By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Monday, February 28, 2011

NEW YORK — In the end, the Lightning never really got close to making a deal before Monday's trade deadline.

Oh, there was the Hurricanes' offer of a draft pick for defenseman Randy Jones. And there was a two-trade scenario in which, as Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman described, "If we could do this and add this, then we were prepared to do that.

"The 'this' never materialized."

So Tampa Bay was quiet.

It did not get a depth forward, meaning it is more important than ever that injured wing Ryan Malone is ready for the playoffs. It did not jettison a defenseman, meaning when injured blue-liners Mike Lundin and Mattias Ohlund are back from injury, coach Guy Boucher will have to manage nine.

Then there are the Capitals, in hot pursuit of the Lightning for first place in the Southeast Division, who got better by adding forward Jason Arnott and defenseman Dennis Wideman.

Yzerman did not seem perturbed. "We got up (Monday) morning and said, 'These are the things we'll look at and try to accomplish. If we can't do them, worst-case scenario, we stand pat,' " he said from the team's Manhattan hotel. "Every one of us said, unequivocally, if that's the worst-case scenario, we're fine.

"We like the way our team plays. We like the chemistry. All aspects of our game have improved. That's why we didn't want to force a deal just to get a deal done."

It should be noted the Lightning made significant additions with goalie Dwayne Roloson and defensemen Eric Brewer and Marc-Andre Bergeron.

Yzerman also has been adamant about not trading away high draft choices, though he said Monday that he would have made an exception had he found "a young player who would have been with us a long time."

"We weren't trying to outsmart ourselves," Yzerman added. "We've got a pretty good team. We're trying to find players who will fit in and improve us, and take into account what we have to give up and the salary you have to bring in. It wasn't a fit."

That is fine with Boucher.

"The one thing I was scared of was changing our chemistry," he said. "Unless you have the perfect fit, it's very difficult. The upside wasn't big enough for us to do anything. I'm very happy to go with what we've got right now."

As for Malone, out with what is believed a stomach muscle injury, word is he will be ready the first week of April.

As for carrying nine defensemen, Boucher said it is no problem because he dresses seven for games and equated it to teams that dress the usual six and carry eight.

"Defensemen fall like flies in the season and into the playoffs, so that's where you need the most depth," Boucher said. "It's a great situation; the best situation for our team."

Added Yzerman: "We didn't want to reduce our defensemen from nine to eight just to do that and weaken our team. Any opportunity we had wasn't making us better for the playoffs."

That, in the end, was most important.

Claimed: The Senators picked up Lightning goalie Curtis McElhinney off waivers.

By Gary Shelton, Times Sports Columnist
Monday, February 28, 2011

The iron gates of One Buc Place are strong and foreboding. Add a bit of barbed wire to the bars and they could pass for Alcatraz gates. Folsom gates, maybe.

By design, they are built to keep certain things at a distance. Wackadoodle fans, for one thing. Chuckleheaded columnists, from time to time. Also, former coaches. Once locked, these gates can keep a lot of things at bay.

Who knows?

Maybe even success.

For the Tampa Bay Bucs, and for those who follow along, this is the biggest risk of a possible NFL lockout. The more Roger Goodell blathers, and the more DeMaurice Smith yammers, the worse it might be for the Bucs. Locking the offseason outside wouldn't do any team any good, but potentially, it could hurt the Bucs as much as anyone.

Let's face it: The NFL labor negotiations are about greedy people arguing over money. Who cares? Deep down, it isn't going to bother you if the tailback is making $4 million instead of $6 million next year. And even if you prefer Goodell's 18-game schedule, you can live with 16.

Until the sides start discussing whether it's time to put a cap on ticket prices or lift the blackout rule 50 percent of the time in publicly funded stadiums, most of us don't care. And we don't care that we don't care.

On the other hand, when the money talk starts standing in the way of a team's progress, then it's time to pay attention.

