Latino Sports

EJ Viso: Gearing Up for the Indianapolis 500

Cesar Diaz — Fri, 24 May 2013 05:31:43 +0000

With the Indianapolis 500 a few days away, Venezeulean racecar driver E.J. Viso took a moment from his schedule to talk with LatinoSports.com. You can follow E.J. on twitter at @EJVISO. What does the Indianapolis 500 mean to you? Being involved in such a historical race really means a lot. When I first came here I don’t believe I really understood the importance of this event, but now that I’ve been in it five times, I’m really proud and honored to be back again. I believe that winning this race means a bit more than winning any other. It is a very difficult race to win – it’s very mental and physical. Only the driver that makes the fewest mistakes is going to be the one with the bigger chance of winning it. What's the origin behind the number 5? I’ve liked five for a while. I have different numbers I like, but I think five is a good number. We have five senses, five fingers…five is a number that works good with nature. I believe in energy, and five is a good number that involves plenty of factors. Who do you listen to (Music)? To be honest, I like to listen to all kinds of music. I don’t have a favorite type, I just listen to whatever I feel I need to listen at the moment to be in a certain mindset. I think music is a great tool to work with, and depending on what you want to achieve, music always kind of helps you do it faster. Are there any other sports you follow? Yeah, I follow a bit of every other sport. I like soccer, football, basketball, baseball…to be honest I’m not a huge fan of any of those, but I follow them because I understand them. I’m not the kind of person who knows each score and each player’s name, but I do appreciate and do like every sport. About Andretti Autosport Based in Indianapolis and led by racing legend Michael Andretti, Andretti Autosport fields multiple entries in the IZOD IndyCar Series. Andretti Autosport also campaigns multiple cars in Firestone Indy Lights, the Pro Mazda Championship and in the USF2000 National Championship. The company boasts four IZOD IndyCar Series championships (2004, 2005, 2007 and 2012), two Firestone Indy Lights titles (2008 and 2009), one USF2000 championship (2010) and has won the Indianapolis 500 twice (2005 and 2007). For more information, please visit www.AndrettiAutosport.com.

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New York City FC Morning at El Barrio (Photos)

Cesar Diaz — Fri, 24 May 2013 05:13:12 +0000

New York, NY - On Wednesday morning, Major League Soccer's newest MLS franchise, New York City FC (NYC FC) kicked off their morning in East Harlem aka El Barrio own PS 72 (Lexington Academy). While the students were in their class rooms receiving their education, the cafeteria was transformed for the MLS Press Conference where their newest and 20th MLS Franchise, NYC FC was officially introduced. Did you know that PS 72 boasts New York City’s only rooftop soccer field which was donated by Manchester City in 2010? The facility provides quality soccer instruction and programming to thousands of children in 20 NYC public schools each year run by City Soccer and their Executive Director Paul Jeffries. In attendance was PS 72 Principal Tony Hernandez, MLS Commissioner Don Garber, Manchester City CEO Ferran Soriano, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, New York Yankees Hal Steinbrenner and Randy Levine and NYC FC's Director of Football and first employee, Claudio Reyna. Having an an illustrious professional career having played in Europe and the US for more than 12 years, including at Manchester City FC from 2003-2007, Reyna will be responsible for building the soccer elements of the New York City FC organization, including the recruitment of players, coaches and trainers, and other support staff, in preparation for the team’s inaugural MLS season in 2015. He also represented the United States National team in four World Cups from 1994 through 2006 and was team Captain in 2002 and 2006. As stated in their News Release, Reyna will work closely with Manchester City’s Brian Marwood, Managing Director of City Football Academy, Txiki Begiristain, Director of Football, and World Cup Winner Patrick Vieira, Head of Elite Development Squad, as the New York City FC organization takes shape, and operating philosophy takes hold. “Having had the privilege of playing both for my country here in the US and for Manchester City FC in England, I could not have hoped for a more tailored-made opportunity in soccer,” said Reyna. “I am incredibly excited to again wear City’s ‘Sky Blue’ as part of the expansion of the MLS and the growth of soccer in the United States, and am honored to have been offered this opportunity. With a large fan base through the New York area, prime television rights and distribution, sponsorship commitments, and the Yankees as a US partner, the New York City Football Club has everything in place to succeed.” By this time a lot has been written about the NYC FC and the possibilities by many Media outlets including ours. Instead, I wanted to provide you pictures of Wednesday Morning's Press Conference inside PS 72. Hope you enjoy the photos.

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Dan Schlossberg’s Memorial Weekend Notebook

Dan Schlossberg — Thu, 23 May 2013 19:10:33 +0000

Don Mattingly and Terry Collins are like two horses headed down the stretch at Churchill Downs: whomever crosses the finish line first will be finished. Mattingly, a Joe Torre protege with the same cool exterior, finally blew up this week, blaming both his players and team management for the fact that the lethargic Dodgers are languishing in last place. Collins took another tact. The third-year manager of the New York Mets decided to pick a fight with the fans, who aren't exactly battering down the gates of CitiField on days when Matt Harvey doesn't match. While Collins had temper tantrums in previous incarnations as a manager, Mattingly was always considered cool, calm, and collected. Until now. Fortunately for him, the Miami Marlins are in the same division -- and not likely to give up last place no matter how much the Mets stumble. Other observations: Ex-Yankee closer Rafael Soriano didn't endear himself to his new Washington teammates by saying his 4-year-old son could have caught a ball misplayed by wunderkind Bryce Harper in windy San Francisco . . . Shades of Kevin Brown: Ryan Mattheus, a key member of the Nationals bullpen, bought himself a berth on the disabled list by punching a locker and breaking his hand . . . Cole Hamels started out 1-7 this season. No, you don't have dyslexia . . . One lefthander with considerably better numbers is former Twin Francisco Liriano, whose hot start has fueled annual speculation about Pittsburgh finally finishing on the sunny side of .500 . . . Amazing that the Colorado Rockies have good pitching but the Los Angeles Angels don't. That's why the Rox are in contention but the Anaheim contingent isn't . . . After hitting a club-high 43 home runs last year, it was surprising to see Curtis Granderson leading off for the Yankees. The injured Derek Jeter, whose career could be in jeopardy, was a perfect fit for that spot . . . If Fernando Rodney hadn't suddenly turned mortal, the Tampa Bay Rays might be riding the top of the tough American League East . . . Were the Seattle Mariners serious when they batted Jason Bay in the leadoff spot? Oh, yeah: the M's are the same team that signed the over-the-hill outfielder in the first place . . . Erstwhile slugger Adam Dunn, the primary culprit in the demise of the Chicago White Sox, is virtually certain to be dumped before the trade deadline -- if the Sox will pay most of his exorbitant salary . . . Cincinnati is reaping the benefits of trading for Shin-Soo Choo, who's having such a historic season that he could wind up with the best on-base percentage by any leadoff man since Hall of Famer Wade Boggs (.476 in 1988) . . . Things have gotten so bad in Toronto, this columnist's pre-season pick to win the AL East, that recycled manager John Gibbons could get fired again. The pitching is putrid, the hitting depends too heavily on the home run, and the one-sided winter trade with the Miami Marlins has been completely forgotten . . . How long can the Texas Rangers ride the arms of rookies Nick Tepesch, Justin Grimm, and Tanner Scheppers? . . . With Atlanta still looking for a leadoff man, don't be surprised if the Braves target versatile speedster Emilio Bonifacio, currently with the Blue Jays. Atlanta might be willing to yield all-or-nothing second baseman Dan Uggla and perhaps a minor-league starter for Bonifacio and bullpen help . . . The Mets play the Yankees in a four-game, home-and-home series next week. The winner of such a series used to be awarded something called "the Mayor's Trophy." Somehow, it meant more in those days before interleague play began in 1997.

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Mets continue to struggle, so does Ike as Reds sweep series

Rich Mancuso — Thu, 23 May 2013 03:10:52 +0000

New York – With Matt Harvey on the mound Wednesday afternoon at Citi Field, there was every opportunity for the New York Mets to get a win. But with the team struggling to score runs, Harvey had to be at his best and sometimes in baseball that is hard to do. Harvey allowed a career high nine hits and left with the fifth no decision in his last six starts. Ike Davis continued to struggle at the plate, and on the field as the Cincinnati Reds completed their second consecutive three-sweep over the Mets at Citi Field with a 7-4 win. New York scored four runs which snapped a nine-game string at home with three runs or less, but Davis remained hitless in his last 25 at bats with runners in scoring position, with an 0-for-2 day at the plate. That extended his drought to one hit in his last 38 –at-bats. Adding to the struggles at the plate for Davis was a play at first base in the ninth inning that appeared to be a double-play ball. That resulted in the Reds scoring and breaking a tie, and a three-run inning. Overall, it seems the Mets can’t get out of a losing pattern when at home. What appears to be going their way turns out different, even the play at first that involved Davis, one that is epitomizing the first few months of his season. “I could not get the out at home plus I was trying to get off the bag to get in the hole because it was a right hand hitter,” said Davis about the play to first on a ball hit by Brandon Phillips. He added, “Right before the bounce I thought it bounced foul. In my head when I thought I saw it bounce foul I put my glove back. I still can’t tell if it was foul or fair on replays. Everything could go wrong for me now, could go wrong.” To his defense, it was a difficult play to get two outs. But, with the way things have been going for Davis at the plate, the question is, are mental lapses now hindering Davis on the field? “If it is a chopper, you got to get it,” said Mets manager Terry Collins. “The way things are going that typifies everything that has been happening. He has to try and get the play at the plate. You are not going to get a double play on that. The ball took a tough hop and Ike thought it would go foul.” “I don’t,” commented Collins regarding Davis possibly taking his struggles from the plate to the field. “I discussed it with him. Don’t ever take your offense to the field. You’re struggling, make them struggle.” Davis did reach base twice with base on balls, and in the sixth inning made good contact hitting a ball deep to center that was caught. That renewed some optimism that he could be slowly coming out of a tailspin which hindered him the first part of last season. “I thought that ball to center might go out, maybe that will get him started,” said Collins, who also added Davis’ walks off Reds starter Mat Latos were a good sign. Harvey would allow a season high four runs, the second time he has allowed more than three runs in his young career. His start snapped a string of 16 consecutive starts allowing three runs or less. The Mets staked him to a rare lead, a first inning run on consecutive doubles from Daniel Murphy and Rick Ankiel. “Obviously it wasn’t a good start,” said Harvey. “I had to battle through a couple of things. “I’ll take my 24- hours and move on and get ready for my next start. I wasn’t locating, throwing as many strikes as I wanted to.” He threw 116-pitches in 6.1 innings, and his next start will come at home against the New York Yankees Tuesday night at Citi Field. The velocity on his fastball was not where he wanted it to be, and Joey Votto reached Harvey for a two-run homer in the third to left field that gave the Reds a 2-1 lead. Said Reds manager Dusty Baker, who saw his team win their eight of their last nine against the Mets, “ Harvey has god stuff and power pitches. “He pitches a lot older than his experience. Baker compared Harvey’s [itches to Nolan Ryan, Jon Matlack, Tom Seaver and Gary Gentry, past pitching greats in franchise history of the Mets. “ He’s in that mode,” he said. In the end it was the Davis play at first and Bobby Parnell out of the pen in the ninth who gave up the deciding runs. Parnell (4-1) got the loss, allowing three runs in an inning pitched. It was the third time in 20 appearances he has been scored upon. And as the Mets manager said, the record of 17-27, is not the focus of a season quickly going down the drain. “We got to get caught up on playing the game right and not the record,” said Collins. With one of the better teams in the National League, the Atlanta Braves coming to Citi Field Friday night for three, and four more with the Yankees home-and home, the record is not as important. Comment Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com

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New York City FC Will Benefit the Red Bulls

Cesar Diaz — Wed, 22 May 2013 04:33:27 +0000

New York, NY - On Tuesday, Major League Soccer announced the New York Yankees and Manchester City as co-owners of the 20th MLS franchise, New York City FC. The second New York MLS, 20th overall will begin league play in 2015. New York Red Bulls General Manager Jérôme de Bontin released the following statement regarding today's announcement: “We are supportive of MLS expansion, as it illustrates the growing interest of soccer in North America. We also want to congratulate MLS and the League’s new ownership group, which is injecting additional resources to help develop our sport across the country. Today’s announcement is one of many steps in the exciting and challenging process of building a competitive MLS club. Our club’s energy is focused on winning a championship for the League’s most loyal and passionate fans, many of whom have steadfastly backed this organization and MLS since its inception and come from all over the tri-state area. We are committed to continue to build an organization that is the flagship club for Major League Soccer around the world and a club that soccer fans across the region can be proud to support.” Believe it or not, NYC FC was the best thing that could have ever happened to the New York Red Bulls. Now that there's another MLS New York club, it'll be interesting to see how the Red Bulls front office as well as Marketing Department responds. With the Cosmos competing in the North American Soccer League, the Red Bulls have to contend with an ownership that consist of the deep pockets of the New York Yankees and Manchester City. Along with the Yankees owning the YES Network, it wouldn't be a surprise if they contacted their season-ticket holders and offered them a NYC FC season ticket package. Whether you love the Yankees or not, they are one of the richest teams in the world with resources and recognition many clubs could only dream about. However, it would be ridiculous to assume that it's over for the Red Bulls. Before anyone drives a stake into the Red Bulls heart, there are some things to consider. Even though the co-ownerships of NYC FC possess the deep pockets, they lack the MLS History the Red Bulls have had since day one. I don't envision members of the South Ward trio of the Viking Army, the Garden State Ultra and the Empire Supporters Club removing their kits and defecting over to NYC FC. They're committed to their club to the very end. Even though it's public knowledge that the Red Bulls fail to sellout Red Bull Arena on a regular basis, now would the time for the front office find creative ways in filling those empty seats. Do they want to be right and set in their ways? Or do they want to learn? If so, there's no better teachers than their supporters trio. Get them more involved, it's that simple. Another move the Red Bulls can do is hire 2-3 of the local beat reporters who their supporters are already familiar with. By trusting and allowing local reporters to work their magic, fans both new and current can believe that the club is being open and accepting on how the Red Bulls are being covered. While it maybe easy to have generate match recaps, I believe supporters as well as new fans want to follow writers who they feel they have a bond with. But then again, what do I know? In case you're thinking it, I do not want to write for the Red Bulls. One possible move would be an all-out outreach initiative where they consult a sample of season ticket holders from various locations and pick his/her brain on how to recruit in that area. Getting season ticket holders involved is one sure way s/he feels valued and is committed to making a contribution towards their club. Or how about being a friend to a match day? Final move would be trying to win the MLS Cup and U.S. Open Cub from know until 2015. Winning is king and if the Red Bulls are able to do that, then it wouldn't matter how long it took them to win a championship because New Yorkers love their champions.

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New York Yankees and Manchester City has acquired the MLS 20th expansion club

Media Release — Tue, 21 May 2013 15:14:15 +0000

NEW YORK (May 21, 2013) – Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber announced today that a partnership of global sports powers, Manchester City Football Club and the New York Yankees, has acquired the League’s 20^thexpansion club. The new team will be named New York City Football Club (NYCFC) and expects to begin play in 2015. “We proudly welcome two of the most prestigious professional global sports organizations to Major League Soccer,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. “This is a transformational development that will elevate the league to new heights in this country. The New York area is home to more than 19 million people, and we look forward to an intense crosstown rivalry between New York City Football Club and the New York Red Bulls that will captivate this great city.” “New York is a legendary sports town, as well as a thriving global city with a rapidly expanding soccer fan-base,” saidFerran Soriano, CEO of Manchester City Football Club, who will oversee the process of filling top New York City FC leadership positions in the weeks to come. “We are thrilled to contribute to the energy and growth of New York City Soccer. In the Yankees, we have found the absolute best partner for developing a world-class sports organization and a winning team that will carry the New York City Football Club name with pride.” Manchester City will be the majority owner of the new Club. As an investor, the Yankees will be an active member of the ownership group. The New York Yankees and Manchester City Football Club have an existing commercial relationship through Legends Hospitality, LLC, an international entertainment, hospitality and marketing organization. Yankee Stadium is pleased to be hosting Manchester City on Saturday, May 25 for a “friendly” match against Chelsea FC, giving New York area fans a rare opportunity to see two outstanding English Premier League clubs up close. “We are pleased to be associated with this major move by MLS to increase its presence in the New York market and to enhance the opportunity for New York soccer fans to enjoy high-level play in their own city. We look forward to the opportunity to work with Manchester City to create something very special for the soccer fans of New York -- and to bringing another terrific team to this city for all sports fans to enjoy,” said Hal Steinbrenner, managing general partner of the New York Yankees. “Randy Levine, president of the New York Yankees, will be the point person in leading the effort to launch and establish the team on behalf of the organization,” Mr. Steinbrenner added. With millions of residents watching soccer every week and nearly two million people actively playing the game, the New York/New Jersey area is one of North America’s most vibrant and proud soccer communities. The region has filled stadiums for countless marquee soccer events including the 1994 FIFA Men’s World Cup, the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, three MLS All-Star Games and numerous international exhibition matches. NYCFC becomes the first MLS club whose home will be located within the five boroughs, joining the Red Bulls as the second MLS club in the metropolitan area. “Soccer is one of the world’s most exciting and popular sports, and it should be played on the world’s biggest stage -- in New York City,” said Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. “New Yorkers are the greatest sports fans in the world, and they will welcome a Major League Soccer franchise with the full-throated and loyal support they are famous for. Manchester City has a great reputation for both winning teams and serious community investment, and that will help them fit in well with the excellent leadership of New York City’s other professional sports teams. Increasingly, sports events and activities -- from the NHL playoffs to the MLB All-Star game to the SuperBowl -- are spurring economic growth, as our investments in new arenas and infrastructure are paying off.” MLS was advised by Joe Ravitch and The Raine Group in connection with this transaction. Future: A Home Field for NYC’s Newest Team New York City FC is committed to seeking a new permanent stadium in New York. Until that time, the new team is arranging to play in an interim home beginning in its inaugural MLS season in 2015. Over the past year, MLS began discussions with the City of New York and other stakeholders about the possibility of constructing a new stadium in Flushing Meadows Corona Park (FMCP) in Queens. The Club’s new management will continue these discussions with local government officials, community residents and businesses, soccer leagues, and MLS. The Club will continue to review other potential sites as well. “New York City FC will have a permanent home in the City in the great traditions of New York sports and world soccer -- a home that must be a sports, commercial and civic success,” Soriano said. “But in considering any stadium site, we will listen first. This is what we have always done in Manchester and what we will do in New York. Only in this way, can the Club truly represent the City whose name it will carry.” “City Soccer in the Community”: NYC FC’s Commitment to Youth Soccer in NYC Manchester City is a leader among sports organizations in its charitable efforts, with one-sixth of its staff fully dedicated full-time to community outreach. Building on this tradition of community outreach, New York City FC will expand and enhance the grassroots youth soccer program “City Soccer in the Community,” which it has been running in New York since 2010. The program, now headquartered at PS 72 (Lexington Academy) in East Harlem, which boasts New York City’s only rooftop soccer field, provides quality soccer instruction and programming to thousands of children in 20 NYC public schools each year. New York City FC looks forward to expanding its community outreach to bring soccer to thousands of more kids throughout the five boroughs. Manchester City has funded the construction of soccer facilities for youth in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami and Washington D.C. For more on City Soccer, click here. In addition, the “City in the Community,” foundation focuses on similar initiatives worldwide. About Manchester City FC Since new ownership took over five years ago, Manchester City has gained its place as one of England’s most successful football clubs and one of the fastest growing clubs in the world, on and off the field. Last spring, Manchester City won the 2012 Barclay’s Premier League Championship. This year it finished second in the League and was the FA Cup runner up. Manchester City FC is wholly owned by the Abu Dhabi United Group. About New York Yankees Established in 1903, the New York Yankees are Major League Baseball's most storied franchise with 27 World Championships and 40 American League pennants. About Major League Soccer Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer is the top-flight professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. MLS features many stars from the U.S., Canada, and around the world. Major League Soccer’s 18th season features 19 clubs each playing 34 regular-season matches. Those clubs include the Chicago Fire; Chivas USA; Colorado Rapids; Columbus Crew; D.C. United; FC Dallas; Houston Dynamo; 2012 MLS Cup champion LA Galaxy; Montreal Impact; New York Red Bulls; New England Revolution; Philadelphia Union; Portland Timbers; Real Salt Lake; San Jose Earthquakes; Seattle Sounders FC; Sporting Kansas City; Toronto FC and Vancouver Whitecaps FC. New York City FC, was unveiled May 21, 2013. For more information about MLS, log on to the league’s official website at www.MLSsoccer.com.

