Michael Vick: Why The Eagles Franchise Tag Is The Best Move Possible For The QB

Michael Vick: Why The Eagles Franchise Tag Is The Best Move Possible For The QB

On Sunday, reports came out that the Philadelphia Eagles are going to use their franchise tag on QB Michael Vick. By doing so the team guarantees that Vick will be a member of the team for the 2011 season, assuming that there is one.

This is the best possible move that the team can make and it's in the best interest of the player.

Every year players get slapped with the franchise tag, and they absolutely hate it. In this case, the tag benefits both parties tremendously.

For the Eagles, they get to keep their quarterback, who led them to a division championship and a surprise playoff appearance in 2010. The offense was so dynamic with Vick under center. This teams best chance to win immediately is with Vick. It will cost them a lot of money, somewhere in the neighborhood of $20 million for one year.

For Vick, this is the best thing that could have happened to him. He wasn't going to get a multi-year deal for a multitude of reasons, not the least of which is his inability to stay healthy. This way he will get paid a ton of money for one year and he can continue to reestablish his value throughout the NFL. If he performs well in 2011, he will be in line for a big time contract.

Vick, for as good as he was in 2010, is still a bit of an unknown commodity. He missed four games last season due to injury. He is going to be 31 years old and his best season as a passing quarterback came when he was 30.

It is a dangerous long-term investment to pay a player who has had a career year when they are playing for a contract. We have seen it in every single sport, someone who is an average player all of a sudden busts out and has an MVP-caliber year. They parlay that year into a huge contract and they never perform up to that level again.

By using the franchise tag, the team will be able to see if Vick's performance in 2010 was a sign of things to come or more of an aberration. Given everything that has happened to him in the past, and how he seemed to mature both on and off the field, he should be given the benefit of the doubt.

Related Story: Why The Eagles Are Going For It All In 2011

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/590952-bubba-watson-michael-vick-wwe-royal-rumble-2011-and-mondays-top-sports-news/entry/45904-michael-vick-why-the-eagles-franchise-tag-is-the-best-move-possible-for-the-qb

Houston Astros Los Angeles Dodgers Milwaukee Brewers New York Mets Philadelphia Phillies Pittsburgh Pirates

Joe Morgan Looking Forward to Life After 'Sunday Night Baseball'

Filed under: Reds, Sports Business and Media

For the better part of his life, Joe Morgan has spent his summer Sundays at the ballpark.

For two decades, starting when he was out of high school, it was as a player. Since 1990, it's been as a broadcaster.

Now that's over. With ESPN declining to offer Morgan and his longtime compatriot in the "Sunday Night Baseball" broadcast booth, Jon Miller, contracts for 2011, Morgan is entering a new phase of his life.

He's accepted the offer of Walt Jocketty to join the Cincinnati Reds as a front office adviser. Morgan, whose Hall of Fame career was launched when he helped form Cincinnati's Big Red Machine in the 1970s, has long had a locker in Cincinnati even after his retirement.

 

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Source: http://mlb.fanhouse.com/2011/01/28/joe-morgan-looking-forward-to-life-after-sunday-night-baseball/

Montreal Canadiens Ottawa Senators Toronto Maple Leafs Atlanta Trashers Carolina Hurricanes Florida Panthers

National Signing Day 2011: 3-Star Recruit, Herve Coby Commits to Bowling Green

While signing day isn't until Wednesday, some were ready to make their decisions known. As 3-star recruit Herve Coby filed through all of his letters, which included over 30 offers from colleges around the country, he found it to be the "most exciting time that also came with frustrating times." 

Coby who made his announcement live via a telephone interview with all4recruits.com Coby announced that he would be playing college football at Bowling Green. While admitting that he was set on attending West Virginia, Coby decided to turn to Bowling Green saying that "as soon as I stepped on campus I felt a part of the family."

His talent is not questioned, as he has been told that if Coby continues to work, a possible starting job is up for grabs. As the relief of finally committing to a college and getting the recruiting off his mind, Coby now focuses on being the best player he can be for the Falcons. 

"I'm going in there to bring the best play that I can, and become the best player I can," Coby said. "They have one of the best receptions record in the NCAA and I have set a personal goal to try and break that record in my four years while attending Bowling Green."

Then Coby turned the interview fan friendly saying that the "opponents should know we are going to come out and be the hardest team they will face. I will be working to become the best prime-time performer I can be and for that I am ready to be a part of the Bowling Green State Falcons."

You can catch the full interview and explanation of who www.all4recruits.com is here: 

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/12362698

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/590678-national-signing-day-2011-3-star-recruit-herve-coby-commits-to-bowling-green

Mark Fraser Andy Greene zach Parise bryce Salvador Wade Belak Martin Erat

LB Graham Stewart Decommits From Boston College, Headed To The Swamp

Source: http://www.bcinterruption.com/2011/1/29/1962766/lb-graham-stewart-decommits-from-boston-college-headed-to-the-swamp

Nick Johnson Javier Lopez Alex Hinshaw Ramon Ramirez Sergio Romo Brian Wilson

College basketball notebook: Q&A with BC?s Reggie Jackson

Source: http://www.bcinterruption.com/2011/1/27/1959811/college-basketball-notebook-q-a-with-bcs-reggie-jackson

Tampa Bay Lightning Washington Capitals Arizona Diamondbacks Atlanta Braves Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds

SPOKANE DROPS A WILD ONE

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/spokane-drops-wild-one.html

