Sporting News staff reports
Braves third baseman Chipper Jones says he has no intention of retiring after this season, even though he is on pace for a subpar season.
"I’m good (mentally)," Jones tells the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s David O’Brien. "I feel like I’m doing my job. There hasn’t been a point where I got in bed and couldn’t sleep because I’m worried about what’s going on. Those days come when you go 0-for-20 without barreling a ball."
Jones, 38, said last season that he’d walk away from his three-year, $42 million contract if he felt he was no longer productive. He entered Tuesday’s play batting .230/.402/.368, with two home runs and seven RBIs in 112 plate appearances. He is tied for the National League lead with with 25 walks.
"When I’m drawing walks you know I’m seeing the ball good," Jones tells O’Brien. "Everybody points to the RBI, but when there’s not a lot of opportunities you can’t help that."
Jones has made 27 plate appearances with runners in scoring position, going 5-for-18 (.278) with nine walks, the AJC reports.
The 38-year-old Jones has been slowed recently by a groin injury. He left Monday night’s game in Milwaukee after aggravating it, was in the original starting lineup tonight, then was a late scratch.
Sporting News staff reports
Braves third baseman Chipper Jones says he has no intention of retiring after this season, even though he is on pace for a subpar season.
"I’m good (mentally)," Jones tells the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s David O’Brien. "I feel like I’m doing my job. There hasn’t been a point where I got in bed and couldn’t sleep because I’m worried about what’s going on. Those days come when you go 0-for-20 without barreling a ball."
Jones, 38, said last season that he’d walk away from his three-year, $42 million contract if he felt he was no longer productive. He entered Tuesday’s play batting .230/.402/.368, with two home runs and seven RBIs in 112 plate appearances. He is tied for the National League lead with with 25 walks.
"When I’m drawing walks you know I’m seeing the ball good," Jones tells O’Brien. "Everybody points to the RBI, but when there’s not a lot of opportunities you can’t help that."
Jones has made 27 plate appearances with runners in scoring position, going 5-for-18 (.278) with nine walks, the AJC reports.
The 38-year-old Jones has been slowed recently by a groin injury. He left Monday night’s game in Milwaukee after aggravating it, was in the original starting lineup tonight, then was a late scratch.
It’s not easy for a rookie to turn heads at his first minicamp. Contact isn’t allowed, and there are only so many things he can do in a T-shirt and shorts.
Nonetheless, these 11 draft picks were among the rookies who made good first impressions during their NFL indoctrinations.
Despite all of the past controversy surrounding him, new Cowboys WR has received rave reviews so far.
Dez Bryant, WR, Cowboys (first round). In his first practice, he showed some fatigue. In his final practice, he twisted his ankle. In between, Bryant displayed outstanding hands and athletic ability. He caught just about every pass thrown his way and made at least a couple of spectacular receptions in every practice.
"Dez Bryant is an absolute talent," Cowboys coach Wade Phillips gushed. "You don’t get to be around that many players who come in and look that good that early. In 33 years, I can say that there haven’t been that many that have come in and looked that talented in the first three-day period as he has."
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Bengals (first round). With Reggie Kelly still un-signed and Chase Coffman coming off a rookie season in which he was slowed by an ankle injury, Gresham has a chance to open the 2010 season as Cincinnati’s starting tight end if the Bengals can get him signed and into training camp on time. Although he missed the ’09 season with a knee injury, Gresham was a quick study at minicamp.
"I didn’t think he would be doing so well so quickly," tight ends coach Jonathan Hayes said. "His movement skills, his strength, his balance — all those things stand out to you. Not only is he a talented guy, he also has a little chip on his shoulder when he catches the ball. He’s a very, very competitive person."
Brandon Spikes, ILB, Patriots (second round). The former Florida linebacker has the immediate challenge of adjusting to the Patriots’ 3-4 defense after playing in a 4-3 scheme at Florida. He is expected to contribute right away and should be a standout defender against the run. At minicamp, he assumed the role of signal caller for the rookies on defense.
"I just want to come in and gain the respect of the coaching staff and my teammates," Spikes told the Boston Herald. "Let them know I’m here to contribute, I’m an accountable guy, and I’m going to be there when my number’s called. I just want the guys to know I’m dependable and they can count on me — rookie or not."
Kyle Wilson, CB, Jets (first round). The Jets are building quite a cornerback corps. In the offseason, they have acquired Antonio Cromartie and drafted Wilson out of Boise State to complement shutdown corner Darrelle Revis.
Drafted 43rd overall, Ravens LB Sergio Kindle had 168 tackles and 16 1/2 sacks in four seasons with the Longhorns.
Wilson is projected to be the Jets’ nickel back and cover slot receivers. He also may get a chance to return punts. He looked so good at minicamp that defensive backs coach Dennis Thurman reportedly advised the team’s offensive coaches to not challenge Wilson.
Zane Beadles, OT, Broncos (second round). Given that left tackle Ryan Clady (torn patellar tendon) probably won’t be ready until at least the start of the regular season and the team’s uncertainty at guard, Beadles has a chance to find an immediate niche for himself in Denver. Although he primarily is a tackle, the former Utah lineman is versatile enough to be a swing lineman and play inside.
"He’s got a great attitude. We spent a lot of time with him before the draft, and he didn’t disappoint us this weekend with what he was able to do," coach Josh McDaniels said after Denver’s minicamp. "We tried to put a lot on him in two days and he reacted really well, as did the rest of our linemen that we had in this weekend."
Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Falcons (first round). Weatherspoon, who will be asked to learn both outside positions, is about 20 pounds lighter now than his playing weight in his final season at Missouri. Falcons coach Mike Smith thinks Weatherspoon has the speed to cover running backs and tight ends in the passing game.
Sergio Kindle, OLB, Ravens (second round). With Jarret Johnson sidelined (shoulder surgery), Kindle worked with the first team at minicamp. He could start off being used as a pass-rush specialist, like Terrell Suggs was as a rookie in ’03.
C.J. Spiller, RB, Bills (first round). He showed quickness and an explosive burst through the hole and was elusive dodging traffic once he got into the open field.
Jacques McClendon, G, Colts (fourth round. Coach Jim Caldwell believes McClendon, who can bench-press 645 pounds and has a master’s degree in sports management, can be a force in the middle of the line.
Tyson Alualu, DT (first round) and D’Anthony Smith, DT (third round), Jaguars. Coach Jack Del Rio thinks these two athletic, disruptive tackles will make Jacksonville’s line a more penetrating front up the middle.
Dennis Dillon is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at ddillon@sportingnews.com.
It’s not easy for a rookie to turn heads at his first minicamp. Contact isn’t allowed, and there are only so many things he can do in a T-shirt and shorts.
Nonetheless, these 11 draft picks were among the rookies who made good first impressions during their NFL indoctrinations.
Despite all of the past controversy surrounding him, new Cowboys WR has received rave reviews so far.
Dez Bryant, WR, Cowboys (first round). In his first practice, he showed some fatigue. In his final practice, he twisted his ankle. In between, Bryant displayed outstanding hands and athletic ability. He caught just about every pass thrown his way and made at least a couple of spectacular receptions in every practice.
"Dez Bryant is an absolute talent," Cowboys coach Wade Phillips gushed. "You don’t get to be around that many players who come in and look that good that early. In 33 years, I can say that there haven’t been that many that have come in and looked that talented in the first three-day period as he has."
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Bengals (first round). With Reggie Kelly still un-signed and Chase Coffman coming off a rookie season in which he was slowed by an ankle injury, Gresham has a chance to open the 2010 season as Cincinnati’s starting tight end if the Bengals can get him signed and into training camp on time. Although he missed the ’09 season with a knee injury, Gresham was a quick study at minicamp.
"I didn’t think he would be doing so well so quickly," tight ends coach Jonathan Hayes said. "His movement skills, his strength, his balance — all those things stand out to you. Not only is he a talented guy, he also has a little chip on his shoulder when he catches the ball. He’s a very, very competitive person."
Brandon Spikes, ILB, Patriots (second round). The former Florida linebacker has the immediate challenge of adjusting to the Patriots’ 3-4 defense after playing in a 4-3 scheme at Florida. He is expected to contribute right away and should be a standout defender against the run. At minicamp, he assumed the role of signal caller for the rookies on defense.
"I just want to come in and gain the respect of the coaching staff and my teammates," Spikes told the Boston Herald. "Let them know I’m here to contribute, I’m an accountable guy, and I’m going to be there when my number’s called. I just want the guys to know I’m dependable and they can count on me — rookie or not."
Kyle Wilson, CB, Jets (first round). The Jets are building quite a cornerback corps. In the offseason, they have acquired Antonio Cromartie and drafted Wilson out of Boise State to complement shutdown corner Darrelle Revis.
Drafted 43rd overall, Ravens LB Sergio Kindle had 168 tackles and 16 1/2 sacks in four seasons with the Longhorns.
Wilson is projected to be the Jets’ nickel back and cover slot receivers. He also may get a chance to return punts. He looked so good at minicamp that defensive backs coach Dennis Thurman reportedly advised the team’s offensive coaches to not challenge Wilson.
Zane Beadles, OT, Broncos (second round). Given that left tackle Ryan Clady (torn patellar tendon) probably won’t be ready until at least the start of the regular season and the team’s uncertainty at guard, Beadles has a chance to find an immediate niche for himself in Denver. Although he primarily is a tackle, the former Utah lineman is versatile enough to be a swing lineman and play inside.
"He’s got a great attitude. We spent a lot of time with him before the draft, and he didn’t disappoint us this weekend with what he was able to do," coach Josh McDaniels said after Denver’s minicamp. "We tried to put a lot on him in two days and he reacted really well, as did the rest of our linemen that we had in this weekend."
Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Falcons (first round). Weatherspoon, who will be asked to learn both outside positions, is about 20 pounds lighter now than his playing weight in his final season at Missouri. Falcons coach Mike Smith thinks Weatherspoon has the speed to cover running backs and tight ends in the passing game.
Sergio Kindle, OLB, Ravens (second round). With Jarret Johnson sidelined (shoulder surgery), Kindle worked with the first team at minicamp. He could start off being used as a pass-rush specialist, like Terrell Suggs was as a rookie in ’03.
C.J. Spiller, RB, Bills (first round). He showed quickness and an explosive burst through the hole and was elusive dodging traffic once he got into the open field.
Jacques McClendon, G, Colts (fourth round. Coach Jim Caldwell believes McClendon, who can bench-press 645 pounds and has a master’s degree in sports management, can be a force in the middle of the line.
Tyson Alualu, DT (first round) and D’Anthony Smith, DT (third round), Jaguars. Coach Jack Del Rio thinks these two athletic, disruptive tackles will make Jacksonville’s line a more penetrating front up the middle.
Dennis Dillon is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at ddillon@sportingnews.com.
