Washington Redskin, that must have felt good.

Jeff Garcia looked pretty good in his debut as well, I think he'll have quite a good impact on the Browns this year.

Lots of good, close games with tight finishes. Very exciting.

Week 2 Sports Toad football picks will be coming. Administrators and guests, be ready.

2004-09-13T01:18:00.000-04:00

Federer Wins the US Open

Roger Federer beat Lleyton Hewitt in the US Open final by a score of 6-0,7-6,6-0. I think we are in the beginning of witnessing one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. This guy holds three out of the four grand slams and will be a force to be reckon with for years to come. Any thought Toad readers?

2004-09-12T04:43:00.000-04:00

2 More Days

NHL CBA News

2004-09-10T13:02:00.000-04:00

Pats Streak At 16

In the NFL Opener last night in Foxboro, the Patriots beat the Colts 27-24, and the Colts had many chances to change that, but failed. Leading by 3, Deion Branch was ready to field a punt, but fumbled it. The Colts then took the ball down to the goal line where they handed the ball to Edgerrin James. Not only did James not score, but he coughed up the football with only a few minutes remaining. Game over, right? Wrong. The Colts stopped the Pats and got one more chance. Manning completed a pass to Brandon Stokley who ran until he was tackled at around the Patriot 20. Later in the drive, Manning was sacked, which turned an easy kick into a difficult one for Mike Vanderjagt who hadn't missed in some time. Vanderjagt lined up for the 48-yard field goal to tie the game and he pushed it wide right. The Patriots ran out the last few seconds on the clock and continued their winning streak which carried over from last year.

2004-09-07T23:40:00.000-04:00

USA BEATS RUSSIA

The USA hockey team beat Russia tonight 5-3 in a World Cup quarterfinal matchup. They were lead by Boston area legend Keith Tkachuk who scored 4 goals in the victory. The next game for the USA Team is against either Finland or Czech Republic dependent on what happens in the Slovakia-Canada matchup tomorrow. Stay tuned to the Toad for more World Cup of Hockey action.

2004-09-07T22:22:00.000-04:00

USA Defeats Russia

On the day that ESPN declares the "Miracle on Ice" the #1 moment in sports over the last 2 years, Team USA advanced to the semi-finals with a 5-3 victory over the Russians. Keith Tkachuk led the charge with 4 goals.

2004-09-07T15:14:00.000-04:00

Yankees Denied Forfeit Victory

Yesterday, when the Devil Rays were unable to make it to New York in time for their doubleheader (due to rough weather down by Florida), the Yankees requested a victory and a Devil Ray forfeit. Thankfully, and rightfully, this request was denied by commissioner Bud Selig. Selig stated, "Given the stage of the season we are in, and the exciting pennant races, it is critical that we do everything to decide the championship on the field." In my opinion this was a big pussy move by the New York Yankees trying to get a cheap win in the middle of a pennant race because they are struggling. Luckily, Bud Selig made the right decision for this case. How stupid would it be to possibly have a pennant race decided by a game that was not even played on a field? Just my opinion, what is your opinion Toad readers?

2004-09-06T13:49:00.000-04:00

Devil Rays to Forfeit?

The Devil Rays are having difficulty getting to New York and might end up forfeiting two games today.

2004-09-03T23:11:00.000-04:00

A Note to readers: "CONCRETE DOES NOT GIVE"

Kevin Brown broke his left hand tonight in the clubhouse by punching a wall. How stupid do you have to be to know that punching a wall will break your hand?

``You just can't do this, there's no doubt about it. You've got to keep your emotions in check,'' general manager Brian Cashman said. ``It's a major issue that we shouldn't be dealing with. It's a problem.''

Cashman and Yankees manger Joe Torre were visibly annoyed. Cashman said Brown could be disciplined or fined. Torre said he spoke to Brown and expressed his disappointment.

``Certainly uncalled for and unnecessary,'' Torre said. ``There's more to this game than one person. We rely on him a great deal. It's not something that's helping the team, obviously.''

The Yanks lead is now down to 2.5 games and there is some major chemistry issues with the Yankees right now.

2004-09-03T01:20:00.000-04:00

Sports Toad NFL Pick 'Em - Week 1

This will be an ongoing pick 'em with Toad administrators. The Toad Readers can play along in "comments" if they'd like.

Each Week, I will place a picture of a player on "Rballer's Best Bet Team" at the top of each pick 'em.

My best bet for this week are the St. Louis Rams over the lowly Arizona Cardinals. I think the Rams will take this contest 27-7.

Toad Writers: Please click "Edit" under postings and then please proceed to bold AND italicize your picks as I have done, it only takes a minute or two. Thank you guys.

RBaller's Picks

Indy @ NE
Ari @ STL
Cin @ NYJ
Jax @ Buf
SD @ Hou
TB @ Was
Atl @ SF
NYG @ Phi
Bal @ Cle
Det @ Chi
Oak @ Pit
Sea @ NO
Ten @ Mia
Dal @ Min
KC @ Den
GB @ Car

Last Week: 0-0
Overall: 0-0

Zlax45's Picks

Indy @ NE
Ari @ STL
Cin @ NYJ
Jax @ Buf
SD @ Hou
TB @ Was
Atl @ SF
NYG @ Phi
Bal @ Cle
Det @ Chi
Oak @ Pit
Sea @ NO
Ten @ Mia
Dal @ Min
KC @ Den
GB @ Car

Last Week: 0-0
Overall: 0-0

Christy's Picks

Indy @ NE
Ari @ STL
Cin @ NYJ
Jax @ Buf
SD @ Hou
TB @ Was
Atl @ SF
NYG @ Phi
Bal @ Cle
Det @ Chi
Oak @ Pit
Sea @ NO
Ten @ Mia
Dal @ Min
KC @ Den
GB @ Car

Last Week: 10-4
Overall: 10-4

SexyWombat's Picks

Indy @ NE
Ari @ STL
Cin @ NYJ
Jax @ Buf
SD @ Hou
TB @ Was
Atl @ SF
NYG @ Phi
Bal @ Cle
Det @ Chi
Oak @ Pit
Sea @ NO
Ten @ Mia
Dal @ Min
KC @ Den
GB @ Car

Last Week: 0-0
Overall: 0-0

Brumz' Picks

Indy @ NE
Ari @ STL
Cin @ NYJ
Jax @ Buf
SD @ Hou
TB @ Was
Atl @ SF
NYG @ Phi
Bal @ Cle
Det @ Chi
Oak @ Pit
Sea @ NO
Ten @ Mia
Dal @ Min
KC @ Den
GB @ Car

Last Week: 0-0
Overall: 0-0

2004-09-03T01:16:00.000-04:00

Streakin'

The Red Sox completed a sweep of the Angels today, running their winning streak to 9 games, and 15 of the last 16. The Red Sox enter a series against the Rangers tomorrow in Boston in hopes of keeping those streaks intact. The Yankees, who currently lead the AL East by 3.5 games will start a series versus Baltimore. The Red Sox now lead the Angels by 4.5 games in the wildcard, and the Rangers by 6 games.

