In the National League, St. Louis Cardinals slugger Albert Pujols (arguably the best hitter of his generation) was the unanimous choice, coming off a season where he hit .327 with 135 RBI and a MLB-best 47 homeruns. It was Pujols' third NL MVP award in the last five seasons, and now only exiled slugger Barry Bonds has more. For the win, Pujols picked up a cool $200,000 bonus.
The first overall pick of the 2001 draft now finds himself approaching the cross roads of his brilliant, young career. Born and raised in Minneapolis, the left-handed hitting catcher is now one year away from free agency. That will provide an interesting dilemma for the Twins as they move into their brand new open air Target Field next April. Forever a small market team with limited payroll flexibility, the Twins must now find a way to re-sign its home grown product. Expect all of the large market and large payroll teams to throw an obscene amount of money at Mauer, but the Twins may have an advantage.
Mauer's agent is Ron Shapiro, who was also the agent for Cal Ripken Jr. and Kirby Puckett, two superstars and Hall ofFamers who played their entire careers in one uniform. It's not like Shapiro will go to the Twins and accept a hometown discount, not when his client is in line to sign a deal for 7-10 years at $18-20 million per. But having Shapiro handle the negotiations certainly means that the Twins will get every shot to retain their young star; something that wouldn't happen if Mauer was represented by the likes of Scott Boras - who is renowned for squeezing teams.
Here's hoping that Mauer will stay and play for the Twins for the rest of his career. In this era where agents chase the almighty dollar, it would be nice if the odd player remained with one team for an entire career. I mean, really, how much do you need to be happy?
The same can be said for Roy Halladay in Toronto. The difference being that his unquenchable desire to pitch in the post-season trumps the money (he will have made close to $88 million when his contract expires after 2010) and October baseball is not something that rebuilding Blue Jays can facilitate in the near future. At least while the ace right-hander is at the top of his game.
It's a shame because Halladay is one of those players who should play his entire career in one city. Unfortunately, former general manager J.P. Ricciardi's poor handling of Halladay around last season's trade deadline greased the skids for Halladay's exit (and was one of the reasons that Ricciardi was relieved of his duties on the last Saturday of the 2009 season).
With just two weeks remaining until the winter meetings teams are starting to line up to talk trade with the Jays in hopes of adding Halladay to the top of its rotation. The usual suspects will be involved (Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs, Phillies) and this week it was the two Los Angeles money machines that are rumoured to be kicking tires. For the Dodgers, whose farm system is always deep, the conversation has to begin with right-hander Chad Billingsley or left-hander Clayton Kershaw. I personally prefer Kershaw who has already made 51 career major league starts and won't turn 22 until next March. He appears to have the stuff and make-up to be an ace. And the Angels also have a pair of arms available - right-hander Jered Weaver and left-hander Joe Saunders - to get the trade talks cranked up. Once again, I would be more apt to ask for the left-hander. Nothing against Weaver, but he is a So-Cal dude who may not bring his best attitude or intentions north.
While the Blue Jays aren't likely to get the parcel of players/prospects that they would have received last July, the return should be plentiful, and might grow if the Yankees and Red Sox start playing off each other.
Regardless, Alex Anthopoulos' first trade will be his most important one.
In the American League, the choices were a little more varied. A pair of Yankees - Mark Teixeira and Derek Jeter - split most of the second and third place votes, but Minnesota Twins catcher Joe Mauer was nearly the unanimous winner, garnering 27 of the 28 first place votes with Detroit slugger Miguel Cabrera named first on one ballot. The 26-year-old Mauer was the AL batting champion for the third time in the last four years, solidifying his spot as the top offensive catcher in the game. His .365 batting average was the highest by a catcher in the modern era. He also led the A.L. in on-base percentage (.444) and slugging percentage (.587), becoming the first hitter since Kansas City's George Brett in 1980 to sweep those three offensive categories. Mauer was also feted for his solid defence this season with MLB jerseys his second consecutive Gold Glove award.
2010年5月15日星期六
2010年5月13日星期四
Secondary production
But in their series-opening strafing of the World Cup Soccer Jersey
lowly Kansas City Royals on Monday night, it was the secondary players who carried the load. Jose Bautista, replaced for the time being by Fred Lewis in the lead-off role, had his best game as a Blue Jay, crashing a pair of home runs while tying his career-high with five RBI. Lyle Overbay had his first multi-hit game of the season and reached base in all five of his at-bats. Travis Snider reminded us of what all the fuss is about with his second home run in his last four games. And Mike McCoy continued to impress in relief of injured all-star second baseman Aaron Hill with the first three-hit game of his career, stealing a pair of bases while also scoring twice.
These types of contributions are what the team needs this season if they are to avoid the basement in the A.L. East, although -- with the Orioles having lost 12 of their first 14 games -- that might not be too tough a task.
Of all these secondary players, the one who I'm keeping an eye on is Lewis, plucked off the scrap heap in San Francisco. He's only had one hit to show for his two starts to date but I like the look of him. He brings some much-needed speed to the top of the order and is the type of lean, athletic player that this franchise has sorely lacked, especially during the J.P. Ricciardi years. And I am also impressed by his play in left field. While his throwing arm falls closer to Shannon Stewart than Mark Whiten, he gets good jumps on the ball which will make up for his sub-standard arm.
While prepping for Tuesday night's game against the Royals, I thought I'd see how well the Jays’ starting pitchers have fared in the first 14 games since Roy Halladay started wearing red. Surprisingly the 2010 rotation has pitched quite well, statistically, when compared to last season's staff over a like number of games.
Now I'm not going to sit here and say that the Jays’ rotation is better off without Roy Halladay, arguably the best starting pitcher in the game today. What I will say is that life after 'Doc' has not been as bad as many thought it would be. Sure the sample size (14 games) is quite small and these numbers will likely change considerably as the season progresses. But the contributions from the starters should not be overlooked.
Shaun Marcum, Ricky Romero and Brandon Morrow have all made starts where they held the opposition hitless through at least five innings. Especially impressive was Morrow’s first win as a Blue Jay, after leaving a lot to be desired in his first two starts of the season. Adjustments were made and the results were extraordinary.
All told, the start to the season has been better than many could have expected, especially in the midst of a rebuild.
Let's face facts: the Toronto Blue Jays offence hasn't been very good, for the most part, in the early weeks of the 2010 season.
Through the first 13 games of the season, it was basically three players doing all the heavy lifting. Vernon Wells, Adam Lind and Alex Gonzalez combined to drive in 51 per cent of the team's runs and hit 13 of 18 home runs.
Fun times at Fenway
I guess this is what happens when you roll Neil Diamond's old bones out to sing 'Sweet Caroline' on opening night.
Lots of blame to go around for the 4-9 start. Their rotation isn't taking the game into the sixth. They were hoping that the Adrian Beltre they signed was the 2004 version who slammed 48 bombs for the Los Angeles Dodgers, not the one who hit just eight in an injury-plagued 2009 with the Seattle Mariners. So far, just three doubles to show for his first 46 plate appearances. We all know that there is too much talent for the Red Sox to continue playing at this low level, but it certainly has made reading the on-line newspapers all the more enjoyable.
The first seven games at Fenway Park this season have left very little for Red Sox Nation to be obnoxious about. The New York Yankees roll in to start the season and take two of three, Big Papi Ortiz starts slow (again), and then drops enough f-bombs on the media to make even the Insane Clown Posse blush. The team then dropped two of three in Minnesota's new jewel of a ballpark, against one of the top contenders outside of the East. And then came home to have the Tampa Bay Rays put them across their knee and sweep a four-gamer, with a pounding of John Lackey putting the exclamation point on the series.
lowly Kansas City Royals on Monday night, it was the secondary players who carried the load. Jose Bautista, replaced for the time being by Fred Lewis in the lead-off role, had his best game as a Blue Jay, crashing a pair of home runs while tying his career-high with five RBI. Lyle Overbay had his first multi-hit game of the season and reached base in all five of his at-bats. Travis Snider reminded us of what all the fuss is about with his second home run in his last four games. And Mike McCoy continued to impress in relief of injured all-star second baseman Aaron Hill with the first three-hit game of his career, stealing a pair of bases while also scoring twice.
These types of contributions are what the team needs this season if they are to avoid the basement in the A.L. East, although -- with the Orioles having lost 12 of their first 14 games -- that might not be too tough a task.
