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Click on your team for detailed, up-to-date analysis from our team of experts as the 2010 NFL Draft progresses.
Click on your team for detailed, up-to-date analysis from our team of experts as the 2010 NFL Draft progresses.
SAN DIEGO (AP) — Reggie Bush apparently has reached an out-of-court settlement with a fledgling sports marketer who is trying to recoup nearly $300,000 in cash and gifts the star running back and his family allegedly accepted while he was playing at the University of Southern California.
Depositions involving the two former marketers who wooed Bush while he was at USC have been called off, attorney Brian Watkins told The Associated Press on Wednesday.
Asked if Bush was still scheduled to be deposed on Friday, Watkins said: "I have no comment."
Settlement documents could be filed in court within days.
A settlement could stymie the NCAA and Pacific-10 Conference investigators, who are trying to determine whether Bush and his parents took improper benefits. Bush has not met with NCAA and Pac-10 investigators, and has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.
If Bush is found retroactively ineligible, he could lose his 2005 Heisman Trophy.
If the NCAA determines that USC violated rules, the football program could have to forfeit victories from those seasons — when the Trojans won a national championship and lost in the BCS title game against Texas — and face additional penalties.
Watkins represents Lloyd Lake in his lawsuit against Bush.
Lake’s scheduled deposition Monday did not occur, said Watkins, who declined to provide a reason.
Lake’s former partner, Michael Michaels, was scheduled to be deposed Wednesday.
"It will not go through," Watkins said.
A call to Bush’s attorney, Shawn Chapman Holley, was not immediately returned.
Lake and Michaels were trying to attract Bush as a client for their marketing firm, New Era. Bush did not sign with New Era.
Michaels owned a San Diego-area house where Bush’s parents allegedly lived rent-free. Michaels reached an out-of-court settlement with Bush’s family in April 2007 that included a confidentiality agreement.
In late December, Bush lost his bid to go to confidential arbitration to settle Lake’s lawsuit.
Referring to Michaels’ settlement with Bush, Watkins told the AP last week: "Basically Reggie Bush bought his silence for $300,000, so he was unable to speak to the media, and, of course, cooperate with the NCAA."
Watkins tried to take Bush’s deposition in February 2008, but said the running back didn’t show up.
A few weeks earlier, Watkins and Lake walked out of a deposition, saying that a bodyguard for Bush’s attorney at the time, David Cornwell, opened his jacket to expose a pistol.
Yahoo! Sports first reported news of a settlement in the Lake case.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
SAN DIEGO (AP) — Reggie Bush apparently has reached an out-of-court settlement with a fledgling sports marketer who is trying to recoup nearly $300,000 in cash and gifts the star running back and his family allegedly accepted while he was playing at the University of Southern California.
Depositions involving the two former marketers who wooed Bush while he was at USC have been called off, attorney Brian Watkins told The Associated Press on Wednesday.
Asked if Bush was still scheduled to be deposed on Friday, Watkins said: "I have no comment."
Settlement documents could be filed in court within days.
A settlement could stymie the NCAA and Pacific-10 Conference investigators, who are trying to determine whether Bush and his parents took improper benefits. Bush has not met with NCAA and Pac-10 investigators, and has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.
If Bush is found retroactively ineligible, he could lose his 2005 Heisman Trophy.
If the NCAA determines that USC violated rules, the football program could have to forfeit victories from those seasons — when the Trojans won a national championship and lost in the BCS title game against Texas — and face additional penalties.
Watkins represents Lloyd Lake in his lawsuit against Bush.
Lake’s scheduled deposition Monday did not occur, said Watkins, who declined to provide a reason.
Lake’s former partner, Michael Michaels, was scheduled to be deposed Wednesday.
"It will not go through," Watkins said.
A call to Bush’s attorney, Shawn Chapman Holley, was not immediately returned.
Lake and Michaels were trying to attract Bush as a client for their marketing firm, New Era. Bush did not sign with New Era.
Michaels owned a San Diego-area house where Bush’s parents allegedly lived rent-free. Michaels reached an out-of-court settlement with Bush’s family in April 2007 that included a confidentiality agreement.
In late December, Bush lost his bid to go to confidential arbitration to settle Lake’s lawsuit.
Referring to Michaels’ settlement with Bush, Watkins told the AP last week: "Basically Reggie Bush bought his silence for $300,000, so he was unable to speak to the media, and, of course, cooperate with the NCAA."
Watkins tried to take Bush’s deposition in February 2008, but said the running back didn’t show up.
A few weeks earlier, Watkins and Lake walked out of a deposition, saying that a bodyguard for Bush’s attorney at the time, David Cornwell, opened his jacket to expose a pistol.
Yahoo! Sports first reported news of a settlement in the Lake case.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Sporting News will offer weekly conversations with Sporting News baseball experts during the MLB season. In this first installment, baseball editor Chris Bahr discusses the Boston Red Sox’ early season struggles and what they’ll do to get back to winning games.
Sporting News will offer weekly conversations with Sporting News baseball experts during the MLB season. In this first installment, baseball editor Chris Bahr discusses the Boston Red Sox’ early season struggles and what they’ll do to get back to winning games.
CINCINNATI — Former All-Star pitcher Edinson Volquez was suspended 50 games Tuesday following a positive test for a banned fertility substance, a punishment that will cost him money but won’t hurt the Cincinnati Reds’ rotation.
The 26-year-old right-hander is recovering from reconstructive elbow surgery and isn’t expected to rejoin the Reds until late July at the earliest. He can serve the suspension from Major League Baseball while continuing his rehabilitation at the team’s spring training complex in Goodyear, Ariz.
"That’s the only good thing," Reds pitcher Bronson Arroyo said. "I’m actually surprised they’re letting him do that."
Volquez became the first player suspended under the major league drug program since Manny Ramirez of the Los Angeles Dodgers was penalized 50 games last May.