Chad Moeller Jorge Posada Lance Berkman Reegie Corona Juan Miranda Colin Curtis

2011 NHL All-Star Mock Draft: Assessing Team Lidstrom vs. Team Staal

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/1/26/1957770/2011-nhl-all-star-mock-draft-assessing-team-lidstrom-vs-team-staal

Mark Fraser Andy Greene zach Parise bryce Salvador Wade Belak Martin Erat

Phantoms Unveil New Mascot, And It's Worse Than The Team

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/1/27/1959661/phantoms-unveil-new-mascot-and-its-worse-than-the-team

Vancouver Canucks Anaheim Ducks Dallas Los Angeles Kings Phoenix Coyotes San Jose Sharks

Boston College Football's 2011 Opponents' Returning Starters

Source: http://www.bcinterruption.com/2011/1/28/1960446/boston-college-footballs-2011-opponents-returning-starters

Jason Arnott David Clarkson Patrick Davis Tyler Eckford Mark Fraser Andy Greene

Oakland Raiders: Dream On, Challenge the Steelers and Packers in the Future

My daily routine includes researching NFL data and writing an article if the inspiration hits me.

This morning I had to write because I realize that some of us are destined to reflect on what is and what can be in our lives and in the lives of the Oakland Raiders and Raider Nation.

As I witnessed the unrest in Cairo, Egypt, and remembered when I visited there while ago as part of President Bill Clinton's entourage in August 2000, I realize how our love for the NFL and sports help relieve the tension of the times we are living in.

We carry the name Raider Nation with pride. It symbolizes a micro-America with much diversity, passion, inventiveness and innovation. We can be inventive, scary, strong, screwd, scholarly, shocking and even sober. One thing is certain: We believe in a commitment to excellence.

That is, indeed, a high call.

Let's dream on and think about the shocking outcomes of the games to be played in 2011. We believe that the Oakland Raiders are going to scare their most "formidable" opponents. Actually, no opponent strikes fear in the Oakland Raiders, but the media usually has another slant on this issue.

Let's talk, for example, about the Pittsburgh Steelers.

A global comparison is presented to help us gain focus on who we are and where we are headed. Let's dream on, and then wake up to experience a victorious future.

Here is a partial list of NFL data on the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Oakland Raiders. It is a record of wins for each team for the seasons spanning 1990 to 2010.

Steelers	Raiders
9	12	3	excellent
7	9	2	excellent
11	7	-4	poor
9	10	1	excellent
12	9	-3	fair
11	8	-3	fair
10	7	-3	fair
11	4	-7	poor
7	8	1	excellent
6	8	2	excellent
9	12	3	excellent
13	10	-3	fair
10	11	1	excellent
6	4	-2	fair
15	5	-10	poor
11	4	-7	poor
8	2	-6	poor
10	4	-6	poor
12	5	-7	poor
9	5	-5	poor
12	8	-4	poor

Criteria have been established by this B/R writer. If the number in the third column is positive, then it is tagged "excellent" for the Oakland Raiders. If the number is negative, then either good, fair or poor is used.

Note that there has been a steady increase in the performance of the Oakland Raiders since 2007 when compared to the Steelers.

As we dream on, we in the Raider Nation know that the Oakland Raiders are capable of defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Now, if a Steelers fan is reading this "dream on" article, just remember the Oakland Raiders shocked the Steelers at least one time in 2010. The Raiders expect to shock the Steelers again in 2011, whether they win the Super Bowl on Feb. 6 or not.

For that matter, if the Green Bay Packers win, the same challenge is set forth. The gauntlet has been dropped. Let the games begin because the Oakland Raiders are preparing to win.

Go Raiders!

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/590212-oakland-raiders-dream-on-challenge-the-steelers-and-packers-in-the-future

Kerry Wood Francisco Cervelli Chad Moeller Jorge Posada Lance Berkman Reegie Corona

Adam Kennedy, Mariners Infielder, Arrested on Suspicion of DUI

Filed under: Mariners, MLB Police Blotter

Mariners infielder Adam Kennedy was arrested Wednesday night in Newport, Calif., on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Kennedy was arrested shortly after 9 p.m. and released from the Orange County Jail around 6:30 a.m. Thursday, according to the Orange County Register.

"I want to let you know this is not the typical character of me,'' Kennedy told the Seattle Times Thursday afternoon. "It's something I'm really ashamed of, and not proud to bring to the Seattle Mariners, especially not having put on the uniform. It's my first legal trouble -- something I'm definitely not looking to ever do again.''

Mariners general manager Jack Zduriencik told FanHouse's John Hickey he had no comment on Kennedy's arrest. The incident came eight days after Seattle outfielder Milton Bradley was arrested in California and charged with making criminal threats.

A Southern California native and former Angels standout, Kennedy signed a minor league deal with Seattle about three weeks ago. He hit .249 in 135 games for the Nationals last year.

The best seasons of his 12-year career came with the Angels, who he helped to the 2002 World Series title. He is best known for hitting three home runs against the Twins in Game 5 of the ALCS that year but has a .308 average and .843 OPS in 25 career playoff games.

