Former Astros scout dies at 95

It is announced that Stan Benjamin, a former scout for the Houston Astros, passed away last Thursday at the age of 95.
Benjamin joined the Astros in 1965 and worked in the organization for nearly 40 years as a scout at the amateur and professional levels. His duties included serving as a Major League scout covering the American League East clubs for several seasons. He also served as Houston's amateur scouting supervisor for the Northeast section of the country.

"Stan was a vital cog in the Astros organization," said Astros president of baseball operations Tal Smith. "He was a keen judge of talent and had great personal associations throughout the game as a result of his long career as a player, high school coach, college basketball official and scout," Smith added. "All of us who knew Stan will have great memories of him."

Nationals sign veteran southpaw Guardado to Minors deal

The Nationals announced that they have agreed to terms with reliever Eddie Guardado on a Minor League deal with an invite to big league Spring Training. The club have been interested in Guardado since the Winter Meetings. According to a baseball source, team scouts told general manager Mike Rizzo that Guardado would be a big help to the club. During his 17 seasons in the big leagues, he has played in 908 games and saved 187 of them in his mlb jersey. He is best known for his years as the Twins' closer. His best season was in 2002, when he saved 45 games.

Guardado is one of three relievers acquired by the Nationals this offseason. The club traded for right-hander Brian Bruney on Dec. 7 and agreed to term with former Pirates closer Matt Capps on Christmas Eve.

Decker is named to lead Fresno Grizzlies

Former Major League catcher Steve Decker has been named manager of the Giants' Triple-A affiliate Fresno Grizzlies.
Decker, who is considered a managerial candidate for the Major Leagues will be joined in Fresno by beating coach Ken Joyce, pitching coach Pat Rice and trainer Anthony Reyes. Decker has progressed quickly through the Giants farm system, having managed at Salem-Keizer in 2005, Class A San Jose in 2008 and Double-A Connecticut in 2009, where he reached the Eastern League finals. He previously served as Triple-A batting coach.

Decker played seven seasons in the Major Leagues, four as the catcher in the giants jersey. Joyce takes over for Hensley Muelens, who was promoted to Major League batting coach. Rice returns as pitching coach for a second season. He previously spent 13 seasons in the Seattle system.

Juan Uribe will return to Giants

According to FoxSports.com, the utility infielder is close to returning to the Giants. Uribe has been testing the free-agent market after playing in San Francisco through a one-year deal worth a little over $1 million. In 122 games he batted .289 with 16 home runs and 55 RBIs. It marked Uribe's highest average since hitting .283 with the White Sox in 2004 in the white sox jersey

Uribe was the starting shortstop for the 2005 World Series champion White Sox as one of the best defensive players in the American League at his position. He played 44 games at third base last year, 41 at shortstop and 38 at second base.

Predators' Dan Ellis will appear on NHL Live!

It is reported that Nashville Predators goaltender Dan Ellis will be among the guests on NHL Live! on Monday, scheduled from noon-2 p.m. on NHL Network and NHL.com and broadcast on XM Radio. Ellis, who is a former second-round pick of the Dallas Stars, is 6-5-1 with a 2.77 goals-against average for the Predators this season.

Also scheduled to appear to speak with co-hosts Rob Simpson and E.J. Hradek are TSN analyst Bob McKenzie and CBC color commentator Craig Simpson. NHL Live! is broadcast from the NHL Store Powered By Reebok in New York City.

Dodgers and White Sox complete Juan Pierre deal

The Dodgers acquired right-handed pitchers John Ely and Jon Link from the Chicago White Sox to complete Juan Pierre trade. Ely was a starter for Double-A Birmingham in 2009 with a league-leading 125 strikeouts in 156 innings. He is known as an adequate fastball and is considered to be a fifth-starter candidate. He was a third-round pick in 2007. Link saved 13 games at Triple-A in 2009, when he was striking out 66 but walking 27 in 56 1/3 innings in his white sox jersey. He is known as a hard thrower who has come across troubles for most of his seven professional seasons.

Juan Pierre has two years remaining on his contract of which the Dodgers will pay $10.5 million and the White Sox paying $8 million. The basic purpose of the deal for the Dodgers was to provide some payroll relief to obtain a starting pitcher.

Philles add Ross Gload to bench

It is reported that Ross Gload has passed his physical in Philadelphia to finalize a two-year contract with the Phillies. And it is said that he will make $1 million in 2010 and $1.6 million in 2011. Gload hit six home runs and 30 RBIs in 125 games last season with the Florida Marlins. He becomes the final piece on a Phillies bench that includes infielder Greg Dobbs, outfielder Ben Francisco, catcher Brian Schneider and infielder Juan Castro.3.

Gload is a career .300 pinch-hitter, which is the highest average for any active pinch-hitter with 140. Now Gload, who hits left-handed, is known as a fine defensive first basemen, but he can also play the outfield. Now it is time for us to put on the phillies jerseys and support him.

Padres give invitation to Denorfia

The Padres announced that they signed outfielder Chris Denorfia to a Minor League contract with an invitation to Spring Training. Denorfia has a .279 batting average in 208 Major League at-bats with Cincinnati and Oakland. Last season, Denorfia spent most of the season with the Oakland's Triple-A Sacramento affiliate, hitting .271 with nine home runs and 15 stolen bases. Denorfia got 120 at-bats with the Reds during the 2006 season in the reds jersey.

The Padres like Denorfia's versatility and that he can play all three outfield positions. There will be plenty of competition for jobs in the outfield in Spring Training. If there is nothing else, the addition of Denorfia will give Padres outfield depth in Triple-A Portland.

Statement regarding Ducks Henry and Susan Samueli

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman issued the following statement on Dec.9: "On December 9, 2009, U.S. District Court Judge Cormac J. Carney vacated the single charge that was pending against Dr. Henry Samueli, indicating that no law had been violated. We are delighted that the Samueli good name has now been cleared. In retrospect, it is regrettable and unfortunate that the circumstances at that time caused the Samuelis and the Anaheim Ducks to endure any suspension. We were pleased to welcome the Samuelis back to the NHL when the suspension was lifted this past November 12."