Volquez said in a statement he received a prescription in the Dominican Republic as part of his treatment to start a family with his wife. He said the drug was banned by MLB – four types of fertility substances are illegal under baseball rules.
"As a result, I tested positive when I reported to spring training," he said. "Although I understand that I must accept responsibility for this mistake and have chosen not to challenge my suspension, I want to assure everyone that this was an isolated incident involving my genuine effort to treat a common medical issue."
Volquez’s suspension starts Wednesday. He could be eligible to play starting June 15. Volquez was to make $445,000 this season, so barring rainouts the suspension will cost him $133,743.
"When he’s ready to pitch, he’ll be able to pitch," general manager Walt Jocketty said.
An All-Star in 2008 when he went 17-6 with a 3.21 ERA for the Reds, Volquez was 4-2 with a 4.35 ERA last season before feeling pain in his arm in June. He twice went on the disabled list, the first time with back spasms and then with the elbow injury that finished his season.
"The Reds fully support Major League Baseball’s drug policy and its penalties. The organization does not condone in any way the use of drugs not sanctioned by MLB’s medical staff," the team said in a statement before Tuesday night’s game against the Dodgers.
MLB’s labor contract does not allow it to release which drug caused the positive test. A list of drugs that trigger positives is released after each season, without identifying which player used it.
MLB and the players’ union repeatedly warn players not to use any substance without guidance from doctors or trainers who are aware of the banned list.
"I was not trying in any way to gain an advantage in my baseball career," Volquez said in his statement. "I am embarrassed by this whole situation and apologize to my family, friends, fans, teammates, and the entire Reds organization for being a distraction and for causing them any difficulty."
"I simply want to accept the consequences, learn from the mistake, and continue to strive to be the best person and baseball player I can be," he said.
Ramirez was suspended after turning over to MLB a prescription for a banned female fertility drug.
Volquez was the first player suspended for a positive test under the big league program since San Francisco pitcher Kelvin Pichardo on March 23, 2009.
The only other players suspended under the major league program last year were Yankees pitcher Sergio Mitre and Philadelphia pitcher J.C. Romero, both in January 2009.
There have been 16 suspensions this year under the minor league drug program.
Bob DuPuy, baseball’s chief operating officer, said that Volquez’s suspension is more evidence that baseball’s crackdown on drugs is working.
"It’s sad when any player feels that he needs to take a performance-enhancing substance to gain an edge," DuPuy told The Associated Press in Los Angeles. "It’s disappointing, but at the same time it underscores the fact that the program is in fact working. And if players are cheating, they’re going to get caught."
Volquez made his major league debut with Texas in 2005 and went 0-4 with a 14.21 ERA. He went a combined 3-7 over the next two years and was traded in December 2007 to the Reds for outfielder Josh Hamilton. Both players were at the 2008 All-Star game at Yankee Stadium.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
CINCINNATI — Former All-Star pitcher Edinson Volquez was suspended 50 games Tuesday following a positive test for a banned fertility substance, a punishment that will cost him money but won’t hurt the Cincinnati Reds’ rotation.
The 26-year-old right-hander is recovering from reconstructive elbow surgery and isn’t expected to rejoin the Reds until late July at the earliest. He can serve the suspension from Major League Baseball while continuing his rehabilitation at the team’s spring training complex in Goodyear, Ariz.
"That’s the only good thing," Reds pitcher Bronson Arroyo said. "I’m actually surprised they’re letting him do that."
Volquez became the first player suspended under the major league drug program since Manny Ramirez of the Los Angeles Dodgers was penalized 50 games last May.
Volquez said in a statement he received a prescription in the Dominican Republic as part of his treatment to start a family with his wife. He said the drug was banned by MLB – four types of fertility substances are illegal under baseball rules.
"As a result, I tested positive when I reported to spring training," he said. "Although I understand that I must accept responsibility for this mistake and have chosen not to challenge my suspension, I want to assure everyone that this was an isolated incident involving my genuine effort to treat a common medical issue."
Volquez’s suspension starts Wednesday. He could be eligible to play starting June 15. Volquez was to make $445,000 this season, so barring rainouts the suspension will cost him $133,743.
"When he’s ready to pitch, he’ll be able to pitch," general manager Walt Jocketty said.
An All-Star in 2008 when he went 17-6 with a 3.21 ERA for the Reds, Volquez was 4-2 with a 4.35 ERA last season before feeling pain in his arm in June. He twice went on the disabled list, the first time with back spasms and then with the elbow injury that finished his season.
"The Reds fully support Major League Baseball’s drug policy and its penalties. The organization does not condone in any way the use of drugs not sanctioned by MLB’s medical staff," the team said in a statement before Tuesday night’s game against the Dodgers.
MLB’s labor contract does not allow it to release which drug caused the positive test. A list of drugs that trigger positives is released after each season, without identifying which player used it.
MLB and the players’ union repeatedly warn players not to use any substance without guidance from doctors or trainers who are aware of the banned list.
"I was not trying in any way to gain an advantage in my baseball career," Volquez said in his statement. "I am embarrassed by this whole situation and apologize to my family, friends, fans, teammates, and the entire Reds organization for being a distraction and for causing them any difficulty."
"I simply want to accept the consequences, learn from the mistake, and continue to strive to be the best person and baseball player I can be," he said.
Ramirez was suspended after turning over to MLB a prescription for a banned female fertility drug.
Volquez was the first player suspended for a positive test under the big league program since San Francisco pitcher Kelvin Pichardo on March 23, 2009.
The only other players suspended under the major league program last year were Yankees pitcher Sergio Mitre and Philadelphia pitcher J.C. Romero, both in January 2009.
There have been 16 suspensions this year under the minor league drug program.
Bob DuPuy, baseball’s chief operating officer, said that Volquez’s suspension is more evidence that baseball’s crackdown on drugs is working.