 

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Source: http://mlb.fanhouse.com/2011/01/27/adam-kennedy-mariners-infielder-arrested-on-suspicion-of-dui/

Philadelphia Phillies Pittsburgh Pirates San Diego Padres San Francisco Giants St. Louis Cardinals Washington Nationals

RECORD CROWD THROWS 5,031 TEDDY BEARS ON SHOWARE ICE

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/record-crowd-throws-5031-teddy-bears-on.html

New Jersey Devil New York Islanders New York Rangers Philadelphia Flyers Pittsburgh Penguins Boston Bruins

Daily Cupcakes: January 28th, 2011

Source: http://www.milehighhockey.com/2011/1/28/1960541/daily-cupcakes-january-28th-2011

Martin Erat Marcel Goc Jamie Lundmark Nick Spaling Pikka Rinne Mathieu Carle

Watch The 10 Most Incredible NHL All-Star Moments In History

Not coincidentally, many of the greatest All-Star Game moments involve the game's greatest players.  Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux left their marks on the event perhaps more than any other players, and their achievements are sprinkled across the record books.

But it's not just the most famous players of all time that create memories on these weekends.  Al Iafrate and Owen Nolan, though well known in the hockey community, are not household names and created two of the most indelible All-Star memories.

So who else was responsible for the greatest All-Star memories ever?

Changing of the guard ? Gordie Howe's last All-Star Game and Wayne Gretzky's first in 1980

Wayne Gretzky scores four goals in the third period of the 1983 All-Star Game

Mario Lemieux picks up six points during the 1988 All-Star Game ? a still standing record

View more at Business Insider

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/businessinsider/sportspage/~3/g38quiD9Vqc/top-nhl-all-star-game-moments-skills-competition-2011-1

Jason Arnott David Clarkson Patrick Davis Tyler Eckford Mark Fraser Andy Greene

Albert Pujols Will Reject Any Trade Proposals if No Extension Is Reached

Filed under: Cardinals, MLB Rumors

Albert Pujols has already said he wants to end his career as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals, stipulating, however, that any long-term contract must be completed by Feb. 19, the first day he will report to spring training because he doesn't want the negotiations to be a distraction during the season.

Regardless of what transpires over the next three weeks of negotiations, the All-Star first baseman will not be traded anywhere -- because he would veto any proposal -- according to a report from Buster Olney of ESPN.

Since Pujols has spent 10 years in the majors and five with the same team, he has the right to veto any trade and will exercise that right if a trade possibility for the Cardinals surfaces moving forward.

For the most part, the negotiations between the first baseman and the Cardinals have been kept under wraps, as both parties have sought to keep it away from the media. If no deal is agreed to by spring training, it is very likely -- based on Pujols' demands -- that he ends up exploring free agency next fall.

Pujols is in his last year of a seven-year, $100 million contract and his next pact will undoubtedly rival the 10-year, $275 million deal Alex Rodriguez received with the New York Yankees in 2007.

If the Cardinals cannot reach an agreement with Pujols and he leaves as a free agent, they will receive two draft picks as compensation.

The slugging first baseman finished last season with a .312 batting average, 42 home runs and 118 RBI. For his career, he's been selected to nine All-Star games, earned three NL MVP awards and six Silver Slugger awards. He's also a two-time Gold Glove Award winner.

 

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Source: http://mlb.fanhouse.com/2011/01/29/albert-pujols-will-reject-any-trade-proposals-if-no-extension-is/

Steve Garrison Phil Hughes Damaso Marte Mariano Rivera Kerry Wood Francisco Cervelli

Wednesday Morning Fly By: Winter Break

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/1/26/1957141/wednesday-morning-fly-by-winter-break

David Clarkson Patrick Davis Tyler Eckford Mark Fraser Andy Greene zach Parise

AJM Guest Post on Bluebird Banter

Source: http://www.lonestarball.com/2011/1/26/1958084/ajm-guest-post-on-bluebird-banter

Reegie Corona Juan Miranda Colin Curtis Kevin Russo Curtis Granderson Nick Johnson

MLB Fantasy Baseball 2011: 5 Young Arms I Am Reaching for on Draft Day

To get Roy Halladay in 2011, you will probably have to spend a first round pick on him. Sure, he's great and all, but I don't think I would want to spend my first pick on a guy that I can only use once every five days.

I like results, and hitters are going to show me results everyday. That's why I hardly ever draft a pitcher in the first six rounds. 

Usually, I plan on taking pitchers beginning in seventh round, but the goal is to find guys in the middle to late rounds that will give you stats somewhat comparable to the big arms of Lincecum, Felix, Wainwright, etc. 

The following is a list of five pitchers who I believe will have great seasons. What makes them even more appealing is that you should be able to get them outside of the first 8-10 rounds of your draft. 

If you are in a keeper league this will be even more valuable to you; as the average age of all these arms is well under 25.

So read, enjoy, discuss and debate, but in the end, hopefully this list will help you cheaply land a player that may produce a third round type season at a tenth round cost. 

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/588947-fantasy-baseball-2011-5-young-arms-i-am-reaching-for-on-draft-day

columbus blue jackets detroit red wings nashville predators St Louis Blues Calgary Flames Colorado Avalanche

BALANCED OFFENSE GUIDES LANCERS 5-2 PAST FORCE

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/balanced-offense-guides-lancers-5-2.html

Andy Greene zach Parise bryce Salvador Wade Belak Martin Erat Marcel Goc

Scott Hartnell: Chris Pronger's Puck Stealing Accomplice

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/1/27/1959530/scott-hartnell-chris-prongers-puck-stealing-accomplice

Boston Red Sox Chicago White Sox Cleveland Indians Detroit Tigers Kansas City Royals Los Angeles Dodgers

Game 49 Live Thread: Blues at Avalanche

Source: http://www.milehighhockey.com/2011/1/24/1954111/game-49-live-thread-blues-at-avalanche

Ramon Ramirez Sergio Romo Brian Wilson Eli Whiteside Mike Fontenot Brett Pill

Philadelphia Phillies: Their Top 10 Mascots

You are probably asking me the question—Why even rank mascots when there is one obvious mascot that is far and above all the rest.