Start with this: The Bucs need this offseason. They need it because they are so young. They need it because their defense needs the same sort of talent infusion as the offense got a year ago. They need it because they are a team on the rise. They need it because there is improvement yet to be made. They need it for the chemistry and cohesion that such times offer.

Most of all, they need it because last offseason was so darned nifty.

Do you want to know when the Bucs transformed from a very bad team to a pretty good one? It was last offseason, in those quiet months when no one pays much attention. That's when Josh Freeman grew into a quarterback, and when Raheem Morris grew into a head coach and when Mark Dominik grew into a general manager.

They keep score in the fall, but it is in the spring and summer that a football team fashions its future. This time last year, Freeman was spending his days in a film room, learning how to be a quarterback. This time last year, the Bucs were checking out Mike Williams and LeGarrette Blount.

Considering the season that followed, you could argue the Bucs had the finest offseason of any team in the NFL last year. Granted, that was particularly noticeable when compared to the train wreck of the previous offseason that featured Jeff Jagodzinski and the Byron Leftwich Dancers, but still, it was last offseason when things changed. The Bucs righted the ship, changed the direction and transformed into a smart, efficient organization once again.

Right about now, the Bucs could stand a little more of the same.

If the history of the NFL teaches us anything, it is that one year's improvement doesn't automatically continue to the next. But the longer the lockout, the easier it is to expect the status quo. Good teams are still going to be good teams, because they usually have the best organizations, and the best quarterbacks and the best defense. Conversely, bad teams are still going to struggle to get out of their own way no matter how long a lockout lasts.

So what happens to the teams that are on their way up? We'll see. But I've never seen anything quite like the 1987 work stoppage to destroy a team's chemistry.

How close are the Bucs? While watching the Packers beat the Steelers in last month's Super Bowl, it was easy to wonder just how far away from these teams, and that game, the Bucs were.

Two years, I thought. If nothing gets in their way but the teams on their schedule, I think they'll be a playoff team, but I still think they'll lack the maturity to make a real run at the Super Bowl. Besides, they made about two years' progress in one last year, and it's hard to ask for that again. Give the front office two years to get the defense right and let the offense grow up and this team should be a threat.

Still, the Bucs need an offseason. They need to find a defensive end (or two) and a linebacker (or two). They need Davin Joseph to autograph a contract. They need Gerald McCoy to get stronger and Blount to become a complete back and Williams to become more polished and Arrelious Benn to harness his ability. They need Freeman to convince people he's a top five quarterback, not just a top 10.

Just a thought, but it might help if the film room was open and the footballs were inflated.

In the meantime, Goodell postures, and Smith poses, and soon, the gates will begin to close.

With any luck, they will close on someone's foot.

By Greg Auman, Times Staff Writer
Monday, February 28, 2011

TAMPA — USF baseball coach Lelo Prado went into this season with two senior aces to build around in Randy Fontanez and Andrew Barbosa, and as dependable as his Friday and Saturday starters are, the difference between a good team and something more might hinge on how well his pitching fares on Sundays and in midweek games.

Tonight, his Bulls get their first midweek test — one of their tougher ones of the season — as they play Miami as part of the Florida Four doubleheader at Steinbrenner Field. Junior left-hander Matt Reed will start for the Bulls.

"On Tuesday and Wednesday, you've got to have those guys that throw strikes — he's pitched well for us in the past and deserves an opportunity," said Prado, who will see Florida and Florida State play in the event's other game.

Reed, who has a 3-1 mark with seven career starts, is eager to show he belongs as a midweek starter — another lefty, freshman Nick Gonzalez, has pitched well in his first two Sunday starts as USF's No. 3. Reed said the Bulls have a chance to show the depth of their pitching staff, now under the guidance of former Rays pitching coach Chuck Hernandez.

"We know that Randy and Barbosa are going to give us the best chance to win every time they take the mound," Reed said. "People need to realize that we're more than just a two-man (staff) — all the other pitchers, including myself, need to step up and compete, to do our job, throw strikes, get people out and take this team to Omaha."