"It’s sad when any player feels that he needs to take a performance-enhancing substance to gain an edge," DuPuy told The Associated Press in Los Angeles. "It’s disappointing, but at the same time it underscores the fact that the program is in fact working. And if players are cheating, they’re going to get caught."
Volquez made his major league debut with Texas in 2005 and went 0-4 with a 14.21 ERA. He went a combined 3-7 over the next two years and was traded in December 2007 to the Reds for outfielder Josh Hamilton. Both players were at the 2008 All-Star game at Yankee Stadium.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
DENVER — Colorado Rockies president Keli McGregor, who parlayed a lifelong love of sports into a short stint in the NFL before embarking on a career in the baseball business, was found dead in his hotel room in Salt Lake City on Tuesday.
Detective Rick Wall said two of McGregor’s associates couldn’t get in touch with him and that someone entered his room at The Grand America Hotel in downtown Salt Lake City and found the 48-year-old McGregor unconscious Tuesday morning.
Police were called about 9 a.m. MDT and emergency workers arrived on the scene and were unable to revive him.
"There are no signs of foul play. … Based on the initial investigation (police and fire officials) did not see anything suspicious," Wall said. "There is nothing suspicious. At this point it would look like it was some sort of a natural cause or something along those lines."
Wall said the investigation has been turned over to the medical examiner’s office, which will determine the cause and time of death.
The Rockies said McGregor was on a business trip with team chairman and CEO Charlie Monfort and executive vice president Greg Feasel.
"Words cannot describe the level of shock and disbelief that we all are feeling this morning at the loss of Keli," Charlie Monfort said in a statement. "Our thoughts, our prayers are with Lori and the entire family as we all try to cope and understand how such a tragic loss could occur with such a wonderful man."
McGregor is survived by his wife, Lori, three daughters and a son.
His voice cracking, manager Jim Tracy said before the Rockies’ game at Washington on Tuesday night that he struggled with what to tell his team about McGregor’s death.
"I’m stunned. I can’t believe what’s happened," Tracy said. "I told the players in the clubhouse: ‘I want to understand this, but I don’t.’ I don’t know what to say. I don’t understand it.
"We said a little prayer for him. The prayers are as much for him as for Lori and for those four children."
The clubhouse was closed before the game.
"I guess shock is the word that describes it," first baseman Todd Helton said as he walked out on the field. "Great man. I’ve known him 15 years. Last person you think you’d be getting that call about.
"He kept himself in great shape, worked hard. He really loved this team, loved his family even more," Helton said. "We went duck hunting together, pumped up together, stayed up playing cards, golfed several times in the offseason."
Rockies hitting coach Don Baylor, who was managing the club when McGregor came on board, said he was a passionate person who always put the organization first.
"He was a football guy. He didn’t understand what a 6-4-3 was or what an ERA was. It was a big learning experience for him," Baylor said. "What a rising star this guy would have been because he really did so much for this organization. Every time you talked to him it was about the Rockies, not about himself, always about improving the club, on the field. He’s really going to be missed.
"Forty-eight years old. You’re still asking, ‘Why?"’
McGregor’s loss shook the sports communities across Colorado, where he was a multi-sport athlete at Lakewood High School, starred as a tight end at Colorado State and was drafted by the Denver Broncos before going into coaching and then embarking on a career in sports administration, joining the Rockies in 1993.
"He had only friends in the industry, and this is a terrible loss for the game," Bob DuPuy, baseball’s chief operating officer told the AP. "Keli has been instrumental in the success of the Rockies over the entire time he was with them because of his guidance and leadership in every aspect of the organization."
Commissioner Bud Selig called McGregor "one of our game’s rising young stars," and new union head Michael Weiner sent his condolences to McGregor’s family and the Rockies.
McGregor was in his 17th season with the Rockies, his ninth as club president. He began his career with the club in October 1993 as senior director of operations. He was promoted to senior vice president in 1996 and executive vice president in 1998.
McGregor was a four-year starter at Colorado State, where he went from freshman walk-on to second-team All-American tight end in 1984. An undersized halfback when he arrived on campus, McGregor had a growth spurt before his sophomore season and at 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, he went on to become an All-Western Athletic Conference tight end from 1982-84.
He set a single-season school record with 69 catches in 1983, a mark that stood for 10 years.
McGregor was selected by Denver in the fourth round of the 1985 NFL draft and played for the Broncos, Colts and Seahawks during his brief pro career.
McGregor was "a wonderful person and a highly respected professional whose loss will be felt throughout the entire Denver community," Broncos chief operating officer Joe Ellis said.
McGregor joined the Rockies after a four-year stint as an associate athletic director at the University of Arkansas. He also was an assistant football coach for two years at the University of Florida from 1988-89, where he earned his Master’s degree in education with an emphasis on athletic administration.
McGregor, who was born in Primgahr, Iowa, was voted to Colorado State’s all-century team in 1992 and was named to the CSU Hall of Fame in 1996.
Last year, McGregor was the Rockies’ point man on a project that will result in the first major league baseball facility built on Indian land. The Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks partnered with the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian community, a sovereign tribe in the Phoenix area, and will move into the new facilities next spring after training 17 seasons in Tucson.
"This sport lost a true friend and gentleman today," Diamondbacks president Derrick Hall said. "Keli has quickly become one of my closest friends over the last few years. In recent months, our collaborative work and vision on creating our new spring home has made that bond even tighter.
"I am deeply saddened that he will not see the project upon its completion, but even more distraught over the tragic thought that this beautiful family will be without its loving husband and father."
CSU football coach Steve Fairchild called Tuesday "a heartbreaking day on our campus," where McGregor’s daughter, Jordan, is a sophomore and where his godson, Ben Tedford, is a sophomore on the Rams football team.
"This is an enormous and tragic loss for CSU and all of Colorado," university president Tony Frank said. "Keli was a true champion in life and on the field, who exemplified what we’d want for all our graduates – an honorable and successful business leader, dedicated family man, and loyal alumnus."