There is one mascot that is clearly the number one mascot in Philadelphia, and according to Forbes magazine, in all sports.

So, without further ado, let's rank the Phillies mascots.  Hold on tight, because it may not be just what you expect.

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/589001-philadelphia-phillies-their-top-10-mascots

Brad Davis Logan Morrison Mike Stanton Josh Bailey Mark Eaton Trent Hunter

Pegula To Outline Plan To Buy Sabres

from The Buffalo News,


RALEIGH, N.C. ? Billionaire businessman Terry Pegula today is expected to take a major step toward buying the Buffalo Sabres when he meets with the NHL executive committee during All-Star Weekend. He will outline his plans to purchase the franchise for $175 million.


The presentation before the panel is considered one of the last hurdles he must clear before officially assuming ownership from Rochester billionaire Tom Golisano. Pegula is expected to be approved by the executive committee over the next several days before the purchase is voted upon by the full NHL board of governors in the next few weeks.


more

Source: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/pegula_to_outline_plan_to_buy_sabres/

St Louis Blues Calgary Flames Colorado Avalanche Edmonton Oilers Minnesota Wild Vancouver Canucks

Avalanche Shake Off the Blues, 4-3

Source: http://www.milehighhockey.com/2011/1/24/1954633/avalanche-shake-off-the-blues-4-3

Jason Arnott David Clarkson Patrick Davis Tyler Eckford Mark Fraser Andy Greene

Wednesday a.m. Rangers stuff

Source: http://www.lonestarball.com/2011/1/26/1957208/wednesday-a-m-rangers-stuff

Mathieu Carle Lars Eller Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus Colton Gilies

Here Are Your 2011 NHL All-Star Teams

We'll have more analysis of the NHL's first All-Star Fantasy Draft tomorrow on the Sports Page, but in the meantime here are tonight's draft results.  Pick numbers are in parenthesis.

Team Staal

C Eric Staal - Captain

D Mike Green - Alternate Captain

C Ryan Kesler - Alternate Captain

(1) G Cam Ward

(3) LW Alex Ovechkin

(5) LW Daniel Sedin

(7) D Zdeno Chara

(9) RW Rick Nash

(11) G Henrik Lundqvist

(13) D Marc Staal

(15) RW Patrick Sharp

(17) D Dan Boyle

(19) G Carey Price

(21) RW Jeff Skinner

(23) D Kris Letang

(25) C Claude Giroux

(27) D Erik Karlsson

(29) RW Corey Perry

Logan Couture's rookies join Team Staal

(31) RW Patrik Elias

(33) RW David Backes

(35) C Paul Stastny

 

Team Lidstrom

D Nicklas Lidstrom - Captain

RW Patrick Kane - Alternate Captain

RW Martin St. Louis - Alternate Captain

(2) C Steven Stamkos

(4) D Duncan Keith

(6) C Henrik Sedin

(8) D Shea Weber

(10) G Tim Thomas

(12) RW Danny Briere

(14) D Dustin Byfuglien

(16) C Jonathan Toews

(18) G Marc-Andre Fleury

(20) G Jonas Hiller

(22) C Brad Richards

(24) D Keith Yandle

(26) D Brent Burns

(28) RW Martin Havlat

(30) C Anze Kopitar

Taylor Hall's rookies join Team Lidstrom

(32) C Matt Duchene

(34) RW Loui Eriksson

(36) RW Phil Kessel

Stay tuned to the Sports Page all weekend for All-Star coverage >

Join the conversation about this story »

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/businessinsider/sportspage/~3/3JTgXyKO-0g/nhl-all-star-fantasy-draft-all-star-rosters-2011-1

Dwayne Roloson Jon Sim Jason Arnott David Clarkson Patrick Davis Tyler Eckford

NYC Week On Pipeline: 50% Off CityView Tennis Membership

Why We Chose This Deal:  This winter has been brutal and it's not over yet. CityView Tennis is an oasis offering a welcome change from the snow and slush. Seize the chance to try an awesome new tennis facility complete with spa, fitness center, squash, and a healthy cafe with amazing views.  

Today's Deal:  50% off a monthly Premium Membership at CityView Tennis Club. In addition to prime access to pristine, temperature-controlled indoor courts, you’ll have full use of the state-of-the-art facility. And when you can’t get a game, they’ll even find you a suitable one among their members.  It's an amazing opportunity to gain access to the top private tennis club in NYC with absolutely no initiation fee, dues, or the usual 12-month obligation. Membership even comes your own tennis concierge.

• 80,000-square-foot luxury facility featuring tennis and squash courts, state-of-the-art fitness center, full-service spa, juice bar, cocktail lounge, and breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.

• Guaranteed access during peak hours

• Extras:  20% off spa services, 2 guests passes for non-members, free 30-minute tennis level assessment session with a club professional.

Check out CityView Tennis for yourself >>

 

What is Pipeline? Find out more >>
Follow Pipeline on Twitter >>

Join the conversation about this story »

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/businessinsider/sportspage/~3/n28TccxbFA0/nyc-week-on-pipeline-50-off-cityview-tennis-membership-2011-1

bryce Salvador Wade Belak Martin Erat Marcel Goc Jamie Lundmark Nick Spaling

CANADIENS AT FLYERS: SECOND PERIOD THREAD Could we be in for some more of this? We're hoping for...