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Cueto back on mound for Reds and hands Mets another loss at home

Rich Mancuso — Tue, 21 May 2013 11:13:41 +0000

New York, NY - Johnny Cueto the Cincinnati right hander last pitched April 13th and left in the fifth inning with a strained upper back muscle. The Reds and manager Dusty Baker know how important he is to their rotation. It makes them better when Cueto is on the mound. So as the Reds came to Citi Field Monday night, and faced the New York Mets for the start of a three-game series, it was important for Cueto to show there were no lingering effects from the injury. Cueto, gave the Reds enough, striking out the last seven Mets he faced, and the Reds got a decisive home run from Jay Bruce for a 4-3 win. It was the fourth start for Cueto. He gave up three hits and three runs in five innings. More importantly, with a fastball and slider that had command, the Reds feel more confident, that their key cog to their rotation is healthy and ready to get some wins in the NL central, keeping pace with the first place St. Louis Cardinals. Cueto, (2-0) did encounter some trouble, a three-run home run from the Mets’ Marlon Byrd in the third inning where he also walked a batter. It was a hanging slider, but he was able to keep his composure and continue to keep the Mets from scoring more. “I knew you just couldn’t keep getting in trouble like that, walking guys without centering one, but that’s just what happened,” said Reds manager Dusty Baker about the inning that tied the score. He added about Cueto, “But he came back and pitched well.” After the home run, Cueto struck out four. His fastball was also effective, clocked more than once in the mid 90-s. And, he kept his composure striking out six of his last seven he faced. Speaking through a translator, the 27-year old native of San Pedro de Macoris Dominican Republic said, “I asked myself, ‘what was going on, what happened?” He spoke to himself on the mound. “I told myself I have to start pitching the way I am. Then after that, I said, ‘that is me.” Bruce, who doubled in the first inning, extended his hitting streak to 11 games. He broke the tie with a drive to the right field seats leading off the sixth inning. It was his sixth home run, off losing pitcher Shaun Marcum (0-5), who gave New York an otherwise quality start extended his career high losing streak. “He’s one of the guys important to have, one of those pitchers good to have on your side,” commented Bruce about having Cueto healthy and back in the rotation. And, indeed he is valuable, having led the Reds pitching staff last season in wins, starts, quality starts, and innings pitched. Cueto said he felt fine, “Brand new” in his words. And that spells good news for the Reds. As he did often against Mets hitters, the awkward pitching motion of turning his back to the hitters leads to questions. Does that motion contribute to muscle issues and back problems? When asked about changing his motion, something that may have contributed to his latest stint on the disabled list, Cueto hesitated and said, “Been thinking about that, maybe to make some changes.” THE HITTING WOES CONTINUE FOR NEW YORK AT HOME: The loss put the Mets at 2-9 in their last 11 games at home, dating to April 25th. They had one hit in six at bats with runners in scoring position, their last four home games they are 4-for-31 in those situations. “We have to execute very well, we can’t give extra outs,” commented manager Terry Collins who was displeased again about the lack of execution and run production. Once again Ike Davis failed to deliver. The first baseman had an 0-for-3 night, one hit in his last 33 at bats. He had a chance in the first, but Brandon Phillips made a play at second that robbed Davis of a hit with the bases loaded. He struck out two times afterwards, and again Collins was asked, is Davis ready to be demoted to Las Vegas Triple-A to try and get things better? “We will work it out here and continue to try and work with him to make adjustments,” he said. Davis is among the top five leaders in strikeouts in the National League and at times looks clueless at the plate. Collins had him batting sixth Monday night and the manager said, shifting the order every day has become an issue. But if shifting the order means something to score runs, Collins will continue to do that as the Mets have scored three or fewer runs in 11 of their last 14 games. “I’m not comfortable every day looking up every day and seeing guys moving all over the lineup,” he said. Byrd started in right field because he has hit well in the past against Cueto, 7-for-12, after going 1-for 3 and his fourth home run. But Collins said, Tuesday night Mike Baxter will get the start in right which further adds to his explanation about the constant shifting and changes in the lineup. “I can’t give up, I’m never going to give up,” said Davis about his continued struggles at the plate. As for Marcum, who struck out a season high seven, and the three runs and three hits in the first, Collins said, “He pitched very well, but we couldn’t get anything going after that,” referring to the three run inning and the Byrd home run. Marcum said his command improved after that first inning. He retired eight consecutive batters after the first, and no further damage, one of three starters in baseball with a 0-5 record. “I get hits, its location,” commented Marcum who has had first inning problems he admits to in his last five starts. “I made four or five mistakes today and they all got hit. Got to limit the mistakes.” But mistakes are what the Mets need to avoid the next week with the Reds, Atlanta Braves and New York Yankees visiting Citi Filed on this eight-game stint at home. What follows? Two more games in the Bronx next week in the Bronx with the cross-town Yankees. e-mail Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com

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Fairness Coalition of Queens Message

Cesar Diaz — Tue, 21 May 2013 02:18:27 +0000

Updated Statement: “We welcome Major League Soccer to New York City.

We are pleased with their new willingness to consider other sites in New York. The proposal for a stadium inside the heart of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is deeply flawed and would irrevocably damage a vital community resource.

We look forward to finding a more appropriate home for the team that does not sacrifice public parkland and that does not giveaway parkland to a documented human rights abuser. Lets make this a development that all New Yorkers can be excited about.”

New York, NY - One movement that has gained steam over the past few months has been the Fairness Coalition of Queens.

On Monday, they announced they will present new information about the complexity of approvals for a proposed corporate sports stadium in the heart of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. As stated in ProtectThePark.org: "The Fairness Coalition of Queens (FC Queens) formed to make sure that all new uses or proposed redesigns to or around Flushing Meadows Corona Park (FMCP) are done responsibly. This means including a process for local residents and community stake holders to give input." Major League Soccer is expected to name the new owner(s) of the second New York franchise. That's fine and dandy but will the new owner(s) have a stadium in Queens? Inadvertently ripping a page out of the Fonz, 'MLS to Queens' may have jumped the shark. With their stadium initiative potentially in danger, many are wondering what MLS could have done differently. What's interesting is that 'MLS to Queens' twitter handle, @MLStoQueens has been quiet since May 1. Has MLS given up on their Queens initiative? Or do they have something up their sleeve? Who knows? As this story unfolds, we'll keep you posted!

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Yanks-Blue Jays Rained Out

Howard Goldin — Mon, 20 May 2013 06:16:30 +0000

Bronx, NY---For the first time during the 2013 season, a game at Yankee Stadium was postponed because of inclement weather. An early morning rain that was expected to continue throughout the day caused the postponement of the final game of the current Yankees homestand. The rare pitching matchup scheduled for Sunday afternoon appeared fully capable of providing excitement for the attending fans. C.C. Sabathia (A.L.-2007) and R.A. Dickey (N.L.-2012), would have been the fifth combo of starting former Cy Young Award winners in a contest at the current Yankee Stadium. Sabathia faced a former Cy Young recipient, “King” Felix Hernandez of the Mariners in his last start five days ago. Dickey would have been the 11th Cy Young Award winner to start against Sabathia. The Blue Jays, losers of their last nine games at Yankee Stadium, were glad to be returning home to Toronto. They will face Tampa on Monday-Wednesday. The Yankees will travel to Baltimore for a three-game series that will begin on Monday night. Sabathia will be in the starting role on Monday. A make-up date for the washed-out contest was not announced, but will most likely occur in the late summer as the Blue Jays return to the Bronx for a three game set on August 20-22.

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New York Red Bulls Amazing Finish Defeats the Los Angeles Galaxy (Recap and Photos)

Cesar Diaz — Mon, 20 May 2013 01:57:11 +0000

Harrison, NJ - Playing in soggy conditions, the New York Red Bulls continued their unbeaten streak to six as they defeated the Los Angeles Galaxy 1-0 in front of a strong and boisterous crowd over at Red Bull Arena. Standing atop of the MLS Eastern Conference with a 7-4-3 record, the Beast of the East stood toe to toe with the two-time defending MLS Cup Champions. With both goalkeepers from each club throwing their bodies all over the place, the match was headed to a scoreless draw. However, the script was flipped when at stoppage time (second half), Red Bulls midfielder Tim Cahill leaped above the Galaxy defense in order to connect Juninho's free kick to give his teammates the 1-0 win. In doing so, he gave the Red Bulls Supporters South Trio of the Viking Army, Empire Supporters Club and the Garden State Ultras a memory they'll never forget. The Red Bulls continue their three-game homestand on Sunday, May 26 when they take on the Columbus Crew at Red Bull Arena at 5:00 PM ET. Tickets are available by calling 1.877.RBSOCCER or logging onto www.newyorkredbulls.com. I wanted to take a moment to post some photos from today's match that were generously supplied to us by the Red Bulls front office. With Major League Soccer ready to announce the owners of the second New York franchise, I wanted you to see the magic that's often not written about Red Bull Arena. While it's easy to notice the empty seats, it takes more time and dedication to realize the personalities and passion each supporter brings in his/her occupied seats.

Here's some photos and I hope you enjoy them.

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The Beckham Retires Weekend Soccer Edition

Cesar Diaz — Sun, 19 May 2013 14:45:04 +0000

New York, NY - Thank you for the memories David Beckham. Love him or hate, the man had a winning career many players would be envious about. Cheered and jeered by millions, the man with the bend is finally retiring from the game he loves playing. From his early days with Manchester United, Preston North End (loan), Real Madrid, Los Angeles Galaxy, A.C. Milan (loan) to his final days with Paris Saint-Germain, the man was simply a Winner. Never the fastest or athletic player on any of his clubs, he's always found a way to blend in with his teammates and reinvent his role much like Madonna has reinvented her career over the past several decades. The only thing that's ever eluded him in his career was winning the FIFA World Cup. In 1998, he was vilified by the English press for his red card foul on Diego Simeone of Argentina. The famous Daily Mirror headline, "10 Heroic Lions, One Stupid Boy" could have emotionally crippled his career. Displaying the mental toughness that he's demonstrated time after time, Beckham redeemed himself in the 2002 World Cup when he lead England to a 1-0 victory over Argentina where he successfully converted his penalty kick. Seeing Beckham on the television is one thing but to be there live is simply amazing. From having him witness play his first MLS match in New York in a 5-4 shootout loss to the Red Bulls back in 2007 to seeing him finally hoist the MLS Cup that had eluded him and the L.A. Galaxy in 2011, it's been an amazing run. How impactful was David Beckham to his club? This article by the Guardian breaks it down, David Beckham: his club and international career in stats. Now that his playing days are over, I predict he's going to be part-owner of Chivas USA, relocate the club to Miami and repackage them as the Miami Gatos (NASL callback). The name is more than likely inaccurate but owning Chivas USA is realistic.

Here's the scores from this weekend's MLS action:

Portland Timbers rallied to draw the Vancouver Whitecaps 2-2. New England Revolution stunned the Houston Dynamo 2-0. Philadelphia Union extinguished the Chicago Fire 1-0. Colorado Rapids and the San Jose Earthquakes battled to a 1-1 draw. Seattle Sounders silenced FC Dallas 4-2.

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Cano X2 = Big Win For Yanks

Oren Vourman — Sat, 18 May 2013 21:38:25 +0000

Yankee Stadium, The Bronx- The wins continue to come for the New York Yankees even as the formula changes. On a calm, May day, the active ingredients that powered the Yankees 7-2 win over the Toronto Blue Jays came in the form of two two-run homers by Robinson Cano, and a welcome pitching performance by starter David Phelps. For the first time in his career, Phelps lasted a full seven innings, and picked up his second win [2-2] by allowing just one earned run on six hits with eight strikeouts. After walking two consecutive batters in the top of the first inning, Phelps picked off Toronto right-fielder Jose Bautista from second base to end the inning, giving him the confidence boost he needed to get through the next 24 batters he faced. "The pick-off was huge, was able to settle down after that," said Phelps who described his outing by saying, "I was battling behind the count all day, maybe trying to be too fine with my first pitches." The Yankees took the lead in the top of the third inning on a Brett Gardner RBI-double [16], a shot over the reach of Toronto shortstop Macier Izturis scoring Jayson Nix from second base to make it 1-0 Yanks. Cano followed the act with his 11th home run of the season on the first pitch from Blue Jays' starter Brandon Morrow, over the porch in left-field to the give the Yanks a 3-0 lead. "I was little bit out front, didn't hit it pretty well, but I hit it decently," said Cano of the home run into right-field. Morrow, who picked up his third loss of the season [1-3] made his 100th career start, surrendering five runs in five innings on seven hits, with two home runs. Morrow is now 1-3 with a 7.83 ERA in 11 appearances against the Yankees on the road. Cano's second blast came in the bottom of the fifth inning. With two outs, the Yankees' second baseman slammed his second home run of the day off Morrow, a two-run shot off the facade of the bleachers overlooking the Yankees' bullpen in right center-field scoring catcher Austin Romine to make it 5-1 Yankees. "Really special," said Romine of Cano's at-bats, adding, "He's just so relaxed, looks like nothing fools him. He can hit anywhere in the lineup." The two home runs made it Cano's 12th career multi-homer game, while making him the first Yankee to do so in 2013. The Blue Jays got one back when in the top of the fourth inning first baseman Adam Lind rounded home from second base to score the first Toronto run after an RBI-single [18] into right-field by center-fielder Colby Rasmus, 3-1 Yankees. It was Rasmus who also had the defensive highlight of the afternoon, with a great catch in the bottom of the seventh while tracking down a Gardner shot, as Rasmus raced to the warning track in center-field without seeing the wall until the last instant for the final out of the inning. The Blue Jays dug a little deeper into the Pinstripes lead in the top of the eighth off Yankees' reliever David Robertson, who came in for Phelps. Edwin Encarnacion, who came into Saturday's game tied for the American League in the long ball department, teed off Robertson for his 12th home run of the year into the stands above the auxiliary scoreboard in right-field to for a 5-2 Yankees lead. Encarnacion's offering to the bleachers did not sit well with the fans who threw it back onto the field. The Yankees would get their five-run lead back in the bottom of the eighth inning when Toronto lefty Darren Oliver switched in for reliever Steve Delabar. An error by Izturis placed Vernon Wells safe at first, and Yankees' designated hitter Travis Hafner smacked his seventh homer run of the season off Oliver close to the foul pole in left-field to extend the lead, 7-2 Bombers. The Blue Jays had two good opportunities against Phelps in the top of the second inning when they stranded Izturis at third base, and then again in the top of the fifth, unable to convert on a Melky Cabrera lead-off double. The Yankees [27-16] have now won nine of their last 12 games, and are 8-1 against Toronto. "Yeah the numbers speak for themselves. No doubt, nine in a row, six while I've been here," said Toronto Manager John Gibbons on the Blue Jays losing streak in the Bronx. "Yankee Stadium is always a tough place to play, regardless. They've taken it to us pretty good here."

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Being Upfront with ESPN Deportes

Cesar Diaz — Sat, 18 May 2013 21:09:39 +0000

New York, NY - On Wednesday night, at the J. Urban Theatre at the Hearst Tower in Manhattan, the leading Spanish-language sports network ESPN Deportes introduced their initiative of being in sync with their audience. For a company that's recognized as the "Worldwide Leader in Sports," ESPN Deportes is addressing the Latino community needs for quality sports coverage from a sports, cultural, social and technological angles. What has to be ESPN Deportes most impressive move is the star power they've signed on board as they enter their 'Upfront' season which will continue to feature original programming which include their Road to Brazil coverage and the first Spanish-language second screen sports TV companion. By bringing in Jared Borgetti, Mario Kempes, Fernando Palomo, Andriana Monsalve, Bernando Osuna, Juan Manuel Marquez, Julio Cesar Chavez, Ernesto Jerez, Pedro Gomez, and Ozzie Guillen, ESPN Deportes is clearly looking ahead into the future as they made several trips to the past in order to feature a star-powered lineup of heroes we've grown to love today and yesterday. Honestly speaking, the behind-the-scenes access that ESPN Deportes has afforded me has been educational and has made me a believer in their efforts. From the setup to the breakdown of their events, the work their Staff puts forth is simply impressive. The conversations we've had for the past few months had nothing to do with potential partnerships. Nor has it had to do with any attempts to leverage a job with them. Nor has it been about proving who's better and right. As boring as this may sound, our conversations have been candid and progressive. Without going into specific details, I will admit the staff and their program roster of current and former athletes have been nothing but welcoming and good to me... first class all the way! As the Editor-in-Chief for a volunteer-based online publication, I can't help but feel proud that we're in ESPN Deportes rollerdex. In an era where there's a plethora of online publications being created, I can't help but feel proud of the work our staff has put forth in providing our audience quality content. The one thing we all agree on is that content is king. While it's true that technology will advance and language will be simplified, grassroots coverage and content still humanizes our connection with you. Deportes amazing coverage is global while ours is clearly local. In the end, we're doing our best to stay in sync with you. The recent actions of ESPN Deportes further justifies what we at LatinoSports.com have been believing for the past 24-years... the Latino market will grow to the point where there’s a global demand for it. If we're good enough for ESPN Deportes, then we're good enough for you to consider following us here or on Twitter at @LatinoSports. As promised, here's the photos from Wednesday night's event.

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Yanks versus Blue Jays Friday Night Photos

Cesar Diaz — Sat, 18 May 2013 13:55:16 +0000

Bronx, NY - Photographer Bill Menzel covered Friday Night's Yankees 5-0 win over the Toronto Blue Jays over at Yankee Stadium. You can view more of Bill’s diverse photography coverage over at BillMenzelPhotography.com. In our commitment to showcase the talent of the Photographers who contribute to LatinoSports.com, we’re making a strong commitment to produce photo journals in their honor. Enjoy the photos and view the game from the eyes of a Professional!

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Kuroda Almost Perfect in Win Over Jays

Oren Vourman — Sat, 18 May 2013 13:21:14 +0000

Yankee Stadium, The Bronx- From the very beginning Hiroki Kuroda knew he was going to have a very good day. Eight innings later, Kuroda would give up just two hits to record his team-leading sixth win of the season, as the New York Yankees blanked the Toronto Blue Jays 5-0 at home. "He's been so good for us, just the innings he's giving, the quality starts," said Yankees' skipper Joe Girardi. "I think he takes each start individually and expects to win." Toronto's Melky Cabrera started the game with a lead-off double, and Kuroda would shut the effectively shut the door thereafter, striking out five while holding the next 19 Blue Jays' batters hitless until Toronto first baseman Edwin Encarnacion put together a single in the bottom of the seventh inning. Kuroda has now thrown 12.0 straight scoreless innings vs. Toronto, while helping the Yankees snap a two-game losing skid in New York's fourth shutout victory of the season. "All my pitches were working pretty good today," said Kuroda through a translator. "Felt good all along, especially in the first [inning] when I struck out [Jose] Bautista and [Edwin] Encarnacion]." Kuroda would finish with five strikeouts on 109 pitches. The scoring from the Yankees lineup came from a youth movement that has seen top Triple-A prospects make their way off the farm and into starting roles. Third baseman David Adams went 2-for-4, with two runs scored, while backup catcher Austin Romine, a former teammate of Adam's in the Minor Leagues, went 2-for-3 with a single and an RBI-double [2] in the top of the seventh inning that gave the Yankees a 3-0 lead. "I feel like it's a cycle," said Adams on players getting called up to the big leagues, adding, "I feel fortunate...just trying to do my part." The Pinstripes initially led 1-0 in the bottom of the first inning after Robinson Cano hit into a ground-out RBI [27] that scored Brett Gardner from third base. Gardner [2-for-3] had started the inning with a lead-off triple, his third three-bagger of the season and his first at Yankee Stadium. Yankees' shortstop Jayson Nix went hitless but drew two walks and picked up two sacrifice-RBIs [8,9], one in the fifth inning and one in the seventh inning, becoming the first Yankee to collect four plate appearances without an at-bat since Derek Jeter did so in 2006 against Tampa Bay. The Blue Jays best chance to score came in the top of the ninth against Yankees' reliever Preston Claiborne. A double by Encarnacion advanced Cabrera to third base, but Toronto catcher J.P. Arencibia hit a high pop-up to Romine to end the game. "Felt like I was dancing over some dead weights," said Romine on trying to keep his eye on Arencibia's pop-up without crashing into the netting behind home plate." I'm good at catching the ones thrown at me, not the one's hit up in the air," joked Romine. Toronto starting pitcher Mark Buehrle lost his third straight decision to fall to a record of 1-3, allowing five earned runs on six hits in six innings pitched with three walks and four strikeouts. Buehrle has now lost eight straight games to the Yankees, and is 1-10 against the Bombers all-time. "Buehrle was rolling along, too," Blue Jays manager John Gibbons said. "He had only given up two runs and was matching [Kuroda] there and kept us in the game, and then they exploded on us late there. But I thought he did a nice job as well." With the loss, the Blue Jays [17-25] now have the worst current record at Yankee stadium at 11-30 with a minimum of 30 games played.