Pitching, six games into this season, has not been USF's problem. The Bulls are off to a 1-5 start for the second year in a row, but with three of those losses at No. 1 Florida and the other two in extra innings over the weekend. USF is hitting .209 as a team, with 55 strikeouts against just six walks at the plate, but Prado said he expects batters to be rustier than pitchers at the start of the season.

Miami (4-3) has had solid pitching as well, holding opposing hitters to a .188 average.

Reed's biggest win was last year against Stetson, limiting the Hatters to one run on two hits in six innings, but he isn't getting caught up in the challenge of facing the Hurricanes tonight.

"It's an honor to get a start against a program like Miami, but at the end of the day, it's just another team we're facing," Reed said. "I'm always excited to pitch, but there's no extra motivation. I don't think it matters that it's the University of Miami. It's just another college baseball team that's trying to beat me, so it's executing my pitches, do what I can to help us get a win."

Reed's father, Marty, played with Prado at Hillsborough Community College and later was Prado's pitching coach when he won Division II national championships at the University of Tampa in 1992 and 1993.

His father spent six seasons in the Angels' minor-league system, and one of his coaches then was Hernandez, a coincidence that has reinforced for Matt that he made the right call in choosing USF.

"I love Coach Hernandez — it's been a really easy transition, and he's been a blessing for us," Reed said. "We're happy moving forward with him as our pitching coach, trying to be the best staff we can be."

By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Monday, February 28, 2011

GAINESVILLE — It's highly unlikely that when the season began in November, anyone would have predicted that Florida and Alabama would be playing for the SEC men's basketball regular-season title.

But four months later, they are at that point. The No. 14 Gators (22-6, 11-3) host Alabama (19-9, 11-3) tonight, with the winner clinching at least a share of the overall conference title.

"There's a lot of excitement, especially being able to play for an SEC championship," senior F Alex Tyus said. "A lot of thoughts are going to be going through my mind. But pretty much, when the ball goes up, it's going to be all reaction and remembering what we need to do to win."

There are plenty of story lines tonight. There is the meeting of close friends Billy Donovan and Anthony Grant, who coached together for 12 years before Grant moved on to VCU and now Alabama.

"The personal relationship with Anthony, I'm very, very happy for him, and he really has done a terrific job," Donovan said.

This is Grant's first trip to Gainesville as a head coach, and he said he'll do everything possible to stay away from the emotions that might come with that, particularly with so much on the line.

"The thing we try to do is stay in the moment," he said Monday. "It's one game at a time, and we've got enough with Florida's team. They are very talented. I've got a lot of respect for what Billy's done, not only this year, but throughout his career, the way his guys play. So our focus is just trying to get prepared for their team right now."

And then there are the seniors. Florida will honor Tyus, Chandler Parsons and redshirt senior Vernon Macklin before tipoff in the O'Connell Center. Parsons and Tyus have accounted for 92 wins (43 for Macklin, who transferred in from Georgetown).

"I think it's going to be very emotional," Parsons said. "I've spent a lot of time in there, had a lot of games, a lot of memories in there. It flew by really fast. But I'm excited to get out there, excited to play there. What's at stake, with the game, we couldn't ask for a better ending — to get the win, on senior night, my last game ever in the O'Dome and get the SEC championship."

Tennessee coach Bruce Pearl has faced both teams this season and has a firsthand perspective on how the game might play out.

"Being at Florida, obviously that gives them somewhat of an advantage," Pearl said. "But I think it's two really good teams that are both playing really well. I'd give an edge to Alabama if Florida didn't have something to play for because Alabama obviously needs that game to help their chances, help their RPI, help their NCAA Tournament picture. … I think it's going to be a great, great, great, great game. And it's great for the SEC. It's a very even matchup."