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/1/25/1956378/second-period-thread-could-we-be-in-for-some-more-of-this-were-hoping

Ottawa Senators Toronto Maple Leafs Atlanta Trashers Carolina Hurricanes Florida Panthers Tampa Bay Lightning

Gonchar Available

from Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun,

While the names of defenceman Chris Phillips and winger Jarkko Ruutu have been bandied about on the trade market for months, Gonchar?s availability has only just surfaced and comes as a bit of a surprise.


Gonchar, 36, arrived amid great fanfare when he signed as an unrestricted free agent on July 1, but has produced only six goals and 15 assists in 50 games and is a brutal minus-17.


There are plenty of teams looking for defencemen as the deadline approaches ? the Sharks, Blue Jackets and Bruins among them.


With two years and $11 million (all terms US) left on the three-year, $16.5-million deal he signed after spending five seasons with the Penguins, Gonchar isn?t an attractive option for many teams.


?You could deal him, but you?re going to have to take somebody back,? said one NHL insider. ?It?s going to have to be a dollar-for-dollar, which means they?ll have to take someone?s big contract back.


?This is going to be a really tough deal for (the Senators) to make.?


more

Source: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/gonchar_available/

Pittsburgh Penguins Boston Bruins Buffalo Sabres Montreal Canadiens Ottawa Senators Toronto Maple Leafs

Jacks come up short in 5-4 loss to Indiana

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/jacks-come-up-short-in-5-4-loss-to.html

nashville predators St Louis Blues Calgary Flames Colorado Avalanche Edmonton Oilers Minnesota Wild

Adam Kennedy, Mariners Infielder, Arrested on Suspicion of DUI

Filed under: Mariners, MLB Police Blotter

Mariners infielder Adam Kennedy was arrested Wednesday night in Newport, Calif., on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Kennedy was arrested shortly after 9 p.m. and released from the Orange County Jail around 6:30 a.m. Thursday, according to the Orange County Register.

"I want to let you know this is not the typical character of me,'' Kennedy told the Seattle Times Thursday afternoon. "It's something I'm really ashamed of, and not proud to bring to the Seattle Mariners, especially not having put on the uniform. It's my first legal trouble -- something I'm definitely not looking to ever do again.''

Mariners general manager Jack Zduriencik told FanHouse's John Hickey he had no comment on Kennedy's arrest. The incident came eight days after Seattle outfielder Milton Bradley was arrested in California and charged with making criminal threats.

A Southern California native and former Angels standout, Kennedy signed a minor league deal with Seattle about three weeks ago. He hit .249 in 135 games for the Nationals last year.

The best seasons of his 12-year career came with the Angels, who he helped to the 2002 World Series title. He is best known for hitting three home runs against the Twins in Game 5 of the ALCS that year but has a .308 average and .843 OPS in 25 career playoff games.

 

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Source: http://mlb.fanhouse.com/2011/01/27/adam-kennedy-mariners-infielder-arrested-on-suspicion-of-dui/

Josh Bailey Mark Eaton Trent Hunter Andy Hilbert Bruno Gervais Dustin Kohn

One Out Of Every 4 NBA Teams Has Lost Value Under Current CBA

Mark Cuban, the owner of the Dallas Mavericks, called the Forbes NBA team valuations "meaningless and worthless."

We can only assume that Cuban hasn't looked too closely at the numbers, because they appear to support the owners' position for radical changes in the next Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Earlier today we took a look at how the average value of the NBA franchise has changed over the last 12 years. We saw that since the current CBA went into effect (2005-06), the average value of an NBA franchise has grown only 14.6%. That is a significant drop from the last five years under the previous CBA in which the average value grew by 57.2%.

If we take a closer look, we see eight out of 30 NBA teams (26.7%) have actually dropped in value under the current CBA. In the five years previous, only one team lost value, the Portland Trail Blazers.

Here are the eight teams that have bled value since 2004-05 (all data via Forbes.com)...

Ignoring the Bobcats, who were an expansion franchise in 2004-05, six of the other seven teams averaged at least 10% growth per year under the old CBA. And now, they have all lost value in the last five years. It is no wonder the NBA owners want to limit the earning power of the players.

We can also look at this list and get a good idea of which teams would be at the top of the NBA's contraction list, should they decide to venture down that path.

Maybe nobody used Forbes' numbers when they are going to purchase a team, as Cuban professes. (And which Forbes admits.) But it is hard to ignore that more than one-fourth of the league's teams are worth less now than under the old CBA.

Join the conversation about this story »

See Also:

• Dallas Beats Miami After Mark Cuban Reminds LeBron James He Could Have Been A Maverick
• Is Mark Cuban Trying To Start A Feud With Mikhail Prokhorov?
• DOMINO EFFECT: It's Time For The Dallas Mavericks To Go All-In On Carmelo Anthony

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/businessinsider/sportspage/~3/Kp_1bppXxys/1-out-of-every-4-nba-teams-have-lost-value-under-current-cba-2011-1

Colorado Avalanche Edmonton Oilers Minnesota Wild Vancouver Canucks Anaheim Ducks Dallas

CHIEFS SHUTOUT SILVERTIPS

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/chiefs-shutout-silvertips.html

Wade Belak Martin Erat Marcel Goc Jamie Lundmark Nick Spaling Pikka Rinne

Love Me/Hate Me: 10 Guys That Lost Our Affection Quickly

In sport's everyone is going to have support, and everyone is going to face adversity.  It's what brings all athlete's together.  Sports are unique like that.  But sometimes, there's that special athlete that you love to hate, or hate to love.  