Sporting News staff reports
Joe Torre disuptes a report by FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal that says the Dodgers’ manager won’t return in 2011 unless ownership ends what Rosenthal calls its "penny-pinching circus."
Rosenthal bases his report on unnamed "friends" of Torre who believe Torre "wouldn’t tolerate" another year under the current setup.
"Obviously they’re not friends of mine," Torre tells MLB.com’s Ken Gurnick. "I don’t really allow those conversations out of my home. I haven’t made up my mind and won’t until closer to the end of the season."
Dodgers owner Frank McCourt and former CEO Jamie McCourt are going through a nasty divorce, and Frank McCourt has insisted on not adding payroll when acquiring players.
Torre also denies Rosenthal’s claim that Torre might be interested in managing the Mets, Cubs or Braves next year.
"Must be the same friends," Torre tells Gurnick. "I refuse to say absolutely, but I have to say it’s very, very remote that ever happens. I certainly don’t anticipate, at age 70, searching around for another managing job." Torre will turn 70 in July.
Torre is in the final year of a three-year, $13 million contract. He initially said that he would retire at the end of the pact, but has since been negotiating on a one-year extension and a future front-office role with the club.
Sporting News staff reports
Joe Torre disuptes a report by FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal that says the Dodgers’ manager won’t return in 2011 unless ownership ends what Rosenthal calls its "penny-pinching circus."
Rosenthal bases his report on unnamed "friends" of Torre who believe Torre "wouldn’t tolerate" another year under the current setup.
"Obviously they’re not friends of mine," Torre tells MLB.com’s Ken Gurnick. "I don’t really allow those conversations out of my home. I haven’t made up my mind and won’t until closer to the end of the season."
Dodgers owner Frank McCourt and former CEO Jamie McCourt are going through a nasty divorce, and Frank McCourt has insisted on not adding payroll when acquiring players.
Torre also denies Rosenthal’s claim that Torre might be interested in managing the Mets, Cubs or Braves next year.
"Must be the same friends," Torre tells Gurnick. "I refuse to say absolutely, but I have to say it’s very, very remote that ever happens. I certainly don’t anticipate, at age 70, searching around for another managing job." Torre will turn 70 in July.
Torre is in the final year of a three-year, $13 million contract. He initially said that he would retire at the end of the pact, but has since been negotiating on a one-year extension and a future front-office role with the club.
What to expect in the major leagues today:
Unlikely leaders
Vladimir Guerrero could be poised for another big series against the Athletics.
As the Angels and Mariners try to recover from poor starts, the Rangers and A’s are vying for control of the AL West. They will begin a three-game series at Rangers Ballpark this evening, just a week after Oakland took two of three at home against Texas. In that series, A’s outfielder Ryan Sweeney did the bulk of the damage, homering and driving in six runs. Rangers DH Vladimir Guerrero had an identical line and could be even more dangerous in this series given his career-long success at Texas’ home park.
Unlikely leaders, Part 2
It is no surprise that the Giants are in contention for the NL West title, but it is shocking that the Padres remain in the thick of the race. San Diego swept a three-game series against San Francisco at Petco Park last month, but it didn’t face Tim Lincecum or Barry Zito. That won’t be the case tonight when the teams meet at AT&T Park. Zito will be looking for his sixth win, which he didn’t get until late July last season.
First vs. last
Busch Stadium holds a special spot in the Astros’ hearts, as it was there that they snapped the first of their two eight-game losing streaks this season and picked up their first win of 2010. Of course, Houston was outscored 7-1 in the first two games of that series. The Astros will return to St. Louis tonight for the first of three against the first-place Cardinals. The Cardinals will be looking to avenge that loss, as well as trying to bury the Astros even deeper in the N.L. Central cellar. As usual, expect Albert Pujols to lead the way. In the three games against Houston this season, the reigning N.L. MVP is hitting .455 with a homer, two doubles and five RBIs.
Chris Bahr is Sporting News’ baseball editor. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
What to expect in the major leagues today:
Unlikely leaders
Vladimir Guerrero could be poised for another big series against the Athletics.
As the Angels and Mariners try to recover from poor starts, the Rangers and A’s are vying for control of the AL West. They will begin a three-game series at Rangers Ballpark this evening, just a week after Oakland took two of three at home against Texas. In that series, A’s outfielder Ryan Sweeney did the bulk of the damage, homering and driving in six runs. Rangers DH Vladimir Guerrero had an identical line and could be even more dangerous in this series given his career-long success at Texas’ home park.
Unlikely leaders, Part 2
It is no surprise that the Giants are in contention for the NL West title, but it is shocking that the Padres remain in the thick of the race. San Diego swept a three-game series against San Francisco at Petco Park last month, but it didn’t face Tim Lincecum or Barry Zito. That won’t be the case tonight when the teams meet at AT&T Park. Zito will be looking for his sixth win, which he didn’t get until late July last season.
First vs. last
Busch Stadium holds a special spot in the Astros’ hearts, as it was there that they snapped the first of their two eight-game losing streaks this season and picked up their first win of 2010. Of course, Houston was outscored 7-1 in the first two games of that series. The Astros will return to St. Louis tonight for the first of three against the first-place Cardinals. The Cardinals will be looking to avenge that loss, as well as trying to bury the Astros even deeper in the N.L. Central cellar. As usual, expect Albert Pujols to lead the way. In the three games against Houston this season, the reigning N.L. MVP is hitting .455 with a homer, two doubles and five RBIs.