Of all these secondary players, the one who I'm keeping an eye on is Lewis, plucked off the scrap heap in San Francisco. He's only had one hit to show for his two starts to date but I like the look of him. He brings some much-needed speed to the top of the order and is the type of lean, athletic player that this franchise has sorely lacked, especially during the J.P. Ricciardi years. And I am also impressed by his play in left field. While his throwing arm falls closer to Shannon Stewart than Mark Whiten, he gets good jumps on the ball which will make up for his sub-standard arm.
While prepping for Tuesday night's game against the Royals, I thought I'd see how well the Jays’ starting pitchers have fared in the first 14 games since Roy Halladay started wearing red. Surprisingly the 2010 rotation has pitched quite well, statistically, when compared to last season's staff over a like number of games.
Now I'm not going to sit here and say that the Jays’ rotation is better off without Roy Halladay, arguably the best starting pitcher in the game today. What I will say is that life after 'Doc' has not been as bad as many thought it would be. Sure the sample size (14 games) is quite small and these numbers will likely change considerably as the season progresses. But the contributions from the starters should not be overlooked.
Shaun Marcum, Ricky Romero and Brandon Morrow have all made starts where they held the opposition hitless through at least five innings. Especially impressive was Morrow’s first win as a Blue Jay, after leaving a lot to be desired in his first two starts of the season. Adjustments were made and the results were extraordinary.
All told, the start to the season has been better than many could have expected, especially in the midst of a rebuild.
Let's face facts: the Toronto Blue Jays offence hasn't been very good, for the most part, in the early weeks of the 2010 season.
Through the first 13 games of the season, it was basically three players doing all the heavy lifting. Vernon Wells, Adam Lind and Alex Gonzalez combined to drive in 51 per cent of the team's runs and hit 13 of 18 home runs.
Fun times at Fenway
I guess this is what happens when you roll Neil Diamond's old bones out to sing 'Sweet Caroline' on opening night.
Lots of blame to go around for the 4-9 start. Their rotation isn't taking the game into the sixth. They were hoping that the Adrian Beltre they signed was the 2004 version who slammed 48 bombs for the Los Angeles Dodgers, not the one who hit just eight in an injury-plagued 2009 with the Seattle Mariners. So far, just three doubles to show for his first 46 plate appearances. We all know that there is too much talent for the Red Sox to continue playing at this low level, but it certainly has made reading the on-line newspapers all the more enjoyable.
The first seven games at Fenway Park this season have left very little for Red Sox Nation to be obnoxious about. The New York Yankees roll in to start the season and take two of three, Big Papi Ortiz starts slow (again), and then drops enough f-bombs on the media to make even the Insane Clown Posse blush. The team then dropped two of three in Minnesota's new jewel of a ballpark, against one of the top contenders outside of the East. And then came home to have the Tampa Bay Rays put them across their knee and sweep a four-gamer, with a pounding of John Lackey putting the exclamation point on the series.
2010年5月11日星期二
Sweet, sweet 7
Mike Rupp scored two goals and the New Jersey Devils easily beat Anaheim in 2003. Nobody remembers where they were when Rupp scored those goals for the Devils. Heck, I barely remember even covering the game.
So on Friday night, I'm looking for this Game 7 to be an epic affair that will be remembered as one of the greatest ever played. And with that in mind, I wanted to put together a list of the 10 most memorable Game 7s thatI have watched.
(Keep in mind that I'm 32-years old and any significant Game 7 that occurred in the 1980s happened after I went to sleep. The rules in my house were very clear back then: Fraggle Rock and then straight to bed).
I'm hoping Friday's Game 7 between the Penguins and Red Wings can crack this Top 10 list:
I'm off to cover Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final in Detroit on Friday.
This is supposed to be the greatest spectacle in hockey. But the last time I covered a Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final, it was a total dud.
1992 NLCS: Braves vs. Pirates
I honestly don't know how Doug Drabek sleeps at night. After pitching eight shutout innings, he hands the ball over to Stan Belinda with a lead in the 9th inning and watches it evaporate. The worst part is that Barry Bonds couldn't throw out Sid Bream, who had average speed for a Sunday afternoon church softball player. After getting the game-winning hit, Francisco Cabrera disappeared into the sporting vortex and is now hanging out with Chris Kontos, Kevin Maas and Barry Foster.
1997: Oilers vs. Stars
It doesn't matter that Grant Ledyard was Sid Bream on skates. Todd Marchant blowing past him to score the overtime winner for the Oilers was absolutely electrifying. Curtis Joseph's robbery of Joe Nieuwendyk just moments before is one of the greatest clutch saves in NHL history.
1994: Rangers vs. Devils
In the spring of 1994, MSG hosted three of the greatest Game 7s ever and this one might have been tops. Everyone remembers Stephane Matteau's double-OT goal, but often forgotten is the fact that Valeri Zelepukin tied the game for the Devils with less than 10 seconds left in regulation time (Honestly, when was the last time you thought about Valeri Zelepukin?). The best part was the Rangers win delayed the Devils impending reign of boring hockey for one year.
1989: Canucks vs. Flames
I don't care what you say, Joel Otto kicked that puck in. And Stan Smyl shot that puck right into Mike Vernon's glove. And I'm not even a Canucks fan.
1994: Knicks vs. Rockets
If John Starks doesn't go 2-for-92 from the field, the Knicks probably win the NBA final. Ok, I'm exaggerating. Starks was only 2-for-65 from the field. In any event, he might have had the worst Game 7 pressure performance in modern sports history.
2001: Diamondbacks vs. Yankees
Just weeks after 9/11, the Yankees seemed destined to win the World Series. They hit dramatic home run after dramatic home run and every Cinderella ending went their way. Until Game 7 that is, when the shadiest 50-home run hitter of all-time (Luis Gonzalez) punched a shallow fly ball past Derek Jeter to score the winning run. And that officially made Bob Brenly the shadiest manager to ever win a World Series title.
1994: Rangers vs. Canucks
I'm pretty sure Nathan Lafayette still qualifies as a curse word in Vancouver. (Can't you see people at a cafe on Robson Street saying, "Son of a Nathan Lafayette...they forgot my biscotti!") In case you forgot, Lafayette hit the crossbar in the third period -- a shot that could have tied the game. Unfortunately, the Rangers won the Cup and we've been subjected to 15 years of stories about the greatness of the 1994 NY Rangers.
1997: Marlins vs. Indians
Jose Mesa couldn't save the game in the 9th inning and then Edgar Renteria drove home the winning run off Charles Nagy. The Marlins delivered a World Series title to Jim Leyland and Bobby Bonilla, who couldn't win one with the Pirates teams of the early 90s. The Indians were a young, talented team that we all thought would be in the World Series again. We're still waiting.
2000: Devils vs. Flyers
Scott Stevens' hit on Eric Lindros in this game will go down in history as one of the defining moments of both of their careers. But it overshadowed Patrick Elias' heroics late in the game, sending the Devils to the Stanley Cup Finals. And yes - a game in which Brian Boucher was a central figure is in my Top 10 Game 7 list.
1993: Kings vs. Maple Leafs
Yes, this Game 7 should never have happened. (Insert angry Kerry Fraser comment here). But Wayne Gretzky's hat trick at Maple Leaf Gardens has to go down as one of the best performances of his career. His bank shot off Dave Ellett in the third period to seal the game was stuff of legend.
Feel free to add any Game 7s that I may have missed in the past 20 years. And it was purely coincidental that the Leafs multiple Game 7 wins over the Senators did not make my list.
I'm off to cover Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final in Detroit on Friday.
This is NFL jerseys supposed to be the greatest spectacle in hockey. But the last time I covered a Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final, it was a total dud.
So on Friday night, I'm looking for this Game 7 to be an epic affair that will be remembered as one of the greatest ever played. And with that in mind, I wanted to put together a list of the 10 most memorable Game 7s thatI have watched.
(Keep in mind that I'm 32-years old and any significant Game 7 that occurred in the 1980s happened after I went to sleep. The rules in my house were very clear back then: Fraggle Rock and then straight to bed).
I'm hoping Friday's Game 7 between the Penguins and Red Wings can crack this Top 10 list:
I'm off to cover Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final in Detroit on Friday.
This is supposed to be the greatest spectacle in hockey. But the last time I covered a Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final, it was a total dud.
1992 NLCS: Braves vs. Pirates
I honestly don't know how Doug Drabek sleeps at night. After pitching eight shutout innings, he hands the ball over to Stan Belinda with a lead in the 9th inning and watches it evaporate. The worst part is that Barry Bonds couldn't throw out Sid Bream, who had average speed for a Sunday afternoon church softball player. After getting the game-winning hit, Francisco Cabrera disappeared into the sporting vortex and is now hanging out with Chris Kontos, Kevin Maas and Barry Foster.
