googleed87b46dfef1b471.html NEW ENGLAND SPORTS HUB...Red Sox Nation, Patriots Nation, The State Of The Celtics And B's: May 2005 .comment-link {margin-left:.6em;} New England Sports Hub
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Tuesday, May 31, 2005

 
RED SOX HUB: NOTABLE QUOTES:
"I just got killed Man-- straight up...They hit every pitch like they knew it was coming. I don't think they took more than two or three swings where they were baffled and didn't know what was coming. It was just one of those days. It was like (batting practice) out there."
-Bronson Arroyo, after losing 8-1 to the Orioles

 
RENT-TO-OWN...HE'S ONE OF US NOW!!

3 Cheers For Edgah!!!

Renteria becomes "Edgah the Yankee Killah" in the Bronx...
The Force of the Babe is Now With Edgar...

 
So You Want To Work For The Red Sox:
The Guy That Made The Call That Sent Nomar To Chicago Tells Us What It's Like

Monday, May 30, 2005

 
Newstimeslive.com Soldier says his pitch broke Bambino's curse

“They didn’t win in 86 years because I never threw out a pitch.”
Von Zehle, who served in Iraq with the Danbury-based Army Reserve unit, threw out the first pitch of the Red Sox-Dodgers game June 13, 2004. He hobbled to the hill still wearing a walking cast on his right foot, a reminder of the August, 2003 bombing of the United Nations office in Baghdad.
The U.N. headquarters was right next to where the 411th operated. Von Zehle was the first American on the scene after the attack. A firefighter, the Ridgefield resident dove into the rubble to pull out survivors. U.N. envoy Sergio de Mello died in his arms as the 53-year-old von Zehle tried in vain to save him.

 
OLERULES!!!

Older-Dude:
John Olerud and the pretty swing go 3-6:
As in, 36 years old, 3 for 6 with an RBI in his Red Sox debut.

 
OLERULES: Always Wear Your Helmet: "He did say he always tries to hit balls up the middle, so the fact that he did is a good indication his call-up from Triple-A Pawtucket after just two games was not made too soon. He was 3-for-6 with an RBI in his last at-bat, and he was flawless at first, where he always been a defensive standout. "

The swing still looks as sweet as ever. John Olerud needs to be at first base versus all right handers, and considered for good lefty matchups. Millar better Cowboy shutup and do what's right for the team. Bottom line: The 2005 Boston Red Sox are a better team with both players contributing. -NF
 
RED SOX HUB :
"My goal is to be back before the All-Star game." -CurtSchilling said before Monday night's game against Baltimore.
 
RED SOX HUB:
Tanyon & Trot mix it up again: "Did he consider charging the mound? 'I'm not gonna waste my time,' Nixon said. 'But I knew it was on purpose. Of course, he'll deny it, but it doesn't bother me." -Trot Nixon
 

Rent has relaxed and remembered how to take the ball the other way...
with spectacular results in New York...

 

A Yankee Killer is Born...

 

EDGAH RENTERIA:
10 for 12 versus the hated Yankees over the weekend...
16 for 24 over his last 6 games.

Friday, May 27, 2005

 
Red Sox Hub: Wells cuts ties to NY: "The goal, said Wells, is to win. Doing it in New York, and silencing the boo-birds, would be just grand.

``Obviously, you like to go into New York, beat them and rub it in and (tick) their fans off,'' Wells said. ``Especially if you sweep them, it's bragging rights.''"
 
Red Sox Hub: Henry goes to bat for Gill
 
courant.com | Perineum Between Boston and New York Seeks To Destroy Any Sort Of Identity-Some Politicians Seek To Take Perks Away From Coaches, While Lobbyists Will Still Line Their Pockets: "Calhoun and Auriemma also signed new contracts this past school year. Calhoun - the state's highest-paid employee - receives $1.4 million, plus a country-club membership and other perks. Auriemma, the highest-paid women's basketball coach in the nation, earns $825,000 under a contract that will put him over the $1 million mark in the 2007-08 school year. "
 

SHO TIME!!!


SHO TIME!!!
Originally uploaded by nomarfan2004.
Kelly Shoppach called up by the Red Sox...He and Olerud will join the team in New York.

 
BATTLE FOR THE A.L. EAST

George calls Torre in the dugout during ALCS game 4.
THE BATTLE FOR THE 2005 A.L. EAST CROWN IS OFFICIALLY UNDERWAY, AS THE YANKEES HAVE PASSED THE RED SOX FOR 2ND PLACE.

 
RED SOX REINFORCEMENTS

The Red Sox Are Bringing In a Proven Soldier That Once Fought For The Enemy...Combat Tested and Always Wearing His Battle Helmet, He May Give The Enemy an Ole-Rude Awakening This Weekend.

Thursday, May 26, 2005

 
A-ROD AND MARIANO
FACE THEIR 3 TON NIGHTMARE

THE RED SOX CAN GET BACK INTO THE BIG TOP THIS WEEKEND BY TRAMPLING GEORGE'S 3-RING CIRCUS:
Cooling A-Rod, continuing to own Mariano Rivera, and sending George into panic mode.

 
HE'S BAACK!!!
While Billy The Kid is Likely Down, OLDER-DUDE Will Be Up With The Red Sox And Back In New York

Red Sox will call up John Olerud and his sweet swing tomorrow;
status of Bill Mueller uncertain.

 
GUESS WHO GOT IT WRONG AGAIN??

dogbecausecanlick


``That's grossly inaccurate,'' manager Terry Francona said. "


Foulke gets mechanical overhaul:
Tries high-tech analysis:
"Foulke and the team opted not to disclose Foulke's whereabouts, although yesterday both went out of their way to deny an Internet site's assumption that Foulke flew to Birmingham in order to be examined by noted orthopedist Dr. James Andrews.
Foulke was getting his mechanics analyzed; Airport autograph seekers don't equal cross checked sources. -NF

 
Tom Gill was highlighted by the Red Sox Globe on 5/3/05
 
Spin Doctors:
Sox players want a second opinion:
"According to clubhouse sources, Sox ace Curt Schilling visited with team owner John Henry recently to express clubhouse dissatisfaction with the team's new medical staff. Approached prior to last night's game against the Blue Jays, Schilling declined comment on both his visit with Henry and the progress on his rehabilitation from an ankle injury, but more than a few Sox players recently have groused about the team's care under the supervision of Massachusetts General Hospital doctor Thomas Gill. "

Red Sox Hub Opinion:

The switch was made for business and control reasons, as all medical care for the Red Sox players and their families now runs through Dr. Gill and hence the Red Sox organization. In theory, it does make sense to give the players comprehensive care, as nutrition and exercise programs can now be fully integrated. A lot of the care can now be provided within the new facilities built this season at Fenway by the team, which likely saves money and theoretically improves care and convenience.