Other streakers include the Marlins who have won 7 straight and the Oakland Athletics who have won 14 of their last 16.

Who wins the AL East Toad Readers? The Sox or the Yanks, you tell us.

2004-09-02T00:38:00.000-04:00

Bryant Case Dropped

In surprise breaking news today, the Kobe Bryant case was dropped at the request of the District Attorney. Bryant's accuser apparently does not want to go on with the case any longer. Bryant stated today, "Although I truly believe this encounter between us was consentual, I recognize now that she did not and does not view this the same way I did."

In my opinion, which may be controversial, I feel that this girl, went into a bedroom with Kobe Bryant knowing full well and expecting to have sex with him. It is Kobe Bryant, what teenage woman is going to turn him down. Just think about what is in it for them: money, good looks, the right to say you slept with one of the best basketball players in the world, publicity, attention, and the list goes on. I do believe, however, that the girl had second thoughts about this encounter after it had occurred. I do also feel that Kobe was extremely wrong in sleeping around with other women when he has a wife of his own back home. Toad Readers, what are your reactions to the Kobe case getting dropped, or the Kobe case in general?

2004-08-31T00:58:00.000-04:00

World Cup of Hockey Preview

The Toyota World Cup of Hockey started Monday with Finland knocking off the Czech Republic. The World Cup is the premier international hockey tournament in the World. The USA is the defending champs when they beat the Canadians 2 games to 1. The tournament's format is two groups. One of the groups are based in North America containing USA, Canada, Slovakia, and Russia. The other group contains Finland, Czech Republic, Sweden, and Germany. Each team will play a round robin first round for seeding then play a one game playoff with 1 v 4 and 2 v 3 in their respective pools. The semis will match up the 1 v 2 teams from opposite groups. The winners advance to the Championship game.

My Predictions for the Tournament starting with the semis.
USA-Sweden
Sweden wins this matchup due to their skill ability and their experience. The USA team is just too inexperienced on the Defensive end of the ice and it costs them with a 4-2 loss on their own ice.

Canada-Finland
Canada wins this game by a score of 5-1. Canada is the class of this tournament led by Mario and Jarome.

Canada wins the tournament with ease over the Swedish team.

2004-08-31T00:54:00.000-04:00

On the Road to Germany

The USA Men's Soccer Team plays El Salvador on September 4th in Foxboro Massachusetts and Panama in Panama City on September 8th. Both games will be on Fox Sports World "America's Soccer Channel."

Any thoughts about this upcoming game?

Here is the roster

ROSTER BY POSITION
Goalkeepers (3): Tim Howard (Manchester United), Kasey Keller (Tottenham Hotspur), Jonny Walker (MetroStars)

Defenders (8) Carlos Bocanegra (Fulham FC), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Bobby Convey (Reading FC), Cory Gibbs (Dallas Burn), Frankie Hejduk (Columbus Crew), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard de Liege), Eddie Pope (MetroStars), Greg Vanney (SC Bastia)

Midfielders (8) DaMarcus Beasley (PSV Eindhoven), Landon Donovan, (San Jose Earthquakes), Eddie Gaven (MetroStars), Cobi Jones (Los Angeles Galaxy), Eddie Lewis (Preston North End), Clint Mathis (Hannover 96), Claudio Reyna (Manchester City), Kerry Zavagnin (Kansas City Wizards)

Forwards (4): Conor Casey (FSV Mainz), Brian Ching (San Jose Earthquakes), Eddie Johnson (Dallas Burn), Brian McBride (Fulham FC)

2004-08-31T00:53:00.000-04:00

Sneaking Around

Firstly, I would like to apologize to Toad readers that I have not been up on my postings, but from now on, I am going to try to post frequently as I get used to college life.

Anyways, The Boston Red Sox are silently sneaking up on the New York Yankees for the top spot in the AL East. They currently lead Anaheim by a game and a half in the wildcard. Strong pitching from Bronson Arroyo, and the resurgence of Derek Lowe, may have been key factors to this 12 out of 13 run. The resurgence of Derek Lowe, may have been triggered by the new defense that he has behind him. In theory, this defense has given him the confidence to throw that sinker, when earlier in the year, he may not have thrown it with such confidence. He has been almost on top of his game lately, and I'm hoping he can get back to the way he was when he had the Cy-Young quality season a few years back. Doug Mientkiewicz and Orlando Cabrera have been huge additions to Boston's defense, and both are starting to hit pretty well. It seems like the team chemistry is also doing very well, and it is creating results. Trot Nixon is supposedly returning shortly, as his quad seems to be healed. Boston kicks off a 9 game run of games against AL West contenders starting tomorrow night against Anaheim at 7:05 with Curt Schilling squaring off against John Lackey.

2004-08-27T15:28:00.000-04:00

The End of an Era

The United States Men's Basketball team lost today to Argentina. This game was dominated by Manu Ginobil and his precise passing and shooting of the ball. The United States team could not get into any offensive flow and could not stop the screen and roll of the Argentine National Team. What do the loyal Toad readers have to say about this loss?

2004-08-25T01:09:00.001-04:00

U - S - A!!! U - S - A!!! U - S - A!!!

The Americans have opened up quite a lead on second place China in the total medal count.

2004-08-24T23:14:00.000-04:00

Uhh, is Quincy Carter still available?

J.P. Losman broke his leg today in practice after a slight collision with CB Troy Vincent. This means that his development will be slightly stunted and it might take longer for him to overtake Drew Bledsoe. Bills fans must hope the good Drew Bledsoe shows up this year.

2004-08-23T22:28:00.000-04:00

Now the Medal Round

USA-Spain

I believe the USA team loses this game because of their inexperience and plus Spain has the best player in the tournament in Pau Gasol. This guy is a huge match-up problem for the USA team thus making the USA lose. Also, the USA can not hit the outside shot like usual.

China-Lithuania

Lithuania wins this game with sheer talent in terms of Songalia and the other players on the team. China has one player and that is Yao Ming everyone else are marginal players.

Puerto Rico-Italy

This is the game of the round. Carlos Arroyo vs the guards of the Italian team. Carlos lit up the USA guards in the shocking upset and I expect him to have a good game but Italy wins the game because they are much deeper and can jack up the threes.