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Cosmos to face Newtown Pride for Benefit Event

Media Release — Sat, 18 May 2013 01:40:00 +0000

NEWTOWN, Conn. (May 17, 2013) – The Newtown Parent Connection, Inc. (NPC) is proud to announce a very special soccer doubleheader fundraiser, Soccer Revolution, at Veterans Memorial Stadium in New Britain, Conn., onTuesday, June 18. The special doubleheader of soccer action features the New England Revolution of Major League Soccer against Real Boston Rams of the United Soccer League’s Professional Development League in the first match. In the second game, the New York Cosmos of the North American Soccer League will face Newtown’s own, the Newtown Pride of the Connecticut Soccer League. The evening will kick off at 6 p.m. with the Revs-Rams match, followed by the Cosmos-Pride match at 7:30 p.m.Stadium gates will open at 5 p.m. Tickets cost $15 and can be purchased at newtownparentconnection.org or by calling 866-722-8953. Fans who purchase tickets before 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, will receive discounts: individual tickets will be $13, while group tickets (for parties of 20 or more) will be $10 each. All proceeds from Soccer Revolution, including ticket sales and proceeds from a silent auction held that evening, will go to the Newtown Parent Connection. “Newtown Parent Connection has been supporting the Newtown community for more than 20 years, and as a result of the tragic events on December 14, 2012, there is an increased need for family and youth peer support for both mental health and substance use disorders,” says Dorrie Carolan, Co-Founder of Newtown Parent Connection. ”We look forward to these soccer fundraising events as a way to build the sustainable support infrastructure our community needs to assist in the healing process for the long-term, something that will be in place, five, 10 and 15 years from now.” The event, organized by the NPC, is supported by the city of New Britain, Conn., through the use of Veterans Memorial Stadium and municipal support made possible by Mayor Timothy E. O’Brien and Angelo D’Alfonso, chairman of the New Britain Parks and Recreation Committee. “We’re so pleased this event has come to fruition,” Mike Svanda, Newtown Pride coach, said. “When the tragedy at Sandy Hook took place we were devastated, as many people were. We were trying to think of a way to help affect change, a real difference for the future. We wanted to play soccer games to raise awareness and bring families together. Our goal is to play soccer to raise funds and awareness for the Newtown Parent Connection, and to help implement programs to help the recovery, establish support now, and set up preventative mechanisms for the future. The Newtown Pride Soccer team has dedicated the entire season to raising awareness and raising funds for the NPC, playing the game we love for the town we represent. It is amazing to see the Rams, Revolution and Cosmos come together for this cause and it’s an honor to be a part of this great event.” “We’re honored to participate in Soccer Revolution and help raise awareness of the work the Newtown Parent Connection is doing,” New England Revolution president Brian Bilello said. “We’re proud to be New England’s team, and we want to do everything we can to assist members of our community. When we were first invited to Newtown in January for Soccer Night in Newtown, members of our team and many other representatives from around MLS saw how tight-knit and proud this community is. The work of the Newtown Parent Connection is vital to help its community recover, grow and thrive, and we’re excited to be part of the process with Soccer Revolution with the Rams, Cosmos and Pride.” “The New York Cosmos are honored to help support the Newtown Parent Connection and the entire community of Newtown,” New York Cosmos Chief Operating Officer Erik Stover said. “This is going to be a wonderful event to benefit a great cause. We’re proud to partner with the Newtown Pride, the Boston Rams and the New England Revolution to assist the community in any way we can.” “The Real Boston Rams are honored and thrilled to take part in the Soccer Revolution,” John Barata, general manager of Real Boston Rams, said. “The Newtown Parent Connection is laying the foundation for on-going support for those affected by the Dec. 14 tragedy in Sandy Hook. Their efforts are remarkable and the mission is great. We are happy to serve our fellow brothers and sisters in any way possible. Soccer is a global language and in this case we want to make it one of peace and unity. We are privileged to work with the New England Revolution, our MLS affiliate, the New York Cosmos and the Newtown Pride on this event.” ABOUT THE NEWTOWN PARENT CONNECTION, INC. (NPC) The mission of the Newtown Parent Connection is to educate and empower the community in the prevention of substance abuse and to embrace families in crisis. NPC recognizes now, more than ever, the need to embrace all families, especially those impacted by the traumatic events of December 14, 2012. The organization has expanded its vision to build and finance a permanent wellness, prevention and recovery support infrastructure for young people and families in the Newtown community. For more information, please visit newtownparentconnection.org.

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Dan Schlossberg’s Weekend Notebook

Dan Schlossberg — Fri, 17 May 2013 22:16:31 +0000

How far they have fallen: B.J. Upton, just starting a club-record $75 million deal as a free agent signee with the Atlanta Braves, has dropped all the way to eighth in the team's lineup tonight after a godawful start . . . Andy Pettitte's very-unlikely quest for 300 wins took another hit when his bad back knocked him out of a game Thursday for the second time this year . . . Now that the Jackie Robinson epic 42 is such a hit, Hank Aaron will be the subject of the next true-life baseball tale, says former pitcher Pete Smith . . . Did the Mets ink Rick Ankiel out of desperation? The lefty pitcher-turned-outfielder has a great arm and good power when he connects but misses far too often . . . The weekend began with the two worst teams, the Astros and Marlins, sporting identical 11-30 records but the Astros much further out of contention at 16 games behind . . . Now that Nolan Ryan's son Reid has been named Houston's president, the team has a chance to start moving in the right direction. But new owner Jim Crane will have to open his moneybags . . . Oliver Perez is living proof that lefties had charmed lives. He's actually pitching pretty well as a middle reliever for the Seattle Mariners . . . The antics of Jordany Valdespin suggest the second coming of Jose Reyes, the ex-Met now on Toronto's disabled list. Valdespin is valuable because of his versatility and penchant for hitting pinch-homers but could find himself traded or demoted if he doesn't wise up . . . Can't believe that Jamie Moyer, relentless in his quixotic quest for 300 wins, is learning to throw a knuckleball. Moyer, who turns 51 late in the year, is a soft thrower with a surgically-repaired elbow. But he's lefthanded and somebody could be suckered into signing him . . . James Loney is leading the major leagues in hitting. JAMES LONEY ? ? ? . . . Don't look now but after a rocky start, Terry Francona's Cleveland Indians have climbed into a first-place tie in the AL Central. Must be Nick Swisher's influence . . . Another ex-Yankee, Don Mattingly, has been victimized by injuries in Los Angeles. With his Dodgers on the bottom of the NL West, Mattingly could become the first manager fired, though Mike Scioscia of the Los Angeles Angels (15-25, 11 games behind) is doing even worse . . . If Terry Collins doesn't survive a slew of controversies, might the Mets make a media splash by luring Bobby Cox or Tony LaRussa out of retirement? . . . Matt Diaz, now with the Florida Marlins, always manages to surface somewhere as a decent extra outfielder and pinch-hitter . . . Surprise, surprise: Josh Hamilton may be gone but his old team, the Texas Rangers, have a comfortable seven-game lead, largest in any of the six divisions . . . Detroit superstar Miguel Cabrera has a definite chance to win consecutive Triple Crowns -- after nobody won the award in the American League since 1967. The NL's drought was even longer, with Joe Medwick (1937) still the most recent.

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Mariners Take Series Against Yanks

Oren Vourman — Fri, 17 May 2013 11:24:52 +0000

Yankee Stadium, The Bronx- Slow progression has turned into steady improvement for the Seattle Mariners, as they have proven that they can win big as they did in a 12-2 rout on Wednesday, or by just one run as did in their 3-2 victory over the New York Yankees on Thursday evening. The game plan called for Hector Noesi to rack up some innings in his first start of the season, but turned into an audition for the bullpen which held firm in going 4.2 innings while yielding just one run on a smattering of five hits, two walks and six strikeouts. Noesi, who entered the game win-less at 0-0, would stay that way after pitching 4.1 innings, striking out four and having an unearned run score on his watch. Oliver Perez picked up the win in relief of Noesi, surrendering one hit in 1.1 innings with three strikeouts, and has held his opponents scoreless in 14 of his 16 outings this season. "Knew [Hector] Noesi threw 75 pitches [Noesi threw 79 to be exact], we [the bullpen] take it seriously," said Perez on his job of being a relief pitcher in early game situations. "No you can't map it out, you don't know how far Hector [Noesi] is going to go," said Seattle Manager Eric Wedge on if he had counted on how many innings the bullpen would throw, adding, "So many variables there when going to the bullpen early. Knew we were going to go to all our guys to win this game." For the third consecutive contest, Seattle painted the scoreboard first when with runners on first and second, and two outs in the top of the second inning, second baseman Dustin Ackley teared an RBI-double [8] off Yankees' starter Andy Pettitte into right-field scoring Kendry Morales to make it 1-0 Mariners. Pettitte received the loss [4-3] while seeking his 25oth win. The lefty lasted 4.2 innings, and exited with a tight left trapezius muscle [left shoulder], giving up two runs on four hits. "It completely locked back up on me," Pettitte said. "I couldn't get extended at all. I really just felt like I was kind of cutting everything off and really just trying to throw it in there, just almost slower than slow to tell you the truth." The Yankees attempted to stage their 12th comeback win of the season when they tied the game back up at 1-1 in the bottom of the second on third baseman David Adam's first Major League RBI, a double into center-field that brought home Curtis Granderson. The Mariners struck right back in the top of the fourth inning with the bases loaded, as Seattle shortstop Brendan Ryan, hitting at the No.9 hole made it safely to first base on an infield RBI-single [5], scoring Michael Morse from third base, 2-1 Seattle. "Got the barrel to it, [the] grass was so thick you never know. Didn't think he [Jayson Nix] could throw me out," explained Ryan on his at the time go-ahead run. "It was an infield hit [and] was an RBI, even better." Morse, the biggest power threat in the Mariners lineup, hit his team-leading 10th home run of the season off Yankees' reliever Shawn Kelley, a lead-off home run in the top of the sixth over the wall in center-field to make it 3-1 M's. The Yankees would slice into the Mariners lead in the bottom of the seventh inning when Ichiro Suzuki slapped a single to snap an 0-for-22 slump. Advancing to third base, Ichiro would score after second baseman Robinson Cano snipped an infield RBI-single [26] off Seattle reliever Lucas Luetge, the score now 3-2 Mariners. The bottom of the ninth showed the prowess of the evolving Seattle bullpen. With the speedy Brett Gardner having already swiped both second and third base, Mariners' closer Tom Wilhelmsen shut the door on Cano, getting the All-Star second baseman to ground out to first base to pick up his 11th save of the season. "What can you say? Nobody's going to feel sorry us," Gardner related. "We can't take the day off tomorrow." The Mariners are now one game below .500 at 20-21, winning their second straight game while posting an 8-4 record thus far in the month of May. The two consecutive victories over the Yankees mark the first such occurrence since Seattle took two in a row back in June of 2010, while collecting their first road series win against the Yankees since 2002.

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USMNT News: Jurgen Klinsmann’s 26 Players

Media Release — Fri, 17 May 2013 00:41:55 +0000

CHICAGO (May 16, 2013) - U.S. Men's National Team head coach Jurgen Klinsmann has called in 26 players to begin training camp in Cleveland in advance of the five-game stretch in May and June that includes three FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and the Centennial Celebration Match against Germany. A total of 29 players will participate, including four MLS goalkeepers that will rotate through camp. The team will begin gathering May 26 in Cleveland, with players arriving at various times as they complete club commitments. The U.S. faces Belgium on May 29 at FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland (TICKETS), followed by the Centennial Celebration Match against Germany on June 2 at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. (TICKETS) The U.S. then resumes World Cup qualifying with its third road match in four games at Jamaica on June 7 in Kingston. Four days later, the U.S. returns stateside to host Panama on June 11 at CenturyLink Field (TICKETS) in the USA's first qualifier in Seattle since 1976. The team concludes the three-match set at sold-out Rio Tinto Stadium when it welcomes Honduras on June 18 to start the second half of the final round. Though the general ticket sale is closed, fans can still purchase tickets to the game via U.S. Soccer's Complete Travel Packages:

Complete Travel Packages Available for Both Home Qualifiers

"We are very excited about the group we have put together," said Klinsmann. "The players understand more how we're working, what we're looking for, the way we want to play and the way we want to challenge big nations eye-to-eye. As we go into this stretch of two friendly games against Belgium and Germany and three big World Cup Qualifiers, we want to see more consistent performances. There is a huge opportunity to pick up a lot of points and put ourselves in a good position to qualify for Brazil."

Klinsmann Q&A: Jurgen Klinsmann discusses the roster choices and upcoming plans

U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION - DETAILED ROSTER GOALKEEPERS (6) :Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tally Hall (Houston Dynamo), Bill Hamid (D.C. United), Tim Howard (Everton), Sean Johnson (Chicago Fire), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake) DEFENDERS (8) : DaMarcus Beasley (Puebla), Matt Besler (Sporting Kansas City), Geoff Cameron (Stoke City), Edgar Castillo (Club Tijuana), Omar Gonzalez (LA Galaxy), Clarence Goodson (Brondby), Fabian Johnson (Hoffenheim), Michael Parkhurst (Augsburg) MIDFIELDERS (10) : Michael Bradley (Roma), Joe Corona (Club Tijuana), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Maurice Edu (Bursaspor), Stuart Holden (Bolton), Jermaine Jones (Schalke), Sacha Kljestan (Anderlecht), Brek Shea (Stoke City), Danny Williams (Hoffenheim), Graham Zusi (Sporting Kansas City) FORWARDS (5) : Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar), Terrence Boyd (Rapid Vienna), Clint Dempsey (Tottenham Hotspur), Herculez Gomez (Santos), Eddie Johnson (Seattle Sounders FC) Currently in second place in the Final Round of qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the U.S. could earn as many as nine points in the trio of qualifiers ahead. The team is riding a 21-0-2 unbeaten streak at home in World Cup qualifying and is coming off a pair of impressive results, having collected a 1-0 win against Costa Rica before earning a point in qualifying in Mexico for only the second time in team history. The roster is stacked with nearly the complete group from those matches, including the game-winning goal scorer against Costa Rica, Clint Dempsey, and Budweiser Man of the Match DaMarcus Beasley. In addition, both Tim Howard and Fabian Johnson return to the fold after missing the March games through injury. With eight players carrying yellow cards into World Cup qualifying, having 26 players in camp gives Klinsmann flexibility in selections. Additionally, players who have completed their seasons in Europe and Mexico and are candidates for the Gold Cup will be able to continue to train and be evaluated. The U.S. kicks off the summer schedule against Belgium on May 29 at FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland, with kickoff set for 8 p.m. ET. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN2, WatchESPN and UniMas. The team will host a public training session May 28 at FirstEnergy Stadium that is free and open to all fans. (Register for a chance to meet Klinsmann) The Centennial Celebration Match between the Men's National Team and Germany will be played on June 2 at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C., as part of U.S. Soccer's 100-year anniversary celebration. (Centennial Home) Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. ET and will be the first of two National Team matches that day as the Women's National Team takes on Canada at BMO Field in Toronto at 4:30 p.m. ET. Fans can also follow all U.S. MNT matches through ussoccer.com's Match Tracker and via Twitter @ussoccer.

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PETERSON VS MATTHYSSE PRESS CONFERENCE- BB KINGS

Luis Vásquez — Fri, 17 May 2013 00:36:45 +0000

Golden Boy Promotions held a press conference at BB Kings on 42^nd Street in New York. The press event was held for the upcoming fight on Saturday May 18^th at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ. The main event will consist of IBF Junior Welterweight champion Lamont Peterson and Lucus Matthysse, the WBC Interim Super Lightweight titleholder from Trelew, Argentina. The co-feature will have Devon Alexander defending his IBF 140 pound crown against number four contender Lee Purdy of Colchester, England. Matthysse was not on hand due to a failed plane connection but Lamont Peterson, along with his brother Anthony, who is on the under card was present. Lamont who is 31-1-1 with 16 KO’s was disappointed that he would not get to talk to his opponent in this catch weight fight. “This was the first time was going to talk trash at the press conference against my opponent, but he don’t even show up. I’m looking forward to a good fight this weekend. You may just want to get a ticket for this.” Also present was Devon Alexander and his challenger Lee Purdy. They had their respective views of how the 147 pound championship fight will go. “This is a fight that I've wanted. I'm coming to bring the upset." Purdy exclaimed "Fans are paying their hard earned money for entertainment and they don't want to see fighters holding for 12 rounds.” Devon Alexander, who had his first defense, cancelled more than once was pleased to be fighting for once. "Finally' is the key word here. My fight with Kell Brook was postponed three times. I was supposed to fight him many times, but now I'm fighting Lee Purdy who's a very suitable opponent for me.” Devon who flashed a championship smile throughout laid the final statement concerning this fight. “I'm ready. It doesn't matter what Lee Purdy is going to bring Saturday night. He's in the wrong place at the wrong time.” As a special attraction Golden Boy will have bronze medalist From the London Olympics, Anthony Ogogo who has big plans for his career yet recognizes that this is the beginning of the road. “"I'm an ambitious young man and I want to get to the top of world boxing. I know that's a few years down the road, but right now I need to take these opportunities as they come, learn and keep getting better and better. Amir Kahn’s brother Haroon Khan will be fighting for the second time after winning his debut. The proceedings were also made special with former three division World Champion and Hall of Fame fighter , Iran “The Blade” Barkley, who will be appearing in a documentary along with some other exciting projects on the way.