1997: Oilers vs. Stars
It doesn't matter that Grant Ledyard was Sid Bream on skates. Todd Marchant blowing past him to score the overtime winner for the Oilers was absolutely electrifying. Curtis Joseph's robbery of Joe Nieuwendyk just moments before is one of the greatest clutch saves in NHL history.
1994: Rangers vs. Devils
In the spring of 1994, MSG hosted three of the greatest Game 7s ever and this one might have been tops. Everyone remembers Stephane Matteau's double-OT goal, but often forgotten is the fact that Valeri Zelepukin tied the game for the Devils with less than 10 seconds left in regulation time (Honestly, when was the last time you thought about Valeri Zelepukin?). The best part was the Rangers win delayed the Devils impending reign of boring hockey for one year.
1989: Canucks vs. Flames
I don't care what you say, Joel Otto kicked that puck in. And Stan Smyl shot that puck right into Mike Vernon's glove. And I'm not even a Canucks fan.
1994: Knicks vs. Rockets
If John Starks doesn't go 2-for-92 from the field, the Knicks probably win the NBA final. Ok, I'm exaggerating. Starks was only 2-for-65 from the field. In any event, he might have had the worst Game 7 pressure performance in modern sports history.
2001: Diamondbacks vs. Yankees
Just weeks after 9/11, the Yankees seemed destined to win the World Series. They hit dramatic home run after dramatic home run and every Cinderella ending went their way. Until Game 7 that is, when the shadiest 50-home run hitter of all-time (Luis Gonzalez) punched a shallow fly ball past Derek Jeter to score the winning run. And that officially made Bob Brenly the shadiest manager to ever win a World Series title.
1994: Rangers vs. Canucks
I'm pretty sure Nathan Lafayette still qualifies as a curse word in Vancouver. (Can't you see people at a cafe on Robson Street saying, "Son of a Nathan Lafayette...they forgot my biscotti!") In case you forgot, Lafayette hit the crossbar in the third period -- a shot that could have tied the game. Unfortunately, the Rangers won the Cup and we've been subjected to 15 years of stories about the greatness of the 1994 NY Rangers.
1997: Marlins vs. Indians
Jose Mesa couldn't save the game in the 9th inning and then Edgar Renteria drove home the winning run off Charles Nagy. The Marlins delivered a World Series title to Jim Leyland and Bobby Bonilla, who couldn't win one with the Pirates teams of the early 90s. The Indians were a young, talented team that we all thought would be in the World Series again. We're still waiting.
2000: Devils vs. Flyers
Scott Stevens' hit on Eric Lindros in this game will go down in history as one of the defining moments of both of their careers. But it overshadowed Patrick Elias' heroics late in the game, sending the Devils to the Stanley Cup Finals. And yes - a game in which Brian Boucher was a central figure is in my Top 10 Game 7 list.
1993: Kings vs. Maple Leafs
Yes, this Game 7 should never have happened. (Insert angry Kerry Fraser comment here). But Wayne Gretzky's hat trick at Maple Leaf Gardens has to go down as one of the best performances of his career. His bank shot off Dave Ellett in the third period to seal the game was stuff of legend.
Feel free to add any Game 7s that I may have missed in the past 20 years. And it was purely coincidental that the Leafs multiple Game 7 wins over the Senators did not make my list.
I'm off to cover Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final in Detroit on Friday.
This is NFL jerseys supposed to be the greatest spectacle in hockey. But the last time I covered a Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final, it was a total dud.
2010年5月10日星期一
MLB All Star Game Tickets at Angels Stadium - Without the Headache!
The best part? No headaches. No risks. You don’t just have to World Cup Soccer Jersey order online and hope you get good MLB all star game tickets at Angels Stadium. Don’t settle for good seats and no service. Get amazing seats and the best service you’ll ever receive by an independent ticket broker. You can speak with the owner personally to go over everything to make a special occasion even better: What would be the perfect all star game experience for you? Where do you want to sit? What’s your budget? What about parking? What about dining? How would these all star game tickets at Angels Stadium make July 13, 2010 the best all star game ever for you?
That’s right. It’s right around the corner. The 81st MLB all star game will be played at Angels Stadium on July 13, 2010, so you don’t want to forget to buy your all star game tickets at Angels Stadium from an independent ticket broker that cares more about customer satisfaction than the bottom line. This will be the third time Angels Stadium has hosted the all star game. It was home to the 1989 and 1967 all star games, and both were unforgettable. In the 1989 all star game, Wade Boggs and Bo Jackson hit back-to-back homeruns to give the American League the win. The National League won the 1967 all star game after a 15th inning Tony Perez homerun.
Have you thought about buying your 2010 MLB all star game tickets at Angels Stadium yet? A better question might be: “Have you ever tried to go to an all star game?” If so, you know that it can be a frustrating and expensive experience.
But it doesn’t have to be! Getting great MLB all star game tickets at Angels Stadium doesn’t have to give you a headache. Better yet, it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Most people go through the normal channels and end up spending too much money for disappointing seats. An independent ticket broker cares about more than just selling a ticket. They care about your entire experience. They make sure you have all star game tickets at Angels Stadium that fit all of your needs.
It’s about scoring your MLB all star game tickets at Angels Stadium. The whole world will be descending on Anaheim for this great event on July 13, 2010. Want to be a part of it? If so, or if you want the best service you’ll ever get to any game, show, or event on the planet, call 800-938-9929 or visit
The all star game is always full of surprises and, of course, the best players in the game. You don’t want to miss-out on the action in 2010 to get all star game tickets at Angels Stadium. This year you can avoid the hassle of paying too much online for tickets you don’t really want. An independent ticket broker will actually work with you to select the tickets that are tailored to your unique needs. It’s about customer service. It’s about unbeatable ticket prices. It’s about an unforgettable experience.
That’s right. It’s right around the corner. The 81st MLB all star game will be played at Angels Stadium on July 13, 2010, so you don’t want to forget to buy your all star game tickets at Angels Stadium from an independent ticket broker that cares more about customer satisfaction than the bottom line. This will be the third time Angels Stadium has hosted the all star game. It was home to the 1989 and 1967 all star games, and both were unforgettable. In the 1989 all star game, Wade Boggs and Bo Jackson hit back-to-back homeruns to give the American League the win. The National League won the 1967 all star game after a 15th inning Tony Perez homerun.
Have you thought about buying your 2010 MLB all star game tickets at Angels Stadium yet? A better question might be: “Have you ever tried to go to an all star game?” If so, you know that it can be a frustrating and expensive experience.
But it doesn’t have to be! Getting great MLB all star game tickets at Angels Stadium doesn’t have to give you a headache. Better yet, it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Most people go through the normal channels and end up spending too much money for disappointing seats. An independent ticket broker cares about more than just selling a ticket. They care about your entire experience. They make sure you have all star game tickets at Angels Stadium that fit all of your needs.
It’s about scoring your MLB all star game tickets at Angels Stadium. The whole world will be descending on Anaheim for this great event on July 13, 2010. Want to be a part of it? If so, or if you want the best service you’ll ever get to any game, show, or event on the planet, call 800-938-9929 or visit
The all star game is always full of surprises and, of course, the best players in the game. You don’t want to miss-out on the action in 2010 to get all star game tickets at Angels Stadium. This year you can avoid the hassle of paying too much online for tickets you don’t really want. An independent ticket broker will actually work with you to select the tickets that are tailored to your unique needs. It’s about customer service. It’s about unbeatable ticket prices. It’s about an unforgettable experience.
2010年5月9日星期日
Selanne, Ducks rout Oilers 7-2 in season finale
The Honda Center was ringed with dozens of signs and banners in English and Finnish, praising Selanne and demanding another year from him and Niedermayer, the 2010 World Cup Jerseys 36-year-old defenseman.
Niedermayer and Selanne led the Ducks around the ice for a postgame victory lap. They waved and shook their sticks at the cheering crowd, which repeatedly chanted "One more year!" at its veteran stars.
Ryan Whitney scored against his former teammates for the Oilers, who finished last in the NHL with 62 points, 12 fewer than 29th-place Toronto. Edmonton had won three straight before falling behind early against the Ducks, whose 25 home victories were more than any of the five teams above them in the West standings.
Mike Comrie scored his third goal in two games for Edmonton, and Jeff Deslauriers stopped 38 shots.