Argentina-Greece

Come on, Can Greece pull off this upset? I don't think so but Argentina did lose two games in the prelims including a one point loss to Italy. I just think that Argentina is a deeper team and will pull this game out.

2004-08-22T19:09:00.000-04:00

Beach Volleyball: Beach Party or Sport?

Beach volleyball got its start back in the 1920s in Santa Monica, California, where families would play each other on the beach. It wasn't until 1996 that the sport was accepted by the IOC as an Olympic sport. This time around, beach volleyball seems to have really caught on. Many Olympic venues have been near empty, but the 10,000 seat Olympic Beach Volleyball Center in Athens has been largely sold out at evening sessions.

While some may argue that the competiveness of the sport is what draws fans, its most likely the party atmosphere with loud music and the dancing bikini cheerleaders making the difference. "Beach volleyball provides everything a fan could want in a sport: sand, sun, beer, loud music, fantastic athletes, exciting matches, incredible performances, people waving flags of every nation, crazed Brazilian fans and, of course, beautiful women in bikinis," ESPN.com's Page2 Jim Caple wrote.

Personally, I'll take Beach Volleyball over Indoor Volleyball anyday. In indoor volleyball, the court seems too crowded- with beach volleyball, you watch two players trying to defend an entire court. It is just a more fun and enjoying atmosphere in my mind. Sure it helps that there are only a total of 3 games in match for beach volleyball, compared to the 5 in indoor volleyball (great for those who have a short attention span). Plus, the US team has two strong women's teams (McPeak&Youngs/Walsh&May) who will play each other in the semifinal game.

"As you watch some athletes, you marvel at their enormous talent and dedication. Other athletes make you shake your head at their incredible stamina. With others, you simply wonder whether they have to pay postage for their BALCO shipments. With beach volleyball players, however, you wonder how much sunscreen they go through in a season," Caple said.

"The highlight was when the announcer broke the crowd into three groups and had them sing a traditional American song, as follows:
FIRST GROUP: THAT'S the way!
SECOND GROUP: Uh-HUH uh-HUH!
THIRD GROUP: I LIKE it!
It was a true Olympic moment -- people from many nations joining together in the spirit of friendship, of understanding, of KC, and -- above all -- of the Sunshine Band," writes humor columnist Dave Barry of the Miami Herald.

So what do you think of beach volleyball? Beach party or Olympic sport?

2004-08-21T10:45:00.000-04:00

Rballer's Holy Predictions - Week 9

We're coming in the 2nd to last week of Rballer's Holy Predictions, here are my picks for this Sunday's games:

Sea @ Det
Ana @ NYY
Oak @ TB
Tor @ Bal
Phi @ Mil
CHC @ Hou
Tex @ KC
Cle @ Min
Pit @ STL
Mtl @ Col
Fla @ SD
NYM @ SF
Atl @ LA
Cin @ Ari
Bos @ CWS

Last Week: 9-6
Overall: 65-56

2004-08-19T23:55:00.000-04:00

More Bud Please

Bud Selig's contract has been extended by three years. This will keep him as baseball's commissioner until 2009, unless he dies first (just a joke). He began his tenure as MLB commissioner in 1992, and there have been many complaints about him since he began his reign. Baseball fans, and loyal toad readers, are you happy or disappointed in the fact that Selig will be around for an additional 3 years? Is it good for the game or bad for the game? ESPN's Jayson Stark has a few suggested changes for Mr. Selig over the course of the next few years.

2004-08-19T21:58:00.000-04:00

Badminton

They say it is the fastest sport in the world but is it? So I sat down and watched the Gold Medal match between China and Great Britain. The match had everything you wanted in sports, a great game, drama, and a raucous crowd. I could not believe how much effort goes into every single point. What do the loyal toad readers think of this sport?

2004-08-19T00:11:00.000-04:00

Petitte Done For Year

Today the Astros figured out that Andy Petitte will be out for the rest of the year. This really doesn't hurt the Astros cause that badly, because they are pretty far out of all races.

In other baseball news, Mike Mussina returned to the mound tonight for the Yankees. He was unable to lead them to victory and he ended up picking up the loss in a Twins victory. With the loss and a Red Sox win, the Yankees lead the AL East by 8 games. Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox are tied with the Texas Rangers, for the AL Wildcard spot.

2004-08-16T16:17:00.001-04:00

Prime Time Coming Back?

Deion Sanders might attempt a comeback with the Baltimore Ravens. Sanders is 37 and has been out of the league for three years.

Use sportsfrog as the ID and password (sportsfrog@sportsfrog.com if it asks for e-mail).

2004-08-16T12:37:00.000-04:00

Another Car Accident Claims the Life of Another Former Penguins and Olympics Coach

Czech hockey coach Ivan Hlinka was killed in a car accident in his homeland today. He was going to coach Czech team in this year's World Cup. Hlinka coached the Penguins in 2001, taking them to the third round of the playoffs, but he was fired the next season after they started 0-4 and it became clear he did not improve his English. Even during the playoff run, their was talk about how he wasn't doing much coaching and that the assistants were running the practices. From what I saw of him at training camp prior to the '01-'02 season, the assistants were doing the coaching and he was yelling at the players to skate harder when they went up and down the ice. His 1998 Gold medal in Nagano proved his coaching greatness, but it is too bad he won't have another opportunity in the NHL to try and adapt his game to the world's best professional league.

Last year, the former Penguins and '80 and '02 USA Olympic team coach Herb Brooks lost his life in a car accident.

2004-08-15T18:24:00.000-04:00

Basketball: Olympics & NBA

Team USA started their Olympic run today against Puerto Rico in a preliminary game. They were blown away and lost 92-73 making it the first time that Americans have lost an Olympic game since allowing NBA players on the roster. The Puerto Ricans have lost to the USA five times since last July making this defeat a very embarassing one. This loss, however, has not really hurt the team's shot at the gold, just their confidence. The team has to place in the top four of a six-team group to move onto the quarterfinals. I think this loss only proves the team's inconsistency- losing to lower-ranked teams and beating the tougher teams.

One of my friends showed me this article clip from espn.com and I just laughed when I read it:

"I'm from the 'hood, and we used to love playing the local preparatory school because our lives in the inner city, economically, the drug dealers we saw, the people we saw getting murdered, gave us a toughness in life. One where we're living for other people and that no day is promised. Basketball is real serious to me," Webber told the Sacramento Bee.

Here's my issue: Guess where Webber went to high school?
Detroit Country Day.
No, not Detroit Urban Day. Not Detroit City Day. But Detroit Country Day.