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ESPN Deportes in Sync With Us

Cesar Diaz — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:43:25 +0000

New York, NY - On Wednesday night, at the J. Urban Theatre at the Hearst Tower in Manhattan, the leading Spanish-language sports network ESPN Deportes introduced to everyone in attendance their initiative to be in sync with their audience. Some of the athletes we've all grown to love such as Julio Cesar Chavez, Ozzie Guillen, Mario Kempes, Juan Manuel Marques and Jared Borgetti were in attendance. Within the next day, I will have more photos to share as well as a recap of this amazing and unique event. Before I sign off, special congratulations to my friends from 'Gringos at the Gate' and their continued success. Here's an article I wrote about their must-see documentary back in December 2011, Gringos at the Gate: Addressing The USA – Mexico Soccer Rivalry. Excellent move ESPN Deportes! As you're waiting for my recap, please read ESPN Deportes Media Release: ESPN Deportes, the leading Spanish-language sports network, puts major focus on second screen and original programming during its Upfront presentation in New York City. The network also reinforces ESPN’s total market approach in serving Hispanic sports fans and advertisers, and ESPN Deportes’ unique positioning in the marketplace for Spanish-speaking fans. ESPN Deportes enters Upfront season as the most-watched Spanish-language sports cable network for the fourth consecutive year since measured by Nielsen. With the recent addition of more news and information content, ESPN Deportes now also leads the industry with the most live daily programming of any other Spanish-language sports network– more than 17 live hours per day. In 2014, the network will continue to deliver unparalleled content anytime, anywhere. At the presentation ESPN unveils more original programing focused on soccer, in anticipation of the World Cup; and introduces ESPN Sync, the soon-to-launch second screen experience for sports fans. More Original Programming: Road to Brazil 2014: Game around the Game ESPN Deportes continues to be the number one news and information destination for fans. The network’s soccer programming continues to post record audiences that rank in the top rated, most-watched Spanish-language soccer studio programming. In anticipation of the World Cup, ESPN Deportes will develop a unique lineup that will not only feature the brand’s renowned news and information programming but also original content featuring the most compelling stories behind the world of soccer. Some include: Destino Brasil: The pre- and post-match analysis dedicated to the World Cup Qualifying matches on the road to Brazil will continue to air on FIFA WCQ dates with the latest news and analysis around CONCACAF, CONMEBOL, UEFA Confederations and the Mexican National Team. ESPN Deportes will continue to air qualifying matches on every FIFA date primarily featuring UEFA teams including Spain, France, Italy, Portugal and Netherlands. The network will also continue presenting FIFA friendly matches. Destino Futbol: A 16-episode documentary series uncovering the sport’s most intricate stories. Featuring superstars of the past and present, the series profiles players like Lionel Messi, Chicharito and Diego Maradona, amongst others; and travels to countries all over the world, including Scotland, England, Brazil, Spain, Colombia and Argentina. As all eyes turn to the World Cup in 2014, Destino Futbol helps set the stage by telling the stories that are at the heart and soul of the sport. Capitales del Futbol: After its successful first two seasons, and in anticipation of the World Cup, Capitales returns with profiles of some of the most popular soccer cities that have seen World Cup stars rise. The new edition of Capitales features London (England), Guadalajara (Mexico), Medellin (Colombia), Montevideo (Uruguay) and Rome (Italy). The series captures the world’s passion for the sport and provides a cultural perspective of soccer while featuring notable stars from the sports and entertainment industry. Gringos at the Gate: the first documentary that takes viewers inside the rivalry between Mexico and the U.S., tracing its origin and influence among the fans. Unveiling the power and influence that a 90-minute game can hold, the film travels to both countries to explore the rivalry through the eyes of the fans, players, coaches and soccer experts. Gringos at the Gate touches on the rise of U.S. soccer and its impact on Mexican fans, the rising opportunity for the sport in the U.S, and the influence the rivalry has on the evolving cultural identities and team loyalties of the growing Mexican-American population. Dream Job: El Reportero: Returning for its third installment later this year, the nationwide casting tour will again give the opportunity to aspiring sportscasters across the nation to compete for a chance to serve as a reporter and join the ESPN Deportes staff traveling to Brazil in 2014. Driven by social media, the initiative will be supported by studio shows, the network’s top soccer talent and ESPN Deportes Radio’s local stations. ESPN Films- More soccer films and shorts: In anticipation of the World Cup, the award-winning producers from ESPN Films will create a new limited series highlighting some of the most compelling stories around soccer. Produced as a singular collection of original films and short vignettes, the series will exemplify the essence of the game of soccer by being both tragic and uplifting. All content will be produced for Spanish, English and Portuguese audiences. Live Sports Programming: NBA Finals en Español Starting this season, ESPN Deportes will televise the NBA Finals. This marks the first time that any Spanish-language cable network will offer live coverage of the championship games. According to the ESPN Deportes Sports Poll, 55% of Hispanic sports fans are NBA fans, ranking the sport in the top five most followed leagues by Hispanic fans. The 2012 NBA finals were proof of the continued growth of the Hispanic fan base; the games delivered record-breaking audiences on ABC that were boosted by the 12% Hispanic viewership (P2+). More MLB Games Across ESPN Deportes Platforms As part of ESPN’s new multiplatform rights extension with MLB, ESPN Deportes and ESPN Deportes+, the ESPN3 broadband extension available on ESPNdeportes.com, will carry more games throughout the week, including Sunday, Monday and Wednesday night games starting next season. In addition, the network will televise Opening Night, a game from Opening Day, holiday games and the Home Run Derby. Liga MX and Copa MX ESPN Deportes recently acquired the rights to more Mexican soccer matches. Under the new agreement, the network now televises over 120 Liga MX and Copa MX matches through each season. In addition, both properties are also available on ESPN Deportes+, the ESPN3 broadband extension available on ESPNdeportes.com. The current LigaMX playoffs (Liguilla) are scoring big for the network. The match between Cruz Azul vs. Monarcas that aired live on the network last Thursday, May 9, delivered a 4.0 Hispanic HH coverage rating and 383,000 viewers (P2+), making it the network’s highest-rated, most-watched Liga MX match. Futbol Picante also continues to deliver the best coverage around the Mexican league. With the most renowned lineup of soccer experts, the show continues to be the highest-rated daily sports news and information program on Spanish-language cable year-to-date. ESPN Sync Second-Screen feature complements ESPN’s multiplatform experience: ESPN Deportes unveils ESPN Sync, the first Spanish-language web-based app that enhances sports consumption with a unique second-screen experience, accessible across multiple platforms. ESPN Sync delivers a rich, real-time interactive environment –able to support a large audience — for sports fans to interact with the brand, while they consume content across other platforms. ESPN Sync will launch later this year and will be available on any platform, iOS, Android or Windows without the need to download any supporting software. ESPN Sync provides users with a real-time experience synchronized with live sports events, while also supporting ESPN Deportes’ news and information shows before, during and after events. The interaction features live streams focusing on a live sports event, a timeline that allows users to interact synchronously with the event, and videos, polling/trivia, and access to stats and information available in numerous ways, all while connected to the social world. ESPN Sync also offers second-screen functionalities that allow unique advertising integrations to further and better promote brands, products and services. In addition to regular digital assets, these functionalities allow ESPN Sync to connect linear TV advertising with the second screen experience, in real time. When an ad airs on television, it triggers the appropriate interactivity on ESPN Sync where users can engage with the brand.

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Yankee Stadium: Spain versus Ireland Tickets Now Available

Media Release — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:00:52 +0000

Individual-game tickets for the international friendly soccer match between Spain and the Republic of Ireland, scheduled for Tuesday, June 11, at Yankee Stadium, will go on sale to the general public on Thursday, May 16, beginning at10:00 a.m. at www.yankees.com/soccer and www.ticketmaster.com. Kickoff time for Spain vs. the Republic of Ireland is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Gates will open to fans with valid tickets at 6:00 p.m. Spain is ranked number 1 in the world by FIFA, having won the most recent World Cup in 2010 and each of the last two European Championships in 2008 and 2012. They are undefeated in their last 20 overall matches dating back to November 15, 2011, notching 16 wins and four draws over the span. The Republic of Ireland, led by manager Giovanni Trapattoni, participated in Euro 2012 and narrowly missed qualification for the 2010 World Cup. Currently, the team is ranked 39^th in the world out of 209 FIFA-sanctioned countries. Yankees full- and partial-season ticket licensees, Yankees Universe members, Yankees Group Leaders and Yankees.com subscribers will have the opportunity to take part in a special ticket pre-on-sale on Wednesday, May 15. To become a Yankees.com subscriber and have access to pre-on-sale availability, please visit www.yankees.com/subscribe. The Spain-Republic of Ireland friendly will mark the fourth soccer match at the current Yankee Stadium and the second this year following the May 25 meeting between Manchester City and Chelsea. The first match took place on July 22, 2012, with Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain playing to a 1-1 draw in front of 38,202 fans. On August 8, 2012, Real Madrid defeated A.C. Milan, 5-1, before a sellout crowd of 49,474 as Cristiano Ronaldo scored two goals. The current Yankee Stadium carries on the great soccer tradition of the original Yankee Stadium, which hosted some of the most famous teams in world soccer, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur, Barcelona, A.C. Milan, Juventus, Napoli, Celtic, Benfica and Sparta Prague, along with the national teams of England, Israel, Italy and the United States. Pele, who many consider the greatest player of all time, called Yankee Stadium home in 1976, when he played for the New York Cosmos of the North American Soccer League.

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Raul Schools Yanks as Mariners Rout New York

Oren Vourman — Thu, 16 May 2013 10:22:52 +0000

Yankee Stadium, The Bronx- Familiarity breeds contempt, unless of course you are Raul Ibanez teeing off the skewed dimensions at Yankee Stadium. In that case, familiarity breeds only home runs, the type that clear the bases or add to a ridiculously high score, as Ibanez smashed one of each to glide the Seattle Mariners to a very convincing 12-2 road win over the New York Yankees. The Mariners pummeled Yankees' starter Phil Hughes [2-3] the moment he situated his cleats on the mound, chasing him out of the first inning with two outs by scoring seven runs, the pinnacle being an Ibanez grand slam home run [HR 6] that gave Seattle a 6-0 lead. "He's had a lot of success in this ballpark, and he's a consummate pro, he doesn't worry about anything and he knows that he's going to ultimately be where he needs to be in the end," Seattle manager Eric Wedge said. The seven runs in the first inning were the most during an opening frame for the Pinstripes since 2011 and the most they had given the opposition all year. The M's opened the first inning by placing runners on first and third after a walk to Dustin Ackley and a single to center-field by emerging third baseman Kyle Seager. Mariners' designated hitter Kendry Morales made it 1-0 Seattle when he flipped an RBI-single [18] into left-field scoring Ackley. Michael Morse tacked on another RBI-single [16] to make it 2-0. Hughes would jack the bases by walking first baseman Justin Smoak, who came into Wednesday's contest batting .235, and Ibanez made Hughes pay; blasting his fifth homer of the season and his 11th career grand slam over the reach of Yankees center-fielder Brett Gardner who hung over the wall of the Yanks' bullpen unable to snag the ball as the M's pulled away 6-0. "It's definitely a nice background," said Ibanez on his recent success of whacking the ball at Yankee Stadium, adding, "I can't expect them [the crowd at Yankee Stadium] to cheer, not when you're on the other team." By this point the Yankees' bullpen was humming, but not quite ready for action, and Hughes responded by yielding an RBI-double [12] to Michael Saunders in his second at-bat of the inning, scoring Brendan Ryan from first base to give the Mariners a comfy 7-0 lead. Hughes, who picked up his third loss of the season, also had the shortest outing of his career by going just 0.2 innings, allowing seven earned runs on six hits and two walks and was pulled for reliever Preston Claiborne, who in contrast gave up just one hit in two and one-third innings of work. "When I tried to go to changeup, slider, curveball, it seemed like nothing was there," Hughes said. "Nothing I could really go to to try and find a way out of it, and that's what happens." Seattle starting pitcher Hisashi Iwakuma [5-1] entered the game with a 1.74 ERA, third lowest in the American League, and won his third straight start by holding the Yankees to two earned runs in seven innings. "Those were big gifts," said Iwakuma through a translator on the Mariners offensive outburst. "To bounce back [after a loss] is important, to move in the right direction. One game is important, don't want to go on a losing streak." The two earned runs off Iwakuma both came off the long ball, the first a Vernon Wells Wednesday night special along the foul pole in left-field that made it 7-1 M's after one inning, while the second came off the bat of catcher Chris Stewart who belted his third of the season in the bottom of the fifth inning, tying his career-high to make it 9-2 Mariners. Brett Marshall was tasked with filling in some innings in his Major League debut, and faced action by replacing Claiborne in the top of the fourth inning. Marshall tossed 5.2 innings of relief, surrendering five earned runs on nine hits and five walks on 108 pitches. While Marshall's performance was not incident free as he did give up two home runs [including one to Ibanez in the top of the fifth inning, the 17th multi-homer game for Ibanez in his career], Marshall did become just the second Yankees' reliever since 1991 to hurl as many as 108 pitches in relief since Esteban Loaiza did so in 2004. "He [Brett Marshall] did a good job of eating those innings, he just did a good job out there," said Seager of Marshall's debut. Yankees' third baseman David Adams also made his Major League debut, finishing 1-for-4, hitting a single into center-field off Iwakuma to help celebrate his 26th birthday. The Mariners scored their final three runs to go ahead 12-2 on a three-run home run by Seager when he went yard off Marshall in the top of the sixth inning. Alberto Gonzalez, who had been playing shortstop, became the first Yankees position player since Dewayne Wise in 2012 to pitch, making his Major League pitching appearance in the top of the ninth inning, where he got the final out of the inning. "We need one out," Yankees' skipper Joe Girardi said. "It's not something I want to do, for me to bring in another pitcher. I think it doesn't make a lot of sense there." The Yankees will try to make sense of their series with the Mariners when it concludes Thursday evening at Yankee Stadium.

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Mariners versus Yankees Photos

Cesar Diaz — Thu, 16 May 2013 04:17:28 +0000

New York, NY - In our effort to showcase the talent of the Photographers who contribute to LatinoSports.com, we’re making a strong commitment to produce photo journals in their honor. Photographer Daniel Budasoff was in attendance this past Tuesday during the Yanks 4-3 win over the Mariners at Yankee Stadium. Unfortunately for the Bronx Bombers, their bats were silenced on Wednesday as they lost 12-2 to Seattle.

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Adidas announces partnership with Brazilian Giants

Media Release — Thu, 16 May 2013 03:54:21 +0000

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Adidas have announced a significant milestone on the road to the FIFA World Cup 2014 Brazil by announcing a partnership with Brazilian giants Flamengo. It has been 20 years since Adidas and the club partnered together and the new 10-year deal, beginning in May 2013, represents a long term commitment to Brazilian football. The partnership adds Flamengo to the select group of top tier global clubs sponsored by Adidas including AC Milan, FC Bayern Munich, Chelsea & Real Madrid. Fernando Basualdo, president of Adidas Brazil, said: "Adidas is the leading brand in the worldwide football market and in Brazil we want to continue to establish a strong and lasting relationship with the fans. Our return to Flamengo is a major milestone in our history and a natural strategy of presence at this important time, as we approach the greatest sporting events in the country," This is the first time Adidas and Flamengo have joined forces since a hugely successful period experienced by the club, particularly in the 1980s. This period saw the Rio club win some of its most important titles whilst in Adidas kit, titles that included the historic victory in the FIFA Club World Cup in 1981. Eduardo Bandeira de Mello, Flamengo’s President, said: "Flamengo welcomes with open arms a partner of great weight in our history that will certainly contribute again to great achievements and to the internationalization of the Flamengo brand. We are very proud to have adidas with us once again.” About Adidas Football: Adidas is the global leader in football. It is the official sponsor of the most important football tournaments in the world, such as the FIFA World Cup, the FIFA Confederations Cup, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League and the UEFA European Championships. A didas also sponsors some of the world’s top clubs including Real Madrid, FC Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Flamengo and Chelsea. Some of the world’s best players are also on the adidas roster with world class individuals such as Leo Messi, David Beckham, Dani Alves, Kaka, Steven Gerrard, Karim Benzema and Bastian Schweinstegier all sponsored by the German brand.

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Spain to face Haiti at Sun Life Stadium

Guest Writer — Thu, 16 May 2013 03:41:10 +0000

Florida - Spain and Haiti will face each other in an International Friendly match in Miami, Florida. It will be held at Sun Life Stadium on June 8, 2013 to help the people of Haiti. This is an historic moment for Spain since this is the first time they play in South Florida. It is also an historic opportunity to help Haiti surpass its multiple crises. What can be said about the two teams? A review of the two teams with a prediction is needed. Spain Spain currently remains in first place in the current FIFA Coca Cola rankings with 1528 points. Germany is close behind with a 90 point difference. Spain remains for the time being a powerhouse in European football in spite of two teams losing to Germany. This is in reference to the recent victory of Bayern Munich over FC Barcelona. The same can be said about Borussia Dortmund over Real Madrid. It is expected that Sun Life Stadium will see Iker Casillas, Gerard Pique, Sergio Ramos, and Sergio Busquets. While doubtful, maybe Fernando Torres may make an appearance. Spain is the Champion of the 2008 and 2012 Euro Cup. The Spanish are also winners of the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa. They are strong contenders in the 2014 FIFA World Cup to be held in Brazil. Haiti Haiti is currently in 59^th place with 536 points in the FIFA Coca Cola Rating Scale. They participated in the CONCACAF Gold Cup and international events. Haiti appeared in the 1974 FIFA World Cup in West Germany during the country’s golden age of world football. The Caribbean nation’s golden age was during the decade of the 1960’s and 1970’s. The country’s biggest victories were against the US Virgin Islands in 2001 and 2004. Unfortunately, Haiti suffered heavy losses this year to powerful teams such as Chile, Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, and Oman in friendly matches. The current manager for Haiti is Israel Blake Cantero of Cuba. Cantero represented Cuba during the 1998 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Predictions While Spain is expected to win this match against Haiti, expect fierce resistance from the latter. It is at times of adversity that teams can win or at least exert pressure. Regardless of the outcome, it is hoped that the match results in a positive step for Haiti and its people. The following result in Sun Life Stadium will be Spain 2-1 Haiti. Roberto Alvarez-Galloso is a lover of sports especially Football/Soccer [CD Chivas USA, US Soccer, Spain, Celtic FC, Chelsea, Deportivo La Coruna FC Barcelona, Manchester United, Athletic Club Bilbao]. He has written sports articles for Socca Critics, Univision, Merinews, Helium, and Now Public.