Fans love to cheer him on, and haters love to boo him.  He's the outlaw, and the hero.  

Let's take a look at the top 10 guys who were loved, and then quickly fell off the map and lost our affection.

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/587861-love-mehate-me-10-guys-that-lost-our-affection-quickly

San Diego Padres San Francisco Giants St. Louis Cardinals Washington Nationals Jonathan Albaladejo Andrew Brackman

Subban to the all star game, Habs take a breather

After 50 games, the Montreal Canadiens have 27 wins. Points in ten of their last 12 games. Not bad. Yet they sit perilously close to being outside of the playoffs: three points separate them from the ninth place Carolina Hurricanes. Considering the injuries they?ve sustained thus far, management has to be happy with the team?s performance; however, health, and potential roster changes, are likely going to make or break the Habs chances for a playoff push in 2011.

Source: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/subban_to_the_all_star_game_habs_take_a_breather/

Bryan Allen Mark Cullen Baltimore Orioles Boston Red Sox Chicago White Sox Cleveland Indians

WWE News: Batista Expected to Return to the Company in 2011

WWE News: While former WWE star Batista is busy acting and pursuing an MMA career, the belief in the WWE is that "The Animal" will return to the company at some point this year.

According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Batista is known to love the "good life," and it's through wrestling that he's going to make the most money.

WWE developmental worker Mason Ryan was brought up to the main roster a couple of weeks ago as a sign that the company was "moving on" from Batista right now, but company officials remain optimistic that the former WWE Champ will be back in 2011.

Alright, rant time.

Batista is not a good actor. He's on the same level as Keanu Reeves in that department.

He's also 42 years old, and starting an MMA career at 42 is like starting high school at 20 years old.

If Batista truly does living that luxury lifestyle, then the WWE is where it's at.

I do admit that part of me is being a little selfish in wanting Batista back in the company.

But his last WWE run with his newfound heel persona was some of the best work he's done in recent years, and the WWE needs more main event draws like I need hydration after a long night of drinking.

This is one of those times when both sides would benefit from a reunion.

Batista would make his millions, and the WWE would make more millions.

Make it happen, Vince McMahon. And do it before Wrestlemania, too.

Related Story: WWE Now: Royal Rumble Predictions

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/587954-wwe-royal-rumble-batista-awesome-kong-and-fridays-top-wwe-news/entry/44700-wwe-news-batista-expected-to-return-to-the-company-in-2011

Damaso Marte Mariano Rivera Kerry Wood Francisco Cervelli Chad Moeller Jorge Posada

NFL Super Bowl XLV: The Determining Factor for the Packers and Steelers: O-Line

This show is a shout out to my First Team all state offensive lineman buddy, Zachary Palmer.

Going into Super Bowl XLV, everyone loves the Capers vs. LeBeau battle as two of the geniuses behind the 3-4 are put against each other on the biggest stage.

In reality, the battle lies between Sean Kugler and James Campen. Don't know these guys? They are the head offensive line coaches for the Steelers and Packers, respectively.

These two coaches have the unfortunate pleasure of trying to prepare their players for arguably the two toughest and most exotic defenses in the league. Here are five key reasons the winner of the trenches will ultimately win the Super Bowl.

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/587758-nfl-super-bowl-xlv-the-determining-factor-for-the-packers-and-steelers-o-line

Vancouver Canucks Anaheim Ducks Dallas Los Angeles Kings Phoenix Coyotes San Jose Sharks

Griffin: Could Michael Young be headed to Toronto?

Source: http://www.lonestarball.com/2011/1/26/1958534/griffin-could-michael-young-be-headed-to-toronto

Jorge Posada Lance Berkman Reegie Corona Juan Miranda Colin Curtis Kevin Russo

BALANCED OFFENSE GUIDES LANCERS 5-2 PAST FORCE

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/balanced-offense-guides-lancers-5-2.html

San Diego Padres San Francisco Giants St. Louis Cardinals Washington Nationals Jonathan Albaladejo Andrew Brackman

If You're Just A Casual Basketball Sports Fan, You Must Root For The Boston Celtics

If you're a big sports fan, you know it's basically unacceptable to have no stake in a team come playoff time.

By all accounts this has been one of the most dramatic, exciting, and juice-filled NBA season in recent memory.

So if you're a (relatively) casual basketball fan like myself with no rooting interest, it's time to change that.

The admirable thing to do is to stick with your hometown team, but if you haven't been following the NBA your loyalty isn't in question.  You're free to adopt a team temporarily as your interest grows, and your excuse can always be, "Oh, I'm not a huge basketball guy, but I do kind of like watching X."

Any sensible sports fan will accept that answer, because they know gaining exposure for their favorite sport is invaluable.

Problem solved.

So who should you pick?

The Boston Celtics.

They Celtics are a legitimate contender, but they're not a popular bandwagon choice like the Lakers and Heat. Still, Boston has plenty of intriguing characters, and they're way more fun than either of those teams.

Boston has the silkiest shooter of all time (Ray Allen), a guy so competitive he occasionally smashes his head into the base of the hoop (Kevin Garnett), a small forward that was stabbed 11 times in 2000 and and still played in all 82 games (Paul Pierce), a playmaking wizard at point guard that is among the quickest players in the league (Rajon Rondo), and of course, Shaquille O'Neal.

They're definitely exciting on the court, but if you choose to root for the Celtics, you're also signing up for a gang that is wildly entertaining outside of basketball. 