—
Associated Press Writer Elizabeth White in Salt Lake City and AP free-lancer Rich Dubroff from Washington, D.C., contributed to this story.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
DENVER — Colorado Rockies president Keli McGregor, who parlayed a lifelong love of sports into a short stint in the NFL before embarking on a career in the baseball business, was found dead in his hotel room in Salt Lake City on Tuesday.
Detective Rick Wall said two of McGregor’s associates couldn’t get in touch with him and that someone entered his room at The Grand America Hotel in downtown Salt Lake City and found the 48-year-old McGregor unconscious Tuesday morning.
Police were called about 9 a.m. MDT and emergency workers arrived on the scene and were unable to revive him.
"There are no signs of foul play. … Based on the initial investigation (police and fire officials) did not see anything suspicious," Wall said. "There is nothing suspicious. At this point it would look like it was some sort of a natural cause or something along those lines."
Wall said the investigation has been turned over to the medical examiner’s office, which will determine the cause and time of death.
The Rockies said McGregor was on a business trip with team chairman and CEO Charlie Monfort and executive vice president Greg Feasel.
"Words cannot describe the level of shock and disbelief that we all are feeling this morning at the loss of Keli," Charlie Monfort said in a statement. "Our thoughts, our prayers are with Lori and the entire family as we all try to cope and understand how such a tragic loss could occur with such a wonderful man."
McGregor is survived by his wife, Lori, three daughters and a son.
His voice cracking, manager Jim Tracy said before the Rockies’ game at Washington on Tuesday night that he struggled with what to tell his team about McGregor’s death.
"I’m stunned. I can’t believe what’s happened," Tracy said. "I told the players in the clubhouse: ‘I want to understand this, but I don’t.’ I don’t know what to say. I don’t understand it.
"We said a little prayer for him. The prayers are as much for him as for Lori and for those four children."
The clubhouse was closed before the game.
"I guess shock is the word that describes it," first baseman Todd Helton said as he walked out on the field. "Great man. I’ve known him 15 years. Last person you think you’d be getting that call about.
"He kept himself in great shape, worked hard. He really loved this team, loved his family even more," Helton said. "We went duck hunting together, pumped up together, stayed up playing cards, golfed several times in the offseason."
Rockies hitting coach Don Baylor, who was managing the club when McGregor came on board, said he was a passionate person who always put the organization first.
"He was a football guy. He didn’t understand what a 6-4-3 was or what an ERA was. It was a big learning experience for him," Baylor said. "What a rising star this guy would have been because he really did so much for this organization. Every time you talked to him it was about the Rockies, not about himself, always about improving the club, on the field. He’s really going to be missed.
"Forty-eight years old. You’re still asking, ‘Why?"’
McGregor’s loss shook the sports communities across Colorado, where he was a multi-sport athlete at Lakewood High School, starred as a tight end at Colorado State and was drafted by the Denver Broncos before going into coaching and then embarking on a career in sports administration, joining the Rockies in 1993.
"He had only friends in the industry, and this is a terrible loss for the game," Bob DuPuy, baseball’s chief operating officer told the AP. "Keli has been instrumental in the success of the Rockies over the entire time he was with them because of his guidance and leadership in every aspect of the organization."
Commissioner Bud Selig called McGregor "one of our game’s rising young stars," and new union head Michael Weiner sent his condolences to McGregor’s family and the Rockies.
McGregor was in his 17th season with the Rockies, his ninth as club president. He began his career with the club in October 1993 as senior director of operations. He was promoted to senior vice president in 1996 and executive vice president in 1998.
McGregor was a four-year starter at Colorado State, where he went from freshman walk-on to second-team All-American tight end in 1984. An undersized halfback when he arrived on campus, McGregor had a growth spurt before his sophomore season and at 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, he went on to become an All-Western Athletic Conference tight end from 1982-84.
He set a single-season school record with 69 catches in 1983, a mark that stood for 10 years.
McGregor was selected by Denver in the fourth round of the 1985 NFL draft and played for the Broncos, Colts and Seahawks during his brief pro career.
McGregor was "a wonderful person and a highly respected professional whose loss will be felt throughout the entire Denver community," Broncos chief operating officer Joe Ellis said.
McGregor joined the Rockies after a four-year stint as an associate athletic director at the University of Arkansas. He also was an assistant football coach for two years at the University of Florida from 1988-89, where he earned his Master’s degree in education with an emphasis on athletic administration.
McGregor, who was born in Primgahr, Iowa, was voted to Colorado State’s all-century team in 1992 and was named to the CSU Hall of Fame in 1996.
Last year, McGregor was the Rockies’ point man on a project that will result in the first major league baseball facility built on Indian land. The Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks partnered with the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian community, a sovereign tribe in the Phoenix area, and will move into the new facilities next spring after training 17 seasons in Tucson.
"This sport lost a true friend and gentleman today," Diamondbacks president Derrick Hall said. "Keli has quickly become one of my closest friends over the last few years. In recent months, our collaborative work and vision on creating our new spring home has made that bond even tighter.
"I am deeply saddened that he will not see the project upon its completion, but even more distraught over the tragic thought that this beautiful family will be without its loving husband and father."
CSU football coach Steve Fairchild called Tuesday "a heartbreaking day on our campus," where McGregor’s daughter, Jordan, is a sophomore and where his godson, Ben Tedford, is a sophomore on the Rams football team.
"This is an enormous and tragic loss for CSU and all of Colorado," university president Tony Frank said. "Keli was a true champion in life and on the field, who exemplified what we’d want for all our graduates – an honorable and successful business leader, dedicated family man, and loyal alumnus."
—
Associated Press Writer Elizabeth White in Salt Lake City and AP free-lancer Rich Dubroff from Washington, D.C., contributed to this story.
Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Braves CEO Terry McGuirk told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s David O’Brien that the team’s payroll has not been reduced 13 percent since last season.