Chris Bahr is Sporting News’ baseball editor. E-mail him at cbahr@sportingnews.com.
Outside of Tampa Bay, it might have seemed like the Rays’ march to the 2008 World Series was a bit of a fluke, considering they finished 19 games behind the Yankees in 2009.
But inside the clubhouse at Tropicana Field, 2009 is most definitely seen as the fluke season. This is the year the Rays are set on proving that. They’ve outscored their opponents by 80 runs, and they entered the week with the best record in the majors, thanks largely to the deepest rotation in baseball. All five starters have an ERA under 3.20, and new closer Rafael Soriano is a perfect 8-for-8 in save opportunities so far this season.
They might not stay No. 1 in the power poll all year, but they won’t be far from it. For this week’s edition, we’re looking at a surprising/impressive number through the first five weeks of the season.
Matt Garza has been outstanding for the Rays.
1. Rays (2). Matt Garza has been outstanding; he’s sporting a 2.09 ERA, a 1.070 WHIP and is averaging 8.2 strikeouts per nine innings. And he doesn’t lead his own team in any of those categories. (Side note: if you want to ask Garza a question, shoot me an e-mail and your question could get answered in an upcoming issue of Sporting News magazine)
2. Yankees (4). The Yankees led the majors with a team .362 on-base percentage last season, and they’re atop the list again this year, at .370. That’s not surprising. What’s surprising is who is leading the Yankees—Brett Gardner and his .425 OBP.
3. Twins (5). After three forgettable seasons because of injuries and inconsistency, Francisco Liriano reeled off a 23-inning scoreless streak to close out April. He has yet to allow a home run this season through 42 innings.
4. Phillies (7). Jose Contreras has been a stopper in the Phillies’ bullpen. Through 10 2/3 innings, the 38-year-old righthander has struck out 15 and allowed just five hits; his ERA is 0.84 and his WHIP is a tidy 0.563
5. Cardinals (1). Rookie Jamie Garcia is leading the rotation with his 1.18 ERA through six starts. Veterans Brad Penny (1.99 ERA), Adam Wainwright (2.08) and Chris Carpenter (2.80) haven’t disappointed, either.
6. Padres (3). Really hard to single out anyone on a pitching staff that’s produced a nifty 2.73 ERA entering the week—that’s second in the majors—so here’s a quick glance at the best ERAs on the staff: Jon Garland (1.71 in six starts), Wade LeBlanc (1.16 in four starts), Heath Bell (1.29 in 14 games), Tim Stauffer (0.39 in 10 games) and Luke Gregerson (1.53 in 15 games).
7. Giants (6). Opponents have managed just a .460 OPS against lefty Barry Zito, the best mark in the National League (Phil Hughes leads the AL with a .440 mark). Teammate Tim Lincecum isn’t far behind, at .504.
8. Blue Jays (18). Toronto is 10-4 against the AL Central, 9-10 against everyone else.
9. Rangers (9). Texas is 10-4 against the AL Central, 8-10 against everyone else.
10. A’s (19). Dallas Braden threw 109 pitches in his perfect game on Sunday. He’s topped that number only once previously in his career, with 111 pitches in five shutout innings on April 30 last year.
11. Nationals (13). Josh Willingham is bucking his career trend with 22 walks and 20 strikeouts so far this year. Going back chronologically from 2009: 61 walks and 104 strikeouts, 48 and 82, 66 and 122, 54 and 109.
12. Tigers (8). Dontrelle Willis has the best ERA of any of the Tigers starters, at 3.99. Justin Verlander is at 4.50, and Jeremy Bonderman, Max Scherzer and Rick Porcello are all at 5.74 or above.
Rod Barajas leads the Mets with nine home runs.
13. Mets (11). Dan Murphy led the Mets last season with 12 home runs. Catcher Rod Barajas already has nine this year. And, enigmatic lefty Oliver Perez has a better ERA than ace lefty Johan Santana so far (4.50 to 4.54). Crazy.
14. Reds (21). The youngest member of the pitching staff and the oldest member of the pitching staff are leading the Reds so far. Rookie Mike Leake, who skipped the minors entirely, has a 3.10 ERA in six starts (Johnny Cueto is second on the staff at 5.18), and 40-year-old Arthur Rhodes has a 0.75 ERA and 0.667 WHIP in 13 appearances.
15. Red Sox (16). Opponents are 33-for-40 on stolen base attempts against Red Sox catcher Victor Martinez.
16. Rockies (10). Middle infielders Troy Tulowitzki and Clint Barmes combined for 55 homers last season; they have a total of two so far this year.
17. Brewers (24). The Brewers have scored 11 or more runs on six occasions this season; they’ve also scored 1 or 0 on seven occasions.
18. Dodgers (17). Andre Ethier enters the week leading the NL in batting average (.383) and RBIs (32) and he’s tied for the lead with 10 homers.
19. Marlins (12). Ricky Nolasco and Anibal Sanchez have identical 4.08 ERAs despite a huge difference in WHIP—Nolasco is at 1.135 and Sanchez is at 1.528.
20. Pirates (29). The Pirates enter the week 6-0 against the Reds and Cubs, 8-17 against everyone else.
21. Cubs (14). The Cubs enter the week 5-1 against the Brewers, 9-17 against everyone else.
22. Angels (15). After a hot start to the season, Hideki Matsui is batting .128 with three RBIs in his past 13 games.
23. Braves (20). Rookie Jason Heyward has eight home runs so far this season; Troy Glaus is the only other Brave with more than nine RBIs.