Dr. Gill is an Orthopedic knee specialist, and doesn't have the ability to make autonomous decisions. Part of his appeal is that he will be making medical decisions "by committee", bringing in other specialists depending on the issue, rather than having the control and hold over the program and players that Morgan did. Morgan also enjoyed answering the media's questions, and in the opinion of some Red Sox insiders, may have been too forthcoming with information at times. Gill is towing a more conservative, secretive company line this season. Players are aggressive competitors that want quick and firm answers, and it appears unlikely that the new medical group is equipped, or enabled, to provide either. Perhaps, a new "spin doctor" was really what John Henry, Larry Lucchino, and the rest of the organization sought.
Sound familiar? A recurring theme can be found with this organization. Right or wrong, it is how they have chosen to do business. So far, it has worked well for them, so any deviation from their formula is unlikely.

It actually does make more sense to have full control, (The Patriot use the same MGH staff; Tom Gill has been an assistant to Dr. Burt Zarens with the Patriots), but when the players fully trust and are comfortable with one physician, change is bound to cause some disruption. Morgan has a fantastic reputation within the medical community in terms of his ability as a physician, and has a very strong personality. Rather than try and train a savvy old dog, it was probably just easier to get a new puppy. -NF

 
HUB FACTS:
Following his final appearance Sunday, Danny Graves flipped his middle finger at a fan who leaned over the dugout, swore at him and, according to Hall of Fame writer Hal McCoy of the Dayton Daily News, slurred Graves by telling him to go back to Vietnam, where he was born.
If that's true, the Reds obviously are charging too little money for close-up seats if scum like that has access to them.
Can't blame Graves for his response; he is a quality guy that would fit in well with the Red Sox. Coincidence: Johnny Damon's family heritage includes a Thai/Vietnam connection; his mom is of Thai descent and his parents met in Vietnam while his dad was in the army. -NF

 
HUB FACTS:
After 7,419 Major League at-bats, John Olerud is finally getting to play minor league baseball. The former big league first baseman is recovering from a foot injury while playing in the Boston system. How long he in Pawtucket is still to be determined, but what has been determined is that there are now just two players in MLB history to never play a game in the minor leagues: Dave Winfield and Bob Horner. (si) -NF

Wednesday, May 25, 2005

 
Boston Police Disgrace the Uniform-Commit Involuntary Manslaughter of Victoria Snelgrove Then Partied in La-La Just After Her Death: Post-Snelgrove junket: "Just days after an Emerson College student killed by a police-fired pellet was laid to rest, the officer in charge at the deadly scene attended a red-carpet gala at a Hollywood amusement park on a junket with the commissioner and six other Hub cops"

No excuses for these doughnut clowns with badges. Case in point as to why kids have no respect for the "Good 'Ole Boys" (and Girls) in blue. O'Toole needs to have her feet held to the fire for this fiasco. She is clearly in over her head.

-NF
 
New York Daily News - Home - A-Rod bares pain, therapy:

arodfrontpost

"'I don't know where I'd be' without therapy, A-Rod told the television show 'Extra' in a segment to air tonight at 7 on Channel 4."

We can't criticize anyone that battles a mental illness and puts himself out there by disclosing his personal battles in order to help others. He seems to be doing a courageous thing here. Still, everything else about him is fair game when he comes to Fenway. Maybe he can give our conflicted shortstop Edgar Renteria a referral this weekend.
-NF

Tuesday, May 24, 2005

 
ESPN.com - Gammons: Sizing up the draft: "The Mets have to be cautious with Pedro Martinez even if a flareup like his hip is considered minor. If you include the postseason, he threw more pitches than any other pitcher in either league in 2004."
 
Grave Robber
Look For Theo to Steal Graves From Other Suitors
Cubs, Yankees, Arizona, Mets are among those interested
in the Reds banished closer

Graves is similar to Keith Foulke;
Not overpowering, but the touch to get it done in the 9th inning.
He would take some stress off of Mike Timlin.
Graves reportedly showed boorish behavior with a fan, which coupled with his poor 2005 performance, prompted his release.

 
Red Sox should take Graves to The Cradle of Baseball Heaven

Danny Graves is a great fit for the Sox bullpen. The Red Sox have scouts and field personnel that have ties to the Cincinnati Reds, and know the makeup and talent of Danny Graves. Another Red faced move in Cincy. Look for Theo Epstein to try and grab this guy for bullpen depth and closer insureance once he clears waivers. -NF

Sunday, May 22, 2005

 
YOU COMPLETE ME
New Red Sox Ace Matt Clement steps up to start 5-0; best Sox start since Pedro Martinez

Complete game 5-2 victory over the Boston Braves on 110 pitches, 0-walks.
So far, Abe Lincoln is proving us wrong, as he has been able to harness his stuff for the most part.

 
DIE-ERIA:
Edgar Is Officially Killing Red Sox Nation

Theo Epstein, Red Sox fans have that queasy feeling that starts down below...A smattering of boos tonight...Things are about to explode and get very messy for the Red Sox shortstop if this continues.

Edgar gets "the runs" after bumping an umpire arguing about a pitch that definitely was a strike.