His good buddy Jalen Rose went to Southwestern, which happens to be in the 'hood, but Webber himself went to Country Day, whose tuition is probably more than the gross national product of Guam.

Yeah, I go to Country Day, and I remember our headmaster talking at the press conference announcing that our high school wasn't going to give up our state championships. The majority of the school supported that decision because there was no clear proof that Webber was given money. So yeah, that clip was pretty irrelevant. Oh well, I'm having knee surgery tomorrow so I'm not sure when I'll update next...

2004-08-14T15:20:00.000-04:00

Rballer's Holy Predictions - Week 8

Sorry everybody that I haven't done my predictions in awhile, but I'm picking it back up this week. I have 3 weeks remaining. The following predictions are for Sunday's games.

Min @ Cle
Bal @ Tor
Hou @ Mtl
Ari @ Min
SD @ Cin
SF @ Phi
Col @ Pit
CWS @ Bos
Fla @ Mil
TB @ Tex
LA @ CHC
Det @ Ana
KC @ Oak
NYY @ Sea
STL @ Atl

Last Week: 6-9
Overall: 56-50

2004-08-14T13:22:00.000-04:00

Helpful Olympics Resources

-Medal Count
-Olympic TV schedule
-Athens is 6 hours ahead of the U.S. Eastern Time Zone.

2004-08-14T13:08:00.000-04:00

One Down, Six More To Go

Phelps won the United States' first gold in the 400 Individual Medley (whatever that is.)

Check out this great article by Eric Adelson about the Olympics publicity potential.

2004-08-14T00:59:00.000-04:00

If BrumZ ran the Olympics. . .

When I use my UMass Sport Management degree to become head of the Olympic Committee, this dude will be lighting the torch:

Yes, folks. I want to see some stunt guy get the torch, pretend to fall, and in the process, light himself on fire as pictured above. He would then run and jump on the big torch to light it. That's entertainment.

2004-08-14T00:48:00.000-04:00

Future Twins Survive Hurricane

Hot dogs on the grill. . .

2004-08-13T15:48:00.000-04:00

Hurricane Charley Threatens Twins Single-A Team

The Fort Myers Miracle have canceled games due to the incoming hurricane that has unexpectedly reached Category 4 status. Hopefully this storm won't bring the death and destruction that is expected.

2004-08-13T12:24:00.000-04:00

Baseball Players Are Weird

It is amazing how anyone can think of some of these superstitions.

2004-08-11T23:28:00.000-04:00

NFL News

Kellen Winslow got what he wanted in the form of $29 million which includes a $16.5 million in signing/option bonuses. This deal makes a ROOKIE the highest paid TE in the game. Something about this guy I don't like. Maybe it's his cocky attitude with comments like "I just wanted to get my fair-market value. I was the sixth pick, but I was in an elite group". But enough about my qualms with cocky players. Winslow was an exciting player to watch in college and the Browns really need Winslow to be a weapon or else it'll be another long year for the dawg pound. Wonder if the outspoken Winslow can find out if Garica is gay. But does anyone really care?

That leaves 2 first round holdouts, Ben Watson and Philip Rivers.

Watson, 32nd pick by New England, wants a 5 year deal with an organization that is very strict on their handlings with contracts. The Patriots insist on a 6 year deal and appear will not give in anytime soon. However, looks like Watson and the Defending Champs will strike a 6 year deal soon. Very unlike the Pats to have a holdout.

Meanwhile, the Chargers and Rivers are worlds apart. A.J. Smith sums it up best stating "It's now time to concentrate on the players we have here and get ready for our preseason games and gear our efforts to get ready for the opener against Houston. From this time forward I will not talk about the Rivers contract situation anymore. I hope I've made my position very clear. If he decides to sign, then I'll be more than happy to talk about Philip Rivers." This statement was made on the heels of an offer, better than Gallery and Fitzgerald, that was rejected.

More bad news for the Cardinals, Boldin will miss more time than expected, 8-12 weeks, after undergoing arthroscopic surgery to repair a slight meniscal tear. How does this affect your fantasy football draft?

2004-08-11T01:00:00.000-04:00

Owens At It Again

My favorite player in the NFL, has again made himself look like a horrible person. But I still really think that T-O is a good guy. Owens was asked some questions about Jeff Garcia's sexual orientation in Playboy magazine, Garcia has denied these allegations in the past, but Owens says, "Like my boy tells me: if it looks like a rat and smells like a rat, by golly, it is a rat." Owens was also asked what he would do if he found out that another player in the NFL admitted to being gay, and he responded by saying, "I probably wouldn't say anything right off the bat, I'd just see what everybody else has to say. I'd keep my distance, and hopefully, he'd keep his. If it was a guy who was helping us win ballgames, hey, I'd have no problem with it. He can do what he wants to do outside of my everyday life." These comments will probably come off as harsh to most, especially coming from one of the most controversial figures in the NFL, and I admit that it does sound pretty bad. What is your opinion about Terrell Owens after this incident and many of his other incidents? I still love him and think that he's a great football player, and that is the bottom line.

2004-08-09T23:15:00.000-04:00

2004 Olympic Preview

At the 2000 Sydney Olympics, the U.S. won 97 medals. For the 2004 Games, the U.S. Olympic committee (USOC) hopes to take 100 medals.

Men's soccer and baseball failed to qualify for 2004 Olympics. At Sydney, men's soccer placed fourth and hoping was to build on that performance, but failed to qualify. In fact, none of the top four teams from 2000 qualified for Athens making Argentina a strong favorite. Baseball was the defending Olympic champion.

To read 300 word briefs on each of the main Olympic sports (men's/women's swimming, track, bball, softball), click here.

2004-08-09T17:34:00.000-04:00

NFL on the Sports Toad

NFL coverage is coming to you soon, brought to you by the Sports Toad team. As the administrator of this website, I challenge all Sports Toad team members, and anybody else who wants to compete in a pick 'em. Each week, the Sports Toad team will post their picks all in the same post, while the guests can compete with us in the comments section. We will keep track of records and see who does the best. I'm also going to ask the team members if they would like to put a little wager on the pick 'em. The player with the best record at the end of the NFL Regular Season takes home the cash.

2004-08-09T17:23:00.000-04:00

Surprise: Edgar the Great Retires

Possibly one of the best designated hitters of all time is gone. Edgar Martinez has chosen to immediately retire, he will announce this later today. This comes as a surprise to me that he'd retire right in the middle of the season, but he's probably figuring that since the Mariners are out of contention, that he should just give up now. Martinez finished his career with impressive numbers, hitting .305 and smacking 305 homeruns throughout the course of his 18 seasons.