On a roll: The women's basketball team will begin play in the SEC Tournament on Thursday as the No. 8 seed and will play No. 9 Arkansas at 1 p.m. Florida (17-13, 7-9) enters the tournament on a three-game winning streak, which includes victories over Mississippi State, at Vanderbilt on Friday and over then-No. 22 Georgia on Sunday. Coach Amanda Butler is hoping the victory and newfound confidence will be a benefit entering the tournament.

"I'm very pleased with the way our team ended the season," Butler said. "It gives us great momentum going back up to Nashville. You can never underestimate how powerful confidence is, or a lack of confidence, and I think we're playing with a lot of confidence right now."

Antonya English can be reached at english@sptimes.com.

By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Monday, February 28, 2011

By Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Monday, February 28, 2011

Rays encore: Noon on Sun Sports. From July 26. A replay of Matt Garza becoming the first Rays pitcher to throw a no-hitter.

Knicks at Magic: 7 p.m. on Sun Sports. A chance to see the new look of the Knicks, including star scorer Carmelo Anthony.

Top Five Reasons You Can't Blame … : 11 p.m. on ESPN Classic. This one looks at the reason you can't blame former NCAA basketball coach Bob Knight for his outbursts.

Times wires
Monday, February 28, 2011

WASHINGTON — The Redskins released running back Clinton Portis on Monday, ending a sometimes contentious seven-year stay that at times made him the face of the franchise.

Injuries and money led to coach Mike Shanahan's decision. The former Hurricane played in 13 games over the past two seasons because of a severe concussion in 2009 and a torn groin muscle in 2010.

Portis, 29, was scheduled to make $8.3 million next season.

"We're going to let him test the market," Shanahan said, "and see what's out there for him."

Portis said he could have restructured his contract, but he said it would be "hard to accept not being the go-guy."

Portis is 77 yards shy of 10,000 career rushing yards and leaves Washington 648 shy of one of his oft-stated goal — Hall of Famer John Riggins' franchise record.

"If the record meant that much, I think I could stay in D.C. to get it," Portis said. "Although I wanted it, I don't think I wanted it bad enough to … continue to endure the area to get it."

Former buc dies: Shawn Lee, a sixth-round Bucs pick who played in Tampa Bay in 1988 and '89, died Saturday at 44. The defensive tackle also played for the Dolphins (1990-91), then six seasons for the Chargers, and ended his career with the Bears in 1998. A memorial service is set for Saturday in Raleigh, N.C.

Bears: Three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Tommie Harris, 27, was released. He struggled in recent years because of injuries.

Jaguars: Quarterback Luke McCown, 29, scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent, signed a one-year deal to remain as an experienced backup to David Garrard.

By Jim Huddleston, Times Correspondent
Monday, February 28, 2011

What's hot: With springlike conditions the past week, the flats have come to life with huge schools of redfish and snook beginning to pop baits around the mangroves. The tides this week will have midday high water and allow anglers to sight-fish reds that are working the edges of the many mullet schools. As water floods the shallows, these game fish will push up toward the treeline and ambush bait in the deeper sand pockets.

Technique: While slowly fishing through a flat, be on the lookout for mudded areas that will give away where fish feed. Working gold spoons with a white bucktail trailer is the way to find schools on the move. This type of lure simulates the pinfish that have invaded the rich grass flats. Once the water gets high enough, use a select-sized shrimp under a cork to entice redfish and snook that hold along the many oyster bars and creek mouths. Twenty-pound fluorocarbon leader is needed to help disguise the presentation and help prevent breakoffs. With afternoon winds from the southwest, anglers have been able to make long casts without pushing the school away.

Nearshore activity: With the water temperature stabilizing, there have been good reports of Spanish mackerel roaming the shallow rock piles and many larger sheepshead from 3 to 5 pounds. The water has been a little dirty, but this has helped to catch the bait-stealing convict fish.