E-6:
2 more errors tonight brings the total to 8 Errors on the season-(save for quite a few generous scoring decisions that would easily put him in double digits)
- for the Anti-O.C.
This is not hindsight; it made zero sense to sign a shortstop to a $10 million a year longterm deal when the strength of the Red Sox system is currently at shortstop. Pedroia and Hanley Ramirez are both close...If they wanted more than a 1-year stopgap, why overhaul a position of strength? Orlando Cabrera had proven that he could handle Boston and would have signed for a 3 year deal for $2-3 million less annually. Maybe something else was going on with the O.C. in addition to his rumored nasty treatment of the "little people." Edgar has hit rock bottom...he will never be worth the $10 million salary that the Sox gave him, but let's hope that he at least regains a semblance of the steady, well rounded shortstop persona that he once embodied in the National League.
-NF

Saturday, May 21, 2005

 
Troy Returns To The Empire:
"Wide receiver Troy Brown will be returning to the Patriots in 2005, according to NFL sources. An official announcement isn't expected until early in the week and details of the deal aren't known at this time. "
Great to see that Troy will likely finish his career as a Patriot. He is #5 or 6 on the receiver depth chart right now, but will pass some of these guys and make an impact for the Patriots this season. See ya, P.K. Sam. -NF

 

Bob Lobel Gets Fuzzy

Bob Lobel sues Get fuzzy comic and several print media outlets that published the unedited version of this comic. We have removed the names here to protect the Hub from frivolous litigation. Let's hope this suit actually goes through; we would love to finally separate fact from fiction when it comes to Bob Lobel rumors in Boston. Something tells us that an apology from Get Fuzzy will halt this waste of the courts' time and taxpayer money.
NANTUCKET BOB IS DEFINITELY FAIR GAME;

ANY GUY WHO CITES BOSTON DIRT DOGS AS A CREDIBLE SOURCE AND RUNS WITH A SLANDEROUS SCOOP NEEDS TO BE TREATED WITH THE SAME JOURNALISTIC INTEGRITY.
How many professional athlete's reputations has he smeared in the court of public opinion, with nary a retraction once the "exclusive" was proven to be a fable?

getfuzzyedited

FACT:
BOB WAS ONCE FEATURED ON A NANTUCKET NECTARS BOTTLE CAP, ACKNOWLEDGING HIS PREFERRED BAR STOOL AT HIS FAVORITE WATERING HOLE.
LEAP OF FACT: LETS JUMP TO CONCLUSIONS ABOUT HIS ACTIVITIES, MOTIVES, AND EMOTIONS-MUCH LIKE A CERTAIN SPORTSCASTER ON THE BOSTON AIRWAVES.

JUST TREATING NANTUCKET BOB WITH THE SAME COURTESY THAT HE TREATS MANY OF BOSTON'S PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES ON THEIR WAY OUT THE DOOR. NO NEED TO GO BEYOND RUMOR AND INNUENDO, AND ACTUALLY CROSS CHECK YOUR SOURCES.
FACT: SPORTS FINAL IS A MUCH BETTER PROGRAM MINUS N.B.; LET'S CALL FOR HIS BENCHING.
-NF
http://news.yahoo.com/comics/050513/cx_getfuzzy_umedia/20051305

Friday, May 20, 2005

 
ESPN.com - MLB - Schilling's boot removed; doctor optimistic on progress: "When asked if he was ruling out the possibility that Schilling would pitch for the Red Sox in May, Gill said, 'I'm very honestly not ruling him out for anything. ... It is a day-by-day type of thing.'"
 
HUB Breaking News - Schilling to be examined later today: "


BOSTON (AP) -- Red Sox ace Curt Schilling will have his ailing ankle examined today in Boston"
 
Hub Boston Red Sox News-Damon hosts 2005 premiere of TWIB:

Johnny can't be good and just stay out of the entertainment business. Look for him to wind up in New York or California next season.

manganweddingdress

Episode will feature a Michelle Mangan-Jenny Finch "cat fight."

-NF


Thursday, May 19, 2005

 

HUB TODAY IN RED SOX HISTORY:


1919 -- Babe Ruth won a game on the mound and at the plate. He hit his first grand slam as the Boston Red Sox beat the St. Louis Browns 6-4.

1984 -- Boston's Roger Clemens earned his first major league victory. The Red Sox beat the Minnesota Twins 5-4.

Wednesday, May 18, 2005

 
Mind If We Dance With Your Dates??
LAST DAY FOR OTIS; Retires A Patriot With 1 Day Contract


OTIS MY MAN: OTIS SMITH WAS A KEY CONTRIBUTOR TO PATRIOTS PLAYOFF TEAMS IN THE 1990'S AND WAS INSTRUMENTAL TO THE FIRST PATRIOT SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONSHIP IN 2001-02, Picking off Kurt Warner.

 
Thanks For The Memories Otis My Man:
"'I wanted to retire as a Patriot because the greatest success of my career came in a Patriots uniform,' Smith, 39, said in a statement released by the team. 'The thing that I really liked about playing in New England is that the fans always appreciated my talents and what I brought to the table, win or lose. They appreciated the effort more than the actual winning itself.'"

Monday, May 16, 2005

 
Oil Can Boyd begins comeback
Reunion: Gedman manages against him

 
BUT THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT ...

CAN DANNY AINGE TOP HIS 2004 OFFSEASON??

AL JEFFERSON, TONY ALLEN, DELONTE

WEST, JUSTIN REED ALL FIGURE INTO THE

CELTICS TITLE 17 PLANS...EVEN IF ONE OR

MORE OF THESE YOUNG SKYWALKERS END UP

BEING CHIPS IN A BLOCKBUSTER DEAL.


Sunday, May 15, 2005

 
Karsay Coming To Boston
(As a Texas Ranger)

 
CONGRATS TO THE LOVABLE MAN CHILD ON #400



Peter Gammons apologized today on WEEI for his verbal attack on Michael Felger (regarding his assessment of Manny Ramirez)last week. He did still take a lighthearted dig at Felgie, calling him "Mr. Baseball."
 
Manny Ramirez Hits 400th Career Home Run to Planet Man Ram

Ramirez is the 39th player in major league history to reach 400 homers,

Manny is just the fifth to reach the mark in a Red Sox uniform. The others were Jimmie Foxx, Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski and Andre Dawson.

Ramirez is the 13th player to reach the mark before his 33rd birthday and just the fourth since Harmon Killebrew in 1969. He is the fifth-fastest to 400 in number of at-bats, behind Mark McGwire, Babe Ruth, Killebrew and Jim Thome.