USA Today reported that the Braves’ payroll was $84.4 million at the start of the season.
"That’s not right," McGuirk told the AJC. "That ($84.4 million) doesn’t even make any sense, from an accounting standpoint. They’re drawing off of some database that MLB has, and whatever snapshot they got, that’s not correct. Our (payroll) will have a 9 in front of it."
The AJC reported that the Braves’ payroll is between $92 million and $95 million.
Braves CEO Terry McGuirk told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s David O’Brien that the team’s payroll has not been reduced 13 percent since last season.
USA Today reported that the Braves’ payroll was $84.4 million at the start of the season.
"That’s not right," McGuirk told the AJC. "That ($84.4 million) doesn’t even make any sense, from an accounting standpoint. They’re drawing off of some database that MLB has, and whatever snapshot they got, that’s not correct. Our (payroll) will have a 9 in front of it."
The AJC reported that the Braves’ payroll is between $92 million and $95 million.
Cal Ripken Jr. said Monday that Orioles principal owner Peter Angelos did not stand in the way of him joining the team, MLB.com reported.
FoxSports.com reported last week that Ripken was blocked from joining the Orioles by Angelos.
"I have met with Andy (MacPhail, president of baseball operations) and Peter on a number of occasions to discuss many subjects," Ripken told MLB.com. "Ultimately, our discussions have turned to baseball, the Orioles and me. I have enjoyed those talks very much, and, yes, the subject has been broached about me potentially joining the organization. I look forward to those talks continuing."
FoxSports.com previously reported that Ripken was looking for a position with the team where he would work with some of the organization’s young players. According to MLB.com, the Fox report said that Angelos stopped that from happening "because he didn’t want Ripken to get most of the credit if the organization returns to prominence."
Added Ripken, in his comments to MLB.com, "I have been consistent in my statements about a return to baseball since my retirement in 2001. With my son, Ryan, approaching the end of high school in a couple of years, I have been thinking more seriously about a return to the big league game. I am more excited now to explore all opportunities and find the right situation that could lead me to the next phase of my life."
Cal Ripken Jr. said Monday that Orioles principal owner Peter Angelos did not stand in the way of him joining the team, MLB.com reported.
FoxSports.com reported last week that Ripken was blocked from joining the Orioles by Angelos.
"I have met with Andy (MacPhail, president of baseball operations) and Peter on a number of occasions to discuss many subjects," Ripken told MLB.com. "Ultimately, our discussions have turned to baseball, the Orioles and me. I have enjoyed those talks very much, and, yes, the subject has been broached about me potentially joining the organization. I look forward to those talks continuing."
FoxSports.com previously reported that Ripken was looking for a position with the team where he would work with some of the organization’s young players. According to MLB.com, the Fox report said that Angelos stopped that from happening "because he didn’t want Ripken to get most of the credit if the organization returns to prominence."
Added Ripken, in his comments to MLB.com, "I have been consistent in my statements about a return to baseball since my retirement in 2001. With my son, Ryan, approaching the end of high school in a couple of years, I have been thinking more seriously about a return to the big league game. I am more excited now to explore all opportunities and find the right situation that could lead me to the next phase of my life."
Sporting News‘ team of 32 beat writers play GM for the day, making all the picks for the teams they cover in our annual mock draft:
1. Rams — Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma. After passing on Mark Sanchez and Matt Ryan in the past two drafts, the Rams finally take a quarterback. In Bradford, the Rams see a franchise quarterback they can build a team around. They like his accuracy, arm strength, athleticism and intelligence.
2. Lions — Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska. The Lions will consider an offensive tackle, but Suh appears to be a can’t-miss prospect and the league’s worst-ranked defense over the last three years certainly could use an upgrade in the line. Suh will start on Day 1 and provide strength against the run and a big inside push against the pass.
3. Buccaneers — Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma. The decision to go back to the cover-2 scheme means the Bucs need a dominating, Warren Sapp-type presence in the middle. McCoy is the best 3-technique tackle in the draft, a superb penetrator who should immediately upgrade the team’s pass rush and run-stopping ability.
4. Redskins — Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State. With Chris Samuels retiring and no quality tackle on the roster, the Redskins take an offensive lineman in the first round for the first time since 2000. Okung’s athleticism is a good fit in Mike Shanahan’s zone-blocking system, and he’ll provide the blind-side protection the team desperately needs for new QB Donovan McNabb.
5. Chiefs — Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa. After allowing 45 sacks last season, the Chiefs need another building block for their offensive line. Bulaga might never become a star, but he should be a solid player who can help stabilize their line.
6. Seahawks — Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma. After years of failing to acquire a successor to LT Walter Jones, Seattle urgently needs one. The Seahawks started four different players at that position last year, two of whom weren’t on the 53-man roster when the season began. Williams’ athleticism makes him a great fit for Alex Gibbs’ zone-blocking scheme.
7. Browns — Eric Berry, S, Tennessee. There are concerns about Berry’s thirst for hitting ballcarriers, but the Browns think he will develop into an all-around playmaker. They love the fact he has the skills to also become an elite cornerback should they come up with a solution at safety. The Browns will press to trade down, but Berry is a logical pick if they can’t fetch the right price.
8. Raiders — Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers. The Raiders are second-guessing themselves for passing up an offensive tackle in last year’s draft. They won’t make the same mistake again in a draft loaded with top-flight tackle prospects. Davis’ size and potential make him a perfect candidate to help revamp a line that has been neglected for too long.
9. Bills — Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech. With the top four offensive tackles off the board, it’s the worst-case scenario for the Bills. QB Jimmy Clausen is a consideration here, but the Bills decide to take the best player available. With Aaron Schobel’s possible retirement, the Bills bolster their pass rush with Morgan.