This statement comes after U.S. District Court proceedings this week in California, where Judge Carney stated that Henry Samueli had not made a materially false statement during his testimony before the SEC.

Brodeur appears in NHL Hour

Martin Brodeur will be the guest on Thursday's NHL Hour with Commissioner Gary Bettman which can be heard on NHL.com and Sirius XM Radio at 3 p.m. ET. Broderu tied Terry Sawchuk at the top of all-time list. His next chance to own the record himself comes Friday against the Florida Panthers.

Earlier this season, Brodeur set the all-time mark and last season broke Patrick Roy's all-time wins record. He's also four games away from passing Roy to become the all-time leader in games played by a goalie. The NHL Hour With Gary Bettman encourages fans to call in with questions for the Commissioner.

Burke meets with five NHL GMs

Toronto Maple Leafs GM Burke, who is also the GM for Team USA, met with the five other NHL GMs who make up the selection committee. Burke is confident about the majority of America's 23-man roster is in place, with the 2010 Olympic Games just two months away. But there are still decisions to be made. "Canada can be wrong on three or four players and it's not going to change their team." Burke told The Globe and Mail in Toronto.

Team USA's roster will be named at Fenway Park on Jan .1 during the Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic. Many fans believe Canada will win the gold medal on home ice. "Every time in this tournament will be bet on Canada and Russia," Burke said. "No one is betting on us and that's okay. But we're there to win."

Center fielder expressed desire to remain in the team

It is reported that both outfielder Marlon Byrd and catcher Ivan Rodriguez have turned down the Rangers' offer with Rodriguez agreeing to a two-year deal with the Nationals. The Rangers is in the hope of being able to re-sign Byrd to be their starting center fielder, and Byrd says that he wants to stay with the team. "We'll leave that one open," general manager Jon Daniels said. "We're in the same spot with Marlon. He's getting a sense of what the market is."

Also club officials are looking at other options and investigating the possibility of signing a veteran catcher to go along with Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Taylor Teagarden.

Giants sign Pena to Minors deal

It is reported that the Giants have signed Tony Pena Jr. to a Minor League contract, adding that Pena would earn a base salary of $650,000 if he spends all of the 2010 season in the Majors. Pena, who is the son of former All-Star catcher Tony Pena, was once viewed as the Royals' shortstop of the future, but he compiled just a .228 batting average in four big league seasons in Atlanta and Kansas City. Then he became a right-handed reliever for part of the 2009 season striking out 18 and walking six in 19 1/3 innings.

Pena became a free agent after the season and is now pitching for Aguilas of the Dominican Winter League. Well we will not see him playing in giants jersey for a period of time.

Garko becomes a free agent

The Giants announced that they refused to tender first baseman Ryan Garko a 2010 contract. Garko was expected to be a run producer after the Giants obtained him from Cleveland for Minor League left-hander Scott Barnes on July 27. He hit .235 with two home runs, 12 RBIs.

Economics can account for Garko's leaving. He was eligible for salary arbitration, which would have guaranteed him a significant pay increase from his 2009 base salary. San Francisco faces arbitration cases with two-time Cy Young Award-winning right-hander Tim Lincecum and closer Brian Wilson, who are guaranteed astronomical raises. Left-hander Jonathan Sanchez and right-hander Brandon Medders also are arbitration-eligible. In addition, the Giants' pursuit of free-agent first basemen Nick Johnson and Adam LaRoche demonstrates that Garko would have occupied a subordinate role.
Now Garko has to take off his giants jersey and have a rest for a while.

Coyotes' Jovanovski is suspended two games

The National Hockey League announced that Phoenix Coyotes defenseman Jovanovski has been suspended for two games without pay, due to an incident in NHL game against the Minnesota Wild on December 7. Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement and based on his average annual salary, Jovanovski will forfeit $67,357.52. The money goes to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

Jovanovski delivered a blow to Minnesota's Andrew Ebbett and penalty was assessed on the play. Jovanovski will miss Thursday's game at Los Angeles and Dec. 12 against San Jose Sharks. He will be eligible to return on Dec. 14 at Detroit in his coyotes jersey.

Capitals claim Chris Bourque off waivers

According to the Washington Capitals, the team have claimed forward Chris Bourque off waivers from the Pittsburgh Penguins and assigned him to the AHL's Hershey Bears. Bourque returns to the Washington organization after recording 3 assists in 20 games this season for the Penguins in pittsburgh penguins jersey.

Bourque was the Capitals’ second-round choice in the 2004 Entry Draft and has scored 1 goal in 12 career games with Washington. He has played four seasons with the Bears and helped Hershey win the Calder Cup in 2006 and 2009. Last season, he scored 21 goals and 52 assists in 69 games in the Hershey scoring race with 73 points. Bourque tallied five goals and 16 assists in 22 playoff games.

Cam Ward is not in the injured list

President and General Manager of the Carolina Hurricanes Jim Rutherford announced that the team has activated Cam Ward from the long-term injured list. Ward has missed the Hurricanes' last 13 games after being cut on his leg by a skate on Nov. 7. He is eligible to play in his carolina hurricanes jersey at New Jersey on Dec. 9.

Now he is in his fifth NHL season, and has compiled a 122-86-21 record in 239 regular-season games with the Hurricanes. Ward is the franchise's all-time leader in playoff wins and he captured the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2006 as the Most Valuable Player. The Hurricanes drafted Ward in the first round in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.

Tate breaks his jaw in ATV accident

The Padres confirmed that their first-round Draft pick in 2009, No. 3 overall pick Donavan Tate, broke his jaw in an all-terrain-vehicle accident last weekend. The Padres said that Tate will be ready for the start of Spring Training.

Tate received the largest signing bonus in franchise history, but had his jaw broken following the accident. He signed with the team on Aug. 17, and has yet to make his professional debut, as he was sidelined with a sports hernia. He had the surgery to repair the hernia on Oct. 7. It seems that he will put on his pirates jersey after a few weeks.

Yankees manager appears in Manhattan for charity

Yankees manager Joe Girardi is expected to make a public appearance at a Chipotle Mexican Grill location in Manhattan to raise funds for his Catch 25 Foundation. The World Series-winning capitain will be at the Chipotle restaurant at 25 West 45th Street from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each donation goes to support the mission of Catch 25. The donation also gives customers a chance between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. for Girardi autographed items, including a No. 27 yankees jersey.