Duke Snyder, 407, Darrell Evans 314, and the active Gary Sheffield 420 and Jim Thome 424 are Manny's next inevitable victims on his way to 500 and the Hall of Fame.

 


Saturday, May 14, 2005

 
Mark Blount Takes The Money and Lollygags It.:
"As for Blount, he clearly bothered Celtics brass, and maybe his teammates, with his boorish behavior. Ainge didn't offer any defense for the 7-footer who saw his minutes shrink this season almost as much as his attitude did. Rivers didn't play Blount in the last three games against the Pacers. Was Blount unhappy? Yeah. Did he hide it on the very public stage of the Boston bench? No. Blount distanced himself from his teammates. His body language suggested he didn't care. He gave you the attitude that it was hard work getting off the bench (hey, it wasn't like he was playing killer minutes) to join the players during timeouts.

Ainge, for one, noticed. 'Mark's got to do a better job with the teammates in the huddle,' said Ainge.

Ainge knew what Blount's discontent stemmed from. 'Raef (LaFrentz) was getting a lot of the rebounds Mark was getting last year.' "

Let's see if Billy King and Jim O'Brien are dumb enough to take his contract for expiring contracts.
Greg Dickerson, who works for the team on FSNE, stated that most of Blount's teammates hate him and flat out called him a jerk that needs to be gone. This guy is a stiff who was never going to give a full effort once he got his payday. He screwed up his free ride at Pitt; too bad we can't take his Celtics scholarship away. Hopefully, O'Brien will think of the hungry, minimum salaried version of Mark Blount, and will take the bait...Hook, line, and sinker. -NF

Friday, May 13, 2005

 
TY LAW AND HIS COUSIN PACK THEIR BAG FOR MIAMI


 

HUB NOTES:

BREAK IN THE LAW:

The Dolphins met with Ty Law on Wednesday with an interest in signing the former New England Patriots Pro Bowl cornerback. No contract offer yet. Law still is unable to move laterally after undergoing surgery this offseason to fix a broken foot. Law can run straight ahead but is approximately another month from being able to do the moves required of a cornerback. Law likely won't be signed until the second wave of free agency begins with the traditional June salary dumps.

CUZ I REALLY WANNA KNOW...WHO ARE YOU?
Since Curt Schilling and David Wells have been out, the Red Sox are 10-3 with a team ERA of 3.38 and an opponents' batting average of only .228. In those 13 games, the starters have averaged 6.1 innings and are 8-1, 3.07.

STUCK IN THE MIDDLE WITH YOU:

Mike Timlin (1.08) hasn't allowed a run in his last 11 relief appearances, Matt Mantei has held right-handed hitters to a .107 average (3-for-28) and has allowed two earned runs in his last 14 appearances and lefties are hitting only .083 (1-for-12) off Mike Myers.

MONEYBALL:

Boston leads the American League in runs (189) and on-base percentage (.361); they are second in slugging (.444) and third in batting average (.277). ... Johnny Damon leads the league at .383 and is hitting .468 over his 17-game hitting streak. ... Trot Nixon has walked 20 times in 29 games and his .420 OBP is only a hair behind Damon (.421). M.V.P. candidate Jason Varitek is third on the team at .396.

PLANET MAN RAM:

Manny Ramirez is batting only .241 this season (and .143 (4-for-28) in May). More disturbing, he is batting just .257 (94-for-366) since last year's All-Star break. Surprisingly, the World Series M.V.P. has been impotent (6-for-38, .158) against lefties this season. The lack of hitting versus lefties points to his slump as likely a aberration rather than a decline; Manny, like the flukey New England weather, will suddenly heat up.

FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS:

Mark Bellhorn enters the weekend in Seattle with 38 K's in 97 at-bats. Only Brad Wilkerson of the Nats, with 40, has more whiffs. The difference between the two is that Wilkerson remains productive, batting .296 with a .366 OBP, while Bellhorn is batting .216 with a .321 OBP, well below the .264/.373 numbers he posted last season. At his current pace, Bellhorn will strike out 205 times, which would a) break his club-record 177 whiffs of last season; b) break the big-league record of 195 set by Adam Dunn last season; and c) make him the first player with 200 K's in a season.

LEADING MAN: Johnny Damon 's home run off Jason Marquis was the 17th to lead off a World Series game and the first since the Yankees' Derek Jeter homered at Shea Stadium in Game 4 of the 2000 World Series. The home run was Damon's third of the postseason.


PETER MAY NEED THE WHIZZENATOR: Barry Bonds (Giants) and Manny Ramirez (Red Sox) received the Hank Aaron Award as the most outstanding offensive performers in their respective leagues. Alex Rodriguez was the American League winner the previous three seasons; Bonds supplanted Pujols.

Peter Gammons finds it insulting to compare Ramirez to Pujols; I guess those that are actually Manny's peers see things a little differently. Complete ballplayer he is not; RBI machine: affirmative.

YANKEES REALLY DO SUCK!
The Yankees haven't been to the World Series two of the past three years. They have lost 18 of their past 34 postseason games; they don't even have a winning postseason record to show for their efforts since Game 3 of the 2001 World Series, which they lost to the Arizona Diamondbacks in seven games.

The Yankees started the season 11-19, the worst start to a season they have suffered through since 1991, back in the days of musical managers when Steinbrenner had Stump Merrill filling out lineup cards and the Yankees were en route to a 71-91 finish, 20 games out of first place.

POKEY CAN'T BEND LIKE GUMBY: Red Sox fan favorite-shortstop Pokey Reese, who has been out since the season began, is now on the 60 day D.L. and had surgery on his right shoulder. "They say he should be out four to eight weeks," Seattle manager Mike Hargrove said. "We expect him back (this season)."


STILL OFF HIS ROCKER:
John Rocker decided to try a comeback this year with Long Island (N.Y.) of the independent Atlantic League. He has said by mid-July he will be in the majors or be at home. The early returns point to a trip home. In his first appearance, Rocker walked four of six batters he faced, forcing in the winning run in the ninth inning. The next time out, he gave up two runs, two hits and two walks while getting out one batter in a 2-1 loss. During a game at Atlantic City, N.J., a fan was getting on Rocker; When the fan yelled at Rocker, "It's a long way from Atlanta," Rocker responded with, "I'm still a millionaire" and the two started to exchange expletives.
Now he has been sidelined because of "a tired arm" and will not be talking until he is pitching again.