This year, Rondo dressed up as Tiger Woods for the team's Halloween party, Shaq bought 5-9 Nate Robinson a gigantic fur coat that the backup point guard proudly modeled (left), and Robinson worked at a Chipotle restaurant last week just for the fun of it. 

Then there's Shaquille O'Neal.  The guy needs reality producers following him everywhere he goes. Just since the start of the season he's directed the Boston Pops, posed as a statue at Boston's Harvard Square as fans flocked around him, and.earlier this week decided to wear a goalie mask to Boston Garden.

Don't feel guilty cheering for this bunch.

You're not quite being a front runner because you're not rooting for Los Angeles or Miami, but your team is very likely to be there at the end and will provide you with plenty of laughs and thrills along the way.

At least that's my advice.  If you prefer to root for a guy that wanted companies to sponsor his birthday party, there's not much I can do to help you.

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Join the conversation about this story »

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/businessinsider/sportspage/~3/qU50VLxPK68/if-youre-just-a-casual-basketball-sports-fan-you-must-root-for-the-boston-celtics-2011-1

Josh Bailey Mark Eaton Trent Hunter Andy Hilbert Bruno Gervais Dustin Kohn

Former Cushing Academy star now NHL All Star

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/former-cushing-academy-star-now-nhl-all.html

chicago blackhawks columbus blue jackets detroit red wings nashville predators St Louis Blues Calgary Flames

Former Cushing Academy star now NHL All Star

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/former-cushing-academy-star-now-nhl-all.html

Mike Fontenot Brett Pill Pat Burrell Jhan Marinez Anibal Sanchez John Baker

Game 49 Preview: St Louis Blues at Colorado Avalanche

Source: http://www.milehighhockey.com/2011/1/24/1952172/game-49-preview-st-louis-blues-at-colorado-avalanche

Petr Kalus Colton Gilies Justin Falk Robbie Eal Joe Callahan Bryan Allen

Cubs List, Announce 21 Non-Roster MLB Spring Training Invites

The Chicago Cubs have invited 21 non-roster players to major league spring training, which begins Sunday, February 13 when pitchers and catchers are invited to report in Mesa , Ariz. Their first workout will take place on Monday, February 14. Position players report to camp Friday, February 18 with the team?s first full workout Saturday, February 19.

Today, the Cubs announced they have agreed to terms with right-handed pitcher Braden Looper and infielder Augie Ojeda on minor league contracts with invites to major league spring training.

Seven pitchers ? righthanders Chris Carpenter, Angel Guzman, Jay Jackson, Braden Looper, Trey McNutt and Todd Wellemeyer and lefthander Scott Rice ? have been invited to major league camp, as well as catchers Steve Clevenger and Chris Robinson.

Seven infielders ? Matt Camp, Bryan LaHair, Scott Moore, Augie Ojeda, Bobby Scales, Marquez Smith and Josh Vitters ? have also been invited, along with five outfielders ? Jim Adduci, Brett Jackson, Reed Johnson, Luis Montanez and Brad Snyder.

Jim Adduci, 25, returns to major league spring training for his second year in a row. Last season, the left-handed batter and thrower hit .248 (91-for-367) with nine doubles, one triple, three home runs, 33 RBI and 23 stolen bases in 114 games at Triple-A Iowa. Adduci enters his fifth season in the Cubs organization after being acquired by the Cubs following the 2006 minor league season to complete the Todd Wellemeyer trade.

Matt Camp, 26, batted .264 (115-for-436) [More …]

Source: http://www.thesportsbank.net/basewars-chicago-cubs/cubs-list-announce-21-non-roster-mlb-spring-training-invites/

Chicago White Sox Cleveland Indians Detroit Tigers Kansas City Royals Los Angeles Dodgers Minnesota Twins

2010-11 Boston College Hockey: UMass Lowell Game Preview (7:00 PM EDT)

Source: http://www.bcinterruption.com/2011/1/22/1938902/2010-11-boston-college-hockey-umass-lowell-game-preview-7-00-pm-edt

Bryan Allen Mark Cullen

Jacks come up short in 5-4 loss to Indiana

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/jacks-come-up-short-in-5-4-loss-to.html

Florida Marlins Houston Astros Los Angeles Dodgers Milwaukee Brewers New York Mets Philadelphia Phillies

The Rockies also maintain interest in Michael Young ? if the Rangers choose to move him. However,...

Source: http://www.lonestarball.com/2011/1/26/1957325/the-rockies-also-maintain-interest-in-michael-young-if-the-rangers

Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds Colorado Rockies Florida Marlins Houston Astros Los Angeles Dodgers

Boston College Basketball's Offense-Defense Bipolarity

Source: http://www.bcinterruption.com/2011/1/25/1954323/boston-college-basketballs-offense-defense-bipolarity

nashville predators St Louis Blues Calgary Flames Colorado Avalanche Edmonton Oilers Minnesota Wild

NHL Eastern Conference Midterm Assessments

Early in the season, I provided my predictions as to how I thought the NHL Eastern Conference would pan out.

While I fared pretty well in my mid-season assessment of the NHL Western Conference predictions, I learned two things in assessing how I did in previewing the Eastern Conference: I should stick to covering the Western Conference, and I really needed to assess the impact of the Kovalchuck signing as to its fit with the Devils? style of play. Then again, who really saw that coming? It apparently wasn?t Louie Lamoriello either.