Jim Huddleston charters out of Tampa, Palm Harbor and Clearwater and can be reached at jim@captainhud.com or (727) 439-9017.

Times wires
Monday, February 28, 2011

LAKELAND — After almost two weeks of turmoil, Miguel Cabrera returned to where he's most comfortable: a baseball field.

Cabrera played his first game since his arrest, going 0-for-2 with a walk as the Tigers' DH on Monday in a 6-2 win over the Yankees.

Cabrera batted cleanup, his first appearance since his arrest Feb. 16 on suspicion of driving under the influence and resisting an officer without violence. He is to be arraigned March 16.

After the game, he refused to answer any non-baseball questions. Cabrera said he is looking forward to playing the field, but manager Jim Leyland said he will DH again today against Toronto then play the field Wednesday against Houston.

"It's kind of slow playing DH," Cabrera said. "I really prefer playing at first. I was starting to feel normal in batting practice, but I am looking forward to playing in the field."

Cabrera hit a sharp grounder down the third-base line in the first off CC Sabathia, but Alex Rodriguez made a backhand grab and threw out Cabrera out at first. Cabrera hit a similar ball in the third, but Rodriguez made another backhand stab and retired Cabrera at first. Cabrera drew a walk his final time up and was removed for a pinch-runner.

Leyland said Cabrera looked to be in spring training form.

"It's going to take some time to get ready," Leyland said. "He'll be fine."

Cabrera was greeted warmly by fans before each at-bat.

"I heard the applause," Cabrera said. "It was good to get the first game out of the way, but I can do better. I was thinking about seeing strikes, but I heard the fans supporting me."

CRAWFORD DEBUTS: Not much to remember from Carl Crawford's spring training debut for the Red Sox. The $142 million man, who signed with Boston after nine seasons with the Rays, was 0-for-3 in a 7-6 win over the Twins.

"It felt good just to put on the uniform and finally get out there on the field and play a game," Crawford told the Boston Globe. "Little nervous at first, but I was happy to get that out of the way."

In other Red Sox news, right-hander Josh Beckett had mild concussion symptoms after he was hit in the back of the head during batting practice.

Beckett walked from the field on his own, with trainers at his side. But after being examined by a doctor, he was sent home to rest. The Red Sox expect an update on Beckett today.

Beckett is coming off a poor and injury-plagued season in which he posted a 5.78 ERA in 21 starts immediately after signing a four-year, $68 million contract.

SPARKY HONORED: The Reds honored former Hall of Fame manager Sparky Anderson, who died in November. The team played a video tribute honoring Anderson before its spring home opener against the Indians and observed a moment of silence for him and Hall of Famer Duke Snider, who died Sunday.

BELTRAN SHIFTING: Carlos Beltran is moving to rightfield for the Mets, with Angel Pagan taking over in center. Beltran told Pagan and new manager Terry Collins that he wanted to make the switch because of his knees.

RELIEVER RETIRES: Right-hander Bob Howry announced his retirement at age 37 after 13 seasons in the majors.

BREWERS: Rightfielder Corey Hart is expected to be sidelined for two weeks with a strained lower abdominal muscle on his left side.

CARDINALS: Right-hander Adam Wainwright had Tommy John ligament replacement surgery on his right elbow, and the team said he would be out 12-15 months.

INDIANS: Manager Manny Acta named right-hander Fausto Carmona as his starter for the season opener.

MARLINS: Rightfielder Mike Stanton said he expects to miss about two weeks with a strained right quadriceps.

NATIONALS: Bryce Harper, the 18-year-old phenom and first overall pick in last year's draft, made his much-anticipated spring debut, striking out twice against the Mets.

REDS: Left-hander Dontrelle Willis, hoping to revive a once-skyrocketing career, pitched one shaky inning in his spring debut. He gave up two hits and two unearned runs, walked a batter and committed a throwing error on a pickoff attempt in the fourth.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Monday, February 28, 2011

He said it with a poker face …

Manager Joe Maddon cautioned again about hot spring starts, since the pitchers aren't necessarily sharp: "This is what I'm talking about where you don't necessarily go Lady Gaga over spring training performances."