Rocker is now comparing his harsh treatment of by the fans to the plights of Hammerin' Hank and Jackie Robinson, stating that he is sure that they didn't have to endure it for 6 years. Stick a fork in this idiot; Major league clubs won't touch this guy.

MAGIC JOHNSON: The Yankees called up Lefty Sean Henn to make the next start for Randy Johnson, who felt stiffness in his groin in the ninth inning of his start last Friday. GM Brian Cashman said he did not expect Johnson to go on the disabled list but that if the stiffness lasts more than four hours the next time Johnson pitches, he will see the team doctor immediately.


ENOUGH ABOUT ME...WHAT DO YOU THINK OF MY GOATEE??
"The Chemistry is still here because I'm Still here," Kevin Millar

Fortune .500's (Thanks Maz):
Since 1976, 11-42, or 26% of teams with a winning % of 500-.549 on May 1st have made the playoffs, including your 2004 World Series Champion Boston Red Sox.

ONE THAT GOT AWAY:
Matt Murton, the outfielder sent to the Cubs with Nomar Garciaparra last July, is tearing up Double-A pitching and looks like a future star.

SHOPPACH YOUR BAGS:
The Red Sox are very encouraged by the maturity of catcher Kelly Shoppach (.413 OBP, seven home runs in April, threw out two runners attemtping to steal the night Miller pitched). They feel Shoppach is the best catcher in Triple-A, and if the Sox don't need to use him, Shoppach could be midseason trade bait when and if Boston tries to deal for a first baseman.

WE ARE FAMILY:
Tony Pena was astounded to get a phone call from Pedro Martinez, wanting to know if there was anything Pedro could do to help Tony and Pedro's cousin, Denny Bautista.

YOU CAN CALL ME AL:
When Johnny Damon agreed to do a book with Peter Golenbock, he should have proofread the photo galleries, because it is embarrassing to refer to bench coach (and current manager) Brad Mills as "Brian."

MILLAR MAY LEAVE IN A HUFF:
The Red Sox, Cubs, Nationals and several other teams are waiting on Tampa Bay to see if Aubrey Huff will become available.

WHERE THERE'S FOULKE THERE'S FIRE:
Red Sox closer Keith Foulke leads MLB relievers with 6 gopher balls allowed already this season.


AND I THINK IT'S GONNA BE A LONG LONG TIME:
A clause in Rocket Roger Clemens' contract adds $3 million to his $18-million salary if he gets traded. No way the Red Sox will not add a contract that has another $9 to $12 million coming. Not to mention the additional luxury tax that would kick in. -NF

( This report is a compilation of multiple print and web sources, including AP, ESPN, Boston Herald, Boston Globe, SI, and USA Today, and other blogs.)


Thursday, May 12, 2005

 
DAVID McWELLS AND A SIDE OF FRIES

Wells snuck into the bullpen yesterday and pulled a Hamburgler, as he smelled a Mc Donald's run by rookie B. Cla Meredith. Wells reportedly ran full speed (Grimace pace) from the dugout to the pen, and wasted no time opening the bullpen door, instead scaling the bullpen wall faster than Mayor McCheese. Dave Wallace caught him and told the Hefty Lefty: 'If you can leap over the bullpen wall for a Big Mac, you should be good to throw a side session today." The Super Sized #2 Red Sox starter is ahead of schedule on his rehab. -NF

 
PLANET MAN RAM SENDS #398 INTO ORBIT

MANNY IS 2 AWAY FROM #400...
Manny Ramirez is on pace to be a first ballot hall of famer.
-NF
Gammons picks Pujols over Manny for best righty hitter in the game. Picks Big Papi as the best hitter on the Red Sox.

 
APPARENTLY, THESE TWO HAVE TO DO EVERYTHING TOGETHER
Tek follows up Millar's walkoff HR with one of his own

MILLAR AND TEK PRACTICE FOR THEIR APPEARANCE ON QUEER EYE FOR THE STRAIGHT GUY.
MAYBE A LITTLE TOO MUCH REHEARSAL BETWEEN THESE TWO,
ALTHOUGH NO COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE RESULTS AT THE PLATE THE PAST FEW DAYS.
NOT THAT THERE'S ANYTHING WRONG WITH THAT GEORGE...

 

MILLAR LOOKS FOR SOME KODIAK...

Wednesday, May 11, 2005

 

THE PISS MAN COMETH

ESPN.com - NFL - Vikings' RB Smith had drug test avoidance kit: "A search of a bag Smith was carrying April 21 turned up several vials of dried urine and a device called 'The Original Whizzinator,' which includes a fake penis, bladder and athletic supporter. An NFL spokesman said using the device during a drug test would be a violation of league drug policies, but it wasn't clear whether there were penalties for possessing one outside of a testing situation.
Airport police took an interest in Smith's possessions because the urine powder looked like cocaine, according to a police report of the April 21 incident, first reported in Wednesday's Star Tribune. Smith told police the dried urine was for his cousin. Smith was briefly questioned and then released."

The Ty Law excuse not withstanding, there is obviously a huge problem in professional sports that simply won't be caught by drug testing. Guys are now going to have to be searched for fake appendages, or the latest "Whizzenator." Urine powder that looks like cocaine? You kiddin' me? I wonder how many of these guys have mistaken their "pee baggies" for their blow during a 4am bender? This could get ugly.

"The good news Mr. Bonds is that you tested negative for banned substances. The bad news is that your urine test shows that you are going through menopause." -NF
 
The Original Whizzinator - HOME - Pass Your Drug Test!
Warning-Graphic-Not For Work or Under 18.
 
NOW PITCHING: #40

B. CLA HEARS OUR FEARS...CLA MEREDITH BURNS BORROWED KIM JERSEY...WILL DROP DOWN 11 to #40... IN HONOR OF THE DOPPER, JOHN DOPSON. -NF

Tuesday, May 10, 2005

 

GIAMBI AAA BOUND


GIAMBI AAA BOUND
Originally uploaded by nomarfan2004.