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Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Third-Round Pairings Announced

Media Release — Thu, 16 May 2013 03:36:08 +0000

CHICAGO - The third-round possible pairings and locations for the 2013 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup were announced today as Major League Soccer's 16 domestic clubs kick off the tournament on May 28 or 29. Defending champion Sporting Kansas City begins its title defense on May 28 and will host either the NASL's Minnesota United FC or the winner of tonight's first-round game between the PDL's Des Moines Menace and NPSL's Madison 56ers. Sporting won the 2012 U.S. Open Cup in a penalty kick shootout against three-time champion Seattle Sounders FC on Aug. 8, 2012. The 2013 U.S. Open Cup marks the 100th edition of the tournament as U.S. Soccer is in the midst of its Centennial celebration. Following tonight's Des Moines/Madison game, the tournament will reach the second-round stage on Tuesday, May 21. Home teams are determined by a random selection process from among those clubs that have applied to host and whose venues meet the minimum tournament requirements. PLAY-IN ROUND RESULTS: Tuesday, May 7 1. Georgia Revolution (NPSL) 1, Colorado Rovers (USSSA) 1 (Georgia wins 5-3 in PKs) 2. FC Hasental (NPSL) 5, Fresno Fuego Future (US Club Soccer) 3 FIRST ROUND RESULTS: Tuesday, May 14 3. GPS Portland Phoenix (PDL) 2, Mass Premier Soccer (USASA) 0 4. Icon FC (USASA) 4, Brooklyn Italians (NPSL) 1 5. Ocean City Nor'easters (PDL) 2, New York Red Bulls U-23s (NPSL) 0 6. Reading United AC (PDL) 2, FC Lehigh Valley United Sonic (NPSL) 0 7. Ocala Stampede (PDL) 4, Red Force (USASA) 2 8. VSI Tampa Bay FC (USL PRO) 1, Orlando City U-23s (PDL) 1; (VSI wins 5-3 in PKs) 9. Carolina Dynamo (PDL) 4, Chattanooga FC (NPSL) 4; (Carolina wins 4-1 in PKs) 10. Dearborn Stars (USASA) 2, Michigan Bucks (PDL) 0 11. Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL PRO) 1, RWB Adria (USASA) 1; (Pittsburgh wins 5-3 in PKs) 12. Dayton Dutch Lions (USL PRO) 3, River City Rovers (PDL) 0 14. Austin Aztex (PDL) 3, NTZ Rayados (USASA) 0 15. FC Tucson (PDL) 2, Phoenix FC (USL PRO) 1 16. Portland Timbers U-23s (PDL) 3, Sacramento Gold (NPSL) 2 17. Sounders FC U-23s (PDL) 5, Doxa Italia (USASA) 1 18. Laredo Heat SC (PDL) 2, PSA Elite (USASA) 0 19. Georgia Revolution (NPSL) 4, Real Colorado Foxes (PDL) 3 20. Ventura County Fusion (PDL) 3, FC Hasental (NPSL) 2 REMAINING FIRST ROUND SCHEDULE: 13. Madison 56ers (NPSL) at Des Moines Menace (PDL) Valley Stadium; West Des Moines, Iowa Wednesday, May 15^, at 7:30 p.m. CT SECOND ROUND SCHEDULE: 21. GPS Portland Phoenix (PDL) at Rochester Rhinos (USL PRO) Sahlen's Stadium; Rochester, N.Y. Tuesday, May 21, at 7:35 p.m. ET 22. Icon FC (USASA) at Richmond Kickers (USL PRO) Richmond City Stadium; Richmond, Va. Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. ET 23. Harrisburg City Islanders (USL PRO) at Reading United AC (PDL) Don Thomas Stadium; Reading, Pa. Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. ET 24. Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL PRO) at Ocean City Nor'easters (PDL) Carey Stadium; Ocean City, N.J. Tuesday, May 21, at 7:30 p.m. ET 25. Dearborn Stars (USASA) at Dayton Dutch Lions (USL PRO) Beavercreek High School; Beavercreek, Ohio Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. ET 26. Carolina Dynamo (PDL) at Carolina RailHawks (NASL) WakeMed Soccer Park; Cary, N.C. Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. ET 27. Tampa Bay Rowdies (NASL) at VSI Tampa Bay (USL PRO) Plant City Stadium; Plant City, Fla. Tuesday, May 21, at 7:30 p.m. ET 28. Orlando City (USL PRO) at Ocala Stampede (PDL) Forest High School^; Ocala, Fla. Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. ET 29. Des Moines Menace (PDL)/Madison 56ers (NPSL) winner at Minnesota United FC (NASL) Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium; St. Paul, Minn.^ Tuesday, May 21, at 7:30 p.m. CT 30. FC Tucson (PDL) at San Antonio Scorpions (NASL) Toyota Field; San Antonio, Texas Tuesday, May 21, at 7:30 p.m. CT 31. Wilmington Hammerheads (USL PRO) at Austin Aztex (PDL) House Park; Austin, Texas Tuesday, May 21, at 7:30 p.m. CT 32. Ventura County Fusion (PDL) at L.A. Blues (USL PRO) Titan Stadium; Fullerton, Calif. Tuesday, May 21, at 6:30 p.m. PT 33. Charleston Battery (USL PRO) at Portland Timbers U-23s (PDL) JELD-WEN Field; Portland, Ore. Tuesday, May 21, at 7:30 p.m. PT 34. Sounders FC U-23s (PDL) at Charlotte Eagles (USL PRO) Queens University of Charlotte Sports Complex; Charlotte, N.C. Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. ET 35. Atlanta Silverbacks (NASL) at Georgia Revolution (NPSL) RYSA Soccerplex; Conyers, Ga. Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. ET 36. Laredo Heat (PDL) at Fort Lauderdale Strikers (NASL) Lockhart Stadium; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Tuesday, May 21, at 7:30 p.m. ET ^Indicates scheduling change following initial announcement THIRD ROUND SCHEDULE 37. Philadelphia Union (MLS) at Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL PRO) Highmark Stadium; Pittsburgh, Pa. Tuesday, May 28, at 7 p.m. ET OR Ocean City Nor'easters (PDL) at Philadelphia Union (MLS) PPL Park; Chester, Pa. Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. ET 38. D.C. United (MLS) at Richmond Kickers (USL PRO) Richmond City Stadium; Richmond, Va. Tuesday, May 28, at 7 p.m. ET OR Icon FC (USASA) at D.C. United (MLS) Maryland SoccerPlex; Boyds, Md. Tuesday, May 28, at 7 p.m. ET 39. New England Revolution (MLS) at Rochester Rhinos (USL PRO) Sahlen's Stadium; Rochester, N.Y. Tuesday, May 28, at 7:35 p.m. ET OR GPS Portland Phoenix (PDL) at New England Revolution (MLS) Harvard University; Cambridge, Mass. Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. ET 40. Chicago Fire (MLS) at Charlotte Eagles (USL PRO) Winthrop University Stadium; Rock Hill, S.C. Tuesday, May 28, at 7 p.m. ET OR Sounders FC U-23 (PDL) at Chicago Fire (MLS) Toyota Park; Bridgeview, Ill. Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. CT 41. Colorado Rapids (MLS) at Orlando City SC (USL PRO) Florida Citrus Bowl; Orlando, Fla. Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. ET OR Ocala Stampede (PDL) at Colorado Rapids (MLS) Dick's Sporting Goods Park; Commerce City, Colo. Tuesday, May 28, at 7 p.m. MT 42. FC Dallas (MLS) at Fort Lauderdale Strikers (NASL) Lockhart Stadium; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. ET OR FC Dallas (MLS) at Laredo Heat SC (PDL) Texas A&M International Soccer Complex; Laredo, Texas Tuesday, May 28, at 8:15 p.m. CT 43. San Jose Earthquakes (MLS) at Charleston Battery (USL PRO) Blackbaud Stadium; Charleston, S.C. Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. ET OR San Jose Earthquakes (MLS) at Portland Timbers U-23s (PDL) JELD-WEN Field; Portland, Ore. Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. PT 44. Minnesota United FC (NASL)/Des Moines Menace (PDL)/Madison 56ers (NPSL) winner at Sporting Kansas City (MLS) Sporting Park; Kansas City, Kan. Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. CT 45. Atlanta Silverbacks (NASL)/Georgia Revolution (NPSL) winner at Real Salt Lake (MLS) Rio Tinto Stadium; Sandy, Utah Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. MT 46. Chivas USA (MLS) at L.A. Blues (USL PRO) Titan Stadium; Fullerton, Calif. Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 p.m. PT OR Chivas USA (MLS) at Ventura County Fusion (PDL) Ventura College; Ventura, Calif. Tuesday, May 28, at 7 p.m. PT 47. LA Galaxy (MLS) at Carolina RailHawks (NASL) WakeMed Soccer Park; Cary, N.C. Wednesday, May 29, at 7:15 p.m. ET OR LA Galaxy (MLS) at Carolina Dynamo (PDL) Macpherson Stadium; Greensboro, N.C. Wednesday, May 29, at 7 p.m. ET 48. Dayton Dutch Lions (USL PRO)/Dearborn Stars (USASA) winner at Columbus Crew (MLS) Columbus Crew Stadium; Columbus, Ohio Wednesday, May 29, at 7:30 p.m. ET 49. Harrisburg City Islanders (USL PRO)/Reading United AC (PDL) winner at New York Red Bulls (MLS) Red Bull Arena; Harrison, N.J. Wednesday, May 29, at 7:30 p.m. ET 50. Houston Dynamo (MLS) at San Antonio Scorpions (NASL) Toyota Field; San Antonio, Texas Wednesday, May 29, at 7:30 p.m. CT OR FC Tucson (PDL) at Houston Dynamo (MLS) BBVA Compass Stadium; Houston, Texas Wednesday, May 29, at 7:30 p.m. CT 51. Seattle Sounders (MLS) at Tampa Bay Rowdies (NASL) Al Lang Stadium; St. Petersburg, Fla. Wednesday, May 29, at 7:30 p.m. ET OR VSI Tampa Bay (USL PRO) at Seattle Sounders (MLS) Starfire Sports Complex; Tukwila, Wash. Wednesday, May 29, at 7 p.m. PT 52. Wilmington Hammerheads (USL PRO)/Austin Aztex (PDL) winner at Portland Timbers (MLS) JELD-WEN Field; Portland, Ore. Wednesday, May 29, at 7:30 p.m. PT FOURTH ROUND: June 12 QUARTERFINALS: June 26 SEMIFINALS: Aug. 7 or 21 FINAL: Oct. 1 or 2

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Interview with Baseball Writer Lou Hernandez

Guest Writer — Thu, 16 May 2013 03:30:27 +0000

Lou Hernandez is a member of the Society of American Baseball Research and a life-long baseball fan. He’s written two Baseball Books on Latin America titled, "Memories of Winter Ball: Interviews with Players in the Latin American Winter Leagues of the 1950s" and "The Rise of the Latin American Baseball Leagues, 1947-1961: Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico and Venezuela." Taking a moment out of his busy schedule, Hernandez expressed feeling honored that he was being interviewed by LatinoSports.com. He also stated proudly his reasons for writing these two books. If one wants to learn a chapter about Latin America, its relationship with Major League Baseball, the Winter Leagues here are these two books. What got you interested in writing these two books? I have always loved baseball and have always been aware of my Hispanic heritage. Writing my books were a great way to combine these deep Personal interests. I view my books as serving to promote baseball and to promote the rich Latin American history within the game and my two books specifically deal with the nostalgic “Golden Era” of baseball from the 1950s. Did you do a lot of traveling to do the research for these two books? In my first book, although I extensively covered the Latin American baseball leagues of the ’40s and ’50s, I did not travel to any of the countries. The book is a narrative History. I researched my work through newspapers and periodicals of the time as well as several published books. I did travel to Puerto Rico and interviewed several players For my second book. Now these countries all have a relationship with Major League Baseball? There were eight Latin American countries that had baseball leagues with ties to organized baseball during the decade of the 1950: They were Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico and Venezuela. I covered seven countries for my first book. North American minor and major league players came over to play in all of these countries. Many Negro League Players got their start playing in Latin America. Many great Negro leagues Players such as Josh Gibson and Sam Jethroe and Monte Irvin, played in the Latin American Baseball Leagues just to name a few. Do these leagues have the same as they do in MLB: Commissioner, President? The Latin American Leagues all had their own league president and conducted business independently from each another. They were Cuba, Panama , Puerto Rico and Venezuela. In time, they formed the Caribbean Professional Baseball Federation, which introduced the first Caribbean Series in the year 1949, The Latin American leagues were part of organized baseball, so they were governed By the National Association of Baseball Leagues, who is the executive governing? Body of all minor league baseball leagues in the United States. The Minor Leagues and the Winter Leagues are they similar? And how does one player from the Major Leagues play in Winter Ball? The Winter Leagues of the day were like the minor leagues. Just as the major league clubs had affiliate minor league teams in the U.S. , so too did major league clubs establish what was referred to as “working relationships” with clubs in all of the Latin American leagues, for which the major league teams would send their top prospects to these Latin American clubs over the winter for the players to gain more experience playing against top competition. Today it’s different now. Very few North American players play in the Caribbean over the winter. American League and National League clubs are solely interested in the foreign talent, today. The individual organizations have set up their own baseball academies in several Latin American baseball countries, trying to develop the native-born talent exclusively for their big league clubs. So did anyone tell you a bad experience they’ve had? My second book, which is an oral history, delves much more into the individual experiences of what it was like to play in the Latin American baseball leagues of the Era. Most of the players relayed what enjoyable experiences they had, although there are always a few incidents, due to circumstances that turn out not so pleasant – but very few? There were no Latin Americans named to the All Century Team why? There were so many great players during the last century. I think because it took many decades for Hispanic players to reach the major leagues, that hurt as far as gaining legendary recognition! Now, with such a Latin American influence in the game, you can bet the all 21st Century team will have a few Hispanic players on it. Currently there is a movement to retire Roberto Clemente’s Number 21, your thoughts? Clemente is considered the greatest all-around Hispanic player to play in the major leagues and he was a greater human being than he was a ballplayer. I would not be opposed to the retirement of his number by MLB, but I do not think it will happen. Retiring his number will lessen the impact of retiring Jackie Robinson’s number, and MLB does not want to do that. You feel proud of what you’ve written in these two books? I think my two books capture, from historical and personal perspectives, what the “Golden Age” of baseball was like in the Tropics during the 1950's. That is what I set out to do. I think all baseball fans, even casual fans can learn a great deal from the books and be entertained at the same time. This article was written by Ismael Nunez. Born and raised in East Harlem. Nunez is a contributing writer for several online publications. Involved in with New York’s Latino community, Nunez is an advocate for change. He holds a degree in media and communications from Hunter College.

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First Round Results of the 2013 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup

Media Release — Wed, 15 May 2013 11:13:39 +0000

CHICAGO - The first round of the 2013 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup featured plenty of goal scorers with four players recording hat tricks. The golden boot of the night belonged to David Geno of the Seattle Sounders U-23s, who found the back of the net four times in just the first half of Seattle's 5-1 win against Doxa Italia. Other hat trick scorers included Arjgent Duka whose three tallies helped FC Icon to a 4-1 win against Brooklyn Italians. Kwadwo Poku earned the honors of scoring the first hat trick of the 2013 tournament as he helped the Georgia Revolution jump out to a 4-0 lead against Real Colorado Foxes. Colorado made things interesting by scoring three times in the last half hour, but could not find the equalizer, losing 4-3. One first-round game remains as the Des Moines Menace hosts the Madison 56ers on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. CT. The winner of that game will play at Minnesota United FC in second-round action. The venue for that game changed to Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium in St. Paul, Minn. It originally was scheduled for the National Sports Center in Blaine, Minn. FIRST ROUND RESULTS: GPS Portland Phoenix (PDL) 2, Mass Premier Soccer (USASA) 0: Pierre Omanga picked up a first half goal, and the GPS Portland Phoenix added another in the second half to defeat Mass Premier Soccer 2-0. Icon FC (USASA) 4, Brooklyn Italians (NPSL) 1: Argjent Duka, the brother of Chicago Fire forward Dilly Duka, scored two goals as Icon FC defeated the Brooklyn Italians 4-1. The Italians won the Open Cup in 1979 and 1991, and Icon FC is competing in its first tournament. Ocean City Nor'easters (PDL) 2, New York Red Bulls U-23s (NPSL) 0: Markhus Lecroix and Frank Tweneboa were the goal scorers as the Ocean City Nor'easters beat the New York Red Bulls U-23s, 2-0, in Ocean City, N.J. The Nor'easters will face the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the second round. Reading United AC (PDL) 2, FC Lehigh Valley United Sonic (NPSL) 0: Darius Madison and Steve Neumann both scored in the second half as Reading United AC defeated FC Lehigh Valley United Sonic 2-0 at Oley Valley High School. Reading will face the Harrisburg City Islanders in the second round. Ocala Stampede (PDL) 4, Red Force (USASA) 2: In the first match in its Open Cup history, the Ocala Stampede defeated the Red Force 4-2 at Florida International Soccer Stadium. Kenny Hoggs had two goals for the Stampede. VSI Tampa Bay FC (USL PRO) 1, Orlando City U-23s (PDL) 1 (VSI wins 5-3 in PKs): Nicolas Russo scored for Orlando in the 90th minute to force extra time. There was no scoring in the overtime period, and Tampa Bay FC won 5-3 on penalties to win the battle of Florida. Carolina Dynamo (PDL) 4, Chattanooga FC (NPSL) 4 (Carolina wins 4-1 in PKs): Chattanooga went up 4-3 in the 115th minute, but Carolina equalized in the 117th minute. Eventually, the game would go to penalties where Carolina would win, 4-1. Carolina will face off against the Carolina RailHawks of the NASL in the next round. Dearborn Stars (USASA) 2, Michigan Bucks (PDL) 0: Despite a late push by one of the most successful amateur teams in Open Cup history, the Dearborn Stars came out on top after a pair of goals from former Bucks forward Niki Djokic. The Stars face off against the Dayton Dutch Lions on May 21. Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL PRO) 1, RWB Adria (USASA) 1 (Pittsburgh wins 5-3 in PKs): In one of the most closely contested games of Tuesday's first-round matches, the Riverhounds needed a 5-3 win in the penalty shootout to dispose of visiting USASA team RWB Adria. Dayton Dutch Lions (USL PRO) 3, River City Rovers (PDL) 0: Three different players tallied for the home team as Dayton Dutch Lions disposed of the Rovers with three goals inside of the game's first hour. Austin Aztex (PDL) 3, NTX Rayados (USASA) 0: The Aztex took an early lead with a goal in the 22nd minute but lost a defender to a straight red card moments later. The disadvantage didn't hinder the home side as they dispatched of fellow Texas club, NTX Rayados 3-0, to secure a place in the second round. FC Tucson (PDL) 2, Phoenix FC (USL PRO) 1: In an anticipated local first-round derby, Phoenix held the lead for the majority of the game, but Connor Bevans found the equalizer for FC Tucson in the 82nd minute and completed the brace in stoppage time for the 2-1 win. Portland Timbers U-23s (PDL) 3, Sacramento Gold (NPSL) 2: After falling behind 2-0 early in the game the Timbers U-23s found their way back in the game with the three straight goals to hold on for a berth in the tournament's second round. Sounders FC U-23s (PDL) 5, Doxa Italia (USASA) 1: The Sounders FC U-23s jumped out to a fast start against Doxa Italia as a four-goal performance by David Geno and a Darwin Jones tally made it 5-0 at the break. Italia was able to pull one back on the other end of halftime but the early surge by Seattle was too much to overcome. Laredo Heat SC (PDL) 2, PSA Elite (USASA) 0: Laredo used goals in the closing minutes of the first half, and opening minutes of the second half and held the clean sheet to advance to the second round in the form of a 2-0 win against PSA Elite. Georgia Revolution (NPSL) 4, Real Colorado Foxes (PDL) 3: Kwadwo Poku found the back three times to tally the first hat trick of the 2013 tournament and powered the Revs to a 4-0 lead. Georgia then withstood a furious rally from the Foxes but ultimately held on to the 4-3 win. Ventura County Fusion (PDL) 3, FC Hasental (NPSL) 2: Hasental jumped to a 1-0 lead in the 39th minute but the hosts were awarded a penalty kick just one minute later. The visitors saved the PK attempt but surrendered their lead just before the half. The two teams traded goals until late heroics by the Fusion's Dylan Riley in the 87th minute sent the hosts home 3-2 winners.

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Leaky Bullpen Loses it for Mariners

Oren Vourman — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:45:13 +0000

Yankee Stadium, The Bronx- The Seattle Mariners had put everything in place to steal a road win from the New York Yankees. They trotted out their ace Felix Hernandez, scored a few runs off CC Sabathia and were on a roll until the usually dependable bullpen gave one away in a come-from-behind 4-3 win for the Yankees. Hernandez, who sailed through six innings to finish with one earned run on five hits and eight strikeouts, had his evening end early after tweaking his elbow on a throw to finish with a no-decision. "It was hard luck," said Hernandez who was denied his fifth straight win. Hernandez wanted to stay in to pitch the seventh, but the Mariners took no chances on his health, opening the door for the Yankees 11th comeback of the season. With the score 3-1 Mariners, Seattle sent out reliever Yoervis Medina who immediately gave up a single to Yankees' third baseman Chris Nelson. Nelson advanced to second base on a wild pitch, and Seattle went for caution and got back fire when they opted for the lefty Charlie Furbush for Medina. Furbush walked Gardner, putting Robinson Cano in great position to tie the game with Gardner's speed at first. Cano would not disappoint, walloping a two-RBI double off the wall of the Yankees' bullpen in right center-field, to tie the game at 3-3. "Obviously [Brett] Gardner liked it," said Furbush of the pitch that sent Gardner to first base but which Furbush thought to be strike three. The Pinstripes would take the lead three batters later with the bases loaded when first baseman Lyle Overbay hit a sacrifice-fly to center-field scoring Cano from third base to make it 4-3 Yankees. "We had it laid out, but Charlie [Furbush] struggled a little bit," said Seattle Manager Eric Wedge, adding, "I thought [Yoervis] Medina threw the ball well. He dropped that first one in there and got the next guy out. [Brett] Gardner battled. That 3-2 probably could have went either way, so we were on the south side of that. [Robinson] Cano put up a great at-bat. We put [Vernon] Wells on and went from there." Seattle reliever Carter Capps replaced Furbush, and pitched the next inning and a third, allowing no further runs and striking out three, but by then the damage was done, as the Yankees had just enough of a cushion to help Mariano Rivera close the game for his 16th save of the season. Rivera is now 17-for-17 at home vs. Seattle in save opportunities in his career. The M's had a chance to knot the game back up in the top of the eighth inning when they put runners on first and second on a walk and a fielders-choice off Yankees' reliever David Robertson. Yankees' shortstop Jayson Nix would help the Bombers get out of the jam on an unassisted double-play to end the inning off the bat of pinch-hitter Justin Smoak who came to bat for Jason Bay. The Mariners scored their first run of the game in the top of the third inning when third baseman Kyle Seager, who went 3-for-5, ripped a double-RBI to score Michael Saunders from first base, 1-0 Seattle. Former Yankee Raul Ibanez had no problem locating the short porch in left-field, belting his fourth homer of the season for a two-run shot off Sabathia in the top of the sixth inning to put Seattle ahead 3-0. "It's nice for a left-handed hitter," commented Ibanez on the right-field wall, who kept to his mantra of hitting which is simply, "to not do too much." New York scored its first run when Overbay, who went 1-for-2, carried the ball over the wall in right-field by the 314 marker, scoring Curtis Granderson in his season debut from first base in the bottom of the sixth inning. The Yankees are now 25-14 with the win, and have won seven of their last eight games. The Mariners dropped three of their last four road games, and fell to 4-10 away from Safeco Field since April sixth.