10. Jaguars — Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama. Unhappy with the play of Justin Durant—last year’s starter at middle linebacker—the Jaguars moved him outside, leaving a void in the middle. McClain’s leadership abilities, physical play and instincts make him a starter from Day 1. The club initially had some trepidation about McClain’s speed, but he alleviated those concerns at his pro day.
11. Broncos — Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State. Denver had a need for a game-breaking receiver even before dealing Brandon Marshall. This pick fills that vacancy with the draft’s top wideout. It’s possible the Broncos attempt to trade down and take Florida center Maurkice Pouncey. But with two second-round picks as ammunition, the Broncos could just as easily attempt to move up and potentially grab both players, filling two major holes.
12. Dolphins — Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee. Bill Parcells generally likes to select nose tackles later in the draft, but the increased number of 3-4 defenses has made that task far tougher. It’s a major need, though.
13. 49ers — Joe Haden, CB, Florida. The 49ers love physical and feisty cornerbacks, and Haden fits that mold perfectly. The team must decide what to do with its top corner, Nate Clements, who was benched in a critical game last season and whose contract becomes unwieldy in coming years. Having Haden on the roster would make that decision easier.
14. Seahawks — C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson. Spiller isn’t a workhorse type, but that’s not a problem because Pete Carroll liked to use multiple backs at USC and keep them hungry. Spiller is a dynamic runner and return threat who would give Seattle’s offense an explosive threat it lacks. Carroll has specifically cited the need to add more firepower.
15. Giants — Mike Iupati, G, Idaho. The offensive line showed some wear and tear last season and left guard Rich Seubert is nearing the end of the line. Iupati, an athletic guard with excellent size, long arms and an attacking mentality, won’t have to step in and start right away if he isn’t completely ready.
16. Titans — Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan. The Titans are intrigued by South Florida’s Jason Pierre-Paul but need a player capable of playing immediately. Graham is a high-character, productive player and as close to being NFL-ready as any of the defensive ends.
17. 49ers — Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame. The 49ers are counting on Alex Smith to deliver their first playoff appearance since 2002. But Clausen would give the team a future option if Smith, who is entering the final year of his contract, doesn’t come through. The 49ers also could trade down and take an offensive tackle, their biggest need.
18. Steelers — Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State. With McClain, Haden and Iupati all gone, it comes down to Wilson or Pouncey. There is a great need to find a corner who can play right away, and the team thinks there are enough good offensive linemen available to get one in the second or third round.
19. Falcons — Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri. With his speed, quickness and striking ability, Weatherspoon is a perfect fit at outside linebacker. Coming from the Big 12, he’s adept in coverage and is used to covering backs out of the backfield—a big problem for the Falcons the past two seasons.
20. Texans — Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State. Mathews, who has 4.47 speed with good vision and instincts, is ideally suited for Houston’s one-cut zone-blocking scheme. The Texans must improve a running game that ranked 30th last season and believe Mathews can make an immediate impact.
21. Bengals — Earl Thomas, S, Texas. This is the perfect marriage of talent and need. With veteran safeties Roy Williams and Chris Crocker in the final stage of their careers, Thomas gives the Bengals an aggressive ballhawk with corner skills. He’ll settle in as a nickel back this season before taking over as the leader of the deep secondary.
22. Patriots — Jared Odrick, DT/DE, Penn State. The ’09 Patriots never fully recovered from the trade of Pro Bowl end Richard Seymour to the Raiders. With a Seymour clone available, Bill Belichick can’t pass on the opportunity to add Odrick as an anchor for his 3-4 defense. Odrick has the long arms to keep tackles off him, the strength to fight double-teams and the burst to rush the passer.
23. Packers — Taylor Mays, S, USC. Ideally, G.M. Ted Thompson would like to add an offensive tackle here, but there are better players on the board than tackles such as Charles Brown (USC) and Rodger Saffold (Indiana). If he doesn’t trade down, Thompson will take Mays and pair him with Nick Collins to create perhaps the NFL’s fastest safety duo.
24. Eagles — Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, Florida. Questions surround center Jamaal Jackson, who turns 30 next month and whose status for the season opener is uncertain while he recovers from major knee surgery. Pouncey can play center or guard, giving the Eagles a potential immediate starter at three positions.
25. Ravens — Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma. The Ravens must find an eventual replacement for tight end Todd Heap, who is 30 and has lost a step. The Ravens think Gresham can add to the vertical game, and they want a young receiver to groom along with young quarterback Joe Flacco.
26. Cardinals — Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas. The Cardinals are looking to shore up a defense that collapsed late last season. Kindle has pass-rush skills, and he has the size to possibly move inside and replace the departed Karlos Dansby. However, club officials will be surprised if Kindle drops to them.
27. Cowboys — Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame. With all of the first-round offensive tackles and safeties gone, the Cowboys go for a playmaker. Tate can operate out of the slot, pick up yards after the catch and provide help as a kick and punt returner. He also played in a pro-style offense at Notre Dame.
28. Chargers — Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama. Everyone thinks the team will go for a running back here, and it might if Mathews is available. But there will be a good back available when the Chargers pick in the second round (40th overall), and they have a great need for a big man in the middle of their D-line.
29. Jets — Brian Price, DT/DE, UCLA. The Jets need to get younger in the defensive line, where Kris Jenkins, Shaun Ellis and Sione Pouha are all 30 or older. Price has a terrific motor and the versatility to play end in the team’s 3-4, then slide inside on passing downs when the Jets often shift to a 4-3.
30. Vikings — Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers. The Vikings are dangerously thin at corner. Antoine Winfield turns 33 in June and missed six games last year because of a broken foot. The other starting corner, Cedric Griffin, tore an ACL in the NFC championship game. McCourty has the athleticism, competitiveness and ball skills to become a solid starter.
31. Colts — Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida. Pierre-Paul is considered a work in progress, but that’s fine. He can develop his game behind two of the best pass rushers in the league—Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis. The defense lacks a viable No. 3 pass-rush threat.