Catch 25 was formed to raise awareness and find treatments and cures for Alzheimer's, cancer and infertility. It also provides scholarships and financial aid to those people who struggle with these diseases and serve children and adults who may not have the financial and emotional support they want.

Avalanche acquire Foote and Hendricks

The Colorado Avalanche announced that the team has acquired defenseman Adam Foote and forward Matt Hendricks from the injured reserve list. Both of them will be available in the game against the Minnesota Wild at Pepsi Center.
Foote has missed the last five games after suffering the injury on Nov. 17 at Calgary. Hendricks has missed the last six games due to a groin injury. He was placed on Nov. 19. Hendricks has two goals in 15 games this year in the nhl jersey.

The team also announced that the club has placed defenseman Kyle Cumiskey on IR and claimed defenseman Tom Preissing on waivers.

Gustavsson will undergo procedure this weekend

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced on Thursday that goaltender Jonas Gustavsson will undergo a heart procedure this weekend. The first procedure took place on September 15, 2009 during the training camp. The determination was made after he was examined several days ago by medical specialists.

Gustavsson played the first period in Tuesday's game at Montreal in his toronto maple leafs jersey. Defenceman Carl Gunnarsson sustained a hyper-extended left elbow in the game against Buffalo Sabres. He is expected to be out of the lineup for about six weeks.

Oilers sign junior goalie as backup

The Edmonton Oilers announced that goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin will sit out Saturday's game against Chicago and have signed junior goaltender Torrie Jung, serving as Jeff Deslauriers' backup against the Blackhawks. Khabibulin will miss the game as a precaution as he continues to deal with a injured back. He last played in Monday's 3-2 shootout loss at Columbus Blue Jackets in edmonton oilers jersey.

Jung is in his second season with the Western Hockey League’s Edmonton Oil Kings after two seasons with the Kelowna Rockets. He has appeared in 20 games with the Oil Kings in 2009-10. He was originally selected by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the seventh round in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

Yankees refuse option for Mitre

Last week, the Yankees declined their $1.25 million option for Sergio Mitre, who didn't make New York's postseason roster, is still under control of Major League service time. Mitre underwent elbow ligament replacement surgery in July 2008 and agreed to a Minor League contract with New York in November. Then he played in the first 50 games while serving a suspension because of testing positive for a banned substance under Major League Baseball's Drug Policy.

Mitre joined the Yankees in late July and and played in 12 games including 9 starts in yankees jersey. Totally he has played in 90 career games with three different teams.

Dave Jauss will become Mets' bench coach

Dave Jauss, a former bench coach for the Orioles and Dodgers, will be hired by the Mets for the same position. An announcement is expected to be made on Wednesday or Thursday. Jauss left his recent position as Baltimore bench last month after two seasons. And he was the bench coach for Grady Little with the Dodgers from 2006-07, he spent 10 previous seasons with the Red Sox in various positions, serving as first-base coach, Minor League field coordinator, director of player development and Major League advance scout.

Actually Jauss has a history with Mets manager Jerry Manuel, who was the Minor League field coordinator for the Montreal Expos when Jauss got his first position as a Minor League manager in 1988. Sandy Alomar Jr., a catching instructor was named first-base coach by the Indians on Tuesday.

Sabres General Manager will appear on NHL Hour

According to the report, Buffalo Sabres general manager Darcy Regier will be the guest on Thursday's NHL Hour With Commissioner Gary Bettman on Sirius XM Radio at about 3 p.m. ET. Regier became general manager of the Sabres in 1997 and he is the longest-serving general manager in franchise history.

The show encourages hockey fans to call in with questions for the Commissioner. NHL Hour with Commissioner Gary Bettman now broadcasts live on Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. ET on NHL Home Ice and on Sirius Channel 208 and NHL.com.

Ryan Smyth left game with upper body injury

It is said that Kings forward Ryan Smyth suffered an upper body injury during the Los Angeles Kings and Florida Panthers game on Monday night and he did not return to the game. Smyth ranks second in the team in points, goals and assists in 22 games in his first season in Los Angeles Kings.

The veteran forward was acquired from Colorado Avalanche in exchange for Kyle Quincey, Tom Preissing. He was a fifth-round pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft on July 3. And when will he come back to the ice in his los angeles kings jersey again?

Ilya Kovalchuk scores victory goal

After missing six games and nearly three weeks with a broken bone in his right foot, Kovalchuk was in the lineup on Thursday night for the Thrashers’ game against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden and scored the go-ahead goal in the second period. He also had an assist on Rich Peverley's and added another on Maxim Afinogenov's empty-netter for a three-point night.

The Thrashers said on Thursday night that they would wait to see how he felt during the warmup. He had been expected to be out for another week. But now he was on the ice for the warmup and in the lineup wearing his thrashers jersey.

Colin Campbell will appear in NHL Hour

It is reported that NHL Senior Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Colin Campbell will be the guest on NHL Hour With Commissioner Gary Bettman today on SIRIUS XM Radio at 3 p.m. Campbell will disscuss the issues that were talked about during the NHL General Managers meetings this week in Toronto.

NHL Hour with Commissioner Gary Bettman now broadcasts live on Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. ET on NHL Home Ice and NHL.com. The show will re-air on SIRIUS XM Radio, with shows available for download via podcast on NHL.com.

Foote and Moulson will appear on NHL Live!

It is reported that Veteran defenseman Adam Foote and New York Islanders newcomer Matt Moulson will appear on Monday on NHL Live! TSN commentator Bob McKenzie will also join co-hosts between 12 to 2 p.m. on NHL Network and NHL.com.

Foote has played in more than 1,000 career games for the Quebec Nordiques, Colorado Avalanche and Columbus Blue Jackets. He won Stanley Cups with the Avalanche in 1996 and 2001. Moulson, who had 29 games of NHL experience with the Los Angeles Kings, now has been on the Islanders' top line along with No. 1 draft pick John Tavares. He leads New York with seven goals in the islanders jersey.