24. Diamondbacks (23). Six players enter this week with double-digit home runs. The D-backs have two of them, Kelly Johnson and Mark Reynolds.
25. White Sox (26). Paul Konerko has 27 RBIs and 27 hits entering the week. Carlos Quentin has 20 RBIs and 20 hits. Konerko is batting .273; Quentin is at .194.
26. Mariners (22). The Mariners have fewer home runs as a team (12) than Konerko (13) so far this season.
Adam Jones has been an out-making machine for the Orioles.
27. Orioles (27). Adam Jones, an All-Star last year, has a .254 on-base percentage and leads the AL with 110 outs made in his 31 games, an average of 3.55 outs made per contest.
28. Indians (28). Through 29 games, the Indians have a total of four RBIs and five extra-base hits (all doubles) from their first basemen (primarily Matt LaPorta and Russell Branyan).
29. Royals (25). Kansas City is 3-1 in extra-inning games, 8-20 in regulation.
30. Astros (30). Bright spot: Roy Oswalt is pitching like an ace again. He’s sporting a 2.63 ERA and a 1.104 WHIP and has 45 strikeouts in 48 innings.
Ryan Fagan is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com, and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ryan_fagan.
Sponsored link: Rays tickets available
Outside of Tampa Bay, it might have seemed like the Rays’ march to the 2008 World Series was a bit of a fluke, considering they finished 19 games behind the Yankees in 2009.
But inside the clubhouse at Tropicana Field, 2009 is most definitely seen as the fluke season. This is the year the Rays are set on proving that. They’ve outscored their opponents by 80 runs, and they entered the week with the best record in the majors, thanks largely to the deepest rotation in baseball. All five starters have an ERA under 3.20, and new closer Rafael Soriano is a perfect 8-for-8 in save opportunities so far this season.
They might not stay No. 1 in the power poll all year, but they won’t be far from it. For this week’s edition, we’re looking at a surprising/impressive number through the first five weeks of the season.
Matt Garza has been outstanding for the Rays.
1. Rays (2). Matt Garza has been outstanding; he’s sporting a 2.09 ERA, a 1.070 WHIP and is averaging 8.2 strikeouts per nine innings. And he doesn’t lead his own team in any of those categories. (Side note: if you want to ask Garza a question, shoot me an e-mail and your question could get answered in an upcoming issue of Sporting News magazine)
2. Yankees (4). The Yankees led the majors with a team .362 on-base percentage last season, and they’re atop the list again this year, at .370. That’s not surprising. What’s surprising is who is leading the Yankees—Brett Gardner and his .425 OBP.
3. Twins (5). After three forgettable seasons because of injuries and inconsistency, Francisco Liriano reeled off a 23-inning scoreless streak to close out April. He has yet to allow a home run this season through 42 innings.
4. Phillies (7). Jose Contreras has been a stopper in the Phillies’ bullpen. Through 10 2/3 innings, the 38-year-old righthander has struck out 15 and allowed just five hits; his ERA is 0.84 and his WHIP is a tidy 0.563
5. Cardinals (1). Rookie Jamie Garcia is leading the rotation with his 1.18 ERA through six starts. Veterans Brad Penny (1.99 ERA), Adam Wainwright (2.08) and Chris Carpenter (2.80) haven’t disappointed, either.
6. Padres (3). Really hard to single out anyone on a pitching staff that’s produced a nifty 2.73 ERA entering the week—that’s second in the majors—so here’s a quick glance at the best ERAs on the staff: Jon Garland (1.71 in six starts), Wade LeBlanc (1.16 in four starts), Heath Bell (1.29 in 14 games), Tim Stauffer (0.39 in 10 games) and Luke Gregerson (1.53 in 15 games).
7. Giants (6). Opponents have managed just a .460 OPS against lefty Barry Zito, the best mark in the National League (Phil Hughes leads the AL with a .440 mark). Teammate Tim Lincecum isn’t far behind, at .504.
8. Blue Jays (18). Toronto is 10-4 against the AL Central, 9-10 against everyone else.
9. Rangers (9). Texas is 10-4 against the AL Central, 8-10 against everyone else.
10. A’s (19). Dallas Braden threw 109 pitches in his perfect game on Sunday. He’s topped that number only once previously in his career, with 111 pitches in five shutout innings on April 30 last year.
11. Nationals (13). Josh Willingham is bucking his career trend with 22 walks and 20 strikeouts so far this year. Going back chronologically from 2009: 61 walks and 104 strikeouts, 48 and 82, 66 and 122, 54 and 109.
12. Tigers (8). Dontrelle Willis has the best ERA of any of the Tigers starters, at 3.99. Justin Verlander is at 4.50, and Jeremy Bonderman, Max Scherzer and Rick Porcello are all at 5.74 or above.
Rod Barajas leads the Mets with nine home runs.
13. Mets (11). Dan Murphy led the Mets last season with 12 home runs. Catcher Rod Barajas already has nine this year. And, enigmatic lefty Oliver Perez has a better ERA than ace lefty Johan Santana so far (4.50 to 4.54). Crazy.
14. Reds (21). The youngest member of the pitching staff and the oldest member of the pitching staff are leading the Reds so far. Rookie Mike Leake, who skipped the minors entirely, has a 3.10 ERA in six starts (Johnny Cueto is second on the staff at 5.18), and 40-year-old Arthur Rhodes has a 0.75 ERA and 0.667 WHIP in 13 appearances.