After Anaheim took a 3-1 lead in the first period, Selanne scored on a power play just 16 seconds into the second, taking a pass from Saku Koivu and beating Deslauriers on the short side.
Anaheim fans gave Selanne a standing ovation, just in case it was their last chance to cheer the franchise's scoring leader _ yet there's ample reason to believe the 39-year-old forward could keep going after a remarkable season.
Selanne scored 27 goals in 54 games, ranking eighth in the NHL in goals per game. Despite missing significant playing time with a broken finger and a broken jaw, the Finnish Flash was mostly outstanding while scoring 48 points, leading him to hold open the possibility of another season after repeatedly saying he expected to retire.
Niedermayer had 10 goals and 38 assists while playing heavy ice time in a season most notable for his role at the Olympics, where he captained Canada to a gold medal on its home ice.
Jonas Hiller made 18 saves for Anaheim before leaving late in the second period with another flare-up of back spasms, which kept him out for seven of the past eight games.
Carter, who had just two goals in his first 37 games, and Steve Eminger scored 32 seconds apart early in the first period, and Matt Beleskey added his third goal in two games. Carter, Ducks enforcer George Parros and Kyle Chipchura scored for Anaheim in the third.
With three fewer wins and two fewer points, Anaheim dropped from eighth place last season in the West to 11th with 89 points, one behind ninth-place St. Louis and Calgary. The veteran-laden Ducks reached the playoffs' second round last spring by upsetting top-seeded San Jose, but couldn't overcome the offseason loss of defensemen Chris Pronger and Francois Beauchemin, leading to an early-season slump from which they never recovered.
NOTES: C Ryan Getzlaf missed the Ducks' final nine games with ankle problems that began shortly before the Olympics. Getzlaf still played for Canada, but had just two goals and six assists in 10 games for Anaheim after returning from Vancouver. ... RW Corey Perry was the Ducks' only player to appear in all 82 games, though Jason Blake also played in 82 after arriving Jan. 31 in a trade with Toronto for longtime Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere. ... Chipchura's short-handed goal was the first of his career.
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) - Teemu Selanne scored his 606th goal in possibly his final NHL game, and the Anaheim Ducks beat the Edmonton Oilers 7-2 Sunday night in the league's regular-season finale.
Ryan Carter scored twice for the Ducks, who didn't know whether they were bidding farewell to Selanne or captain Scott Niedermayer. Both mainstays of Anaheim's 2007 Stanley Cup championship team haven't decided whether they'll return to the Ducks, who missed the playoffs for the first time since 2004.
Niedermayer and Selanne led the Ducks around the ice for a postgame victory lap. They waved and shook their sticks at the cheering crowd, which repeatedly chanted "One more year!" at its veteran stars.
Ryan Whitney scored against his former teammates for the Oilers, who finished last in the NHL with 62 points, 12 fewer than 29th-place Toronto. Edmonton had won three straight before falling behind early against the Ducks, whose 25 home victories were more than any of the five teams above them in the West standings.
Mike Comrie scored his third goal in two games for Edmonton, and Jeff Deslauriers stopped 38 shots.
After Anaheim took a 3-1 lead in the first period, Selanne scored on a power play just 16 seconds into the second, taking a pass from Saku Koivu and beating Deslauriers on the short side.
Anaheim fans gave Selanne a standing ovation, just in case it was their last chance to cheer the franchise's scoring leader _ yet there's ample reason to believe the 39-year-old forward could keep going after a remarkable season.
Selanne scored 27 goals in 54 games, ranking eighth in the NHL in goals per game. Despite missing significant playing time with a broken finger and a broken jaw, the Finnish Flash was mostly outstanding while scoring 48 points, leading him to hold open the possibility of another season after repeatedly saying he expected to retire.
Niedermayer had 10 goals and 38 assists while playing heavy ice time in a season most notable for his role at the Olympics, where he captained Canada to a gold medal on its home ice.
Jonas Hiller made 18 saves for Anaheim before leaving late in the second period with another flare-up of back spasms, which kept him out for seven of the past eight games.
Carter, who had just two goals in his first 37 games, and Steve Eminger scored 32 seconds apart early in the first period, and Matt Beleskey added his third goal in two games. Carter, Ducks enforcer George Parros and Kyle Chipchura scored for Anaheim in the third.
With three fewer wins and two fewer points, Anaheim dropped from eighth place last season in the West to 11th with 89 points, one behind ninth-place St. Louis and Calgary. The veteran-laden Ducks reached the playoffs' second round last spring by upsetting top-seeded San Jose, but couldn't overcome the offseason loss of defensemen Chris Pronger and Francois Beauchemin, leading to an early-season slump from which they never recovered.
NOTES: C Ryan Getzlaf missed the Ducks' final nine games with ankle problems that began shortly before the Olympics. Getzlaf still played for Canada, but had just two goals and six assists in 10 games for Anaheim after returning from Vancouver. ... RW Corey Perry was the Ducks' only player to appear in all 82 games, though Jason Blake also played in 82 after arriving Jan. 31 in a trade with Toronto for longtime Ducks G Jean-Sebastien Giguere. ... Chipchura's short-handed goal was the first of his career.
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) - Teemu Selanne scored his 606th goal in possibly his final NHL game, and the Anaheim Ducks beat the Edmonton Oilers 7-2 Sunday night in the league's regular-season finale.
Ryan Carter scored twice for the Ducks, who didn't know whether they were bidding farewell to Selanne or captain Scott Niedermayer. Both mainstays of Anaheim's 2007 Stanley Cup championship team haven't decided whether they'll return to the Ducks, who missed the playoffs for the first time since 2004.
2010年5月8日星期六
Debt-ridden Liverpool put up for sale by US owners
Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr. have finally conceded they no longer have the NBA Jerseys resources to strengthen the team and build the new stadium they promised after buying the 18-time English champions.
Amid their own feuding and heated protests by fans, the businessmen tried in vain for more than two years to find an investor willing to pump money into the club and reduce the debt of $364 million resulting from their leveraged takeover.
MANCHESTER, England (AP) - Liverpool's American owners put the Premier League club up for sale Friday, heralding the end of their three-year tenure after mounting pressure from banks and furious fans.
Hicks and Gillett on Friday selected Barclays Bank to lead the search for a buyer, while hiring British Airways chairman Martin Broughton to assume the same role at Anfield and oversee the sale.
"There has been a long process of Hicks and Gillett looking for investors _ the decision has now been made to exit," said Broughton, who is a fan of Premier League rival Chelsea. "This is not the ad hoc process that has been along so far."
Broughton said a takeover would be completed "in a matter of months." Hicks and Gillett would be expecting at least $770 million, which Dubai International Capital offered in 2008 and was rejected by the squabbling owners.
"Owning Liverpool Football Club over these past three years has been a rewarding and exciting experience for us and our families," Hicks and Gillett said in a statement. "We have now decided together to look to sell the club to owners committed to take the club through its next level of growth and development."
Hicks and Gillett also have been shoring up their financial positions in the United States.
Gillett sold the NHL's Montreal Canadiens, the Gillett Entertainment Group and the Bell Centre back to the Molson family for $580 million last year.
According to his son Foster, who is also an Anfield director, Gillett is selling Liverpool to provide the funds to help him retain NASCAR team Richard Petty Motorsports.
"As far as we're concerned as a family, and everything that is involved in NASCAR, the more liquidity we have as a family, the better it is for (the) NASCAR (team)," Foster Gillett said from Texas Motor Speedway.
Hicks has an agreement to sell baseball's Texas Rangers to a group led by Chuck Greenberg, though the transfer has been complicated by the debt owed by the financially strapped Hicks Sports Group.
During the Liverpool sale process, Royal Bank of Scotland and Wachovia will not call in the Americans' loans and there will be no fire-sale of players.
"I think the club is moving forward and that's positive," said manager Rafa Benitez, whose own future still remains in doubt.
Under Hicks and Gillett, Benitez was able to buy Spain striker Fernando Torres for a club-record $40.6 million in 2007. The team's revenues have soared by 55 percent in three years and the owners kept debt far lower than at Manchester United, where it exceeds $1 billion.
But the lack of money to spend on players last year has had an impact on Liverpool's performance on the field this season.
While Liverpool is in the semifinals of the Europa League, it is in Europe's second-tier knockout competition because it was eliminated from the group stage of the Champions League, which it won in 2005.
Liverpool has been financially hamstrung by the economics of its 45,000-seat Anfield stadium, where there are limited luxury suites and amenities to generate extra revenue.
Runners-up last season, Liverpool is in sixth place this season, six points adrift of fourth place and the final English berth in next season's Champions League.