Strasburg is scratched from Rising Stars

The Nationals announced on Friday that Stephen Strasburg has been scratched from his scheduled start on Saturday,
The right-hander is suffering from a muscle strain in his neck, and the club said the move was "for precautionary reasons." He is currently recovering as day-to-day.

Strasburg, who was the No.1 overall pick in the 2009 First-Year Player Draft, was scheduled to start for the East Division team in the Rising Stars Game of the Arizona Fall League. Right-hander Drew Storen was also selected for the club. There is no word about when his next AFL season will come. Angels prospect and right-hander Tommy Mendoza will start in Strasburg's place.

Defenseman Wisniewski is suspended for two games

The National Hockey League announced on Monday.that Anaheim Ducks defenseman James Wisniewski has been suspended for two games without pay, for giving a blow to the head of Phoenix Coyotes forward Shane Doan on Oct. 31.
The incident occurred at the first period of that game.

According to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement and his average annual salary, Wisniewski will forfeit $28,497.40, whice goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund. He will miss games on Tuesday against Pittsburgh and Thurday's against Nashville Predators. He will be eligible to return on Saturday against Phoenix Coyotes. Hope he will show up in Saturday's game in his anaheim ducks jersey.

The sale of Coyotes franchise to NHL is a success

U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Redfield T. Baum confirmed that he has approved the sale of the Phoenix Coyotes on Monday, transferring ownership to the NHL. The agreement was reached last Monday during a recess in court proceedings. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly stressed the following statement:

"We are pleased and very encouraged by today's developments in court. Now that approval of the proposed sale has been entered by the Court, the National Hockey League will work to close the transaction quickly and assume full control of the Coyotes' business operations. The League also will engage immediately in a process to identify -- and expedite sale of the franchise to -- new ownership that is committed to the Club's long-term success in the Phoenix/Glendale area. We do not intend to comment publicly on that process. The NHL thanks Coyotes fans for their continued support of the franchise and hopes that today's developments will provide fans further reason to embrace the Coyotes in order to ensure the team's long-term future in Arizona."

Dobbs and Lidge return to the team

It is reported that A prankster boarded up Greg Dobbs' locker with cardboard and yellow caution tape at Citizens Bank Park because Dobbs had been out of hospital with flu-like symptoms. The cardboard and tape were removed because Dobbs had rejoined the team. "I feel good," Dobbs said before Game 3 of the World Series. "I'm ready to go."

The flu has run through the Phillies' clubhouse. Right-hander Tyler Walker, who is not on the postseason roster, missed time recently because of an illness. He rejoined the team on Friday. Closer Brad Lidge worked out Friday, but went home during the team's workout on the field because of an illness. Lidge, who did not want to say much about his sickness, said he feels better and is available to pitch. Pedro Martinez, who pitched Game 2 on Thursday, also said he felt sick in the days leading up to his start. It is so regrettable that fans can not see those players in the phillies jerseys playing on the field for a while.

Ranger ‘s forward Gaborik will miss the game against the Wild

Now it is confirmed that New York Rangers forward Marian Gaborik will not play in the game against the Minnesota Wild. Rangers coach John Tortorella announced that Gaborik injured his lower-body and would not play.

This season Gaborik leads the team in his new york rangers jersey with 10 goals and 8 assists. He suffered the injury Monday in a 5-2 win over the Phoenix Coyotes. "It would be great, but I'm not going to be stupid to go when I won't be able to feel good," said Gaborik. "We'll see how it is in the morning." "It doesn't feel great, but it feels better. It's not that serious. I have to make sure I do the right thing and treat and take it day by day."

Sidney Crosby will participate in Olympic Torch Relay

It is reported that Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby will carry the Olympic Torch in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay on Nov. 18 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. "I am honored and thrilled to have the opportunity to carry the Olympic Flame in my home province of Nova Scotia," Crosby said. "The torch relay will pass through so many communities and hands on the way to Vancouver and I'm privileged to be part of that special group as the Olympic Flame makes its way to Vancouver for the 2010 Winter Games."+

Crosby, originally from Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, will be one of 12,000 torchbearers taking the Olympic Flame 45,000 kilometers across Canada. Crosby was selected because of his outstanding achievements in hockey and his passion for his home country. Now Crosby “takes off” his Penguins jersey and “put on” the Team Canada jersey.

Avalanche’s Budaj has got H1N1 flu

According to a published report in the Denver Post, Colorado Avalanche backup goaltender Peter Budaj has been diagnosed with the H1N1 virus. "We've taken the necessary steps, the necessary precautions, to keep him away from the guys at the right time," coach Joe Sacco told the media. "Hopefully, he'll be joining us on this trip."

Budaj was set to start in goal last Friday against the Hurricanes. But he became ill on Thursday afternoon with flu-like symptoms and was scratched. From the first sign of Budaj's illness last week, the team was concerned it might be H1N1 flu. "We're always cautious," Sacco said. "With Peter, once he came down with those flu-like symptoms, we did the right thing by keeping him away. We'll do whatever we can to make sure our guys stay healthy." Hope he will come back to the ice in the avalanche jersey soon.

Albert Pujols will undergo right elbow surgery

The Cardinals confirmed on Tuesday that the first baseman Albert Pujols will undergo arthroscopic debridement surgery on his right elbow. The surgery, which will remove bone chips in Pujols' elbow, is going to be performed by team physician George Paletta and Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham.

Pujols (in cardinals jersey), coming off a season during which he hit .327 with 47 home runs, is expected to be fully recovered by the start of Spring Training in February next year. This will be the second surgery for Pujols. He had nerve transposition on the same elbow last October. There is a chance that he may still need Tommy John elbow ligament replacement surgery in his career.

Phillies Pitcher left NLCS due to the shoulder strain

According to a report, the Phillies have not decided on their World Series roster, Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Brett Myers is a great consideration. The club said they will not make their roster decision until the American League Championship Series is over and whether their opponent will be the Yankees or Angels.