15. Red Sox (16). Opponents are 33-for-40 on stolen base attempts against Red Sox catcher Victor Martinez.
16. Rockies (10). Middle infielders Troy Tulowitzki and Clint Barmes combined for 55 homers last season; they have a total of two so far this year.
17. Brewers (24). The Brewers have scored 11 or more runs on six occasions this season; they’ve also scored 1 or 0 on seven occasions.
18. Dodgers (17). Andre Ethier enters the week leading the NL in batting average (.383) and RBIs (32) and he’s tied for the lead with 10 homers.
19. Marlins (12). Ricky Nolasco and Anibal Sanchez have identical 4.08 ERAs despite a huge difference in WHIP—Nolasco is at 1.135 and Sanchez is at 1.528.
20. Pirates (29). The Pirates enter the week 6-0 against the Reds and Cubs, 8-17 against everyone else.
21. Cubs (14). The Cubs enter the week 5-1 against the Brewers, 9-17 against everyone else.
22. Angels (15). After a hot start to the season, Hideki Matsui is batting .128 with three RBIs in his past 13 games.
23. Braves (20). Rookie Jason Heyward has eight home runs so far this season; Troy Glaus is the only other Brave with more than nine RBIs.
24. Diamondbacks (23). Six players enter this week with double-digit home runs. The D-backs have two of them, Kelly Johnson and Mark Reynolds.
25. White Sox (26). Paul Konerko has 27 RBIs and 27 hits entering the week. Carlos Quentin has 20 RBIs and 20 hits. Konerko is batting .273; Quentin is at .194.
26. Mariners (22). The Mariners have fewer home runs as a team (12) than Konerko (13) so far this season.
Adam Jones has been an out-making machine for the Orioles.
27. Orioles (27). Adam Jones, an All-Star last year, has a .254 on-base percentage and leads the AL with 110 outs made in his 31 games, an average of 3.55 outs made per contest.
28. Indians (28). Through 29 games, the Indians have a total of four RBIs and five extra-base hits (all doubles) from their first basemen (primarily Matt LaPorta and Russell Branyan).
29. Royals (25). Kansas City is 3-1 in extra-inning games, 8-20 in regulation.
30. Astros (30). Bright spot: Roy Oswalt is pitching like an ace again. He’s sporting a 2.63 ERA and a 1.104 WHIP and has 45 strikeouts in 48 innings.
Ryan Fagan is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com, and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ryan_fagan.
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Sporting News staff reports
Online wagering site Bodog.com lists the Colts and the Saints as co-favorites to win next season’s Super Bowl, with both teams currently at 9-1. Super Bowl 45 will be played February 6, 2011, at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington.
Arizona Cardinals 40/1
Atlanta Falcons 28/1
Baltimore Ravens 16/1
Buffalo Bills 100/1
Carolina Panthers 35/1
Chicago Bears 35/1
Cincinnati Bengals 30/1
Cleveland Browns 80/1
Dallas Cowboys 12/1
Denver Broncos 50/1
Detroit Lions 90/1
Green Bay Packers 14/1
Houston Texans 25/1
Indianapolis Colts 9/1
Jacksonville Jaguars 70/1
Kansas City Chiefs 90/1
Miami Dolphins 30/1
Minnesota Vikings 14/1
New England Patriots 12/1
New Orleans Saints 9/1
New York Giants 25/1
New York Jets 10/1
Oakland Raiders 80/1
Philadelphia Eagles 18/1
Pittsburgh Steelers 20/1
San Diego Chargers 11/1
San Francisco 49ers 30/1
Seattle Seahawks 40/1
St.Louis Rams 100/1
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 100/1
Tennessee Titans 28/1
Washington Redskins 25/1
Poll: Who’ll get back, Colts or Saints?
More: Bucs have long way to go
Sporting News staff reports
Online wagering site Bodog.com lists the Colts and the Saints as co-favorites to win next season’s Super Bowl, with both teams currently at 9-1. Super Bowl 45 will be played February 6, 2011, at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington.
Arizona Cardinals 40/1
Atlanta Falcons 28/1
Baltimore Ravens 16/1
Buffalo Bills 100/1
Carolina Panthers 35/1
Chicago Bears 35/1
Cincinnati Bengals 30/1
Cleveland Browns 80/1
Dallas Cowboys 12/1
Denver Broncos 50/1
Detroit Lions 90/1
Green Bay Packers 14/1
Houston Texans 25/1
Indianapolis Colts 9/1
Jacksonville Jaguars 70/1
Kansas City Chiefs 90/1
Miami Dolphins 30/1
Minnesota Vikings 14/1
New England Patriots 12/1
New Orleans Saints 9/1
New York Giants 25/1
New York Jets 10/1
Oakland Raiders 80/1
Philadelphia Eagles 18/1
Pittsburgh Steelers 20/1
San Diego Chargers 11/1
San Francisco 49ers 30/1
Seattle Seahawks 40/1
St.Louis Rams 100/1
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 100/1
Tennessee Titans 28/1
Washington Redskins 25/1
Poll: Who’ll get back, Colts or Saints?
More: Bucs have long way to go
Sporting News staff reports
Free-agent pitcher John Smoltz will test his ability on the links Monday as he tries to qualify for next month’s U.S. Open.
MLB.com and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution report Smoltz, who’ll turn 43 on Saturday, will be among 144 players competing at an 18-hole local event in Marietta, Ga. The top nine finishers and two alternates will move to a 36-hole sectional qualifying tournament, with a spot in the Open on the line.