Preliminary building work on a 60,000-seat replacement started in the adjacent Stanley Park in June 2008, but it was halted in October due to the global economic meltdown.
Amid their own feuding and heated protests by fans, the businessmen tried in vain for more than two years to find an investor willing to pump money into the club and reduce the debt of $364 million resulting from their leveraged takeover.
MANCHESTER, England (AP) - Liverpool's American owners put the Premier League club up for sale Friday, heralding the end of their three-year tenure after mounting pressure from banks and furious fans.
Hicks and Gillett on Friday selected Barclays Bank to lead the search for a buyer, while hiring British Airways chairman Martin Broughton to assume the same role at Anfield and oversee the sale.
"There has been a long process of Hicks and Gillett looking for investors _ the decision has now been made to exit," said Broughton, who is a fan of Premier League rival Chelsea. "This is not the ad hoc process that has been along so far."
Broughton said a takeover would be completed "in a matter of months." Hicks and Gillett would be expecting at least $770 million, which Dubai International Capital offered in 2008 and was rejected by the squabbling owners.
"Owning Liverpool Football Club over these past three years has been a rewarding and exciting experience for us and our families," Hicks and Gillett said in a statement. "We have now decided together to look to sell the club to owners committed to take the club through its next level of growth and development."
Hicks and Gillett also have been shoring up their financial positions in the United States.
Gillett sold the NHL's Montreal Canadiens, the Gillett Entertainment Group and the Bell Centre back to the Molson family for $580 million last year.
According to his son Foster, who is also an Anfield director, Gillett is selling Liverpool to provide the funds to help him retain NASCAR team Richard Petty Motorsports.
"As far as we're concerned as a family, and everything that is involved in NASCAR, the more liquidity we have as a family, the better it is for (the) NASCAR (team)," Foster Gillett said from Texas Motor Speedway.
Hicks has an agreement to sell baseball's Texas Rangers to a group led by Chuck Greenberg, though the transfer has been complicated by the debt owed by the financially strapped Hicks Sports Group.
During the Liverpool sale process, Royal Bank of Scotland and Wachovia will not call in the Americans' loans and there will be no fire-sale of players.
"I think the club is moving forward and that's positive," said manager Rafa Benitez, whose own future still remains in doubt.
Under Hicks and Gillett, Benitez was able to buy Spain striker Fernando Torres for a club-record $40.6 million in 2007. The team's revenues have soared by 55 percent in three years and the owners kept debt far lower than at Manchester United, where it exceeds $1 billion.
But the lack of money to spend on players last year has had an impact on Liverpool's performance on the field this season.
While Liverpool is in the semifinals of the Europa League, it is in Europe's second-tier knockout competition because it was eliminated from the group stage of the Champions League, which it won in 2005.
Liverpool has been financially hamstrung by the economics of its 45,000-seat Anfield stadium, where there are limited luxury suites and amenities to generate extra revenue.
Runners-up last season, Liverpool is in sixth place this season, six points adrift of fourth place and the final English berth in next season's Champions League.
Preliminary building work on a 60,000-seat replacement started in the adjacent Stanley Park in June 2008, but it was halted in October due to the global economic meltdown.
Caps' Laich provides roadside assistance
The Capitals said they 2010 World Cup Jerseys confirmed the story with Laich.
Regardless, it may be difficult for Crosby to play much better than he did during the Penguins' 2-1 victory in Game 2 against Ottawa. He scored a goal, made an exceptional pass to set up Kris Letang's game-winner and, with his best Marc-Andre Fleury impersonation, slid across the goal line to punch away an Anton Volchenkov shot before it could go into the net.
He scored for Washington on Wednesday night, but it wasn't enough: The Capitals became the first top-seeded team eliminated by an eighth-seeded team after taking a 3-1 lead in a best-of-seven NHL playoff series.
WASHINGTON (AP) - After his team's wheels came off in the NHL playoffs, Washington Capitals forward Brooks Laich helped a stranded motorist by changing her car's flat tire.
Driving following Washington's 2-1 home loss to the Montreal Canadiens in Game 7 of their first-round series, Laich pulled over when he saw the stopped car and got out to lend a hand, The Washington Post's website reported Thursday.
Regardless, it may be difficult for Crosby to play much better than he did during the Penguins' 2-1 victory in Game 2 against Ottawa. He scored a goal, made an exceptional pass to set up Kris Letang's game-winner and, with his best Marc-Andre Fleury impersonation, slid across the goal line to punch away an Anton Volchenkov shot before it could go into the net.
He scored for Washington on Wednesday night, but it wasn't enough: The Capitals became the first top-seeded team eliminated by an eighth-seeded team after taking a 3-1 lead in a best-of-seven NHL playoff series.
WASHINGTON (AP) - After his team's wheels came off in the NHL playoffs, Washington Capitals forward Brooks Laich helped a stranded motorist by changing her car's flat tire.
Driving following Washington's 2-1 home loss to the Montreal Canadiens in Game 7 of their first-round series, Laich pulled over when he saw the stopped car and got out to lend a hand, The Washington Post's website reported Thursday.
2010年5月7日星期五
Capitals distance themselves from steroids arrest
WASHINGTON (AP) - Washington Capitals players on Wednesday described their visits to a soccer jerseys chiropractor arrested on drug charges as nothing more than routine treatments, while the sheriff leading the investigation said there's no "conclusive proof" that the steroids involved were supplied to athletes.
Douglas O. Nagel, who has treated several Capitals players and whose office is in the same suburban mall as the team's practice facility, made a brief appearance Wednesday in Fairfax County general District Court. He is charged with seven counts of soliciting to deliver a controlled substance, specifically steroids.
Nagel was arrested Tuesday, and authorities on the same day went to the Capitals offices to interview three players he has treated: Matt Bradley, Shaone Morrisonn and Eric Fehr.
"They were just basically asking us for information about what we knew, more about what our relationship was with him and not so much about him because, like I said, none of us know him personally," Bradley said in an interview posted on The Washington Post Web site. "We've been there for treatment and that's it, that's as far as it goes."
Morrisonn answered "No" when asked if he had been offered steroids by Nagel.
"We have nothing to hide here," Morrisonn said. "We're all tested throughout the year, the NHL has a testing policy and it's not an issue for this team."
Nagel has promoted himself as the "team chiropractor for the Washington Capitals." The team says no such relationship exists, and Bradley was the only player of the three who said he's been treated by Nagel recently.
"I don't think they were looking at our players," Fehr said. "I think they were more interested in finding out what the doctor's done and who he's been giving stuff to, so I don't think it was the players that were really targeted."
Capitals owner Ted Leonsis, in a posting on his blog, said the players could have legally declined to be interviewed.
"But our players have nothing to hide, and we decided to proceed. ... The law enforcement interview with each of them was extremely brief, and as soon as officers asked their questions, they quickly realized there was no other connection other than general chiropractic services," Leonsis wrote.
The Polk County (Fla.) Sheriff's Office alleges that Nagel received regular shipments of steroids, including testosterone and nandrolone, from Richard Andrew Thomas of Lakeland, Fla. Thomas has since pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing steroids with intent to sell. He awaits sentencing.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said in a phone interview Wednesday that "we don't have any conclusive proof" that any professional athletes were receiving steroids from Nagel. He praised the Capitals and the players who were interviewed, saying they were fully cooperative.
Interestingly, Judd said the NHL offices were far less cooperative. When his investigators spoke to members of the league's security office Tuesday, he said they were "more concerned with what jurisdiction we had," Judd said _ a stark contrast to cooperation he received from the NFL and Major League Baseball last year when the investigation of Thomas began.
The NHL did not return multiple calls requesting a response to Judd's statement. The league's initial response to the investigation came Tuesday in a statement from deputy commissioner Bill Daly.
"Based on the investigation we have done and the information we have, there is no evidence that Dr. Nagel ever supplied (or even offered to supply) performance enhancing drugs to any current or past member of the Washington Capitals," Daly said.
According to an affidavit, Thomas told police Nagel boasted about supplying steroids to members of the Capitals and Major League Baseball's Washington Nationals. The Nationals have said they "have absolutely no association" with Nagel "and never have."
At his court appearance Wednesday, Nagel, who lives in Reston, Va., declined to waive extradition to Florida. A bond hearing is set for Thursday and an extradition hearing for next month.
Judd said his investigators want to know what Nagel did with the steroids he received from Thomas, an amateur bodybuilder. Nagel told police that the steroids he received from Thomas were for personal use. Judd said the quantities involve make that assertion absurd on its face.