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E.J. Viso Practice Update: 97th Indianapolis 500

Cesar Diaz — Wed, 15 May 2013 02:20:38 +0000

Earlier on Tuesday, E.J. Viso provided LatinoSports.com an update of his practice. Here's his statement: Very long day for me today; I completed 134 laps - it’s enough to get the engine swapped. Anyways, it was a very good, productive day. We went through some tests…which we found some good answers. We did a couple of long runs with the rest of the Andretti Autosport guys, and we are still finding new answers every time we go on a run together. Today was a little bit hotter than the other days, and the weather predictions say that race day is going to be even a bit hotter than today. So I think the running that we did today was pretty productive to gather some data. You can follow E.J. on twitter at @EJVISO. About Andretti Autosport Based in Indianapolis and led by racing legend Michael Andretti, Andretti Autosport fields multiple entries in the IZOD IndyCar Series. Andretti Autosport also campaigns multiple cars in Firestone Indy Lights, the Pro Mazda Championship and in the USF2000 National Championship. The company boasts four IZOD IndyCar Series championships (2004, 2005, 2007 and 2012), two Firestone Indy Lights titles (2008 and 2009), one USF2000 championship (2010) and has won the Indianapolis 500 twice (2005 and 2007). For more information, please visit www.AndrettiAutosport.com.

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CONCACAF Reveal New Gold Cup Trophy

Cesar Diaz — Wed, 15 May 2013 01:51:11 +0000

New York, NY - At a press conference in Mexico City, CONCACAF revealed the new CONCACAF Gold Cup trophy. Winner of this year's Gold Cup will be the recipient of the trophy on July 28th at Soldier Field in Chicago. Who do you think will win this year's Gold Cup? What are your thoughts of the New Trophy? As stated in CONCACAF''s Press Release:

The new Gold Cup uses the original design of the trophy, which debuted in 1991, transforming its basic elements to lend a rejuvenated, modern imagery through a more brilliant finish that evokes the values of transparency and renewal of the new CONCACAF.

“We are extremely proud of the manner in which these subtle design changes to the Gold Cup have helped us to highlight important characteristics of the competition as well as the region as a whole,” said Enrique Sanz, General Secretary of CONCACAF.

“On one hand, the history of the Gold Cup is referenced through the inscribing of the names of past champions on the base, while on the other hand we are reminded of the spirit of transformation and development of all the member associations of our Confederation, which every two years strive to raise this trophy.”

The new Gold Cup has been sculpted in metal with golden plating, and features larger handles than the previous version, formed at a more extreme angle to represent the accelerated growth and dynamism of competition which today characterizes soccer in CONCACAF.

“Through sponsorship of the CONCACAF Gold Cup, Banco Santander consolidates its position as a promoter and the official bank of this continent’s most important tournaments for both clubs and national teams. In addition to Gold Cup, we sponsor Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana, Recopa and Copa America,” said Marcos Martinez Gavica, Executive President of Santander Financial Group Mexico. “Our services make us a leading bank in Latin America and today, with our sponsorships, we’re the “Bank of Football.”

Santander is now the brand second-most affiliated with football in Latin America, which fills us with pride.”

One of the newer elements of the trophy is the curved base, designed with a series of “steps” where the names of tournament winners have been engraved, paying tribute to past champions of this national team tournament.

“It is a real pleasure to be able to participate as host of the unveiling of the new Gold Cup, as defending champions of the tournament,” said Justino Compeán, President of Mexican Football Federation. “The importance that this cup has for Mexico goes well beyond the commitment to defend the title, since, beginning this July, we’ll be looking for a ticket to the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup as well.”

“The responsibility that we have as the coaching staff of the Mexican National Team is to administer our players in the coming months to achieve the goals we’ve proposed for this year, which include qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, a good showing at the Confederations Cup, and of course to claim once again the Gold Cup trophy,” said José Manuel de la Torre, Coach of the Mexican National Team.

“I want to reiterate that our priority is to be the best team in CONCACAF, and confirm as much in each tournament in which we participate. That commitment brings with it the responsibility to represent Mexico and all of CONCACAF in the same way at the international level, always.”

The new trophy continues the process of positioning of the Gold Cup on the spectrum of international football, where it is becoming one of the more recognizable icons of our sport.

As Gold Cup continues to prosper and increase in popularity, the trophy will continue to exemplify the excellence, history and future of the Confederation.

The new Gold Cup is 26 inches high and weighs 20 pounds. The name of the tournament is written in English and Spanish on the upper rim, and repeated all the way around the circumference.

Inscribed in the interior of the trophy is the phrase “Forty Countries. One Confederation. One Goal.” This mantra represents the unity among member associations of the Confederation, and serves as a formal greeting to each country within the borders of CONCACAF, united by the same values, goals and passion for the game.

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RBNY to face the Galaxy this Sunday at Red Bull Arena

Media Release — Tue, 14 May 2013 10:58:29 +0000

Harrison, NJ - Leading the Eastern Conference heading into this week, the New York Red Bulls begin a three-game homestand on Sunday when they take on the two-time defending MLS Cup Champion LA Galaxy at Red Bull Arena at 1:00 PM ET (TV: ESPN2; ESPN Deportes; Radio: ESPN Deportes Radio Nueva York 1050 AM). Tickets are available for the match by calling 1.877.RBSOCCER or logging onto www.newyorkredbulls.com. The Red Bulls played their third match in eight days last Saturday, tying the New England Revolution, 1-1, at Gillette Stadium. New York went behind after a Diego Fagundez second half tally, but Red Bull midfielder Lloyd Sam scored his first MLS goal less than a minute later to help the visitors run their unbeaten streak to five (4-0-1). The Red Bulls moved to 21 points off a 6-4-3 record and are currently in sole possession of first place in the Eastern Conference with a one point lead over the Houston Dynamo, Sporting Kansas City and the Montreal impact. New York’s hosts the Galaxy, led by a number of high profile players including U.S. standout Landon Donovan, Irish forward Robbie Keane and 2011 MLS Defender of the Year Omar Gonzalez. LA comes into this week with 14 points and a 4-3-2 record – good for a fifth place tie in the Western Conference. The Galaxy recorded its third loss of the year, falling to the Vancouver Whitecaps on the road, 3-1, last Saturday. That match kicked off a three-game road trip that concludes Sunday in New York. The Galaxy will face the Philadelphia Union at PPL Park Wednesday evening before coming to the Big Apple. Former Red Bull Mike Magee has tallied a team-high six goals, which is second in MLS. New York is 17-15-6 all-time against LA and is 11-7-2 at home. The Red Bulls are unbeaten in their last four regular season matches versus the Galaxy (3-0-1) and defeated LA, 1-0, on May 5, 2012 in the only meeting between the two teams last year.

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Portland Timbers: Pride, Not Prejudice

Cesar Diaz — Mon, 13 May 2013 12:05:41 +0000

New York, NY - Prior to the Portland Timbers 3-0 Mother's Day win over Chivas USA, many in Jeld-Wen Field saw the Timbers Army rainbow tifo. With the words "Pride Over Prejudice" and "Football Fans against Homophobia," they raised awareness that May 17 is International Day Against Homophobia. For those of you not familiar with the Timbers Army, they're a supporters group who support the Portland Timbers and their community. I've said it before and I have to say it again, one thing special about the Timbers and the Timbers Army is that they are more than a club, they’re a community. It’s a community I recommend you visit. As stated in the website, TimbersArmy.org, "The 107 Independent Supporters’ Trust is the machinery behind the Timbers Army. It supports soccer in and around Portland, Oregon, from the grassroots to the highest professional level. It fuels the Army and supports soccer charities and soccer events in Soccer City USA." As a proud member of the Timbers Army and 107ist, I just want to say to all my friends and Timbers Army relatives out in Portland, Oregon, keep up the excellent work! I truly admire how you represent soccer as both supporters and community members. I look forward to seeing you in July.

Here's the recap and of last night's match provided to us by the Timbers:

PORTLAND, Ore. – Midfielder Diego Valeri recorded one goal and two assists and forward Rodney Wallace registered a goal and an assist to help guide the Portland Timbers to a 3-0 win over Chivas USA before a sold-out JELD-WEN Field on Sunday afternoon, extending Portland’s MLS-club record unbeaten streak to nine games. The capacity crowd of 20,647 marked the 40th consecutive sellout at JELD-WEN Field since the Timbers joined MLS in 2011. The Timbers claimed the lead just past the half-hour mark on Wallace’s third goal of the season. Valeri then doubled the lead, 2-0, in the 70th minute and midfielder Will Johnson provided Portland’s third goal in second-half stoppage time as the club matched its largest margin of victory as an MLS side in the 3-0 win. Goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts and the Timbers defense held Chivas USA to eight total shots, recording its fourth straight shutout at home and extending its home shutout streak to 390 consecutive minutes. Portland (4-1-6, 18pts) moves ahead of Real Salt Lake and into second place in the Western Conference. Valeri factored in all three goals and attempted a team-high four shots, Johnson set a new career-high with his fourth goal of the season and Wallace matched a career-high with his third goal on the campaign to help the Timbers extend their unbeaten run to an MLS-best nine games. Goalkeeper Patrick McLain made four saves in his first MLS start and defender Steve Purdy had a team-best three shots as Chivas USA (3-5-2, 11pts) suffered its fourth loss in its last five games. After a couple of close chances in the opening 30 minutes, the Timbers were able to break the deadlock in the 34th minute. Following a Chivas USA corner kick, goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts initiated a quickly played counter attack that went through Valeri and forward Ryan Johnson to send Wallace in on goal down the left channel. Inside the box, Wallace placed a shot over an on-rushing McLain and into an open goal. Portland found its second goal of the match in the 70th minute. Maintaining possession in the final third, the Timbers were able to work the ball to forward Darlington Nagbe on the right side, who then played it into Wallace near the top of the box. Wallace slipped a pass into the box for Valeri, beating the offside trap, and Valeri beat McLain one-on-one for his third goal of the season. Johnson capped the scoring two minutes into second-half stoppage time. Following a short corner from Valeri to midfielder Kalif Alhassan on the left side, Johnson took the ball around the top left corner of the penalty area and hit a curling shot into the bottom right corner of the goal. Johnson’s goal was the Timbers’ MLS-leading 14th second-half goal scored in 2013. Two minutes before the opening goal by Wallace, Valeri had a shot from just beyond the top of the box hit off the crossbar; it was one of 12 first-half shot attempts for the Timbers. The Timbers begin a three-match road stretch on Saturday, May 18, against Northwest-rival Vancouver Whitecaps FC at BC Place; kickoff is 4 p.m. (Pacific). The Cascadia Cup matchup will be televised live on ROOT SPORTS, with local radio broadcasts available on 750 The Game and in Spanish on La Pantera 940AM.

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Alvarez RBI single extends Mets woes as Pirates take series

Rich Mancuso — Mon, 13 May 2013 03:08:44 +0000

New York, NY – Pedro Alvarez had another two-hit game Sunday afternoon at Citi Field against New York Mets pitching. The third baseman of the Pittsburgh Pirates, an all-star, at the prestigious Horace Mann High School in New York City had his third consecutive two-hit game against New York. The Pirates, a surprise team in the National league last season, and with an all-star center fielder Andrew McCutchen, know when the bat of Alvarez gets going they will score runs. As does Alvarez, who drove in the game deciding run in the Pirates eighth inning leading them to a 3-2 win and taking three of four games from the Mets. Alvarez finished the series hitting .545, hit a home run and drove in four in three of the four games. “It’s always good to come back home and have a good series,” commented Alvarez. “It’s icing on the cake.” He went 6-for-11 in the four games and raised his average over .200, significant because it was the first time he reached that mark since the first week of the season. With Matt Harvey on the mound the Mets have had success. He has become their ace. Despite allowing five hits and two earned runs he did not figure in the decision. It was a quality start, though with the way Harvey has been striking out hitters and throwing a dominating fastball, it was as he said, “Tough.” The right hander got his second consecutive no-decision, coming off the 9-inning one-hit, no-run outing against the White Sox Tuesday night and he was using the curve ball and slider more often than the 95 mile fastball. “You’re going to have those days,” said Harvey. “You’re not going to have pinpoint location every time and I needed to put up zeroes today and I wasn’t able to do that. I was happy that I went seven innings and gave us a chance to win.” Alvarez, who faced Harvey for the first time said, “His secondary pitches are real good after the fastball.” He got hold of a fastball and lined a double to right center off Harvey in the second. Pittsburgh reached Harvey for two runs in the third inning, so once again, as has become so often, the Mets had to play catch up baseball. And they had to contend with Pirates right hander Jeanmar Gomez who allowed two hits and one run, striking out three in five innings, He was removed from the game after experiencing tightness in his right calf and the Pirates bullpen gave up their slim lead in the seventh on a looping single. Before the tightness, Gomez retired 10 -consecutive that came to bat. The Mets were 1-for-7 with runners in scoring position, as manager Terry Collins revamped the lineup and restored David Wright, Ike Davis and Lucas Duda to the middle of the order. In six games with the White Sox and Pirates, New York went 7-for-40 with runners in scoring position, winning two games. Davis continued his struggles, though Duda homered to center giving the Mets an early 1-0 lead in the second. So, even with Harvey, they struggled to score runs and as Duda said, “You are not going to win many games if you don’t score runs.” “We won two games on this home stand by getting a couple of big hits,” said Collins. “We’ve just got to start hitting with guys in scoring position like we did early and we did last year in the first half.” “Snake bit”, and “it’s a part of the game” is how Collins described the inability to score runs and produce some wins. At 14-20, six games below .500 and a seven game road trip to St Louis and the Chicago Cubs, there is little time to evaluate parts of the game. Simply put, the Mets need to do what Alvarez has started to do. That is, make contact and drive in runs. Comment: Rich Mancuso- Ring786@aol.com

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Ruben Tejada – Quiet Rising Mets Player & His Idol Is Across the River

Julio Pabón — Sun, 12 May 2013 19:47:56 +0000

New York, NY - I recently had the pleasure to speak to the young rising NY Mets player, Ruben Tejada. Ruben has always been the type of player that is quiet and basically goes about his ways. He is non-imposing in the clubhouse and is always quiet even when he is on the field for batting practice and stretching. If you want to hear Ruben, you have to approach him and talk to him. That is what I did this week. I walked up to Ruben as he was sitting in front of his locker to inform him that as quiet as he is, his name appeared in the 2012 Latino MVP ballot. I asked him if he knew that he had made the ballot for 2012 awards? He told me he had not. I then asked him how did he feel knowing that he was on a list with players like: Carlos Ruíz, José Reyes, Giancarlo Stanton, Martin Prado, Carlos Beltran and Marco Scutaro? He answered, “I believe that perhaps they noticed the work that I put out every time I go out to play.” I can understand his answer because he was as surprised as perhaps other members of the LSWBA when we first noticed his name on the ballot. Though his statistics for the 2012 season were the best in his short three season career his name was not as known in the media as many of the other Latino players that appeared on the list. His .289 BA, .333 OBP & .351 SLG were not major news items. It was obvious that Ruben was glad to have his name appear on the ballot of this prestigious award recognizing the best Latino baseball players for the last 24 years. I told him that though he did not win (the award was won by Marco Scutaro, of the SF Giants) he would be receiving recognition as a rising young player in the NY Mets organization. His faced lit up like if he had just hit a home run, something that he has done only twice in his career. After discussing the details of the award, I asked him who was his favorite player, his idol growing up in Panama? The 23 year old surprised me when he answered that his favorite player was NY Yankee shortstop, Derek Jeter. I was thinking that perhaps he would mention, fellow countryman and Hall of Fame player, Rod Carew. Then I realized his age and quickly did the math. Ruben was born in 1989, four years after Carew played his last game in 1985. This means that he never got a chance to see Carew play as much as he did Jeter on Panamanian television. I asked what was his greatest moment in baseball? He answered that his greatest moment was when he got to play on the same field against his idol Derek Jeter. He said that he was thrilled beyond belief that the player that he most admired and seen so many times on TV as a child was on the same field that he was on. I then asked him if he ever spoke to Jeter? He said yes, but that he never mentioned that he was his idol, again showing the quiet player in the Mets organization that is slowly making a name for himself and his team.

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Dwight Gooden Memoir coming out in June

Media Release — Sun, 12 May 2013 12:51:10 +0000

New York, NY - In the mid 1980’s no pitcher was more feared and more dominant than the Mets young superstar, Dwight “Doc” Gooden. Gooden arrived in New York in 1984 as a shy nineteen year old from Tampa and became a pitching sensation overnight, Times Square even held an 105 foot mural of Doc on the mount. His first season he was named Rookie of the year; his second, he won 25 games, earning the Triple Crown and one of the most prestigious awards in baseball: the Cy Young Award. The Mets loved him, New York loved him, and at the age of 20 with a 98-mph fast ball he had cemented himself in baseball history. In 1986 when the Mets won the World Series, Gooden’s life would change forever. Instead of celebrating with his teammates at the Tickertape parade, he watched them on TV, bleary-eyed, drunk and high. For the next 25 years Gooden battled alcoholism and drug addiction while his life and career spun out of control. With fresh and sober eyes, Dwight Gooden shares the most intimate moments of his successes and failures, from three World Series rings to endless self-destructive drug binges in his brutally honest memoir DOC (Amazon Publishing/New Harvest, on sale June 4) written with Ellis Henican. Taking accountability for his actions, both on and off the field, Gooden holds nothing back. He reveals the hidden traumas in his close-knit Tampa family; the thrill and pressure of being a young shy baseball prodigy in New York; the raucous days and nights with the Mets’ bad boys; the drug binges and arrests; his comeback with the Yankees; the heartbreaking attempts at getting sober; the senseless damage to family and friends; and the unexpected way he finally saved his life—on VH1’s Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew. Gooden details his close friendships with many of baseball’s greats: Pete Rose, George Steinbrenner, Joe Torre and nephew Gary Sheffield. For the first time ever, he reveals the real story of his troubled relationship with fellow Mets superstar Darryl Strawberry. Intimate and vulnerable, Gooden tells the moving story of the Yankees no-hitter he pitched for his dying dad and the complicated and at times estranged relationships he has had with his own children. A story of family, baseball, of talent squandered by the disease of addiction, and of the long road to getting clean, DOC is a riveting baseball memoir by one of the game’s most fascinating figures, and an inspiring story for anyone who has faced tough challenges in life. ABOUT THE AUTHORS At age nineteen, Dwight Eugene Gooden became the youngest starting pitcher in MLB history. Nicknamed “Doc” for his surgical, 98-mph fastball, he guided the 1986 New York to World Series victory, was named Rookie of the Year, received the Cy Young Award, and won two more World Series. After a long battle with drug addiction, Gooden, a dedicated father of seven, is now clean and working with at-risk children and adults. Co-author Ellis Henican is a columnist at Newsday and an on-air commentator at Fox News. He is the author of three recent bestsellers, Home Team with New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton, In the Blink of an Eye with NASCAR legend Michael Waltrip and Damn Few with Navy SEAL commander Rorke Denver.

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Boxing in Huntington: MADDALONE SCORES KO

Luis Vásquez — Sun, 12 May 2013 12:41:53 +0000

*Featured Image is credited to Marlene Amaya-Vazquez.