Myers (in phillies jersey) had a spot on the Phillies' roster for their Division Series before leaving off the NLCS roster, which was attributed to a strained lateral muscle on his throwing shoulder. However, he threw a simulated game on Tuesday and appeared to be recovered. Finally the decision on whether Meyers will be selected or not could depend on whether it will carry 11 or 12 pitchers on its roster. It is certain that Cliff Lee will start Game 1 of the World Series with Cole Hamels and Pedro Martinez to follow accordingly. Other starters, Joe Blanton and J.A. Happ , will likely begin the series in the Phillies' bullpen.

Three NHL games on show for Monday

On Monday, at 7 pm the New York Rangers will host the San Jose Sharks at Madison Square Garden. These Rangers jerseys won their seventh straight on Saturday against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Rookie defenseman Del Zotto scored his third goal of the season in the victory. Meawhile Sharks got back against the New York Islanders on Saturday.

The Dallas Stars aim for their second straight win as they host the Los Angeles Kings at 8:30 p.m. In the final game of the night, the Vancouver Canucks face the Edmonton Oilers at Rexall Place in a Northwest Division showdown. Mikael Samuelsson broke the Canucks against Minnesota at GM Place on Saturday.

Frolov will come back to Kings' lineup

On Monday Frolov (in kings jersey) was a healthy scratch for the Kings game against the Dallas Stars. Two days earlier in the game against Columbus Blue Jackets, Frolov made a great fight which led to a Blue Jacket goal in the first period.

Frolov was back on the ice at practice with new linemates on Wednesday. Frolov practiced on the Kings second line with center Michal Handzus and right winger Dustin Brown. After the practice Murray said that Frolov was back in the lineup, and made sure to leave the door open for Frolov to wait for his returning.

Red Wings' Franzen undergoes surgery successfully

Johan Franzen had successful ligament surgery to repair a tear in his left knee in Birmingham, the surgery was performed by orthopaedic surgeon Dr. William G. Clancy, who is one of the foremost authorities on knee ligament injuries and surgery.

Franzen was injured in the Red Wings home-opening game on Oct. 8. He scored the game-winning goal during the second period, after he had already suffered the injuring in the same period. He had been matched on a line with Pavel Datsyuk and Tomas Holmstrom. It's believed that Franzen will be out for at least four months, which means he will also miss the Olympic Game which will be held in Vancouver in February with his native country, Sweden. Regrettablely Franzen's absence creates a huge hole in the Red Wings' line-up.

Wakefield will undergo surgery this week

Red Sox( red sox jerseys )general manager Theo Epstein.Veteran Tim Wakefield, whose troublesome back prevented him from building on an All-Star first half, will undergo surgery later this week. He would like to come back in 2010 for what would be his 16th season in Boston.

The surgery is expected to require a minimal amount of recovery time, meaning that Wakefield should be ready for the start of Spring Training. "Wake is someone that is in our plans and we hope he makes starts for us next year and is a member of the rotation," said Epstein. "We haven't sat down and finalized anything. Obviously, we want to see how the surgery goes and then both sides will sit down and talk."

Blue Jackets' Hejda will be out for several weeks

According to a report Aaron Portzline in the Columbus Dispatch, Blue Jackets( Blue Jackets jerseys" )defenseman Jan Hejda has a sprained left knee and will miss 4 to 6 weeks. Hejda was injured in the game aganist Calgary Flames( Flames jerseys )when collided with Flames winger Curtis Glencross. Hejda was limping badly on his way to the dressing room after the game.

The Blue Jackets are already without defenseman Mike Commodore because of a groin injury. Hejda and Commodore has formed the Blue Jackets No. 1 defensive pair last season. Hejda has a plus-8 rating in five games this season, tied with Dallas Nicklas Grossman at the top in the NHL.

Shawn Chacon was arrested

Authorities told The Associated Press that former Major Leaguer Shawn Chacon was arrested Monday night on charges related to unpaid gambling markers in Nevada. Chacon was arrested at a Colorado bowling alley and put in the Weld County Jail. On Friday, It is reported that Chacon faced a felony charge for owing the Las Vegas hotel Caesars Palace $150,000 .

Chacon, who attended high school in Greeley, pitched eight seasons in the Major Leagues, debuting in 2001 with the Rockies. He played for 4 teams and was an All-Star in 2003. He last pitched in the big leagues with the Astros in 2008.

Penguins sign first-round pick Despres

Executive Vice President and General Manager Ray Shero announced that The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed their 2009 first-round draft pick Simon Despres to a three-year entry level contract.
Despres will continue to play this season with the Saint John Sea Dogs of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. This defenseman, who was selected by Pittsburgh in the June NHL Entry Draft, has three points in five games with Saint John this season.

Despres posted 32 points in 66 games with Saint John last season, adding four assists in four playoff games. He recorded 14 points in 64 games as a only 16-year-old rookie.

Duensing will be in the bullpen

The Twins have now officially gone to a three-man starting rotation, as manager Ron Gardenhire said on Saturday that left-hander Brian Duensing will be in the bullpen for Game 3 of the American League Division Series. Duensing started Game 1 of the ALDS at Yankee Stadium, having five runs on seven hits over 4 2/3 innings, but Minnesota will turn to Scott Baker for Game 4 and Nick Blackburn for Game 5.

The Twins originally wanted to go with a three-man starting staff for the ALDS, but Baker has to start game No. 163 on Tuesday night against the Tigers. Duensing would likely be the first arm that Minnesota turns to in Sunday's Game 3, if starter Carl Pavano has any trouble.

Blake is named captain of Sharks

The San Jose Sharks have named Rob Blake as their captain for the coming season. Blake, who joined the Sharks last year was twice captain for the Los Angeles Kings. He has been selected to three Canadian Olympic teams, Blake has also taken home the NHL’s Norris Trophy as the league’s top defenseman.

Sharks Head Coach Todd McLellan made the choice and conferred with Sharks Executive Vice President and General Manager Doug Wilson. "We have named Rob Blake captain and Dan Boyle and Joe Thornton A's," said McLellan.

Lenny Dykstra's championship ring was sold

The Associated Press reported that Lenny Dykstra's championship ring from the 1986 World Series was sold at an auction for more than $56,000. Dykstra, who is said to have serious financial troubles, had 11 items at the auction.