JEREMY SPOKE IN... CASHMAN'$$ OFFICE TODAY.

SI.com - MLB - Yankees could be sending Giambi to minors - Tuesday May 10, 2005 9:16PM: "With Giambi's batting average down to .195, Yankees manager Joe Torre and general manager Brian Cashman met with Giambi on Tuesday night and asked him whether he would consider accepting a minor league assignment."

You almost have to feel bad for the guy...but not for King George and the Yankees. Here's to the first $80 million minor leaguer!!!

-NF


Monday, May 09, 2005

 
THE PATRIOTS WILL BE HAPPILY HANGING WITH CHAD

THE CHAD CAN STILL PLAY
Until 2003, he was a durable All-Pro player. His injuries, such as a broken fibula, were bad luck rather than any sort of physical decline.
HUB PREDICTION: With Tedy likely out for at least 2005, Chad Brown will be a key component of the Patriot defense. Another coup for the Beligenius/Pioli regime.

 
THE THING IS THE RING-MR. BROWN IS IN THE RIGHT TOWN: "'I don't want to end my career at a place that's rebuilding for the future,' he said during that Pittsburgh interview. 'I want to end my career at a place that has an opportunity to really win some games and make some noise in the playoffs. I was in Seattle for eight years and I have three playoff losses to show for it. I need some playoff victories and hopefully some Super Bowl victories to round out this game that's given me so much.'"
 

FEAR THE CHAD...

Sunday, May 08, 2005

 
BACK IN THE HIGH LIFE AGAIN
Miller quenches Red Sox thirst for pitching

WADE MILLER HAS CHANGED HIS DELIVERY IN ORDER TO PROTECT HIS FRAYED LABRUM. HIS LANDING SPOT IS NOW MORE CENTERED; HE USED TO LAND MORE TO HIS RIGHT. THE RESULT IS THAT HE NO LONGER THROWS ACROSS HIS BODY. ALTHOUGH HE MAY LOSE SOME MOVEMENT ON HIS BALL, HE HASN'T LOST MUCH IN THE WAY OF VELOCITY: THE FASTBALL TOUCHED 94 TODAY AND SETTLED IN THE LOW 90'S (88 mph cross seamer). THIS GUY IS A LEGIT #2+ STARTER IF HE CAN JUST STAY HEALTHY. THE RED SOX DO HAVE EXPERIENCE IN SUCCESSFULLY MANAGING ALL-STAR PITCHERS WITH FRAYED LABRUMS...PEDRO MARTINEZ SAYS HELLO. -NF
 
DEJA' VU ALL OVER AGAIN
Sidewinding righthander wearing #51 leaves all his sinkers up; Costs Sox the game.
Please!! Get the kid a new uniform number before it's too late...

B. CLA MEREDITH DELIVERS A GRAND SALAMI TO SEXSON.
They said that the new guy is coming into the game. But then I get this chill down my spine; you know the feeling...like I've been here before...maybe it's all just a bad dream. Tie game, winning run on 2nd, 45 degrees and raining. Sidewinding righthander wearing #51 is all over the place with his pitches...leaves all his sinkers up; Souvenir ball costs Sox the game. Please!! Get the kid a new uniform number before it's too late...and someone starts calling him B.Cla Meredith. How could that one get by a superstitious Theo Epstein and braintrust?? I don't believe in curses...I don't believe in curses...but just in case...lets avoid #46 too. -NF

 
Tito pulls a beach bumb move...flip flops all the way...he said all the right things before the game then does the exact opposite; Rookie brought into tie game in the rain with runner on 2nd...: Francona says he realizes the importance of not overwhelming Meredith early on in his career.
'This is a kid,' he said. 'He's not done getting better by any stretch of the imagination. We think he can help us win some games. "...AND THEN...

 
MEREDITH BLOWS GAME 2


Tito puts the rookie in an awful position and risks the kid's future.


7th inning, tied 2-2, 45 degrees and raining. Yeah, bring in the 21 year old Southern kid, just one year out of the draft and up today from AA (Okay, 1 game at Pawtucket), with the winning run on 2nd and sluggers coming up. Perfect. Idiot in the dugout today. -NF


 
ESPN SUCKS THE LIFE OUT OF MOTHER'S DAY:
Last night's game vs. Seattle, canceled early yesterday afternoon because of wet weather, will be made up today as part of a split-admission doubleheader scheduled for noon and 5 p.m. Tickets for last night's game are good for the noon game today. (Gates open at 10 a.m.). Tickets for today's previously scheduled 2:05 p.m. game will be good for the 5 p.m. game.
The Sox are forced to play the games so close together because of contractual rights associated with the ESPN Sunday night broadcast. No game other than the one ESPN shows at 8 p.m. can start after 5 p.m. on a Sunday, said Charles Steinberg, the Sox' executive vice president/public affairs.

 
IT'S ALL OVER

PIERCE MAY HAVE PLAYED HIS LAST GAME IN A CELTIC UNIFORM

Ray Allen will be a free agent after the season. A Pierce for Allen sign and trade swap, once universally considered a bad deal for the Celtics, will now have to be considered by Danny Ainge.
27 point loss is 2nd worse in NBA history for a game 7.

Saturday, May 07, 2005

 
Patriots sign Tom Brady to $60 million extension: "'There is also a team goal of trying to win Super Bowls, which is most important. Anyone that chooses to play on the Patriots realizes that goal supersedes any other individual player goal. You have to make decisions as an individual on whether you want to be a member of this team or not,' he said. 'I know where my priorities are.'"

Brady once again shows why he is the league's true MVP. One word: Winner. -NF
 
Patriots sign LB Chad Brown: "The Patriots have also been negotiating with former Bears and Browns linebacker Warrick Holdman and Brown's former Seahawks teammate, Anthony Simmons. Both are outside linebackers."
 

SEVEN HEAVEN!!!


Walker may finally wiggle today
Originally uploaded by nomarfan2004.

ANTOINE HAS A CHANCE TODAY TO ADD TO THE CELTICS RICH LEGACY, AND SECURE HIS OWN RICH FUTURE IN A BOSTON CELTICS UNIFORM.