Smoltz tells MLB.com he isn’t overly confident about his chances.
"I’m pretty realistic," Smoltz said. "Even if I set forth a month’s worth of practice, my realistic chance of qualifying isn’t great. I just want to do it for the experience."
The Journal-Constitution reports Smoltz, who is an analyst for Turner Sports and MLB Network, has a 2 handicap. He has expressed interest in playing on the PGA’s Champions Tour when he turns 50.
Sporting News staff reports
Free-agent pitcher John Smoltz will test his ability on the links Monday as he tries to qualify for next month’s U.S. Open.
MLB.com and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution report Smoltz, who’ll turn 43 on Saturday, will be among 144 players competing at an 18-hole local event in Marietta, Ga. The top nine finishers and two alternates will move to a 36-hole sectional qualifying tournament, with a spot in the Open on the line.
Smoltz tells MLB.com he isn’t overly confident about his chances.
"I’m pretty realistic," Smoltz said. "Even if I set forth a month’s worth of practice, my realistic chance of qualifying isn’t great. I just want to do it for the experience."
The Journal-Constitution reports Smoltz, who is an analyst for Turner Sports and MLB Network, has a 2 handicap. He has expressed interest in playing on the PGA’s Champions Tour when he turns 50.
In seven of nine NFL seasons, Steve Smith has been the Panthers’ leading wide receiver. For the first time since his second year, however, the team is without quarterback Jake Delhomme. At Carolina’s recent minicamp, Smith talked to Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer and other reporters about changes in the receiving corps, his role as a veteran leader and his first impressions of the team’s 2010 rookies.
Q: What are your initial impressions of the team having two rookie quarterbacks, Jimmy Clausen and Tony Pike, to compete with incumbent Matt Moore for the starting job?
Steve Smith: (At first) I really haven’t been focusing on how they’re doing. I’m just trying to get on the same page with Matt and going with some of the new things the new wide receivers coach has going on. I’ve got quite a bit on my plate as with the new coach I’ve got to focus on a little bit that currently hasn’t give me a lot of time to watch the younger guys. Hopefully, once I get familiar with the new techniques, I’ll start looking at those guys, go in there and watch film (with the rookie QBs).
Q: What do you expect out of the Panthers’ receivers without Muhsin Muhammad?
SS: Obviously, (there’s) a new starter (Dwayne Jarrett), two new young guys (Brandon LaFell, Armanti Edwards). There are 11 of us (in camp), so that’s a lot. I think change could be good. Time will tell.
Q: What did you say to Edwards and the other rookie receivers?
SS: First day, you really don’t say anything to them. You kind of let them settle down a little bit. I can imagine what they’re going through—the excitement, the anxiety. … There are a lot of things going on in their mind.
Q: What’s your role in filling the void in the offense after losing veteran leaders such as QB Jake Delhomme, wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad and fullback Brad Hoover?
SS: We’ve got a lot of young guys in there, and I guess to be a mentor all you have to do is be a few steps ahead.
Q: What’s your assessment of this receiving corps?
SS: You want to say, "We’re going to be the best bunch of guys," but I think just allowing those guys to really just be themselves right now I think is the best bet.
Q: What do you think of your new wide receivers coach, Tyke Tolbert?
SS: I have a great amount respect for (former) coach (Richard) Williamson. He’s been my coach for a very long time. At the same time, I’m learning quite a bit from Tyke. He’s doing things a bit differently. … I think in all, it will be a good fit. I’ve talked to some people he’s coached (Anquan Boldin, Terrell Owens), and they had nothing but high praise to say about him.
Q: What are the challenges for Edwards, going from college quarterback to NFL wide receiver?
SS: From a quarterback to a wideout, it may not be as hard as people think. The quarterback has the responsibility to know where everyone is on the field. So now, for him, he only needs to focus on being a wideout, so he doesn’t have as many tasks as a wide receiver that a quarterback generally has. I don’t think it will be that much harder or a huge task. It’s just getting the lingo together, coming from that spread offense up at Appalachian State. I think he’ll do pretty well.
Q: What were you first thoughts about Edwards’ speed?
SS: I think out of all the wide receivers that we’ve got, I think we have some guys with pretty good speed. As far as all the new guys, they’re pretty quick. I’m not saying these other guys aren’t as fast, but these new guys coming in they can burn a little bit.
In seven of nine NFL seasons, Steve Smith has been the Panthers’ leading wide receiver. For the first time since his second year, however, the team is without quarterback Jake Delhomme. At Carolina’s recent minicamp, Smith talked to Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer and other reporters about changes in the receiving corps, his role as a veteran leader and his first impressions of the team’s 2010 rookies.
Q: What are your initial impressions of the team having two rookie quarterbacks, Jimmy Clausen and Tony Pike, to compete with incumbent Matt Moore for the starting job?
Steve Smith: (At first) I really haven’t been focusing on how they’re doing. I’m just trying to get on the same page with Matt and going with some of the new things the new wide receivers coach has going on. I’ve got quite a bit on my plate as with the new coach I’ve got to focus on a little bit that currently hasn’t give me a lot of time to watch the younger guys. Hopefully, once I get familiar with the new techniques, I’ll start looking at those guys, go in there and watch film (with the rookie QBs).
Q: What do you expect out of the Panthers’ receivers without Muhsin Muhammad?
SS: Obviously, (there’s) a new starter (Dwayne Jarrett), two new young guys (Brandon LaFell, Armanti Edwards). There are 11 of us (in camp), so that’s a lot. I think change could be good. Time will tell.