Judd's department does not have jurisdiction to pursue charges against Capitals players if it were discovered that they illegally bought steroids from Nagel. But Judd said he plans to investigate fully, and would turn over the results of his investigation to Virginia authorities if prosecution is warranted.
"We pursue criminals wherever they are," Judd said. "We're chasing the steroids."
___
Associated Press Writer Matthew Barakat in Fairfax, Va., contributed to this report.
Douglas O. Nagel, who has treated several Capitals players and whose office is in the same suburban mall as the team's practice facility, made a brief appearance Wednesday in Fairfax County general District Court. He is charged with seven counts of soliciting to deliver a controlled substance, specifically steroids.
Nagel was arrested Tuesday, and authorities on the same day went to the Capitals offices to interview three players he has treated: Matt Bradley, Shaone Morrisonn and Eric Fehr.
"They were just basically asking us for information about what we knew, more about what our relationship was with him and not so much about him because, like I said, none of us know him personally," Bradley said in an interview posted on The Washington Post Web site. "We've been there for treatment and that's it, that's as far as it goes."
Morrisonn answered "No" when asked if he had been offered steroids by Nagel.
"We have nothing to hide here," Morrisonn said. "We're all tested throughout the year, the NHL has a testing policy and it's not an issue for this team."
Nagel has promoted himself as the "team chiropractor for the Washington Capitals." The team says no such relationship exists, and Bradley was the only player of the three who said he's been treated by Nagel recently.
"I don't think they were looking at our players," Fehr said. "I think they were more interested in finding out what the doctor's done and who he's been giving stuff to, so I don't think it was the players that were really targeted."
Capitals owner Ted Leonsis, in a posting on his blog, said the players could have legally declined to be interviewed.
"But our players have nothing to hide, and we decided to proceed. ... The law enforcement interview with each of them was extremely brief, and as soon as officers asked their questions, they quickly realized there was no other connection other than general chiropractic services," Leonsis wrote.
The Polk County (Fla.) Sheriff's Office alleges that Nagel received regular shipments of steroids, including testosterone and nandrolone, from Richard Andrew Thomas of Lakeland, Fla. Thomas has since pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing steroids with intent to sell. He awaits sentencing.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said in a phone interview Wednesday that "we don't have any conclusive proof" that any professional athletes were receiving steroids from Nagel. He praised the Capitals and the players who were interviewed, saying they were fully cooperative.
Interestingly, Judd said the NHL offices were far less cooperative. When his investigators spoke to members of the league's security office Tuesday, he said they were "more concerned with what jurisdiction we had," Judd said _ a stark contrast to cooperation he received from the NFL and Major League Baseball last year when the investigation of Thomas began.
The NHL did not return multiple calls requesting a response to Judd's statement. The league's initial response to the investigation came Tuesday in a statement from deputy commissioner Bill Daly.
"Based on the investigation we have done and the information we have, there is no evidence that Dr. Nagel ever supplied (or even offered to supply) performance enhancing drugs to any current or past member of the Washington Capitals," Daly said.
According to an affidavit, Thomas told police Nagel boasted about supplying steroids to members of the Capitals and Major League Baseball's Washington Nationals. The Nationals have said they "have absolutely no association" with Nagel "and never have."
At his court appearance Wednesday, Nagel, who lives in Reston, Va., declined to waive extradition to Florida. A bond hearing is set for Thursday and an extradition hearing for next month.
Judd said his investigators want to know what Nagel did with the steroids he received from Thomas, an amateur bodybuilder. Nagel told police that the steroids he received from Thomas were for personal use. Judd said the quantities involve make that assertion absurd on its face.
Judd's department does not have jurisdiction to pursue charges against Capitals players if it were discovered that they illegally bought steroids from Nagel. But Judd said he plans to investigate fully, and would turn over the results of his investigation to Virginia authorities if prosecution is warranted.
"We pursue criminals wherever they are," Judd said. "We're chasing the steroids."
___
Associated Press Writer Matthew Barakat in Fairfax, Va., contributed to this report.
2010年5月5日星期三
Caps hold on to beat Blue Jackets 3-2
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Alexander Semin, soccer jerseys Tomas Fleischmann and Mike Green scored first-period goals and that was enough for Jose Theodore as the Washington Capitals beat the Columbus Blue Jackets 3-2 on Saturday night.
Theodore had 34 saves and improved to 18-0-3 with a goals-against average under 2.70 since Jan. 13, extending his own Capitals record for decisions without a regulation loss.
Washington set a franchise record with its 51st win of the season. The victory also drew the Capitals nearer to clinching the Presidents' Trophy for the best record in the NHL. They need only another win or a San Jose loss to grab that trophy for the first time _ and home ice throughout the playoffs.
Antoine Vermette had two goals and Rick Nash two assists for the Blue Jackets.
The Caps added to their franchise record for points in a season (114) and also set a new mark for road wins (23).
The Caps led 3-1 for almost 40 minutes until Vermette picked up his second goal of the night off Nash's feed from the back wall to Vermette, alone in the slot.
Theodore made several strong saves in the waning moments, the Caps preserving the lead when R.J. Umberger's shot slid just wide of the far post with 3 minutes left.
The vaunted Washington offense, the most prolific in the league at 3.80 goals per game, flexed its muscles three times in the opening period.
After Theodore turned aside a couple of quality Columbus chances in the opening minutes, Semin took a short bump pass from Brooks Laich, settled the puck and rocketed a shot past goalie Mathieu Garon for his 38th of the year.
Garon was knocked to the ice by former teammate Jason Chimera _ traded by Columbus to the Capitals in a December deal _ with the Blue Jackets' Anton Stralman picking up a penalty on the play. Garon was on the ice for several minutes before play resumed.
Just seconds after that power play ended, the Capitals struck again when Eric Fehr dug the puck off the back wall with a blind behind-the-back pass to Mike Knuble, who then saucered a setup pass for Fleischmann.
That was it for Garon, who had two saves on four shots. He was replaced by Steve Mason, held out of the lineup while recovering from a slight shoulder injury sustained in a 3-2 loss at Detroit on Thursday night. Mason finished with 22 saves on 23 chances.
The Capitals made it 3-0 on a 5-on-3 advantage, Green scoring unassisted on a hard slap shot from the top of the right circle. The goal gave him a career-best 74 points.
But the Blue Jackets got on the board at the end of that two-man disadvantage. Nash chipped the puck away from defenseman Joe Corvo between the penalty boxes, then swooped up the right wing. He waited for a sliding Corvo to clear out of the way before feeding Vermette for a jam shot for his 26th goal.
The Capitals, unlike the Blue Jackets, were able to kill a lengthy 5-on-3. Columbus had almost 1 1/2 minutes with two extra men in the second period, but never really threatened.
NOTES: With just one goal in his last six games, Alexander Ovechkin remains stuck on 133 career goals at home and 133 on the road. He didn't have a shot in the first two periods and finished with two. ... Umberger's six-game points streak came to an end. ... Columbus RW Derek Dorsett played in his 100th NHL game.
Theodore had 34 saves and improved to 18-0-3 with a goals-against average under 2.70 since Jan. 13, extending his own Capitals record for decisions without a regulation loss.
Washington set a franchise record with its 51st win of the season. The victory also drew the Capitals nearer to clinching the Presidents' Trophy for the best record in the NHL. They need only another win or a San Jose loss to grab that trophy for the first time _ and home ice throughout the playoffs.
Antoine Vermette had two goals and Rick Nash two assists for the Blue Jackets.
The Caps added to their franchise record for points in a season (114) and also set a new mark for road wins (23).
The Caps led 3-1 for almost 40 minutes until Vermette picked up his second goal of the night off Nash's feed from the back wall to Vermette, alone in the slot.
Theodore made several strong saves in the waning moments, the Caps preserving the lead when R.J. Umberger's shot slid just wide of the far post with 3 minutes left.
The vaunted Washington offense, the most prolific in the league at 3.80 goals per game, flexed its muscles three times in the opening period.
After Theodore turned aside a couple of quality Columbus chances in the opening minutes, Semin took a short bump pass from Brooks Laich, settled the puck and rocketed a shot past goalie Mathieu Garon for his 38th of the year.
Garon was knocked to the ice by former teammate Jason Chimera _ traded by Columbus to the Capitals in a December deal _ with the Blue Jackets' Anton Stralman picking up a penalty on the play. Garon was on the ice for several minutes before play resumed.