PAUL MAY ALSO BE DECIDING HIS OWN FATE TODAY.

HUB STATS: Celtics are 17-4 historically in Game 7's (.810).



OLD SCHOOL...WINNING M.L. STYLE!!!

Towel waving from the bench is back in style tonight.


 
HUB NOTES: START SPREADING THE NOOSE!!

THE..EH...EH...EH...YANKEES LOSE!!!


 

YANKEES REALLY DO SUCK!
The Yankees haven't been to the World Series two of the past three years. They have lost 18 of their past 34 postseason games; they don't even have a winning postseason record to show for their efforts since Game 3 of the 2001 World Series, which they lost to the Arizona Diamondbacks in seven games.

The Yankees started the season 11-19, the worst start to a season they have suffered through since 1991, back in the days of musical managers when Steinbrenner had Stump Merrill filling out lineup cards and the Yankees were en route to a 71-91 finish, 20 games out of first place.

CURT ON THE CAR PHONE: Curt Schilling, on the disabled list, has had time to analyze the Red Sox's clubhouse chemistry, and said they're missing some key people who weren't brought back, including Dave McCarty, Dave Roberts, Gabe Kapler and Derek Lowe. Said Schilling, "It's just very different and, this clubhouse, you've gotta have some guys that can alleviate the, I say this word loosely, the stress, in this game ... having guys like McCarty and Kapler and Dave Roberts in the clubhouse ... D-Lowe, I mean just real guys that kept it real free and easy."

POKEY CAN'T BEND LIKE GUMBY: Red Sox fan favorite-shortstop Pokey Reese, who has been out since the season began, is now on the 60 day D.L. and had surgery on his right shoulder. "They say he should be out four to eight weeks," Seattle manager Mike Hargrove said. "We expect him back (this season)."


STILL OFF HIS ROCKER:
John Rocker decided to try a comeback this year with Long Island (N.Y.) of the independent Atlantic League. He has said by mid-July he will be in the majors or be at home. The early returns point to a trip home. In his first appearance, Rocker walked four of six batters he faced, forcing in the winning run in the ninth inning. The next time out, he gave up two runs, two hits and two walks while getting out one batter in a 2-1 loss. During a game at Atlantic City, N.J., a fan was getting on Rocker; When the fan yelled at Rocker, "It's a long way from Atlanta," Rocker responded with, "I'm still a millionaire" and the two started to exchange expletives.
Now he has been sidelined because of "a tired arm" and will not be talking until he is pitching again.


MAGIC JOHNSON: The Yankees called up Lefty Sean Henn to make the next start for Randy Johnson, who felt stiffness in his groin in the ninth inning of his start last Friday. GM Brian Cashman said he did not expect Johnson to go on the disabled list but that if the stiffness lasts more than four hours the next time Johnson pitches, he will see the team doctor immediately.


ENOUGH ABOUT ME...WHAT DO YOU THINK OF MY GOATEE??
"The Chemistry is still here because I'm Still here," Kevin Millar

Fortune .500's (Thanks Maz):
Since 1976, 11-42, or 26% of teams with a winning % of 500-.549 on May 1st have made the playoffs, including your 2004 World Series Champion Boston Red Sox.

ONE THAT GOT AWAY:
Matt Murton, the outfielder sent to the Cubs with Nomar Garciaparra last July, is hitting close to .450 a Double-A.

SHOPPACH YOUR BAGS:
The Red Sox are very encouraged by the maturity of catcher Kelly Shoppach (.413 OBP, seven home runs in April, threw out two runners attemtping to steal the night Miller pitched). They feel Shoppach is the best catcher in Triple-A, and if the Sox don't need to use him, Shoppach could be midseason trade bait when and if Boston tries to deal for a first baseman.

WE ARE FAMILY:
Tony Pena was astounded to get a phone call from Pedro Martinez, wanting to know if there was anything Pedro could do to help Tony and Pedro's cousin, Denny Bautista.

YOU CAN CALL ME AL:
When Johnny Damon agreed to do a book with Peter Golenbock, he should have proofread the photo galleries, because it is embarrassing to refer to bench coach (and current manager) Brad Mills as "Brian."

MILLAR MAY LEAVE IN A HUFF:
The Red Sox, Cubs, Nationals and several other teams are waiting on Tampa Bay to see if Aubrey Huff will become available.

WHERE THERE'S FOULKE THERE'S FIRE:
Boston's bullpen has the worst opponents' OPS (.838) in the American League.

AND I THINK IT'S GONNA BE A LONG LONG TIME:
A clause in Rocket Roger Clemens' contract adds $3 million to his $18-million salary if he gets traded. No way the Red Sox will not add a contract that has another $9 to $12 million coming. Not to mention the additional luxury tax that would kick in. -NF

( This report is a compilation of multiple sources, including AP, ESPN, Boston Herald, Boston Globe, USA Today, and other web sources.)


Friday, May 06, 2005

 

Was It Over When The Germans Bombed Pearl Harbor??


(Germans??Let him go...he's rolling.)

SOME SOX GAVE UP BEFORE GAME 4:
Not only did some Red Sox players verbally throw in the towel before Game 4 of the 2004 ALCS, they actually told a few Yankees.
That's what former Yankee pitcher Jon Lieber told Tim McCarver during an interview that will air on "The Tim McCarver Show" on May 15 (Ch 2, 2:30 p.m.).
Lieber told McCarver the Red Sox players, whom he did not identify, "congratulated" the Yankees on a sweep before the game. Lieber also did not ID the Yankee players who received the congratulations.

PHOTO: RED SOX FIRST BASEMAN KEVIN MILLAR GETS READY FOR GAME 4 WITH A FEW "SYMBOLIC" SHOTS OF J.D.


 
TINSLEY ASSAULTS PIERCE...LEAVES HIS JOCKSTRAP WRAPPED AROUND PAUL'S HEAD

PIERCE TAKES IT ON THE CHIN IN THE POST-GAME PRESS CONFERENCE...
(New England Sports Hub Photo...please give props)
Pierce explains bandage: "I had my wisdom removed."