A collector from Queens, where Dykstra and the rest of his Mets wrapped up the Series win over the Red Sox, won the ring with a bid of $56,762.50. Dykstra is a three-time All-Star player, whose last season was with the Phillies in 1996, said he owed more than $31 million and had only about $50,000 possession.

Panthers term with Dominic Moore

Florida Panthers General Manager Randy Sexton announced that the club has termed on a one-year deal with Dominic Moore. Moore has played in 305 career National Hockey League games for the Rangers, Penguins, wilds, Maple Leafs and Sabres, scoring 35 goals with 65 assists and 200 PIM.

Moore was traded from Maple Leafs to Sabres at the deadline last season. Prior to playing in the NHL, he played four years at Harvard, recording a best 51 points during his senior season. Moore was drafted by the Rangers in the third round in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft.

Johnny Cueto's winter ball depends on Reds

If pitcher Johnny Cueto wants to pitch in winter ball this offseason, he'll have to check with the Reds first. The threshold for extreme fatigue is set at 170 innings during a regular season. Cueto pitched 171 innings in 2009. When asked about whether pitching in winter ball or not during the offseason on Saturday night, "I don't know, maybe in December," Cueto said, "I'm going to get rest, but I'm happy with how I'm feeling strong. My arm is 100 percent now."

Cueto spent two weeks in August with right shoulder inflammation, which was created by arm fatigue. It seems the Reds may not let Cueto pitch this winter.

Johnny Cueto's winter ball depends on Reds

If pitcher Johnny Cueto wants to pitch in winter ball this offseason, he'll have to check with the Reds first. The threshold for extreme fatigue is set at 170 innings during a regular season. Cueto pitched 171 innings in 2009. When asked about whether pitching in winter ball or not during the offseason on Saturday night, "I don't know, maybe in December," Cueto said, "I'm going to get rest, but I'm happy with how I'm feeling strong. My arm is 100 percent now."

Cueto spent two weeks in August with right shoulder inflammation, which was created by arm fatigue. It seems the Reds may not let Cueto pitch this winter.

San Jose Sharks sign center Manny Malhotra

San Jose Sharks Executive Vice President and General Manager Doug Wilson announced that the team has signed center Manny Malhotra to a one-year contract. Malhotra recently finished his 12th NHL season, posting a career-high 35 points.

Malhotra finished second in the NHL face-offs in 2007-08 and 12th in 2006-07. In 634 NHL games with the New York Rangers, Dallas and Columbus, he has collected 197 points and 344 penalty minutes.

Marlins lost to Mets

The Marlins could not hold back the Mets in the ninth inning and dropped Friday's game. The Mets rallied in the ninth inning to score two runs off closer Leo Nuñez. Dan Murphy and Jeff Francoeur opened the inning with back-to-back singles, and Jeremy Reed walked to load the bases.

The Marlins made their own attempt after being down by three runs early. In the second inning, the Mets strung together three hits off starter Ricky Nolasco, the last being a Francoeur blast into the seats above the Teal Monster in left for a three-run homer. With two outs in the fifth, Hanley Ramirez evened the score when he crushed a first-pitch fastball from Tim Redding into the left-field seats.

Nazem Kadri is sent to Ontario Hockey League

President and general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs Brian Burke announced that the club has reduced their training camp roster by four players. They have returned forward Nazem Kadri to the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League, assigned forward Christian Hanson and defenceman Jonas Frogren to the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League, and released defenceman Andy Rogers.

Kadri has played in six preseason games for the Maple Leafs, collecting three goals and two assists. In the preseason Hanson registered one goal and two assists in six games, while Frogren recorded six penalty minutes in three games, and Rogers collected 25 PIM in four games.

Villalona pleads innocent to murder charge

Villalona appeared in a La Romana courtroom on Monday, because he was charged with murder in the weekend, shooting death at a bar in his Dominican Republic hometown. However, Villalona told the judge he was innocent to the charge of shooting 25-year-old Mario Felix de Jesus Velete. Judge Aranibal Manzano Zapata decided to put the 19-year-old first baseman in jail for two months as authorities prepare the case.

The Giants refused to give any comment on Villalona's case. On Sunday the club stated that it was disappointed that Villalona was considered as a suspect in the shooting. Giants manager Bruce Bochy had not heard any developments of Villalona's status when he was asked in Chase Field before the opening game against the D-backs.

Villalona had turned himself in to police within 12 hours after the bar shooting, but he declined to speak to media at the hearing. He record $2.1 million bonus when signed Giants in 2006, and he was part of the World Team in the 2008 Futures Game in Yankee Stadium. When will he show up on the field again with the Giants jersey? If he overcomes these difficulties, he will be a real "Giant".

Dodgers will host "Star Wars"

The Dodgers will host the latest "Star Wars" series on Oct. 3 at Dodger Stadium. Fans will be able to purchase tickets in a special "My Town" section of the 47-year-old ballpark. They will also receive a free T-shirt featuring the image of Jedi Master Yoda. Group tickets for the lower reserve section are $35, and individual seats are $45. Full details can be found at www.dodgers.com.

Besides, audience in those sections will be provided with ballpark favorites such as Dodger dogs, nachos, peanuts, popcorn and soft drinks. A special menu will include Cloneburgers with cheese, barbecue pulled pork sandwiches.

Islanders' Pascal Morency may be suspended

The National Hockey League suspended New York Islanders rookie forward Pascal Morency on Friday for jumping off the bench to fight Calgary's Dion Phaneuf on Thursday night. He will not be albe to play until a hearing is held.

Morency has never played an NHL game, spending the last two seasons with the Islanders' AHL affiliate in Bridgeport. He received a double minor for leaving the players' bench for the purpose of starting a quarrel.

Moehler will have his knee operated

Brian Moehler,who is going to pitch on Saturday in Milwaukee, said that he will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right knee at the end of the regular season. The surgery will be performed by team medical director Dr. David Lintner.

Moehler has been dealing with his knee for most of the season. And he was on the disabled list in April because of a sprained right knee. "I'm just going to have it cleaned out," Moehler said. "It's been bothering me since the beginning of the year. It's there. It's nothing major, but I just need to clean it up.