Just seconds after that power play ended, the Capitals struck again when Eric Fehr dug the puck off the back wall with a blind behind-the-back pass to Mike Knuble, who then saucered a setup pass for Fleischmann.
That was it for Garon, who had two saves on four shots. He was replaced by Steve Mason, held out of the lineup while recovering from a slight shoulder injury sustained in a 3-2 loss at Detroit on Thursday night. Mason finished with 22 saves on 23 chances.
The Capitals made it 3-0 on a 5-on-3 advantage, Green scoring unassisted on a hard slap shot from the top of the right circle. The goal gave him a career-best 74 points.
But the Blue Jackets got on the board at the end of that two-man disadvantage. Nash chipped the puck away from defenseman Joe Corvo between the penalty boxes, then swooped up the right wing. He waited for a sliding Corvo to clear out of the way before feeding Vermette for a jam shot for his 26th goal.
The Capitals, unlike the Blue Jackets, were able to kill a lengthy 5-on-3. Columbus had almost 1 1/2 minutes with two extra men in the second period, but never really threatened.
NOTES: With just one goal in his last six games, Alexander Ovechkin remains stuck on 133 career goals at home and 133 on the road. He didn't have a shot in the first two periods and finished with two. ... Umberger's six-game points streak came to an end. ... Columbus RW Derek Dorsett played in his 100th NHL game.
Uruguay (1) v Costa Rica (0), Montevideo
Uruguay head into their return-leg against Costa Rica with the advantage, favouritism and the weight of home crowd expectation after their narrow win in San Jose on Saturday. The Ticos, who had squad member Froylan Ledezma controversially quit the talk midweek, face a massive task at the famous Centenario.
The South Americans, who failed to qualify for the 2006 World Cup in the playoffs, are determined to finish the job with Diego Lugano (the goalscorer in Costa Rica) stating, "It's been more than two years of a very hard elimination series, there are two days and 90 minutes to go.
"We can't let this opportunity escape us. On Wednesday we have to give the (Uruguayan) people happiness."
Costa Rica's stand-in trainer Marcelo Tulbovitch (with normal coach Rene Simoes suspended) said, "It's not written that we can't win (in Montevideo), we've already started to lift the lads' morale, we'll recover and get (to the match) in good shape. It's the NBA jerseys world final.”
The South Americans, who failed to qualify for the 2006 World Cup in the playoffs, are determined to finish the job with Diego Lugano (the goalscorer in Costa Rica) stating, "It's been more than two years of a very hard elimination series, there are two days and 90 minutes to go.
"We can't let this opportunity escape us. On Wednesday we have to give the (Uruguayan) people happiness."
Costa Rica's stand-in trainer Marcelo Tulbovitch (with normal coach Rene Simoes suspended) said, "It's not written that we can't win (in Montevideo), we've already started to lift the lads' morale, we'll recover and get (to the match) in good shape. It's the NBA jerseys world final.”
2010年5月4日星期二
Paraguay
Placed alongside defending World Champions Italy, first timers, New Zealand and Slovakia, Paraguay will be pleased with the draw for South Africa 2010.
Although the Italians are the clear favourites to win the group, their inability to score goals despite all the talent at their disposal has put them in trouble in the past. However, this should be looked at as a foregone conclusion unless miracle strikes in South Africa.
New Zealand should be a walkover for the Paraguayans who have more World Cup experience and better style & technique as compared to the newcomers from Oceania. New Zealand will probably finish dead last in their group, Paraguay will probably beat them silly as well.
Slovakia are somewhat of an unknown in this group. While Paraguay & Italy's exploits at this level are known, Slovakia will be somewhat of a battle for the South Americans. If anyone will pose a threat to the second spot in the group, it has to be Slovakia. However, Paraguay will still be expected to gain 3-points from NFL jerseys this encounter.
Although the Italians are the clear favourites to win the group, their inability to score goals despite all the talent at their disposal has put them in trouble in the past. However, this should be looked at as a foregone conclusion unless miracle strikes in South Africa.
New Zealand should be a walkover for the Paraguayans who have more World Cup experience and better style & technique as compared to the newcomers from Oceania. New Zealand will probably finish dead last in their group, Paraguay will probably beat them silly as well.
Slovakia are somewhat of an unknown in this group. While Paraguay & Italy's exploits at this level are known, Slovakia will be somewhat of a battle for the South Americans. If anyone will pose a threat to the second spot in the group, it has to be Slovakia. However, Paraguay will still be expected to gain 3-points from NFL jerseys this encounter.
2010年5月2日星期日
Genoa vs. Valencia: Europa League Preview
A handful of games that still have something riding on them in the Europa League on Thursday and the standout fixture is in Italy where Genoa host Valencia.
Genoa know that a win is almost certainly required if they are to progress, Valencia sit top and a point will do, but they look distinctly ordinary to me and the La Liga side should gain at least the draw they need to advance.
The pair met on Matchday 2 at the Mestalla when a late David Villa penalty gave the host side a 3-2 win and that result was just one of 17 European matches currently unbeaten for Valencia.
Villa should feature again, the Spanish ace has 12 goals in 13 top flight matches already this season, and he’ll be hoping to maintain his superb form for club and country in the build up to the World Cup.
Unusually for Unai Emery’s men they are thriving away from home this season, picking up six wins already from seven games in La Liga on their travels, and preserving their unbeaten run in Group B will be enough for them to progress.
It remains to be seen what side Emery chooses to field but he has played most of his big guns in the Europa League so far this season and, with the outcome very much of meaning, he should do so once again at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris.
With the likes of the excellent David Silva and the emerging talent that is Juan Mata, Valencia rarely struggle for goals - unlike Thursday’s opponents. Genoa have just seven in this competition from their opening five matches, they were held to a goalless draw against bottom of the table Slavia Prague last time out, and they are hardly prolific domestically either.
While Argentine striker Hernan Crespo, now 34, still has something to offer in attack he is a shadow of his former self and goal scoring duties now fall to the likes of Crespo's fellow countryman Rodrigo Palacio. He has just one to his name in Serie A however during the current campaign, where Genoa are currently languishing in tenth place, and, should he get the nod, Palacio will have a tough time up against the likes of David Navarro and Carlos Marchena.
Genoa were beaten 1-0 by Lazio on Sunday and it is now just one victory in five matches in all competitions. That came against rivals Sampdoria but Valencia are a different proposition altogether and the visitors were unlucky to be beaten by Real Madrid in their latest fixture.
Home advantage should never be underestimated, particularly in European competition, but Genoa are easily opposed having been installed as favourites at around the 2.65 mark and their need for the three points is likely to leave them susceptible at the back. That’s far from ideal against the likes of Villa and Silva and the away side are fancied to strike themselves to all but end the NHL Jerseys hosts’ involvement.
Genoa know that a win is almost certainly required if they are to progress, Valencia sit top and a point will do, but they look distinctly ordinary to me and the La Liga side should gain at least the draw they need to advance.
The pair met on Matchday 2 at the Mestalla when a late David Villa penalty gave the host side a 3-2 win and that result was just one of 17 European matches currently unbeaten for Valencia.
Villa should feature again, the Spanish ace has 12 goals in 13 top flight matches already this season, and he’ll be hoping to maintain his superb form for club and country in the build up to the World Cup.
Unusually for Unai Emery’s men they are thriving away from home this season, picking up six wins already from seven games in La Liga on their travels, and preserving their unbeaten run in Group B will be enough for them to progress.
It remains to be seen what side Emery chooses to field but he has played most of his big guns in the Europa League so far this season and, with the outcome very much of meaning, he should do so once again at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris.
With the likes of the excellent David Silva and the emerging talent that is Juan Mata, Valencia rarely struggle for goals - unlike Thursday’s opponents. Genoa have just seven in this competition from their opening five matches, they were held to a goalless draw against bottom of the table Slavia Prague last time out, and they are hardly prolific domestically either.
While Argentine striker Hernan Crespo, now 34, still has something to offer in attack he is a shadow of his former self and goal scoring duties now fall to the likes of Crespo's fellow countryman Rodrigo Palacio. He has just one to his name in Serie A however during the current campaign, where Genoa are currently languishing in tenth place, and, should he get the nod, Palacio will have a tough time up against the likes of David Navarro and Carlos Marchena.
Genoa were beaten 1-0 by Lazio on Sunday and it is now just one victory in five matches in all competitions. That came against rivals Sampdoria but Valencia are a different proposition altogether and the visitors were unlucky to be beaten by Real Madrid in their latest fixture.