Quote of the day

"He's made from rebar and he's got this different kind of intellectualism, so I really enjoy him.''

Manager Joe Maddon on C John Jaso

Oscar connection

Best documentary winner Inside Job, which details the Wall Street financial crisis, focuses in part on the actions of Lehman CEO Dick Fuld, who is a second cousin of new Rays OF Sam Fuld's father. Sam has never met Dick but, with an economics degree from Stanford, is obviously familiar with the story. "Now," he said, "I'm going to have to see the movie."

Lesson of the day

Players went through a 45-minute session of media training Monday morning, getting some stark reminders of the dos and don'ts of the modern world and some video clips of interviews gone wrong. "I don't think anyone's going to say anything today," C John Jaso said.

Heads-up

Several of the Rays front-liners are making the trip, and playing consecutive games, including Johnny Damon, Evan Longoria, Manny Ramirez and B.J. Upton.

Who is this Ray?

He was a 10th-round pick in the 2004 draft out of Broad Ripple (Ind.) High. He made seven appearances in the 2008 playoffs. He signed as a minor-league free agent.

Rays at Orioles

When/where: 1:05 today; Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St., Sarasota

Tickets: $8-$29, available by calling 1-800-745-3000, via orioles.com and at the stadium.

Rays information: Toll-free 1-888-326-7297 (FAN-RAYS)

Pitchers: Rays — Andy Sonnanstine, Chris Archer, Matt Bush, Cesar Cabral, Rob Delaney, Mike Ekstrom; Orioles — Jeremy Guthrie, Rick Vandenhurk, Mark Hendrickson, Jason Berken, David Riske

On deck

Wednesday: at Blue Jays (Dunedin), 1:05. Rays — David Price; Jays — Brandon Morrow

Thursday: Yankees, 1:05. Rays — James Shields; Yankees — Freddy Garcia

Friday: at Twins (Fort Myers), 1:05. Rays — Jeff Niemann; Twins — TBA

Upcoming schedule

March

5: Twins

6: at Phillies

7: at Pirates

8: Blue Jays

9: Blue Jays, and vs. Netherlands at St. Petersburg

10: Red Sox

11: Pirates

12: at Phillies

13: at Blue Jays

14: Off

15: Marlins

16: at Marlins

17:- at Yankees, 7:05

18: Red Sox, 7:05

19: at Twins

20: Orioles

21: Yankees, 7:05

22: at Red Sox, 7:05

23: Phillies

24: at Astros

25: Pirates

26: Orioles

27: at Pirates

28: at Yankees, 7:05

29: at Red Sox

30: vs. Blue Jays at Tropicana Field, 4:10

Who is this Ray answer: RHP Cory Wade

Marc Topkin, Times staff writer

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Monday, February 28, 2011

PORT CHARLOTTE — The two hits were solid, and the couple of plays in leftfield smooth.

But most impressive of the good things Manny Ramirez did in Monday's exhibition, a 6-5 loss to the Pirates, was break from third base on a wild pitch and race home, sliding across the plate with the Rays' first run.

Even better was his Manny Being Manny explanation of his hustle:

"The game says 'Play Ball,' so I just go and play."

Amid all the new and young players vying for attention in Rays camp, it's hard to ignore Ramirez's efforts thus far in terms of work ethic, attitude and performance, with his dash home the latest example.

"We talk about baserunning like almost 100 percent of the time during practice in the morning, so I liked what he did right there," manager Joe Maddon said. "He's alert. He's buying into everything we're trying to do here. I liked it a lot."

The Rays signed Ramirez to be their primary DH but plan to put him in leftfield six or seven times this spring to prepare him for the possibility of some occasional regular-season work.