The Trial of Adenhart death will be delayed

It is possible that the trial of the man responsible for the death of Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart will be delayed several months after a new defense attorney was appointed. Prosecutors hoped to advance before a jury this year, but the private attorney fot Gallo quit the case.

Gallo was appointed an public defender on Monday and is charged with second-degree murder in connection with the April crash which killed Adenhart. Authorities say that Gallo was drunk when he drove his minivan through a red light in Fullerton, California on April 9, killing the rookie who had overcome the elbow surgery and begun his pitching life in the big leagues. Regrettablely we may not see him playing on the field in his baseball jersey forever. Gallo will likely stay in prison for nearly 55 years.

Giants add new member to the roster

The Giants activated left-hander Randy Johnson from the 60-day disabled list. The team placed Justin Miller on the 60-day disabled list because of his broken right elbow. Though Johnson has built his 22-year career as a starter, he has been compelled to leave the team with a strained throwing shoulder since July 5 and hasn't regained the arm strength.

Thus he is going to the bullpen, where he will complement Giants' primary left-handed reliever Jeremy Affeldt, and rookies Dan Runzler and Madison Bumgarner."His experience and presence will be nice to have down there," said Giants manager Bruce Bochy. Miller said that his arm had been bothering him for almost three weeks. Though he had showed up only twice since Aug. 26, rest didn't improve his poor body condition.

Coyotes sign Taylor Pyatt to a one-year contract

Phoenix Coyotes General Manager Don Maloney announced last week that the Coyotes have signed left wing Taylor Pyatt to a one-year contract. Pyatt recorded 43 penalty minutes in 69 games with the Vancouver Canucks last season and also appeared in four playoff games. Pyatt has registered 191 points and in 532 career NHL games with Vancouver, Buffalo and the New York Islanders.

In 2006-07 season, Pyatt scored a career-high 23 goals and 37 points for Vancouver. Originally he began his career with the New York Islanders before joining the Sabres. After recording 80 points and 131 PIM in 230 games with the Sabres over four seasons, Pyatt was traded to Vancouver Canucks.

Soriano had surgery yesterday

It is reported that Cubs' left fielder Alfonso Soriano had surgery yesterday on his broken left knee and he will miss the rest of the season. Soriano has suffered much in the joint for most of the season. He last played in the match on Sept. 3.

Team orthopedist Dr. Stephen Gryzlo performed the surgery and before he goes back to the Dominican Republic for the rest of the season, Soriano will then have three weeks to recover with the Cubs' training staff.

Chase Utley is back in lineup

Chase Utley was back in the Phillies' lineup last Sunday after missing Saturday's game because of his broken right foot. Now fans can wear the utley jersey supporing him in the match. Shane Victorino was also out of the game at Minute Maid Park because of his broken left knee. Victorino has been suffering a lot this season, and the pain aggravated during the game against the D-backs. He left Saturday's game after flying out to right field.

"He's been playing, but at the same time it keeps hurting him. Evidently he's have a hard time keeping his backside down."said Phillies manager Charlie Manuel. It is reported that the Phillies recalled outfielder John Mayberry Jr. and right-hander Kyle Kendrick on that day. Both of them joined the team in order to play in the final two games against the Astros.

Nathan McIver will remain in Canucks

The President and General Manager Mike Gillis of Vancouver Canucks announced last month that the team have re-signed defenseman Nathan McIver. McIver splits the 2008-09 season between the Anaheim Ducks and Vancouver Canucks. In 18 NHL games with Anaheim Ducks, McIver collected 1 assist and 36 penalty minutes. In addition, in other 28 games with the American Hockey League affiliate--Manitoba Moose, McIver also had 2 assists and 59 penalty minutes. This defenseman was originally drafted by the Canucks in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.

Bon Jovi is preparing for the final contest on TBS

Recently Bon Jovi is preparing for cooperating with TBS, which is the major program of all the Major League Baseball's Division Series. They created a special video featuring the song "We Weren't Born to Follow," which will be performed on Friday. The video includes the highlights of this year's baseball season and the MLB postseasons. Some short versions of the video will appear on TBS to help to promote the coverage.

It's the third time that Bon Jovi has cooperate with TBS. Last season he also gave a performance in a free concert at Yankee Stadium in New York.

The Origin of National Hockey League

NHL is a professional ice hockey league consisting 30 teams which are located throughout North America. It is one of the North American major professional sports leagues. Also the Stanley Cup is the oldest professional sports trophy in North America, being awarded to the champion team at the end of each season every year. There are an increasing number of hockey fans now wearing their favorite hockey jersey and supporting their favorite teams and players.

Red Wings add Berrtuzzi

It is reported that the Detroit Red Wings has signed free agent forward Todd Bertuzzi to a one-year contract. Bertuzzi was originally picked at the first round draft of the New York Islanders in 1993. And he spent last season with the Calgary Flames where he got 44 points in 66 games.

Now Bertuzzi returns to Detroit for the second time in his career, he has played in 8 regular-season games and 16 playoff games for the Red Wings in 2006-07.

Matt D'Agostini joins in Canadiens

Montreal Canadiens General Manager Bob Gainey told the media that the signing of forward Matt D’Agostini to a one-year contract has been confirmed.In 2006-07 in his first season D’Agostini won the Calder Cup with the Bulldogs. He registered 13 points in 22 AHL playoff contests.

Last season D’Agostini got 21 points with the Canadiens. The 22-year-old player was the AHL’s third scorer with 25 points and a plus-7 rating in 20 games when he joined in the Canadiens from the Hamilton Bulldogs. D’Agostini also made his NHL performance in 2008-09.

Toronto Maple Leafs add Macdonald

President and general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs Brian Burke, announced that the club has signed free agent Joey MacDonald.The goaltender has appeared in 66 career NHL games with the Islanders, Boston Bruins and Detroit Red Wings.

MacDonald has played 17 games from November 3 to December 8 and was named the NHL's "Third Star of the Month" in November. "We are pleased to be able to add a goaltender of Joey’s caliber to our roster," said Burke.