32. Saints — Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU. The Saints’ top priority is to add a dynamic playmaker to their front seven. Hughes might be undersized for a 4-3 end but can make an instant impact as a situational pass rusher, and coordinator Gregg Williams is creative enough to find a role for him at end or outside linebacker.
Sporting News’ AFC correspondents: Kevin Ace, Mike Chappell, Steve Corkran, Jeff Darlington, Steve Doerschuk, Gerry Dulac, Chick Ludwig, John McClain, J.P. Pelzman, Mike Preston, Ian R. Rapoport, Lee Rasizer, Adam Teicher, Allen Wilson, Michael C. Wright and Jim Wyatt.
Sporting News’ NFC correspondents: Matt Barrows, Gene Chamberlain, Mark Craig, Roy Cummings, Darin Gantt, John Keim, Tom Kowalski, D. Orlando Ledbetter, Geoff Mosher, Danny O’Neil, Paul Schwartz, Tom Silverstein, Kent Somers, Jean-Jacques Taylor, Jim Thomas and Mike Triplett.
Sporting News‘ team of 32 beat writers play GM for the day, making all the picks for the teams they cover in our annual mock draft:
1. Rams — Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma. After passing on Mark Sanchez and Matt Ryan in the past two drafts, the Rams finally take a quarterback. In Bradford, the Rams see a franchise quarterback they can build a team around. They like his accuracy, arm strength, athleticism and intelligence.
2. Lions — Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska. The Lions will consider an offensive tackle, but Suh appears to be a can’t-miss prospect and the league’s worst-ranked defense over the last three years certainly could use an upgrade in the line. Suh will start on Day 1 and provide strength against the run and a big inside push against the pass.
3. Buccaneers — Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma. The decision to go back to the cover-2 scheme means the Bucs need a dominating, Warren Sapp-type presence in the middle. McCoy is the best 3-technique tackle in the draft, a superb penetrator who should immediately upgrade the team’s pass rush and run-stopping ability.
4. Redskins — Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State. With Chris Samuels retiring and no quality tackle on the roster, the Redskins take an offensive lineman in the first round for the first time since 2000. Okung’s athleticism is a good fit in Mike Shanahan’s zone-blocking system, and he’ll provide the blind-side protection the team desperately needs for new QB Donovan McNabb.
5. Chiefs — Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa. After allowing 45 sacks last season, the Chiefs need another building block for their offensive line. Bulaga might never become a star, but he should be a solid player who can help stabilize their line.
6. Seahawks — Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma. After years of failing to acquire a successor to LT Walter Jones, Seattle urgently needs one. The Seahawks started four different players at that position last year, two of whom weren’t on the 53-man roster when the season began. Williams’ athleticism makes him a great fit for Alex Gibbs’ zone-blocking scheme.
7. Browns — Eric Berry, S, Tennessee. There are concerns about Berry’s thirst for hitting ballcarriers, but the Browns think he will develop into an all-around playmaker. They love the fact he has the skills to also become an elite cornerback should they come up with a solution at safety. The Browns will press to trade down, but Berry is a logical pick if they can’t fetch the right price.
8. Raiders — Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers. The Raiders are second-guessing themselves for passing up an offensive tackle in last year’s draft. They won’t make the same mistake again in a draft loaded with top-flight tackle prospects. Davis’ size and potential make him a perfect candidate to help revamp a line that has been neglected for too long.
9. Bills — Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech. With the top four offensive tackles off the board, it’s the worst-case scenario for the Bills. QB Jimmy Clausen is a consideration here, but the Bills decide to take the best player available. With Aaron Schobel’s possible retirement, the Bills bolster their pass rush with Morgan.
10. Jaguars — Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama. Unhappy with the play of Justin Durant—last year’s starter at middle linebacker—the Jaguars moved him outside, leaving a void in the middle. McClain’s leadership abilities, physical play and instincts make him a starter from Day 1. The club initially had some trepidation about McClain’s speed, but he alleviated those concerns at his pro day.
11. Broncos — Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State. Denver had a need for a game-breaking receiver even before dealing Brandon Marshall. This pick fills that vacancy with the draft’s top wideout. It’s possible the Broncos attempt to trade down and take Florida center Maurkice Pouncey. But with two second-round picks as ammunition, the Broncos could just as easily attempt to move up and potentially grab both players, filling two major holes.
12. Dolphins — Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee. Bill Parcells generally likes to select nose tackles later in the draft, but the increased number of 3-4 defenses has made that task far tougher. It’s a major need, though.
13. 49ers — Joe Haden, CB, Florida. The 49ers love physical and feisty cornerbacks, and Haden fits that mold perfectly. The team must decide what to do with its top corner, Nate Clements, who was benched in a critical game last season and whose contract becomes unwieldy in coming years. Having Haden on the roster would make that decision easier.
14. Seahawks — C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson. Spiller isn’t a workhorse type, but that’s not a problem because Pete Carroll liked to use multiple backs at USC and keep them hungry. Spiller is a dynamic runner and return threat who would give Seattle’s offense an explosive threat it lacks. Carroll has specifically cited the need to add more firepower.
15. Giants — Mike Iupati, G, Idaho. The offensive line showed some wear and tear last season and left guard Rich Seubert is nearing the end of the line. Iupati, an athletic guard with excellent size, long arms and an attacking mentality, won’t have to step in and start right away if he isn’t completely ready.
16. Titans — Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan. The Titans are intrigued by South Florida’s Jason Pierre-Paul but need a player capable of playing immediately. Graham is a high-character, productive player and as close to being NFL-ready as any of the defensive ends.
17. 49ers — Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame. The 49ers are counting on Alex Smith to deliver their first playoff appearance since 2002. But Clausen would give the team a future option if Smith, who is entering the final year of his contract, doesn’t come through. The 49ers also could trade down and take an offensive tackle, their biggest need.
18. Steelers — Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State. With McClain, Haden and Iupati all gone, it comes down to Wilson or Pouncey. There is a great need to find a corner who can play right away, and the team thinks there are enough good offensive linemen available to get one in the second or third round.