Q: What did you say to Edwards and the other rookie receivers?
SS: First day, you really don’t say anything to them. You kind of let them settle down a little bit. I can imagine what they’re going through—the excitement, the anxiety. … There are a lot of things going on in their mind.
Q: What’s your role in filling the void in the offense after losing veteran leaders such as QB Jake Delhomme, wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad and fullback Brad Hoover?
SS: We’ve got a lot of young guys in there, and I guess to be a mentor all you have to do is be a few steps ahead.
Q: What’s your assessment of this receiving corps?
SS: You want to say, "We’re going to be the best bunch of guys," but I think just allowing those guys to really just be themselves right now I think is the best bet.
Q: What do you think of your new wide receivers coach, Tyke Tolbert?
SS: I have a great amount respect for (former) coach (Richard) Williamson. He’s been my coach for a very long time. At the same time, I’m learning quite a bit from Tyke. He’s doing things a bit differently. … I think in all, it will be a good fit. I’ve talked to some people he’s coached (Anquan Boldin, Terrell Owens), and they had nothing but high praise to say about him.
Q: What are the challenges for Edwards, going from college quarterback to NFL wide receiver?
SS: From a quarterback to a wideout, it may not be as hard as people think. The quarterback has the responsibility to know where everyone is on the field. So now, for him, he only needs to focus on being a wideout, so he doesn’t have as many tasks as a wide receiver that a quarterback generally has. I don’t think it will be that much harder or a huge task. It’s just getting the lingo together, coming from that spread offense up at Appalachian State. I think he’ll do pretty well.
Q: What were you first thoughts about Edwards’ speed?
SS: I think out of all the wide receivers that we’ve got, I think we have some guys with pretty good speed. As far as all the new guys, they’re pretty quick. I’m not saying these other guys aren’t as fast, but these new guys coming in they can burn a little bit.
Sporting News staff reports
Still upset about the incident last month when Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez walked across the mound when going back to the dugout, A’s left-hander Dallas Braden told CSNBayArea.com that there could be repercussions when the teams play again in July.
Braden hinted that those repercussions could include a fight, and he admitted he isn’t a fan of A-Rod.
"(A-Rod has a) lack of respect for the game or those playing it. … He’s just an individualistic player," Braden said.
Rodriguez tried to take the high road Friday night when asked to respond to Braden’s latest comments.
"I think Major League Baseball reads the same articles as we do," Rodriguez told reporters. "Now, look, I really don’t want to extend his extra 15 minutes of fame.
"Look, it is tempting to sit back here and go back and forth with the media for the next three months, but I’m not going to do that."
Sporting News staff reports
Still upset about the incident last month when Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez walked across the mound when going back to the dugout, A’s left-hander Dallas Braden told CSNBayArea.com that there could be repercussions when the teams play again in July.
Braden hinted that those repercussions could include a fight, and he admitted he isn’t a fan of A-Rod.
"(A-Rod has a) lack of respect for the game or those playing it. … He’s just an individualistic player," Braden said.
Rodriguez tried to take the high road Friday night when asked to respond to Braden’s latest comments.
"I think Major League Baseball reads the same articles as we do," Rodriguez told reporters. "Now, look, I really don’t want to extend his extra 15 minutes of fame.
"Look, it is tempting to sit back here and go back and forth with the media for the next three months, but I’m not going to do that."
Sporting News staff reports
The South Florida Sun Sentinel speculated Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez could be on the hot seat. Loria, speaking with The Miami Herald before the team’s game in Washington on Friday, tried to put a stop to that talk.
"Please, stop with that," Loria said. "Fredi and I are just fine. Fredi and the Marlins are just fine. Enough already. Please stop. I am not giving more life to what you want to be a story. Did you just see me come and hug the guy?"
But Loria also said that the team is underperforming. He added that Gonzalez addressed the team prior to the game.
"Who can be thrilled with being two games under?" Loria asked. "The team is better than that. Fredi had a long talk with them today. State of the Union message. the appropraiate city to do that in. I told him he should do that up at the Lincoln Memorial. Maybe they would be overwhelmed. They know they’re not playing up to their abilities. I have no worries whatsoever. They’re going to be fine.
"There’s a lot of room to move forward. We came out of spring training, I thought, a little flat, and we’re working our way out of that now."
The Sun-Sentinel noted that Loria nearly replaced Gonzalez following last season and that he said before the season that he expects to make the playoffs.
Sporting News staff reports
The South Florida Sun Sentinel speculated Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez could be on the hot seat. Loria, speaking with The Miami Herald before the team’s game in Washington on Friday, tried to put a stop to that talk.
"Please, stop with that," Loria said. "Fredi and I are just fine. Fredi and the Marlins are just fine. Enough already. Please stop. I am not giving more life to what you want to be a story. Did you just see me come and hug the guy?"
But Loria also said that the team is underperforming. He added that Gonzalez addressed the team prior to the game.
"Who can be thrilled with being two games under?" Loria asked. "The team is better than that. Fredi had a long talk with them today. State of the Union message. the appropraiate city to do that in. I told him he should do that up at the Lincoln Memorial. Maybe they would be overwhelmed. They know they’re not playing up to their abilities. I have no worries whatsoever. They’re going to be fine.
"There’s a lot of room to move forward. We came out of spring training, I thought, a little flat, and we’re working our way out of that now."
The Sun-Sentinel noted that Loria nearly replaced Gonzalez following last season and that he said before the season that he expects to make the playoffs.