In other baseball news:

Pat Burrell needs season ending surgery on his wrist. The surgery will take place on Friday and he will be out of action for the rest of the season as a result. In brighter news for the Phillies, they acquired starting pitcher Cory Lidle (who tends to get hot at this time of year) from Cincinnati for two minor leaguers and a player to be named. Lidle will likely take Paul Abbott's spot in the Phillies' rotation.

Today the Dodgers learned that Brad Penny's injury was not serious and that he would only miss one start. Great news for Dodger fans.

The Rangers were swept by the Orioles in a 4 game series (Red Sox fans are beaming), and the Yankees were denied a sweep by the Toronto Blue Jays as Esteban Loaiza (who's ERA has just shot to above 5) was booed in a 5-4 loss.

2004-08-09T00:49:00.000-04:00

Tosca Fired

Blue Jays manager Carlos Tosca was fired after today's loss against the Yankees. This was the Blue Jays' 5th straight loss. They have been horrible this year, Carlos Delgado and Vernon Wells have not been the same, and neither has Roy Halladay. If those 3 players were doing their normal damage, the Blue Jays might actually be good. Ted Lilly has been a bright spot for them this season, and gives them hope for future years. Tosca will be replaced by Toronto's first base coach John Gibbons. My guess is that this will only last through the rest of the season, and then they will find themselves a real manager. What is your take on Tosca's firing? Respond below.

2004-08-09T00:29:00.000-04:00

Wake-up Call

Today, Tim Wakefield surrendered 6 homeruns. He is the first pitcher to do this since 1940, and somehow the Red Sox still won, in fact, Tim Wakefield came away from that game with the win to his account. It may have helped that 5 of the homeruns were solo shots, while the remaining homerun was a 2-run blast. It also may have helped that the Red Sox offense was also hot. I was impressed with newcomer Orlando Cabrera, who batted well at the plate and was able to steal 3rd against Pudge Rodriguez. Kevin Youkillis also played well, drilling 2 homeruns in the victory. With the win and a Ranger loss, the Red Sox are in a 3-way tie with Anaheim and Texas for the AL Wildcard lead. Let the games begin! Who will take the AL Wildcard? Vote in our Toad Poll and comment below.

2004-08-09T00:19:00.000-04:00

Unlucky Penny

Brad Penny was injured on his 14th pitch today when his arm flared up. He was removed from the game in which the Dodgers ended up losing. The extent of the injury is unknown, but his loss would be a huge blow to the Dodgers' hopes.

2004-08-08T23:47:00.000-04:00

2004 Olympics- Will they be safe?

10,500 athletes (566 of which are US athletes) representing a record 202 countries will participate in the first Summer Olympics since the September 11th attacks. Greece will have spent one and a half billion dollars on security by the finish of the Games, over five times that of which was spent on security at Sydney in 2000. “This is an unprecedented effort. More cannot be done. Nobody can guarantee 100-percent security, but we can guarantee that we've done everything that was available and possible,” International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge said to ESPN. In case of a cancellation of the Games, terrorism, or natural attacks, the IOC has a $170 million insurance policy in place.

The Olympics have had security problems in previous years. Back in 1972 at the Munich Games, a Palestinian terrorist group, Black September, killed eleven Israeli delegation members. In the 1996 Atlanta Games, one person died and 110 were injured after a pipe bomb exploded in the Olympic village.

In a poll taken a month before the Games, 80 percent of Greeks believed that an attack was inevitable while 52 percent Americans believed an attack was likely. The US Olympic Committee’s chief of security, Larry Buendorf, says that the athletes will be on flights to Athens with improved security and has an evacuation strategy in place. Many athletes don’t plan on leaving the Olympic Village except for to compete. Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams will spend their nights out on a cruise ship, Queen Mary 2, hoping to increase safety and security for the athletes. "In this time and day, if you're not concerned, you need to be. Our players should feel secure that we've done a good job,” USA Basketball spokesman Craig Miller said to ESPN.

On May fifth, 100 days before the Opening Ceremonies, three bombs exploded in Athens hurting no individuals but damaging a police station. Officials insist that it was just a coincidence and was not related to the Olympic Games. Most of Greece faced four hours without power in mid-July adding to security doubts.

Evironmental concerns have also been brought up after a report done by the World Wildlife Fund showed that high concentrations of nitrogen and ozone oxide have built up in the atmosphere. This buildup occurs when automobile and industry emissions combine with elevated levels of particle pollution and strong heat and humidity caused by the Mediterranean climate. Back in May 2003, the US Olympic Committee visited Athens and recorded pollution levels at various locations. They then returned to the US and informed athletes and coaches on the air quality at various venues. Senior sports physiologist with the committee, Randy Wilber, suggested to athletes to start practicing in places with high pollution a couple months before the games in order to adjust and see if any medical problems arise. "There is some potential for athletes' performance to be hindered, depending on first, where the venue is [and] secondly, what that sport or event is," Wilber said to CNN.

Athens has taken an increase in security precautions to better protect the Olympians. The Greek air force will be in full effect expecting to fly more than 1,200 hours during the Paralympics and Olympics with a cost of over $4,300,000. “What we do is mainly patrol over all Olympic venues, track any potential renegade aircraft, investigate, and take appropriate measures ordered by the higher command," Greek pilot Captain Thanassis Gioules told The Associated Press. A Patriot missile battery will guard the Olympic Village and other key facilities have their own anti-aircraft missiles for protection. 500 vehicles and 50 naval ships have been supplied by the military along with around 100,000 police and military personnel. During the Olympics, a zone covering 28 miles around Athens will be allowed to enter only by authorized aircrafts and a no-fly zone will be implemented over all Olympic venues.

While some US athletes have turned down the Olympics over security concerns, most athletes are determined to not let the threats ruin the games. "One thing I refuse to do is live in fear," 400m individual medley Olympic medalist Erik Vendt said to ESPN. "The terrorists' have one goal, which is to disrupt our way of life. The worst thing we could do is not go to the Olympics. You know, if you scare us, we'll back down." John Register, USOC’s Paralympic Academy in Colorado Springs manager and Paralympic medalist in the past two Summer Olympics in both track and swimming, agrees with Vendt. “Sure, I think of those [threats]. But at the same time, you can't live in fear. I'm not one to adjust anything in my life to things that are happening in other parts of the world. The whole Olympic movement is about competition and esprit de corps. I'm not going to let worrying ruin the joy of competing,” Register said to ESPN.

If you were an athlete, what would you do? And do you think Athens is ready?

2004-08-08T01:21:00.000-04:00

Does this make you better?