 
HOW THE MIGHTY HAVE FALLEN...WHILE THE ONCE MEEK HAVE INHERITED THE EARTH

William "The Refrigerator" Perry, who humiliated our New England Patriots in the Raymond Berry days by bumbling over our defensive line for a T.D., has moved on to bigger challenges:
He will battle the world's top speed-eaters on Tuesday in a cake-eating contest. Perry, first went pro on the food gorging circuit in 2003, debuting in speed-eating during Nathan's Famous hot dog-eating contest. He is doing this for the cake, and for the dough; the contest is a publicity stunt for a hotel rewards program. Although he weighs at least 200 pounds more than 132-pound phenom Takeru Kobayashi, Perry was no match for the world-record holder, who finished with a winning total of 44½ hot dogs eaten in 12 minutes.
Perry ate only four hotdogs and buns and stopped halfway throughout the contest.

 
MEANWHILE...'TOINE QUIETS HIS CRITICS

DON'T TELL ANYONE, BUT 'TOINE'S BACK...
Comes back from 2-10 first half to finish with 24 points, 11 rebounds, 3 steals, 1 assist...and 8 turnovers. The offense often ran through Antoine in the 2nd half and overtime, and he delivered.
Now, the blood thirsty, hack scribes and shark jumping Sports Final hosts will probably tell us that the C's are better off without Paul Pierce...
-NF

Thursday, May 05, 2005

 
CELTICS, PAUL PIERCE SAVE FACE...FORCE GAME 7 SATURDAY NIGHT

PIERCE LOSES HIS COOL ON THE COURT AND GETS EJECTED...AND MAYBE HIS MIND WITH THIS OFF-COURT PERFORMANCE.

The veterans are the ones showing immaturity in this series, as both Paul Pierce and Antoine Walker have been ejected. There is simply no excuse for losing composure at this juncture.

Big AL Jefferson plays even bigger tonight, with 11 points and 14 rebounds, including 8 offensive glass cleaners.

Ricky Davis is fully recovered from his game 1 concussion, sparking the Celtics off the bench.

(All Photos property of New England Sports Hub...Please give props when using)


 

"I HAVE A FRACTURED JAW," PIERCE JABS AT A MEDIA MEMBER, BEFORE WALKING OUT ON THE PRESS CONFERENCE.
Michael Felger rips Pierce on the FSN, comparing his antics to Randy Moss. Ridiculous. -NF

 


THE WEIGHT IS CLEARLY LIFTED FROM WALKER'S SHOULDERS BY THIS VICTORY...GAME SAVING 2ND HALF AND O.T. BY 'TOINE.
PAUL SPARS WITH THE MEDIA ABOUT HAVING HIS FACE RIPPED OFF BY JAMAL TINSLEY...

 
DOC GIVES THE MEDIA A CHECKUP FROM THE NECKUP


``I haven't complained about you guys all year, but to put this thing on Antoine is (expletive), because after Game 1 I didn't see anyone saying Antoine shouldn't play. When we traded for Antoine and we make this run to get in the playoffs, I didn't see anyone saying, `You know what, you should play small and not play Antoine.' "
-Doc to Hack Reporters
(Bob Lobel just needs to go away with this crap. Hey Nantucket Bob, Pat O'Brien just left a spot open at the "Retreat.") -NF

 
"We win one game, a desperate game, without Antoine and now, all of a sudden, we shouldn't play Antoine. It's not fair to him and it's not fair to this team."
-Doc Rivers

Wednesday, May 04, 2005

 
O'NEAL, BIRD END UP DEFENDING ANTOINE FROM HIS OWN "FANS": "'They can't win without Antoine,' O'Neal said after the Celtics didn't win with Antoine, dropping a 90-85 decision and now facing elimination tomorrow night in Indianapolis to the resilient Pacers. 'Don't start writing those stories about how they're better off without Antoine. They can't win without him.'"

Couldn't have said it better myself. -NF
 
HUB EBAY FIND OF THE DAY:LITTLE RASCALS LET YOU Pay TO PLAY PRO BALL: Ballclub auctions off contract - Wednesday May 4, 2005 2:53PM
 
Schilling and Piniella Play Phone Grab Ass:
"Schilling affirmed that the two had spoken by phone. ``We ironed out our differences,'' he said, adding he was ``really happy with the situation.'' "
 
NOW WE KNOW WHY JENNIFER WILBANKS LOOKS LIKE HER EYES ARE ABOUT TO POP OUT OF HER HEAD

Bill Clinton's WARNING: Abstinence may cause bulging bug eyes.

 

While A.C. was a solid rebounder, he was no Wilt Chamberlain... on or off the floor...

 
HUB EXTRA: GOSSIP WITH A REAL STRETCH OF A SPORTS CONNECTION
(Gratuitous Blog hits please)
Hey, it is the NBA playoffs and we long for any Celtics-Lakers reminiscence.
Jennifer Wilbanks hubby-to-be John Mason: Retired Laker A.C. Green Would Be Proud
BOOB OF A BRIDEGROOM GOSH-DARN HAPPY - & HE'S PLAYING IT TO THE JILT -
If you caught Jennifer's jilted schlub, John Mason, being interviewed by Fox News' Sean Hannity this week, you might have been struck, as I was, at how gosh-darn gleeful he appears for a guy who's just been publicly kicked in the teeth, or far more sensitive regions.

"We have not, you know, broken the sanctity of marriage yet, if that's the right way of putting it. In God's eye our relationship is still very pure . . . Very platonic relationship,' John gushed on TV. "

AN attractive Black woman recently asked me about my sex life. "A.C.," she said, "why are you a virgin at age 34? You're a handsome man, you're an athlete, and I know women are all over you all the time. Why are you still a virgin?"
This story has sealed the Deal (As if it needed Sealing): I will never move South of the Mason Dixon Line.
-NF
 
Al-Qaeda #3 Scumbag Nabbed By Operation Freedom

STAYING WITH OUR THEME OF THE DAY...


http://www.cnn.com/2005/WORLD/asiapcf/05/04/pakistan.arrest/index.html
SING IT MADONNA..."For the very first time"...

 

NO OPTOMETRIST NEEDED FOR SLIT EYED PARIS HILTON...

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