Blake Comeau's new deal with Islanders

New York Islanders announced that they have agreed to add forward Blake Comeau to a two-year contract. "We are excited to have Blake as part of our line-up," said Garth Snow, General Manager, New York Islanders. "He is a versatile player who has great promise and is developing into a solid NHL player."

Comeau was originally selected by the Islanders at the 2004 National Hockey League Entry Draft in the second round. After beginning last season with the American Hockey League affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, Comeau returned to the Islanders, recording 7 goals and 18 assists for 25 points in 53 games. Comeau has played 104 games with the Islanders, collecting 40 points in all.

Boyd remains in Flames

General Manager Darryl Sutter of Calgary Flames announced that the team have agreed to re-signed forward Dustin Boyd. He can continue to play on the ice in his Flames jersey.

Boyd is a native of Winnipeg, in the game he scored 11 goals and 11 assists in 71 games. Now he is in his third season with the Flames, getting 20 goals and 18 assists for 38 points in 132 career NHL games.

Josh Harding continues to stay in Wild

Minnesota Wild General Manager Chuck Fletcher announced that the team has agreed to sign goaltender Josh Harding to a one-year contract.He was Minnesota's second-round pick in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.

Harding appeared in 19 games with the Wild in 2008-09. He has appeared in 58 NHL games for Minnesota Wild in several seasons, from now on he is continuing to wear Wild jersey and play with their teammates.

Buffalo Sabres began to cap season tickets

Last month Buffalo Sabres announced they have began to cap their season tickets for the 2009-10 season at the quantity of 14,825, which is more than last year. Now the club is able to hand out 1,200 new season tickets to members of their Club. Last year Sabres had a ticket capacity of 14,800 consisting of full season and mini packs.This time the Sabres will offer mini packs to fans once again.

"Our fans have been very loyal over the years and we are extremely grateful they have continued to support the team. We take great pride in the partnership we have nurtured with our fans over the last several years."said Chief Operating Officer, Dan DiPofi.

Forward Dawes was acquired by Flames

Calgary Flames General Manager Darryl Sutter announced the signing of forward Nigel Dawes who was from Phoenix was confirmed.

Dawes has 133 games of NHL experience split between the New York Rangers and the Phoenix Coyotes, scoring 25 goals and 26 assists. He was originally drafted by the New York Rangers in the 5th round in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. Previously Dawes has experience with two of the Flames coaches who have won the 2005 IIHF World Junior Championship under Brent Sutter and have won the 2002 Memorial Cup under Ryan McGill.

Slater will continue to play for Thrashers

According to Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell, Atlanta Thrashers have signed free agent forward Jim Slater. Slater has recorded 70 points in 274 career NHL games with the Thrashers. He also appeared in four Stanley Cup games during the 2006-07 season. and scored 18 points in 60 games last season.

He has also represented the United States in International Competition, taking part in the 2001 World Junior Championship and 2006 World Championship.

Leopold became a member of Panthers

Florida Panthers Assistant General Manager Randy Sexton told the media that they have signed with Jordan Leopold to a one-year contract. "When we made the deal for Leopold last week, we did so knowing he was the kind of player and person that we wanted in our organization," Sexton said.

Leopold played in 83 games last season with Calgary and Colorado scoring seven goals with 17 assists.In his NHL career, he has played in 355 games with Calgary and Colorado. He has also played in 46 contests for both Colorado and Calgary, scoring 15 assists and 18 penalty minutes.

Hurricanes sign Jokinen

The President and General Manager of the National Hockey League's Carolina Hurricanes Jim Rutherford told the media that their team had signed Tampa Bay's left wing Jussi Jokinen. "Jussi is a skilled, two-positional player that can be used in all situations. He will add depth to our team at an important time of the season." said Rutherford.

In Tampa Bay Jokinen has got 6 goals and 16 points in 46 games this season.After starting his North American professional career with Dallas in 2005 he has been in his fourth NHL season.Since being drafted by the Stars in the sixth round Jokinen has got 53 goals and 161 points in 281 NHL games with Dallas and Tampa Bay.

Ovechkin's "terrible" incident

An image was put forward in front of the NHL last Tuesday, it was about All-Star forward Alex Ovechkin's "terrible" incident.

After helping the team get 60 points and 31 goals, in the second period he was attempting to get around the defenseman Zdeno Chara from Boston Bruins,but failed. He lost his balance and lay on the ice for 15 seconds, waiting to be taken care of by the Capitals' training staff. Luckily he got up at last and went to the dressing room. Compared to his injury, it seemed that he had suffured more frustration.

Although he missed the final second period, he eventually started to play in the third period.Ovechkin said he was feeling fine after sliding down on the ice and this was just a hockey moment.

Kuba was acquired by Senators

Ottawa Senators made an annoucement that they decided to continue to sign the defenseman Filip Kuba.The contract lasts for about three year and other terms of the deal were not know.

Kuba was originally acquired frome Tampa Bay Lighting this summer.He had 29 points and plus-8 rating in 54 games.In 585 career NHL games he had 236 points and 263 penalty minutes.Now Kuba is having a caree year ,so does Andrej Meszaros and Alexandre Picard.

Stars acquire Brunnstrom

The Dallas Stars has acquired the left wing Fabian Brunnstrom from the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League. Due to a body injury he has missed 11 games. As soon as Stars get home from their game, Brunnstrom will travel to the team and join it.

Brunnstrom, who is a native of Jonstorp, Sweden, has played 31 NHL games for Dallas this season and got 10 goals and 14 points. He is also ranked 7th among first-year players in goals. On May 8,2008, he signed the Dallas as a free agent, leading the team to the top ranking. Last season he earned 37 points in 54 games with Farjestads BK in the Swedish Elite League.

Team need Lemaire

Lemaire's back to the New Jersey Devils will be undoubtedly good for the team.Lemaire will try to overcome the popular belief that he is so defense-oriented his team will not get enough scores and will be boring to watch.


Dowd believed that Lemaire is confident enough in his abilities,he can be trusted without doubts."He knows what he wants and he's not second-guessing himself," Dowd said. "He has a plan and he executes it. Look at his reputation, what he's accomplished. When someone like that comes along, you listen."

It is Lemaire's second time around with the Devils, It is believed that there's enough time for him and many changes that will feel like new for him.