The USA Women's Junior National Basketball team beat Brazil on August 7th to clinch a spot in the Gold Medal game on Sunday. I wonder how many points they are going to win the Gold Medal by against Puerto Rico?

They beat Puerto Rico on August 6th by a score of 124-49, Bolivia on August 5th by a score of 143-24 and the night before beat Argentina by 84 points. I wonder how does this make your team better by winning games by this amount of points?

2004-08-07T22:11:00.000-04:00

Arsenal Faces Manchester United

Arsenal and Manchester United clash on Sunday in the Community Shield game between the FA Cup winners against the Regular Season champs. The game will be played at Cardiff's Millenium Stadium. I have no idea who will win this game but will be watching intently on Fox Sports World. I love that station.

Less then a week till the beginning of the English Premier League! A season preview will be coming this week!

2004-08-07T11:31:00.000-04:00

And it Gets Worse

David Boston will likely miss the 2004 season due to a torn patella tendon which will require surgery. The Dolphins have had the worst offseason I can recall. Started off with Ogunleye holding out, McMichael getting into trouble with the law, Williams retiring, and now losing Boston. Not to mention that draft day was a huge failure by not having any first round picks and trading a second round pick (which I believe is next years) for A.J. Feeley. By far, an awful trade for the Dolphins. Should be a long year for the Dolphins but nothing is certain in the NFL.

In other camp news, UMass alumnus Marcel Shipp (who led the minutemen to a championship) dislocated his ankle and will miss 8-12 weeks. That means Emmitt will still receive the majority of carries. Shipp last year led the Cardinals in rushing with 830 yards. I still like the direction the Cardinals are heading with a dynamic receiving duo (Fitzgerald and Boldin) and I enjoy watching Josh McCown play the game. Dennis Green will have the team better prepared each week.

On an unrelated side note, I attended Patriots Training Camp earlier in the week. The champs look as sharp as ever. If they don't win 3 out 4 Super Bowls I'd be shocked.

2004-08-06T17:08:00.000-04:00

Glove Traded To Celtics

Today the Lakers acquired Chris Mihm, Marcus Banks, Chucky Atkins, and a 2nd round pick in return for Gary Payton, Rick Fox, and a first round pick. At first, I didn't really like this deal for the Lakers, but come to think of it, I think they made out well. I think that Mihm can make a nice impact for them, and I also like the upside of Marcus Banks, and they were also able to pick up a first rounder. The Glove is aging anyways, and Rick Fox isn't good at all. So all in all, I'm sorry to break this to ZLax, but I think that the Lakers won in this deal, it will help them more in the longrun. For the meantime, however, Payton will help the Celtics on offense and defense. What do you guys think of this deal?

2004-08-06T00:51:00.000-04:00

Get a Piece of the Moon

The Missoula Osprey of the Pioneer League are given away 30 acres of land on the moon to 30 "lucky" fans on August 6th. Make sure you are there to join the likes of John Travolta and Ron Reagan who own property on the Moon.

2004-08-06T00:36:00.000-04:00

Peja Wants Out

Peja Stojakovic told the Kings today that he wants out of Sacramento, but Kings co-owner Joe Maloof was having none of it. Stojakovic has justified this by saying that he wants a change because it would help both the team and himself, and Maloof responded by basically saying that Peja isn't going anywhere because he believes that they can work out their differences. Peja has declared that he doesn't really care what team he goes to, he just wants out of Sacramento. Which teams would be a good fit for Peja? I'd love to see him in a Bulls uniform, but I doubt that would ever happen.

2004-08-06T00:29:00.000-04:00

Crawford Traded To Knicks

In a move that wasn't much of a surprise, the Chicago Bulls traded away Jamal Crawford and Jerome Williams to clear some salary room. In return, the Bulls came out of the deal with Dikembe Mutombo, Frank Williams, Othella Harrington, and Cezary Trybanski. As a Bulls fan, I'd like to have seen them keep Jamal Crawford, but it just wasn't going to happen with the size of the contract that he wanted, besides the fact that the Bulls have Kirk Hinrich and Ben Gordon in their backcourt. Jamal Crawford should help the Knicks out, as the Knicks didn't really lose too much. The Bulls are almost back on track, but are not quite there yet, in any case, they need to have big seasons from Luol Deng and Ben Gordon to be successful this season.

2004-08-05T00:33:00.000-04:00

NFLPA ARE IDIOTS

I have no idea how the NFLPA put themselves in such a weak position with their latest CBA. The NFL players have contracts to play for teams which is typical for a pro sports league but the key difference is that the contracts are not guaranteed contracts for the players. The players can be cut at any time and not be paid for the upcoming season. Couple examples of this are the Lawyer Milloy situation last year and the Eddie George situation this year. How does a Union allow for their players to be basically fired at any time without protection? Can someone explain this to me?

2004-08-05T00:23:00.000-04:00

X-Games vs Outdoor Games

The X-Games which started out in the mid-90's as a showcase of extreme sports starts up on Thursday on ESPN. The X-Games to myself have become too much about marketing instead of the actual sporting competition on the playing surface. Everything in this world has become Extreme including deodorant.

I personally enjoy the Great Outdoor Games which were held a few weeks ago in Madison Wisconsin. These people participated because they enjoy their sport instead of the money which are involved in the X-Games.

BTW, If anyone gets the chance to go to Madison take it. One of my favorite college towns of all time.

2004-08-04T16:18:00.000-04:00

USA Squeaks by Germany

The USA Men's National team needed a last second three point shot by Allen Iverson from 35 feet out to beat a German National Team today by the score of 80-77. The German team was led by Dirk but was without their top two guards who are injured. Another fact about Germany is that they are not in the Olympics because they did not qualify for the games. Lets see how the USA do against a good international basketball team on Friday against Serbia.

2004-08-04T13:05:00.000-04:00

Shaughnessy Bites Back at Nomar!

Dan Shaughnessy wrote an article today about the Nomar Garciaparra trade for the second time in three days. He gives many examples in his article about how Nomar treated people out of the public light including this quote from the article:

He became a virtual recluse in the clubhouse, rarely interacting with teammates, occasionally angry about official scoring decisions, and forever feeling persecuted for reasons no one could fathom. He knew about the A-Rod negotiations but pretended he first heard about them on ESPN. This season, he became difficult about small matters. He demanded to be compensated (and was accommodated) for the use of his image in "Still, We Believe." He feuded with Major League Baseball over a standard MLB sticker on the back of his helmet -- childishly smearing it with dirt after MLB fined him for peeling it off.