Huntington, Long Island - There was boxing this evening in Huntington, Long Island. The site was the Paramount where six fights were on the card called Rockin Fights 8. The main event was fringe heavyweight contender Vinny Maddalone, from Flushing, Queens who came in with a 36-8 27 KO record. His 324 pound obstacle, undefeated Richard Carmack, 12-0 10 KO's was deceptively fast with his hands. He also was very composed and moved with a minimum of effort. It was a close first round as Maddalone was sloppy with his punches. He was also cut. In the second he changed strategies by attacking the belly and pushing Carmack back whenever he could setting up hooks to the body and head. but Carmack surprised the crowd with a four punch rally. Maddalone responded with a flurry that left Richard on the ropes taking and not returning. In the third a nasty uppercut in the center of the ring was followed by Maddalone pushing him to the ropes where a series of hooks and straight rights silenced the big man. Finally as the flurry of punches rained on Carmack, the Kansas City heavyweight was punched through the lower ropes and the referee was slow to stop the fight. Maddalone won by fourth round technical knockout. One fan who was impressed was LL Cool J who was enjoying the festivities. In the undercard we saw a technical display of boxing excellence as Lionell Thompson, 13-2, 9 KO's, learned from first round exchanges with undefeated Yathomas Riley, 8-0, 6 KO's in their cruiserweight duel that using his speed and movement. would serve him better. But more important he got busier throwing tons of counter punches. Lionell used the straight counter right often to the face and crisp flurries. Riley did not cut off the ring until the last two rounds and even though he was very strong and landed a few power blows, he mostly followed Thompson around and took way too many punches as he was exposed by Lionell as a crude lefty from Atlanta, GA, who needs to learn to cope with boxers of technical ability. Lionell won a unanimous decision 79-73 and 77-75 on the other two cards. The best fight of the night was between Lightweights Alan Gotay, unbeaten in four contests against 3-3 2 KOs opponent Bryan Acaba, from Brooklyn. After losing the first two rounds, Acaba who took several straight rights, adjusted. By keeping his hands up and getting busier while landing a few heavy shots. He won the third and fourth using this method. And Bryan confidence was assured when he won the fifth behind an improved jab, good solid defensive skills, and appeared to have been only a point behind and on the verge of victory until a crashing short right hook stunned Acaba. His legs shook and he fell to the ropes where he nearly fell out of the ring. Gotay swarmed with punches and he stunned Acaba twice before the referee finally stopped it in the sixth and final round. Other results included Welterweight Anthony Karperis winning a unanimous four round decision 40-35 on all cards to move to 4-1 2 KO's over Carlos Nieves of the Bronx, now winless in three bouts. Soumana Abdoulaye stopped Dave Meloni in his pro debut 1:11 of the opening stanza of their four round Junior Lightweight match. Soumana improved to 2-6. In a middleweight contest Carlos Lopez 0-1 fought Marcus Beckford, 0-0-1 to a four round draw. All in all a nice night for Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and a tougher than expected contest for Vinny Maddalone.

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New York Red Bulls: MLS Beast of the East

Cesar Diaz — Sun, 12 May 2013 12:31:03 +0000

Midfielder Lloyd Sam scored his first MLS goal as the first place New York Red Bulls ran their unbeaten streak to five with a 1-1 tie against the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium Saturday night. With the draw, New York moved to 21 points with a 6-4-3 record and is leading the Eastern Conference by one point. New York begins a three-game homestand on May 19, hosting defending MLS Cup Champion, the LA Galaxy, at 1:00 PM at Red Bull Arena. For tickets, call 1.877.RBSOCCER or log onto www.newyorkredbulls.com. Fabian Espindola tried to put the Red Bulls ahead in the 14^th minute, firing a left-footed blast past the right post. Later, Heath Pearce got his head on a New York corner kick and nodded it wide. In the 38^th minute, Revolution forward Dimitry Imbongo ran at the Red Bulls’ defense and his shot was saved by goalkeeper Luis Robles. New England went ahead in the 54^th minute. Chris Tierney’s corner kick towards the near post was volleyed by Diego Fagundez and blocked off the line by New York's Kosuke Kimura. However, Fagundez got to his own rebound first and put it in from close range. However, the Red Bulls responded immediately. Forward Andre Akpan, making his first start as a Red Bull, slid it into the box to Sam, who controlled the pass and put it inside the left post for his first career MLS goal. New York Red Bulls 1, New England Revolution 1 May 11, 2013 – Gillette Stadium – Foxborough, MA MLS Regular Season Scoring Summary: NE: Diego Fagundez 2 (unassisted) 54’ NY: Lloyd Sam 1 (Andre Akpan 2, Kosuke Kimura 2) 55’ Disciplinary Summary: NE: Kalifa Cisse (caution) 19’ New York Red Bulls (6-4-3, 21 points) – Luis Robles, Kosuke Kimura, Markus Holgersson, Heath Pearce, Roy Miller, Lloyd Sam (Brandon Barklage 76’), Eric Alexander, Tim Cahill (Juninho 46’), Jonny Steele, Fabian Espindola, Andre Akpan Substitutes Not Used: Santiago Castano, Connor Lade, Dax McCarty, Amando Moreno, Marius Obekop New England Revolution (2-4-4, 10 points) – Bobby Shuttleworth, Andrew Farrell, Jose Goncalves, Stephen McCarthy, Chris Tierney, Ryan Guy, Kalifa Cisse (Andy Dorman 77’), Lee Nguyen, Kelyn Rowe (Saer Sene 70’), Diego Fagundez, Dimitry Imbongo (Jerry Bengtson 74’) Substitutes Not Used: Matt Reis, Darrius Barnes, Scott Caldwell, Juan Toja Referee: Ricardo Salazar Referee’s Assistants: Ian Anderson, Jeff Muschik 4th Referee: Kevin Terry Jr. Attendance: 16,440

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Liriano returns and pitches Pirates to another win over the Mets

Rich Mancuso — Sun, 12 May 2013 12:27:03 +0000

New York – The Pittsburgh Pirates received a tremendous boost Saturday afternoon at Citi Field and it had to do more about their starting pitcher Francisco Liriano. The Pirates scoring 11- runs and banging out 16-hits in an 11-2 win over the New York Mets did not hurt either. Liriano, making his first start of the season, after a stint on the disabled list with a broken no throwing arm, was the story as New York is now 2-3 on this six game homestand that concludes Sunday afternoon. The left hander, signed by the Pirates in February, after spending six years with the Minnesota Twins and Chicago White Sox, struck out nine and held the Mets to six hits and a run. “Today went good,” said Liriano. “Really good location and just using a lot today. It was a little weird, nervous. But that went away. It just feels good to get the first one out of the way.” The 29-year old native of San Cristobal, Dominican Republic, with the Twins and Cubs last season went a combined 6-12 with a 5.34 ERA. “You are always encouraged about a man’s first outing. It was like opening day for him,” commented Pirates manager Clint Hurdle who now has three lefthanders in the rotation with Liriano. Pittsburgh got to Mets starter Johathon Niese early. Niese allowed a eight runs, which matched his career high. He also allowed nine hits in 4.1 innings, and allowed two home runs. One came in a three-run third inning sparked by a two-run home run from Jose Tabata, 4-for-5, driving in three runs. The other home run, was the first of two on the day from Jordy Mercer in the Pirates five-run fifth inning that broke the game wide open, 9-0. Mercer had his first multi home run game his career. Niese has allowed seven or more earned runs in two straight starts for the first time in his career. And with an ERA of 5.93, he does not resemble an ace that got the start on Opening Day. There has been concern for a health issue with Nieses’ back, and the southpaw admitted he has been sore and the arm angle with his delivery is lower. That, he claims causes hitters to pick up the ball in his delivery much easier. He did say, “Everything feels great. I think it’s to the point now where I created a bad habit with dropping down my arm angle and I’m kind of opening everything up. It’s something I’m going to work on in the bullpen to get it back.” In the end, another Mets loss as both teams waited almost an hour to play out the bottom of the 9th as a heavy thunder storm moved into the area. In that inning, with about 100 people remaining in the stands, of an announced crowd of 31,160, Andrew Brown hit his first home run of the season, a solo shot to left field… COLLINS SAYS RUN PRODUCERS WILL BE IN PROPER SLOTS TOMORROW: Manager Terry Collins addressed the issue of run production from his lineup that has gone sour. New York tied a season high in strikeouts, 16. And over the club’s last 12 home games, they have scored 31 runs, an average of 2.58, so there is frustration with a .199 batting average. The Sunday afternoon Mother’s Day series finale with the Pirates will see a different lineup that Collins hopes will bring back some production. That means the lineup card will have David Wright hitting third, Ike Davis at cleanup, and Lucas Duda to follow. Davis did not start again Saturday. Over his last 16-games, he is hitting .208 with three runs batted in and 20 strikeouts, including two more in the loss. He came off the bench in the seventh inning and struck out swinging. When the game resumed Davis went down looking off a fastball from the Pirates’ fourth and final pitcher, Tony Watson. Said Collins, regarding the troubles Davis has encountered at the plate: “He’s a big leaguer. He’s a good hitter. He will fight through it.” And throughout the struggles, though there has been speculation as to sending Davis to Triple-A Las Vegas to work on the hitting issues. Davis admitted he has been taking too many fastballs in the count and there will be adjustments in the cleanup hole. “I get pitched the same no matter what,” he said about being moved to the number four spot. “I have to make the adjustment and start finding the holes. The only thing that has an effect is David (Wright) when I am not hitting well. We played that way the first few weeks of the season and it went well.” MORE VALDESPIN ISSUES ARISE WITH BEING HIT BY PITCH: The soap opera of Jordany Valdespin continues after his home run ball Friday night appeared to have him show boating with a flinging of the bat at home plate and trotting around the base paths. As a pinch hitter in the seventh inning, and the game out of reach, Valdespin was obviously hit in the right forearm from a pitch thrown by Pittsburgh reliever Bryan Morris. Obvious the Pirates clubhouse would not comment about retaliation but this was something that was bound to begin, after all this is baseball and Valdespin is developing a reputation as a player that needs to mature. So, once again, Valdespin is the center of another issue. Though Collins and the Mets are not ruling out retaliation, they are in support of their teammate after seeing him throw his helmet in the dugout when the inning concluded. To his defense, Valdespin did not charge the mound, but his antics in the dugout were ignored by teammates. “You’ve got guys that support him, and guys obviously trying to help him,” said the captain David Wright. “He’s young. He has a lot of flair about him. That’s his personality. And he doesn’t need to change the person he is. I think toning some it down would be appropriate.” Valdespin was not available to the media in the clubhouse, and team Public Relations Director Jay Horwitz said the situation was over and Valdespin would no longer discuss the issue. Meaning, Valdespin may or may not have made the statement and is being protected by the Mets hierarchy. Though this is an issue, and Collins may have also been told to not address the subject of what has become a tenacious issue of immaturity and improper attitude of the 25-year old Valdespin, young in standards when it comes to Major League experience. “I respect him the way he went and handled it,” said Collins. “He went to first base.” Collins also said it was expected that he would be hit and was not objective where it was thrown, as described, “A purpose pitch.” He added, “He was aware of what might happen. It’s part of the game. I want to close the book on Jordany Valdespin.” The question: Is the book closed on further incidents. Comment Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com

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Kicking + Screening Soccer Film Festival Returning

Media Release — Sun, 12 May 2013 12:21:12 +0000

NEW YORK -- Five rebels. An inspiring underdog national team. A kooky musician. And one badass Australian. It's going to be quite the menagerie of stories at the 5th annual Kicking + Screening Soccer Film Festival in New York. And we're thrilled to announce the complete film lineup. K+S NEW YORK 2013 will take place Tuesday, June 18, through Friday, June 21, at the Tribeca Cinemas in downtown New York City.

K+S Film Lineup

Tuesday, June 18 Les Rebelles du Foot (Football Rebels), dir. by Gilles Perez and Gilles Rof -- At a time when business seems to be corrupting our relationship with sport, the indomitable Éric Cantona introduces us to five footballers who’ve managed to resist: Mekloufi, Sócrates, Pasic, Caszely, and Drogba. WATCH TRAILER & GET TICKETS » Wednesday, June 19 Mundial. The Highest Stakes, dir. by Michał Bielawski -- The untold story of Poland's incredible 3rd-place finish at the 1982 World Cup, at a time when their nation was under martial law. WATCH TRAILER & GET TICKETS » Thursday, June 20 3 Millones, dir. by Jaime Roos and Yamandu Roos -- A joyous documentary about the iconic Uruguayan musician Jaime Roos and his son, Yamandu, who reunite to embark on a "relentless journey" to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa with the Uruguayan national team. WATCH TRAILER & GET TICKETS » Friday, June 21 Tim Cahill: The Unseen Journey, dir. by Steven Sander -- Before he joined the New York Red Bulls, Tim Cahill was the centerpiece of the Australian national team. This documentary reveals his layered personality, an mystical heritage, and the life he leads ahead of what he knows will be the biggest moment of his career: the World Cup. WATCH TRAILER & GET TICKETS » Tribeca Cinemas 54 Varick Street (at the corner of Laight and Varick Streets, one block south of Canal Street)

Entrance to Theaters is located on the corner of Varick & Laight Street
Subway: 1, A, C, E, trains to Canal Street

FUTBOL ARTIST NETWORK ART SHOW In addition to four nights of great films, K+S will present a soccer-art show in partnership with the Futbol Artist Network, a California-based soccer art collective. Artwork from around the world depicting the many sides of the beautiful game will be on display and for sale at K+S NEW YORK 2013. COMMUNITY PARTNER: FC HARLEM K+S will make a contribution to this year's community partner, FC Harlem, a New York-based community youth development organization using “The World’s Game” as a platform to develop "L.I.O.NS" (Leaders In Our Neighborhoods). FC Harlem uses soccer as the means to connect with young people in Harlem, Washington Heights and Bronx both on and off the field. Through sport, they instill resilience, integrity, responsibility, compassion and a team mentality. Through academic and leadership programs, they deliver knowledge and experiences that propel young people to new levels of success. They serve, youth in Harlem, Washington Heights and Bronx with a particular focus on our Black and Latino population who need us most. We encourage you to help us to support them by donating when purchasing tickets. 100% of these donations will help fund FC Harlem's mission to provide underserved youth the skills and support they need to be fearless in life. For more information on FC Harlem, go to www.fcharlemlions.org or follow them on Twitter @FCHARLEM.

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Pitcher doesn’t have to bat last

Dan Schlossberg — Sun, 12 May 2013 02:56:21 +0000

Batting the pitcher eighth is not a novel idea, though Joe Girardi tried it a few days ago when David Phelps was pitching and Austin Romine was catching. Obviously, an interleague game was involved and the Yankees were playing in a National League park. That precluded them from using a designated hitter. Fredi Gonzalez fooled around with the concept in Atlanta last year after Tony LaRussa had tried it with the Cardinals. The idea is to place a spray-hitting speed merchant at the bottom of the order and give your team back-to-back "leadoff hitters" except for the first inning. Billy Martin once batted Rick Rhoden seventh -- but listed the good-hitting pitcher as his DH -- but the ultimate placement of the pitcher was conceived by Bobby Bragan more than 50 years ago. When he managed the moribund Pittsburgh Pirates of the late '50s, Bragan had a brainstorm that convinced him to bat the pitcher seventh, the "normal" first and second hitters eighth and ninth, and the usual third and fourth hitters first and second. He reasoned that such an alignment allowed him to get his best hitters -- those who usually hit third and fourth -- extra at-bats late in the game. How many times do close games end with the best hitters in the on-deck circle or lurking just beyond? Innovators are great for baseball. Larry MacPhail and Bill Veeck oozed ideas from every pore but were so repugnant to the baseball establishment that their well-deserved Cooperstown berths were delayed. Charley Finley, anathema to most of his fellow owners, still hasn't gotten in -- even though one-time antagonist Reggie Jackson insists he belongs. All Finley did was win three straight World Series and five divisional titles in a row while serving as his own general manager and scouting director. Employing only a sketetal staff, Finley found a way to make his Oakland A's a dynasty before free agency ruined it all. Finley warned against that too -- but the other owners turned a deaf ear to the man who introduced colored uniforms, facial hair, mascots, and a myriad of other new ideas now taken for granted in baseball. He pushed for the designated hitter and interleague play and even tried a designated runner (Herb Washington). Change is good when change is good. But change can be bad if it destroys the integrity of the All-Star Game, the World Series, or the game itself. It will be interesting to see what Bud Selig's successor suggests when he becomes the next commissioner in the next year or two. Rolling back the clock might just be a remedy to restore the greatness of the game.

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Wandy Rodriguez lead the Pirates to Victory

Rich Mancuso — Sat, 11 May 2013 13:13:08 +0000

New York – Pittsburgh Pirates starter Wandy Rodriguez, 4-0 in his last five starts against the Mets, has to love pitching against them. On the other hand, struggling Mets starter Shaun Marcum sealed his fate by allowing six runs over 4.2 innings. That was the difference for two teams still trying to find themselves as the Pirates evened a four-game series at Citi Field with a 7-3 win. New York trailed the entire game, went 1-for-12 with runners in scoring position and suffered as Marcum's woes continued. The righthander seemed uncomfortable from the onset and failed to last five innings over three consecutive starts for the first time in his career. Marcum gave up four straight hits in the Pirates’ three-run second inning. He also hit two batters, but retired the side in order three times. The concern was Rodriguez getting a run scoring hit up the middle in the inning that knocked the glove off Marcum’s left hand. The ball, ending in a force out defected to Justin Turner at second base. “Still a little sore,” he said about the hand, but he expects to make his next start Wednesday night at St. Louis. He stayed in the game, but manager Terry Collins was concerned even after X-rays came back negative. To have any opportunity at being competitive before and after the All-Star break, New York's starting pitching needs to remain healthy. That includes Marcum, who began the season on the disabled list. The Mets entered the game 12th in the league in pitching and there are constant questions as to when their other prized rookie, righthander Zach Wheeler, will be called up from Triple-A Las Vegas for his major- league debut. Asked about that second inning and the three straight losses, Marcum said: “I feel good. The thing is I’m just not making pitches. When you don’t throw 95 and the balls up in the zone, they’re going to get hit. The main thing is I’ve got to get back to locating and getting the ball down in the zone.” Rodriguez, now 3-2 on the season and 6-2 lifetime against New York, gave up six hits over six innings in his fourth start. Anthony Recker, starting over John Buck in the catcher’s spot, hit one of the two Mets home runs off Rodriguez in the fifth inning. It was his first of the season. Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle said of Rodriguez, “He gave us what we needed.” With lefthander Francisco Liriano coming off the disabled list to start Saturday afternoon, the solid outing by Rodriguez helps point the Pirates in the right direction. “Nothing special,” commented Rodriguez about his success against the Mets. The seven-year veteran, a native of Santiago in the Dominican Republic added, “The command was good. It happens, nothing special,” referring to his latest win opposing New York. NOTES: The other Mets home run in the ninth inning was the third of the year for Jordany Valdespin, coming off the bench. That cut the Pittsburgh lead to five runs, but led to some questions. Valdespin appeared to fling his bat after hitting the long ball and took his time going around the bases. It was not the first time that happened this season, and his attitude may be a reason why he does not get constant starts in the outfield. The Mets are impressed with his ability to hit the long ball, yet Collins says his ability to get a big hit off the bench makes him at this time more suitable for that role. In addition, Collins has been utilizing a different alignment in the outfield almost every game this season, giving Valdespin occasional starts. But has Valdespin been showboating, and portraying an attitude not acceptable for a big-leaguer? “Doesn’t matter,” said Collins about flipping the bat and slow trot. “We’ve talked about this individually, we’ve talked about it as a group. In the game today you have to turn your head on some things. It’s done everywhere. Do I like it? I don’t know if it really matters. I can’t change the game.” Collins added that Valdespin is making a case to be in that lineup every day. “If he keeps hitting homers, he can stand at home plate all he wants, I guess as long as they start coming up at the right time.” Valdespin has not heard anything from his teammates about the attitude, and in the clubhouse he has taken a role as the kid who is enjoying the game, an attitude of being the teaser, similar to what former Met Jose Reyes was accustomed to doing and seen more often talking to shortstop Ruben Tejada. After a win on the Mets last home stand, Valdespin was seen in the clubhouse holding a television camera and pretending to be a reporter interviewing his teammates after a game. But when addressing the media, the youngster in him is still evident. There isn’t much substantial to say, and he is very subtle and more comfortable speaking in Spanish. And the Dominican Republic native this off-season was active on Twitter and distributed a photo wearing a Miami Marlins cap. As to the home run trot and flinging of the bat, Valdespin, struggling to speak English said, “When you hit the ball you’ve got to enjoy your hit. When you strike out you’ve got to keep your head down. Every time I hit the ball, a home run or something, I enjoy it. Every hit I’m enjoying. My family, enjoy. My friends enjoy.” Yes, it is enjoyable. But the concern is, if this keeps up, will his teammates be enthused if an opposing pitcher throws a retaliation pitch? And, what will Collins say then? Comment Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com