19. Falcons — Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri. With his speed, quickness and striking ability, Weatherspoon is a perfect fit at outside linebacker. Coming from the Big 12, he’s adept in coverage and is used to covering backs out of the backfield—a big problem for the Falcons the past two seasons.
20. Texans — Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State. Mathews, who has 4.47 speed with good vision and instincts, is ideally suited for Houston’s one-cut zone-blocking scheme. The Texans must improve a running game that ranked 30th last season and believe Mathews can make an immediate impact.
21. Bengals — Earl Thomas, S, Texas. This is the perfect marriage of talent and need. With veteran safeties Roy Williams and Chris Crocker in the final stage of their careers, Thomas gives the Bengals an aggressive ballhawk with corner skills. He’ll settle in as a nickel back this season before taking over as the leader of the deep secondary.
22. Patriots — Jared Odrick, DT/DE, Penn State. The ’09 Patriots never fully recovered from the trade of Pro Bowl end Richard Seymour to the Raiders. With a Seymour clone available, Bill Belichick can’t pass on the opportunity to add Odrick as an anchor for his 3-4 defense. Odrick has the long arms to keep tackles off him, the strength to fight double-teams and the burst to rush the passer.
23. Packers — Taylor Mays, S, USC. Ideally, G.M. Ted Thompson would like to add an offensive tackle here, but there are better players on the board than tackles such as Charles Brown (USC) and Rodger Saffold (Indiana). If he doesn’t trade down, Thompson will take Mays and pair him with Nick Collins to create perhaps the NFL’s fastest safety duo.
24. Eagles — Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, Florida. Questions surround center Jamaal Jackson, who turns 30 next month and whose status for the season opener is uncertain while he recovers from major knee surgery. Pouncey can play center or guard, giving the Eagles a potential immediate starter at three positions.
25. Ravens — Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma. The Ravens must find an eventual replacement for tight end Todd Heap, who is 30 and has lost a step. The Ravens think Gresham can add to the vertical game, and they want a young receiver to groom along with young quarterback Joe Flacco.
26. Cardinals — Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas. The Cardinals are looking to shore up a defense that collapsed late last season. Kindle has pass-rush skills, and he has the size to possibly move inside and replace the departed Karlos Dansby. However, club officials will be surprised if Kindle drops to them.
27. Cowboys — Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame. With all of the first-round offensive tackles and safeties gone, the Cowboys go for a playmaker. Tate can operate out of the slot, pick up yards after the catch and provide help as a kick and punt returner. He also played in a pro-style offense at Notre Dame.
28. Chargers — Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama. Everyone thinks the team will go for a running back here, and it might if Mathews is available. But there will be a good back available when the Chargers pick in the second round (40th overall), and they have a great need for a big man in the middle of their D-line.
29. Jets — Brian Price, DT/DE, UCLA. The Jets need to get younger in the defensive line, where Kris Jenkins, Shaun Ellis and Sione Pouha are all 30 or older. Price has a terrific motor and the versatility to play end in the team’s 3-4, then slide inside on passing downs when the Jets often shift to a 4-3.
30. Vikings — Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers. The Vikings are dangerously thin at corner. Antoine Winfield turns 33 in June and missed six games last year because of a broken foot. The other starting corner, Cedric Griffin, tore an ACL in the NFC championship game. McCourty has the athleticism, competitiveness and ball skills to become a solid starter.
31. Colts — Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida. Pierre-Paul is considered a work in progress, but that’s fine. He can develop his game behind two of the best pass rushers in the league—Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis. The defense lacks a viable No. 3 pass-rush threat.
32. Saints — Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU. The Saints’ top priority is to add a dynamic playmaker to their front seven. Hughes might be undersized for a 4-3 end but can make an instant impact as a situational pass rusher, and coordinator Gregg Williams is creative enough to find a role for him at end or outside linebacker.
Sporting News’ AFC correspondents: Kevin Ace, Mike Chappell, Steve Corkran, Jeff Darlington, Steve Doerschuk, Gerry Dulac, Chick Ludwig, John McClain, J.P. Pelzman, Mike Preston, Ian R. Rapoport, Lee Rasizer, Adam Teicher, Allen Wilson, Michael C. Wright and Jim Wyatt.
Sporting News’ NFC correspondents: Matt Barrows, Gene Chamberlain, Mark Craig, Roy Cummings, Darin Gantt, John Keim, Tom Kowalski, D. Orlando Ledbetter, Geoff Mosher, Danny O’Neil, Paul Schwartz, Tom Silverstein, Kent Somers, Jean-Jacques Taylor, Jim Thomas and Mike Triplett.
According to the St. Petersburg Times, Rays catcher Kelly Shoppach is considering having surgery on his right knee next week, a procedure that could keep him out of the lineup until the All-Star break.
Shoppach has been sidelined with what the Rays have labeled a sprain of the MCL, but upcoming tests might show the injury includes torn cartilage.
The team also has received bad news about outfielder Matt Joyce, who was recalled from his rehab assignment at Triple-A Durham because of lack of progress in recovery from an elbow problem. Joyce has been sidelined since spring training with a strain that prohibits him from throwing hard. He will return to St. Petersburg and continue his rehab at Tropicana Field.
According to the St. Petersburg Times, Rays catcher Kelly Shoppach is considering having surgery on his right knee next week, a procedure that could keep him out of the lineup until the All-Star break.
Shoppach has been sidelined with what the Rays have labeled a sprain of the MCL, but upcoming tests might show the injury includes torn cartilage.
The team also has received bad news about outfielder Matt Joyce, who was recalled from his rehab assignment at Triple-A Durham because of lack of progress in recovery from an elbow problem. Joyce has been sidelined since spring training with a strain that prohibits him from throwing hard. He will return to St. Petersburg and continue his rehab at Tropicana Field.