Here is the link to his article for Tuesday

2004-08-04T11:41:00.000-04:00

World Cup of Baseball in Jeopardy?

There is a plan in place to hold the World Cup of Baseball next spring in the United States of America. The tournament would be run by Major League baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association. There is a problem with this proposal because the Japanese are not interested in participating because the dates of the tournament is too close to the start of the Japanese Baseball season. Things are still up in the air so Stay Tuned to the SportsToad for the latest information.

Click here for the AP Article

2004-08-03T16:09:00.000-04:00

Italia, Italia, Italia

The Italian National Basketball Team upset the USA Men's Basketball team by a score of 95-78. The best part of the game was that playing "TEAM" basketball beats individual basketball. International Refs are very good at their job because they actually know what a traveling call is. Is the USA Men's Team even going to compete in the Olympics with a performance like this against Italy the weakest European team in the Olympics?

Couple of facts
3 Italians have played in the NBA.
0 Current NBA Players on Italy

International Basketball is much better to watch because the game is about putting the ball in the basket. In the NBA, there is too much isolation plays instead of a team concept like the Italian team had today. I wish the NBA could become more like the international game to increase the amount of ball movement and so on.

2004-08-03T13:11:00.000-04:00

Random WNBA/NBA Tidbits

I just got back from a Detroit Shock game against Minnesota Lynx where I hung out with a bunch of friends from school, including Keri Laimbeer (yes, Bill Laimbeer's daughter). We of course talked about plenty of basketball and I found a few things to be very interesting...

1) Both the men's and women's basketball Olympic teams will be spending their nights on a cruise ship rather then a hotel. Its much safer then a hotel, because the ship will be going out to sea at night and will make for a harder time for terrorists to attack (compared to a nonmobile location).

2) The WNBA All-Star game on Tuesday will not be your typical West vs. East game. Rather, the all-star team vs. the US Olympic team.

3) The top WNBA players (ok, the top player for Detroit) brings in $87,000 in salary. Plus a house and a car. Not bad for only 3 months of playing time. Players make even more by playing overseas in the off-season. Swin Cash (captain of the Shock and 2004 Olympian) made $200,000 while playing overseas.

Just some random and interesting facts I found out tonight. The Shock lost, unfortunately, 59-58. They remain tied for second in the East.

2004-08-02T22:57:00.000-04:00

Smarty Jones goes to Stud

Smarty Jones, the Preakness and Kentucky Derby winner of 2004 and came within one length of winning the Triple Crown has been retired from competitive racing. The reason is that Smarty has a chronic leg bruise that will not go away and the trainers do not want Smarty Jones to become cripple then having to get put down without getting the great stud fees which he will receive.

Click here for Full Story

2004-08-02T22:16:00.000-04:00

Fresh Sox

The new and improved Red Sox flashed the leather, got behind Tim Wakefield, and won the game tonight in Tampa. From the perspective of a Sox fan, I like what I saw tonight. Good defense, good communication, good teamwork, all around good game. I'm hoping that the pitchers can gain some confidence knowing that they have solid defenders behind them that will make the outs if the ball is put in play. This should specifically help Derek Lowe who has been much better lately. Tonight's 6-3 victory had me beaming, because I was so happy to see this team playing together, being happy together, and winning ballgames like I know they can. This team really has added by subtraction. Without Nomar Garciaparra, I think the amount of chemistry in the clubhouse will rise, which will lead to better play from all of the players. They need to play like they did tonight for the rest of the season and through October (my fingers are crossed that they can just get there). Go Red Sox. What is your opinion of the Nomar deal and of the new look Red Sox?

2004-08-02T13:25:00.000-04:00

No Soccer!

This site has gone 18 consecutive days without anything soccer related being posted! Lets make it last.

2004-07-31T15:59:00.000-04:00

Red Sox Trade Nomah!

The Red Sox have traded Nomar Garciaparra to the Chicago Cubs for Doug Mientkiewicz (first try I spelled that right) and Orlando Cabrera. Cabrera is one of the least known shortstops in the league and Doug Mientkiewicz is one of the best if not the best defensive first baseman in the league. Thumbs Up from Zlax45.

In a separate move, The Red Sox picked up Dave Roberts from the LA Dodgers in return for a Triple AAA outfielder. Zlax45 thinks this might be the best move of the day because of the speed factor of Roberts.

2004-07-31T14:08:00.000-04:00

Justin Morneau Bobblehead Day

Will Doug Mientkiewicz go today? 2 hours left until the deadline.

2004-07-31T01:19:00.000-04:00

Tight Races in the Minor Leagues

All three divisions in the International League are still up for grabs. Scranton (Phillies) seem to be crashing and burning down the stretch as they fall even lower after blowing their once comfortable lead.

2004-07-31T00:55:00.000-04:00

Aluminum Foil Mike

Iron Mike was KO'd by unknown Danny Williams in four rounds. This might put a dent in Mike's plans to fight his way out of debt.

2004-07-30T23:44:00.000-04:00

Deadline Dealin'

In this deal, the Mets acquired Victor Zambrano from Tampa Bay.

Mets Receive:

Victor Zambrano (from TB)

Devil Rays Receive:

Scott Kazmir (Mets Top pitching prospect)
Jose Diaz (NYM AAA Pitcher )

In this deal, the Mets acquired starting pitcher Kris Benson.

Mets Receive:

Kris Benson (from Pit)

Pirates Receive:

Ty Wigginton
Matt Peterson (Prospect Pitcher)
Jose Bautista

In another deadline deal, Ricky Ledee was traded to San Francisco from Philadelphia.

Giants Receive:

Ricky Ledee (OF)

Phillies Receive:

Felix Rodriguez (Righthanded RP)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rballer's Take:

The Phillies made a pretty good deal and got a much needed RP with Wagner ailing. Rodriguez should be a boost to their bullpen. I'm not sure if Ricky Ledee will be a good addition for San Francisco (Anything is better then Micheal Tucker though), but we shall see. In the bigger trade of the day, I like what the Mets did adding two pitchers. They came out of the deal with a pitcher that strikes out alot of hitters in Victor Zambrano, and were also able to come up with another solid starter in Kris Benson. Hopefully, for the Devil Rays and Pirates, this trade will help them in the longrun but it's a crapshoot at this point. Look for more deadline dealing tomorrow, I'm hoping that my Red Sox decide to make a move for another OF (with Trot Nixon ailing) and possibly another starting pitcher. I'm not expecting any big moves from Nomar Garciaparra, but a move from Randy Johnson could be awaiting us tomorrow. Don't you just love the deadline? What's your take on these deals and other deals that may occur within the next 16 hours before the deadline?