In a manner similar to assessing my Western Predictions I will provide a brief synopsis of what I predicted for the respective Eastern team, how they are currently faring, and what the rest of the season may or may not hold for the team.

The Ins:

Washington Capitals

Prediction: With Alexander Ovechkin, a young collection of offensive weapons and defensemen, and a solid tandem of young goalies in Semyon Varlamov and Michal Neuvirth, the Capitals seems primed for the President?s Trophy and a potential Stanley Cup run. The primary concerns are whether they will disappoint again come playoff time.

Current State: This has been both a disappointment and a mystery. While the Caps are solidly in the fifth place in the east, much more was expected of them particularly on the offensive end. Perhaps the greatest mystery in the entire NHL is Ovechkin?s inability to score goals this season. Ovechkin is projected to finish with [More …]

Source: http://www.thesportsbank.net/hockey/nhl-eastern-conference-midterm-assessments/

St Louis Blues Calgary Flames Colorado Avalanche Edmonton Oilers Minnesota Wild Vancouver Canucks

THIRD PERIOD THREAD Hey, Canadien, does Cobra Commander know you took his helmet?

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/1/25/1956465/third-period-thread-hey-canadien-does-cobra-commander-know-you-took

Chicago White Sox Cleveland Indians Detroit Tigers Kansas City Royals Los Angeles Dodgers Minnesota Twins

Three-Goal Rally Snaps Bobcats' Skid

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/three-goal-rally-snaps-bobcats-skid.html

Florida Panthers Tampa Bay Lightning Washington Capitals Arizona Diamondbacks Atlanta Braves Chicago Cubs

Yes, Chris Pronger's puck stealing is still a story

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/1/24/1953185/yes-chris-prongers-puck-stealing-is-still-a-story

John Madden Petr Kalus Colton Gilies Justin Falk Robbie Eal Joe Callahan

Three-Goal Rally Snaps Bobcats' Skid

Source: http://www.americanjuniorhockey.com/2011/01/three-goal-rally-snaps-bobcats-skid.html

Robbie Eal Joe Callahan Bryan Allen Mark Cullen Baltimore Orioles Boston Red Sox

Historically, the Flyers are on pace to reach the Stanley Cup Finals again

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/1/25/1955654/historically-the-flyers-are-on-pace-to-reach-the-stanley-cup-finals

Pikka Rinne Mathieu Carle Lars Eller Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus

CANADIENS AT FLYERS: SECOND PERIOD THREAD Could we be in for some more of this? We're hoping for...

Source: http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/1/25/1956378/second-period-thread-could-we-be-in-for-some-more-of-this-were-hoping

Colorado Avalanche Edmonton Oilers Minnesota Wild Vancouver Canucks Anaheim Ducks Dallas

Ohio State?s Jared Sullinger: Top Player in the Nation?

If you believe in the Ewing Theory, how a team can somehow get better and much more successful once their best player vacates, look no further that last year’s Big Ten champion, and Big Ten Tournament Champion Ohio State Buckeyes. Somehow the additions have outweighed the subtractions.

They lost (with apologies to LL Cool J, “All-World”) swingman Evan Turner, the individual who swept all the national college basketball player of the year awards, yet they’re still the class of the Big Ten and #1 in the nation thus far.

How did this happen? Look at their outstanding freshmen class, which is to blue chip prospects what illegitimate children are to Antonio Cromartie. It’s led by Jared Sullinger, the headliner of this class like Lebron James headlined the Cavaliers for many years.

Sullinger has developed into a front-runner for the national player of the year awards. Right now it’s between him, BYU’s Jimmer Fredette, UConn’s Kemba Walker and Kansas’ Maurice Morris

By Paul M. Banks

Sullinger earns Big Ten Player of the Week honors for the fourth time and Freshman of the Week honors for the ninth time this season. (The award has unofficially been his since early November, and he’s the early front-runner for the Big Ten’s Silver Basketball award too) The 6-9 center averaged a double-double last week in wins against Iowa and No. 23/22 Illinois. He [More …]

Source: http://www.thesportsbank.net/college-bball/ohio-states-sullinger/

Hal Gill John Madden Petr Kalus Colton Gilies Justin Falk Robbie Eal

Black and Yellow: Why Steelers Will Lose Super Bowl XLV

Black and Yellow: Why Steelers Will Lose Super Bowl XLV.

Those fooled by Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin downplaying the team's excellence by saying they do just enough to win, stop being fooled now.

The Steelers and the Green Bay Packers got to the Super Bowl because they were the best, most consistent teams in their respective conferences.

And while both teams' offensive approaches are quite different, they both boast the top two defenses in the NFL.

The Steelers were tops in the league, allowing 14.5 points per game. The Packers were second, allowing 15.0 points per game.

But the Steelers will lose come Super Bowl Sunday.

For one, they don't have the offense the Packers have. Led by QB Aaron Rodgers, the Packers scored 24.3 points per game in the regular season.

Two, I think the Packers defense can limit the Steelers more than the Steelers can limit the Packers. Although the Steelers could very well stuff the Packers' running game on Sunday, this is nothing new for the Packers. They live by their passing game and nobody seems to be able to stop receiver Greg Jennings, not even Chicago, who gave up 130 receiving yards to the wideout in the NFC Championship Game.

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/584736-super-bowl-2011-australian-open-herschel-walker-and-todays-late-sport-buzz/entry/44293-black-and-yellow-why-steelers-will-lose-super-bowl-xlv

Mike Fontenot Brett Pill Pat Burrell Jhan Marinez Anibal Sanchez John Baker