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Schlossberg’s weekend notebook: Maddux made his mark

Dan Schlossberg — Fri, 10 May 2013 20:37:30 +0000

Cooperstown's classic Otesaga Hotel will be quiet in July when the Baseball Hall of Fame hosts its annual inductions. With one eye on players associated with steroids, voting members of the Baseball Writers Association of America declined to pick anybody -- not even the clean-as-a-whistle Craig Biggio. Roger Clemens and Mike Piazza, both eligible for the first time, also failed to draw the needed 75 per cent of the vote. That will change next year when Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine, both 300-game winners, are virtually certain to vault into the hallowed hall on the first ballot. Maddux might become the most unlikely Hall of Famer of all. A pitcher who did not throw hard, he won by staying healthy and staying consistent. He never won more than 20 games, topped 37 starts, or pitched more than 268 innings. But, thanks in part to a record 18 Gold Gloves, he became the only man in baseball history to win at least 15 games for 17 straight seasons. The owner of a .610 lifetime winning percentage, Maddux had a 162-game average of 16 wins and 10 losses. Those sound like ordinary numbers until they're multiplied by 23 years. As a result, he ranks first among living pitchers with 355 victories, just eight behind Warren Spahn on the lifetime list. Called "the Professor" not only because of his appearance but also because of his remarkable memory, Maddux managed to win four consecutive Cy Young Awards, a feat later duplicated by Randy Johnson. To this day, he's low-key, humble, and almost introverted -- a man who would rather play golf than talk about his pitching. It's worth noting that Bobby Cox and John Schuerholz, the chief beneficiaries of the Maddux mastery, may join him on the Cooperstown podium next summer. Both the manager and general manager are also on the 2014 Hall of Fame ballot. Elsewhere around the majors: After watching Vernon Wells play third base during batting practice, Yankees manager Joe Girardi tested him in a game situation without incident . . . Matt Harvey's march toward National League Rookie of the Year honors has shifted attention away from Washington wunderkind Stephen Strasburg, who was supposed to be the next big pitcher, and toward the Mets' righthander . . . Only the Yankees have more significant men on the disabled list than the Los Angeles Dodgers. Hanley Ramirez, a former National League batting champ, has hardly played this season because of hamstring problems and starting pitchers Zack Greinke (collarbone) and Chad Billingsley (Tommy John surgery) have spent most of the year on the sidelines . . . Managers who claim the World Baseball Classic forces players try too hard too soon may be right -- especially after watching Craig Kimbrel (Braves) throw three home run balls over a two-game span . . . How could the Angels have spent so much time building their lineup but so little time protecting their pitching? It seems the money lavished on Josh Hamilton could have brought two front-line starters to Los Angeles . . . Former pitcher Pete Smith, most recently the baseball history consultant for the film 42, makes his first guest appearance on the May 16th edition of Braves Banter, heard Thursdays at 7p EDT on iTunes and BlogTalkRadio.com . . . Al Clark, a major-league umpire for 26 years, loves Washington outfielder Bryce Harper. "How many kids are the media talking about who have the attitude he has when he talks onto the field every day?" Clark asks. "Bryce Harper has a Paul Molitor attitude, a George Brett attitude. He's different from most of today's kids." . . . . All but two of the ten living 300-game winners were at least 40 years old when they reached that milestone. Both Tom Seaver and Greg Maddux were 38. On the fourth day after his return from shoulder surgery, Brian McCann enjoyed a three-hit game in San Francisco and capped a Braves win with a home run . . .

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Queens native Baxter’s pinch-hit stuns Pirates as Mets win 3-2

Danny Torres — Fri, 10 May 2013 11:53:25 +0000

NEW YORK— Surely the 20,147 Met fans who traveled to Citi Field for the series opener against Pittsburgh Pirates weren’t only looking for a victory but quite honestly a game that would bring their team step closer to .500. They got their wish. In the bottom of the ninth, Whitestone native Mike Baxter again drove a pinch-single up the middle, scoring Marlon Byrd as the Amazin’s (14-17) defeated the Buccos, 3-2. At the post-game press conference, Terry Collins shared a revealing tidbit on what the team captain’s perception is on Baxter: “David told me when the game was over not to start him [Baxter] another game. Just keep saving him.” “Mike did the same thing last year,” Collins added. “This guy can come off the bench with a plan, something in his mind and execute.” Prior to Baxter receiving the customary “pie” in the face, it almost seemed as if the Mets again couldn’t produce much-needed offense. Mets starter Dillon Gee (2-4), who pitched five innings, left the game without a decision. He allowed one run, five hits, and two hit batters. In the second inning, the Mets scored their first run on a sacrifice fly by Marlon Byrd, scoring John Buck, who singled earlier in the inning. By the sixth inning, Gee allowed back-to-back singles, following up with hitting Russell Martin in the elbow. Collins singled to the bullpen and, with the bases loaded, New York native Pedro Alvarez drove a sacrifice fly to tie the game 1-1. Going into the seventh inning, Collins, to his credit, made a number of adjustments to his lineup that proved to be a winning formula. Ike Davis was called to pinch-hit. Over his last 15 at-bats, he’s hitting .167 (8-48). That would finally change for the struggling first baseman. Davis smacked a double, scoring Andrew Brown and putting the Mets up, 2-1. It seems that Citi Field was somewhat of homecoming for another native New Yorker but one wearing a different uniform. Pirates third baseman Pedro Alvarez, whose formative years were spent playing baseball in the North Bronx, blasted a solo shot off Latroy Hawkins, tying the game 2-2. Prior to the walk-off win, any writer would be remiss to not report the spectacular, leaping catch by Juan Lagares in the top of the ninth. Andrew McCutchen’s almost-extra-base hit would have scored José Tabata, who contributed a pinch-hit single. For now, Baxter seems to have found his niche with the 2013 Mets and the only question that remains to be seen is can this success continue. Right now, his teammates continue to shake their heads in amazement. Maybe Wright is right: keep him on the bench. He knows what to do.

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EJ Viso: Heat & Reflexes

Cesar Diaz — Fri, 10 May 2013 00:36:53 +0000

Here's this week's edition of LatinoSports.com ongoing series of questions with IZOD IndyCar race driver E.J. Viso. Currently ranked 12th overall, the 28-year-old Viso is now in his sixth IZOD IndyCar season and first with Andretti Autosport. Along with asking him questions about the races, we’ve also been able to have a better understanding of the world of auto racing. You can follow Viso on twitter at @EJVISO. 1. What are your thoughts about your last race? I believe that the last race was positive in general. The performance we had since the first practices was really outstanding, and it’s definitely been a progress since the first race of the championship. Just being in the front row in qualifying and starting the race in that position, it means a lot to me and my crew. We are all pretty new to the team and we are still working together to get to know each other and keep a tight, efficient way of working. So far, we’ve been progressing really rapidly and I believe that we are all excited for what’s coming next. Finishing in the sixth position in Brazil, it means a lot even if we believe that it wasn’t the position we thought we could finish. I think a podium was very, very possible. 2. When you're not driving, how do you keep your reflexes sharp? I’m a very active person. I normally do plenty of physical things during the day. I like jet skiing, skydiving, different sports where precision, adrenaline, risk are involved. I believe that as long as you keep your body and mind active in those ways, your reflexes will be sharp. 3. How hot does it get inside the car when you're racing? Actually it gets very, very hot. We wear the fireproof suits – they’re very hot and you sweat so much. You could lose about five pounds a race. That’s what makes it very difficult in many ways – not only mentally, but physically it’s very draining. 4. During a race, have you ever cramped up? If so, how do you loosen up? Luckily I’ve never cramped up. I believe cramps are a mix of not enough hydration and not enough exercise. So I think I stay on top of both of those…hopefully I never get cramps. 5. What race suit and helmet brand do you wear? How many do you own? I’ve been wearing Sparco for a long time. I like them a lot and believe they are one of the best out there; they’ve been a great partner for me in my career. Regarding my helmet, I wear Arai. I do love those helmets - they’ve saved my life more than once, and I’m pretty sure I’ll continue to use them! I believe I own over 70 helmets. About Andretti Autosport Based in Indianapolis and led by racing legend Michael Andretti, Andretti Autosport fields multiple entries in the IZOD IndyCar Series. Andretti Autosport also campaigns multiple cars in Firestone Indy Lights, the Pro Mazda Championship and in the USF2000 National Championship. The company boasts four IZOD IndyCar Series championships (2004, 2005, 2007 and 2012), two Firestone Indy Lights titles (2008 and 2009), one USF2000 championship (2010) and has won the Indianapolis 500 twice (2005 and 2007). For more information, please visit www.AndrettiAutosport.com.

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Rios lifts struggling White Sox hitters to win and series split with Mets

Rich Mancuso — Thu, 09 May 2013 11:41:06 +0000

New York – Coming off an almost perfect outing on the mound the night before from Matt Harvey, New York Mets starter Jeremy Hefner would try to follow and get a lift for his first win Wednesday evening. Except it worked the other way at Citi Field, as the Chicago White Sox got a lift with their revamped lineup and split the last of a two game series with a 6-3 win. Hefner, (0-4) gave up a leadoff home run to Alejandro De Aza, and later another Sox home run was hit by Alex Rios in the ninth off Mets reliever Jeurys Familia. The Mets right hander would have some good moments, but in the end White Sox starter Jake Peavy was better. He limited New York to three hits after missing his last two starts with back spasms. Peavy was aware what Harvey did the night before. He watched from the visitor’s dugout, more importantly with the Sox’ failure to score runs, seven in their previous four games, he knew the importance of returning to the rotation. “We needed to come back and win after what happened last night,” he said. “Good for the boys to respond.” The right hander, who last opposed the Mets at Citi Field in April 2009, then with San Diego, won his third consecutive decision allowing one run over 6.2 innings. Hefner would be hard to duplicate what Harvey delivers. Not to say, as one of the back end starters of the rotation, that he is not capable. However, the way New York has also struggled to get timely hits and score runs, it made his task also that more difficult as the White Sox split the brief two-game interleague series. It was the first time Chicago played a series against the Mets in New York. Their manager, Robin Ventura, played third base for the Mets when they opposed the Yankees in the 2000 World Series. To get the bats going, he made some changes to the lineup.. Conor Gillaspie was inserted in the cleanup spot for the first time in his career. He delivered with a two-run double off Hefner, and Rios, fighting a mini slump of his own batted in the third spot and also delivered with three hits including a solo home run in the eighth. The leadoff home run was an indicator, as Chicago compiled a season high 12 hits off Hefner and four relievers out of the Mets struggling bullpen. “When you start a game like that,” said Rios, “everybody seems to follow the leader. And that’s what we’ve got to do. I think we’re going to get out of the funk sooner than better. I was in a little of a struggle, just a matter of when to get out.” As for Peavy, who is a significant part of the Sox’ plans in the American League Central, Rios commented, “He was on a mission. That’s him. That’s what you expect him to do all the time.” He threw 114 pitches, worked 6-2/3 innings, struck out six and walked two. Though Mets manager Terry Collins felt Hefner did his part after the first inning home run and the three run Chicago third that saw his team trailing 4-1. The first New York run scored in the second, a leadoff home run and seventh of the season off the bat of Lucas Duda that went deep to upper right. “Outside of the home run and Rios’ double, they weren’t exactly swinging the bats,” said Collins, which also gave confidence to Hefner and his struggles. “I thought Jeremy was pitching OK, we just couldn’t catch back up.” Hefner gave up four runs on eight hits in six innings. The White Sox though have some catching up to do, starting play Wednesday evening last in their division. They return home after a 4-4 road trip and won for the first time in five inter league games. The Mets, on the other hand, they have to figure a way to win after a Harvey start, now 0-7 in that situation as they await the Pittsburgh Pirates and a four-game series that begins Thursday evening. Harvey will get the start in the series finale Sunday afternoon. Comment to Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com

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MLS News: Red Bulls win 2-1 over the Impact

Media Release — Thu, 09 May 2013 11:35:05 +0000

HARRISON, New Jersey - The Montreal Impact lost for the first time in four regular season matches, falling 2-1 to the New York Red Bulls Wednesday night at Red Bull Arena. New York Designated Player Thierry Henry scored a brace, while Marco Di Vaio scored for the Impact in extra time. Henry opened the scoring for the Red Bulls in the dying seconds of added time in the first half. Following a shot by Eric Alexander that banged off the cross bar, forward Fabian Espindola found the rebound and fed the ball to Henry in the six yard box. The former French international took a low shot on goal from point blank range that deflected off of an Impact defender near the goal line and went in. Henry then got his second of the game in spectacular fashion in the 88^thminute. Juninho played a corner kick near the penalty spot where Markus Holgersson headed the ball back towards the far post that found Henry back to goal. The Red Bulls DP used a half volley bicycle kick to put the ball into the top corner, towards the opposite post from about 8 yards out. Di Vaio got one back for the Impact in extra time when he hammered a shot from the centre of the box to the bottom right corner. Midfielder Justin Mapp set up the Italian striker with a through ball. Then a few seconds later, Di Vaio came close to tying it when a deep cross into the box from Mapp was chested down by Hassoun Camara. Di Vaio then blasted a one timer that bounced off both posts. Down possession in the first with only 44.2%, the Impact regained control of the ball in the second half with 52% and finished the game with more attempts at goal with 17-13. Post-game comments "This result leaves a bitter taste in my mouth because we played our best game of the season," said Impact head coach Marco Schällibaum. "We had several scoring opportunities. The players believed until the end and did all they could to get a result. We deserved a tie. They were excellent tactically. Even with the loss tonight, I'm really proud of my players." "We made a mistake on their first goal and allowed a second goal in the final minutes of the game that prevented us from tying it," noted midfielder Patrice Bernier, who wore the captain's armband for the game. "We dominated, but we were not very precise. We paid the price on their efficient counter-attacks." "We got great opportunities to tie the game, but we were unlucky," said Marco Di Vaio. "We played a good game and were competitive for 90 minutes. We are not happy, but we feel we did well. We fight every match and have good chances to win, so it's positive." Other highlights The first real chance of the game fell to the left foot of Henry in the 18^th minute. Red Bulls left midfielder Johnny Steele curled a chest-level cross through the Impact defence to Henry, but his one-timer bounced wide, far post, to Perkins' left. In the 21^st minute, Impact midfielder Sanna Nyassi hit the cross bar with a blast from 20 yards out, facing the left post, after accepting a lateral feed from fellow mid Andres Romero. Then one minute later, Nyassi broke in alone on goal, using his speed to get through the New York defence, but Red Bulls keeper Luis Robles came charging out, sliding to stop the shot. In the 42^nd minute, Brazilian midfielder Juninho curled one of his patented free kicks around the wall from about 20 yards out, but it slid just inches past the pole to Perkins' right. Impact keeper Troy Perkins was forced to make some big saves to keep the game close in the second half. Just after the whistle, Perkins made a diving stop as Eric Alexander got onto the end of a cross from the left flank by Heath Pearce with his head from point blank range that was destined for the bottom corner. Then in the 62^nd minute, Henry played a cross from the left touchline that found Steele, who took the ball down with his chest before blasting one from the top of the box that forced Perkins to dive to his right to make the save. Midfielder Justin Mapp reached a milestone in this one, starting his 200^th career MLS game while defender Jeb Brovsky hit the 50-start plateau. Forward Andrew Wenger made his second straight start for the Impact.

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College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2013 Announced

Howard Goldin — Thu, 09 May 2013 11:28:49 +0000

New York, NY--- The official announcement of the College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2013 from the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) was made on Tuesday afternoon at the NASDAQ Market Site in the heart of Times Square. The newest class of inductees includes 12 All American former student-athletes and two coaches. The number of the honorees is but a minute sector of the nearly five million college athletes who have toiled on the gridiron. This year’s class raises the number of Hall of Fame members to 930 players and 202 coaches. The National Football Foundation (NFF) & College Football Hall of Fame, a non-profit educational organization, was founded in 1947. Its purpose is to use amateur football as a means to improve the scholarship, citizenship and athletic progress of young people. The Hall of Fame inducted its first class in 1951. The class of 32 players and 19 coaches included such legends as Knute Rockne, Red Grange and Jim Thorpe. Although the Class of 2013 may not have figures of such immense historical stature of that first group, it certainly includes individuals worthy of the honor. Despite New York City generally not considered to be a hot-bed of football prospects, the first and only name announced on the day before the official announcement, Vinny Testaverde, is a native of the borough of Brooklyn. His football skills were fostered on Long Island, where he attended high school. The New Yorker was the recipient of the highest awards including the Heisman Trophy as the quarterback at the University of Miami. Testaverde became a fan favorite in the New York area as he played seven of his illustrious NFL seasons with the Jets. The complete list of the 2013 Hof inductees was announced by ESPN broadcaster Rece Davis on Tuesday afternoon. Two other Heisman trophy winners were on the list. Ron Dayne, a Berlin, New Jersey native, was a three time Bowl Game MVP for Wisconsin. The running back was drafted by the Giants in 2000 and one of the mainstays of the 2001 Super Bowl team. The third Heisman winner, Danny Wuerffel, was present for the announcement. The University of Florida quarterback led his college to a record of 45-6-1and the national Championship in 1996. Oh his selection, he jovially and honestly commented, “We all love a celebration and honestly, we love it most when it’s about us.” The strong advocate of service to one’s community, more seriously gave credit to others in his life and career, “For all of this to happen, there’s so many people that play a part.” The other new Hall of Fame member present was Tedy Brusci, a defensive end at the University of Arizona. Brusci was a 13 year member of the New England Patriots, during which the team was the victor in three Super Bowls. Brusci spoke of his start in football when he was a high school freshman and went with a group of friends to a tryout for the school team. He spoke of his philosophy of the sport and his surprise at the honor, “I never had any long-term goal playing college football. I feel like I’m here by chance. My philosophy was play your best and hopefully, it’s better than the next guy.” The players not present included a wide array of positions, colleges and years played. Steve Meilinger of Eastern Kentucky was the only representative of the 1950’s. Quarterback Don Trull of Baylor played in the early 1960’s. Ted Brown of North Carolina State played in the late 1970’s. Jerry Gray, defenseman at Texas and linebacker Percy Snow of Michigan State was on the college gridiron in the 1980’s. The 1990’s were represented Tommy Frazier, quarterback at Nebraska and Orlando Pace of Ohio State. The only deceased member of the new class is Rod Shoate, linebacker at Oklahoma, who died in 1999. The two coaches are Bill McCartney of Colorado and Wayne Hardin, who coached at Navy and Temple. At Navy, Hardin was the coach of Heisman winners Joe Bellino (1960) and Roger Staubach (1963). The annual Hall of Fame Dinner that will officially induct the new class will be held at the Waldorf on December 10, 2013.

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Mets 1-0 Win over the White Sox Photo Journal

Cesar Diaz — Thu, 09 May 2013 11:20:47 +0000

New York, NY - In our effort to showcase the talent of the Photographers who contribute to LatinoSports.com, we’re making a strong commitment to produce photo journals in their honor. Photographer Bill Menzel was in attendance this past Tuesday during the Mets 1-0 win over the White over at Citi Field. You can view more of Bill's diverse photography coverage over at BillMenzelPhotography.com.

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