2004-07-30T22:30:00.000-04:00

Giambi has a tumor!!!!

Jason Giambi's test results came back on Friday night and he has a benign tumor somewhere in his body. I wonder if the Steroids, he has taken in the past might have caused this tumor. More Details to follow!!!

2004-07-30T18:43:00.000-04:00

A Penny For Your Thoughts

The Dodgers did not want a penny for their thoughts, they wanted a Penny for their pitching staff. Today they went out and got Marlin stud pitcher Brad Penny in a 6 player deal. They also acquired Hee-Seop Choi and a AA Prospect. To get this, they gave up reliever Guillermo Mota, catcher Paul Lo Duca, and Juan Encarnacion. My question is, isn't it offense that the Dodgers need? In any case, I think this was a pretty good deal for the Dodgers. I like Brad Penny, so I'm not quite sure I like this deal for the Marlins. What do you think?

2004-07-28T20:13:00.000-04:00

David Givens signed today to avoid free agency next year. Givens is a rising star on the Patriots and I expect him to have a breakout year. He did lead the team in TD catches last year. Patriots also signed Tom Ashworth. Now they just need to get Ben Watson signed.

2004-07-27T21:46:00.000-04:00

Petitte May Be Injured Again

He has a small tear in the flexor tendon of the left elbow. It is possible that he could be DL bound again. This comes as a major blow to the Houston Astros, who needed nothing besides a boost.

2004-07-27T21:43:00.000-04:00

Yankees Still Waiting

The Yankees are still waiting on results from the tests that were done on 1st baseman Jason Giambi. It is possible that his season may be over due to a parasite problem that has gotten out of control.

2004-07-25T01:13:00.000-04:00

Ricky Williams Retires

I have just received some shocking news that Miami Dolphin runningback Ricky Williams will retire after 5 seasons as a pro. It is likely drug problems that has motivated him to retire, but he had such a great career ahead of him, it's very unfortunate to see a player this gifted give up his career after such a short amount of time.

2004-07-24T23:49:00.000-04:00

Rballer's Holy Predictions - Week 7

KC @ Cle
TB @ Tor
Fla @ Mtl
Atl @ NYM
Min @ Bal
CHC @ Phi
Cin @ Pit
Mil @ Hou
SF @ STL
Det @ CWS
Tex @ Oak
Ana @ Sea
SD @ LA
Col @ Ari
NYY @ Bos

Last Week: 10-5
Overall: 50-41

2004-07-24T23:41:00.000-04:00

Who Has Fire?

The Boston Red Sox have fire. That fight that was started by a disagreement between Alex Rodriguez and Jason Varitek may have sparked some chemistry, they played together, they stuck together, it was almost like something you'd see quite alot last season. Varitek and Rodriguez exchanged some words and it became apparent that there is some bad blood lingering between the two teams. Tanyon Sturtze tried to cheap shot Kapler but he ended up paying for it when he was greet by Nixon and Ortiz. Sturtze left with a bruised pinky finger, and he also had a cut near his ear that bled down onto his uniform. I'm so proud of them for how they hung together today, they need to play better defense, but they stayed in the game and ended up winning it and staying in contention for the AL East. My boy Bill Mueller capped it off with a 2-run walk off homerun.

2004-07-23T17:00:00.000-04:00

George Becomes A Cowboy

Former Titan runningback Eddie George (who was cut 2 days ago by Tennessee) has signed a contract with the Dallas Cowboys. This is a pretty good move for the Cowboys who desperately needed a runningback after ditching former starter Troy Hambrick. I'm not sure on the exact amount of Eddie's deal, but if the Cowboys didn't overpay, they made a great move for their football team.

2004-07-23T00:37:00.000-04:00

Drunk Driving Legal in Tennesee

McNair is pretty damn lucky.

In her order, Blackburn referenced a videotape taken from Taylor's patrol car that showed McNair's Lincoln Navigator touching the yellow line several times, but not crossing over until McNair turned into a gas station.

"Tennessee courts have held that neither drifting within a lane nor merely touching the dividing lane is a sufficient basis to stop a vehicle," Blackburn wrote.

Since the stop was illegal, all of the evidence is thrown out. So if you are driving through Tennessee, just don't cross the line and you will be alright.

2004-07-22T23:48:00.000-04:00

Finally, Marion Jones found to be taking Banned Substances

The SF Chronicle is reporting that Marion Jones took banned substances during the Sydney Olympics. This lady is a cheater and should be banned from the sport for the rest of her life. She has cheated every person in this world by not following the rules and by deceiving the World Anti-Doping Association. I challenge the US Olympic Committee to step up and ban her from the sport immediately. Also, the IOC should strip her of the 5 gold medals won in Sydney.

C.J. Hunter, a former shot-put champion and admitted steroid user who was divorced from Jones in 2002, said his ex-wife had had human growth hormone and a steroid-like substance known as "the clear" with her at the Sydney Games. At times, Hunter said, he personally injected Jones with banned substances. He also reported seeing Jones inject herself with drugs at the residence they shared in Australia, according to investigators' memos obtained by The Chronicle.

Read the article here

2004-07-22T13:18:00.000-04:00

Yankee Stars Are Hurting

Derek Jeter is going to play with a fractured bone in his hand and Giambi's illness is getting more mysterious. The Yanks are lucky that they have opened up an 8-game lead on the Red Sox.

2004-07-21T11:59:00.000-04:00

Junior to Have Truex on Standby

Dale Earhardt Jr. will have the driver of his Busch Series car, Martin Truex Jr., waiting to jump in this weekend at New Hampshire. It is unknown if Earnhardt will have any difficulties with his burns under race conditions. As long as Earnhardt starts the race, he receives all of the points aquired by the finishing result, no matter how many drivers take the wheel. Truex is leading the Busch series standings in just his first full season and has never run a Nextel Cup race. This will give Truex an opportunity to start getting familiar with Cup cars and potentially groom him to run a full 2005 Cup season in the vacant, but unsponsored, #1 car in the DEI stables.

2004-07-21T07:39:00.000-04:00

Fantasy Watch

Travis Hafner is on fire, and I really do not think that this is a flash in the pan type deal. Hafner is for real. Over the last 2 days Hafner has smacked 5 Homeruns for 11 RBIs and has also scored 5 runs with an .875 batting average. On the season, Hafner now has 62 runs, 17 homers, 75 RBIs, and a .331 batting average. Props to the owners that drafted this man. One guy that I believe is not for real, however, is Lyle Overbay, he has great numbers so far, but I really feel that they will not continue. If you have Overbay on your fantasy squad, you might want to consider trading him while his value is high.