Home advantage should never be underestimated, particularly in European competition, but Genoa are easily opposed having been installed as favourites at around the 2.65 mark and their need for the three points is likely to leave them susceptible at the back. That’s far from ideal against the likes of Villa and Silva and the away side are fancied to strike themselves to all but end the NHL Jerseys hosts’ involvement.
Aston Villa vs. Arsenal: EPL Betting Preview
Another weekend of football hots up with most of Europe's leagues back in full swing, so here's the highlights to keep an eye out for.
Sports Pundit's Game of the Weekend
Internazionale v AC Milan
Italian Serie A
Sunday, 8.45pm (Central European Time)
Nothing beats the Derby della Madonnina this weekend especially with the Scudetto race so tightly poised between the top two, with AC Milan a chance to move within 3 points of Inter, and with a game in hand.
Milan's recent revival certainly has re-opened the title race and Inter have lost the initiative. Indeed, Inter have only won three of their last six Serie A encounters and a loss here would cause great concern for Jose Mourinho's side NBA Jerseys.
Ronaldinho's form for Milan suggests they'll be difficult to stop but we shouldn't forget Inter won this fixture earlier in the campaign 4-0 and they are the masters of grinding out results.
Werder Bremen v Bayern Munich
German Bundesliga
Saturday, 3.30pm (CET)
Here's a battle of two genuine giants with Werder currently sitting sixth and Bayern, on the charge, in third. And while Bayern push for the title, Werder are battling having not won in their last five Bundesliga matches despite enjoying a 23-game unbeaten streak earlier in the campaign.
Bayern, on the other hand, have won their last seven games in all competitions and are flying with intent. But a trip up to the Weserstadion won't be easy especially with ex-Bayern man Claudio Pizarro back from a knee problem for Bremen. Franck Ribery, though, is fit to return for the Bavarians.
Tottenham v Leeds United
English FA Cup
Saturday, 6.15pm (CET)
Can Leeds United add another big scalp to their list after knocking Manchester United out of the FA Cup earlier this month? The League One leaders certainly weren't done any favours by the draw with a trip to White Hart Lane, but you never know.
Tottenham midfielder Aaron Lennon was desperate to face his former club but will miss due to a groin injury. Spurs, though, have plenty of quality and remain favourites, especially with Leeds in a slump since their victory at Old Trafford.
Juventus v AS Roma
Italian Serie A
Saturday, 8.45pm (CET)
Juve boss Ciro Ferrara is under intense pressure right now and a meeting with in-form Roma isn't ideal for him. Roma are actually up to third in Serie A now, with Juventus recently dropping to fifth after 4 losses in their last 5 matches.
The injury crisis at the Old Lady has hurt their hopes recently with Ferrara robbed of Vincenzo Iaquinta and David Trezeguet amongst others. Roma boss Claudio Ranieri returns to Turin after his axing from the Juve post.
Ajax Amsterdam v AZ Alkmaar
Dutch Eredivisie
Sunday, 12.30pm (CET)
New AZ boss Dick Advocaat gets his chance to get his side's season back on track with a tough trip to Amsterdam. Don't forget AZ are the current Dutch champions despite their woes this term.
Martin Jol's Ajax have incredibly scored 54 goals in 18 games this campaign with Luis Suarez leading the charge with 18 strikes. They remain a remote hope of the Eredivisie title but really need 3 points here.
Sports Pundit's Game of the Weekend
Internazionale v AC Milan
Italian Serie A
Sunday, 8.45pm (Central European Time)
Nothing beats the Derby della Madonnina this weekend especially with the Scudetto race so tightly poised between the top two, with AC Milan a chance to move within 3 points of Inter, and with a game in hand.
Milan's recent revival certainly has re-opened the title race and Inter have lost the initiative. Indeed, Inter have only won three of their last six Serie A encounters and a loss here would cause great concern for Jose Mourinho's side NBA Jerseys.
Ronaldinho's form for Milan suggests they'll be difficult to stop but we shouldn't forget Inter won this fixture earlier in the campaign 4-0 and they are the masters of grinding out results.
Werder Bremen v Bayern Munich
German Bundesliga
Saturday, 3.30pm (CET)
Here's a battle of two genuine giants with Werder currently sitting sixth and Bayern, on the charge, in third. And while Bayern push for the title, Werder are battling having not won in their last five Bundesliga matches despite enjoying a 23-game unbeaten streak earlier in the campaign.
Bayern, on the other hand, have won their last seven games in all competitions and are flying with intent. But a trip up to the Weserstadion won't be easy especially with ex-Bayern man Claudio Pizarro back from a knee problem for Bremen. Franck Ribery, though, is fit to return for the Bavarians.
Tottenham v Leeds United
English FA Cup
Saturday, 6.15pm (CET)
Can Leeds United add another big scalp to their list after knocking Manchester United out of the FA Cup earlier this month? The League One leaders certainly weren't done any favours by the draw with a trip to White Hart Lane, but you never know.
Tottenham midfielder Aaron Lennon was desperate to face his former club but will miss due to a groin injury. Spurs, though, have plenty of quality and remain favourites, especially with Leeds in a slump since their victory at Old Trafford.
Juventus v AS Roma
Italian Serie A
Saturday, 8.45pm (CET)
Juve boss Ciro Ferrara is under intense pressure right now and a meeting with in-form Roma isn't ideal for him. Roma are actually up to third in Serie A now, with Juventus recently dropping to fifth after 4 losses in their last 5 matches.
The injury crisis at the Old Lady has hurt their hopes recently with Ferrara robbed of Vincenzo Iaquinta and David Trezeguet amongst others. Roma boss Claudio Ranieri returns to Turin after his axing from the Juve post.
Ajax Amsterdam v AZ Alkmaar
Dutch Eredivisie
Sunday, 12.30pm (CET)
New AZ boss Dick Advocaat gets his chance to get his side's season back on track with a tough trip to Amsterdam. Don't forget AZ are the current Dutch champions despite their woes this term.
Martin Jol's Ajax have incredibly scored 54 goals in 18 games this campaign with Luis Suarez leading the charge with 18 strikes. They remain a remote hope of the Eredivisie title but really need 3 points here.
2010年5月1日星期六
Thai Protesters Storm Hospital
BANGKOK — A major hospital in Bangkok evacuated hundreds of its patients Friday and shut down all but emergency services after scores of soccer jerseys antigovernment protesters, some wielding sharpened sticks, pushed their way inside and roamed the halls in what they said was a hunt for soldiers who might be hiding there.
The men, who have been camping nearby, withdrew empty-handed and protest leaders quickly apologized, distancing themselves from the raid, which was an embarrassment to a movement that portrays itself as nonviolent.
Dr. Adisorn Patradul, director of the Chulalongkorn University Hospital, said all but 2 of its 500 patients were either discharged or transferred to other hospitals. By evening, the hospital was dark and silent except for one emergency room.
Some, however, continued to wander just outside the hospitals gates, occasionally mingling with the police who were eating and reading newspapers. An injured man arrived at the closed main gate propped on the back of a motorcycle; the police directed him to the emergency room at the back of the hospital.
On Friday, red shirt protesters in the northeastern city of Khon Kaen, a antigovernment stronghold, blocked an exit road from the local airport and prevented a pro-government leader, Tul Sittisomwong, from traveling to address a rally. He returned to Bangkok on the next flight.
The recent violent incidents have fed a perception among many middle-class Bangkok residents that the protesters, who have turned the city’s most glittering commercial district into their own guarded encampment, are a destructive force.
The men, who have been camping nearby, withdrew empty-handed and protest leaders quickly apologized, distancing themselves from the raid, which was an embarrassment to a movement that portrays itself as nonviolent.
Dr. Adisorn Patradul, director of the Chulalongkorn University Hospital, said all but 2 of its 500 patients were either discharged or transferred to other hospitals. By evening, the hospital was dark and silent except for one emergency room.
Some, however, continued to wander just outside the hospitals gates, occasionally mingling with the police who were eating and reading newspapers. An injured man arrived at the closed main gate propped on the back of a motorcycle; the police directed him to the emergency room at the back of the hospital.
On Friday, red shirt protesters in the northeastern city of Khon Kaen, a antigovernment stronghold, blocked an exit road from the local airport and prevented a pro-government leader, Tul Sittisomwong, from traveling to address a rally. He returned to Bangkok on the next flight.
The recent violent incidents have fed a perception among many middle-class Bangkok residents that the protesters, who have turned the city’s most glittering commercial district into their own guarded encampment, are a destructive force.
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