Ramirez said he was "kinda nervous" about playing the field, "but if I keep going out there, I'm going to keep getting used to it and feel more comfortable and maybe play better."

With a hard single over shortstop and an RBI single to the right of center, Ramirez is now 3-for-4 this spring.

BIRTHDAY BOY: RHP Jeff Niemann said he hadn't gotten any gifts yet for his 28th birthday but was pretty pleased with what he gave himself, a 1-2-3 inning that required only 12 pitches. "That's a great birthday present," he said.

Niemann looked sharp and felt so good he went to the bullpen and threw another 15-20 pitches.

PITCHING IN: RHP Kyle Farnsworth, the most experienced member of the rebuilt bullpen, also made an impressive debut with a nine-pitch 1-2-3 second. "I'll take that and bottle it and keep it every day," he said. … RHP Jeremy Hellickson, recovered from his right hamstring strain, will throw his second bullpen session today. … RHP Juan Cruz is set for his debut Thursday. … RHP Andy Sonnanstine makes the start today and is in line to step into the rotation if the Rays need a fill-in.

PAIN IN THE CALF: RHP Joel Peralta was hobbling a bit after taking a line drive off his left calf, though he recovered to get the out and stayed in the game. "I have not heard anything negative from (head athletic trainer Ron Porterfield), so I imagine it's all good," Maddon said.

GAME DETAILS: The Rays (1-2) led 4-0, with a third-inning rally featuring a Reid Brignac double, consecutive singles by Johnny Damon, Evan Longoria and Ramirez then a Ben Zobrist double. … RHP Mike Ekstrom gave it all back, and more, in the fourth, allowing a three-run homer to Garrett Atkins plus a run-scoring wild pitch. … The Rays had a chance to tie in the ninth, but INF Joe Inglett was thrown out trying to steal second.

MISCELLANY: ESPN's spring bus tour hits Port Charlotte today, with Tim Kurkjian and John Kruk reporting live. … Individual game tickets for the regular season went on sale Monday at all outlets including Ticketmaster and the Tropicana Field box office.

Times wires
Monday, February 28, 2011

Autos

bayne enjoys a happy homecoming

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — One fan asked Trevor Bayne if he was married (he's not). Another wanted to know what his favorite Bible verse is (it's Ecclesiastes 7:14, which reminds him that good times and bad times are part of God's plan). The Daytona 500 winner grinned as he answered each question and remarked how good it was to be home.

Bayne returned to Knoxville on Monday for the first time since winning the Daytona 500 on Feb. 20 for a rally sponsored by the city and Bristol Motor Speedway.

"It still hasn't hit me all the way yet," the 20-year-old said of his victory. "This is the first day that I've had a couple of hours just to kind of take it in. I haven't gotten to go back and watch it yet. I think the first time I get to watch the whole race through and see everything that happened, it's going to sink in a little."

Tennis

Agassi, Sampras joke about past tension

Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi traded good-natured barbs before Sampras won an exhibition 6-3, 7-5 at Madison Square Garden.

After some tension at a charity match last year, Agassi was asked Monday about the state of his relationship with Sampras. "Strictly platonic," Agassi said.

"That's the nicest thing you've said about me in two years," Sampras said jokingly.

"We've straightened it out," Agassi, 40, said of the tension, which he took the blame for causing when he mocked Sampras, 39, for being stingy.

"In my eyes, it's over," Sampras said. "He's apologized."

In the opening exhibition, John McEnroe, 52, played old adversary Ivan Lendl, 50. McEnroe twisted his ankle while practicing with Sampras a couple of hours before the match and retired leading 6-3 in the one-set, first-to-eight event.

Afterward, McEnroe revealed he was wearing circa 1984 short shorts underneath his longer, modern ones. Lendl then offered to play next time "in short shorts, with wooden rackets."

Davis cup: Sam Querrey will miss the United States' first-round match at Chile this weekend because of a right rotator cuff injury. Querrey is No. 24 in the ATP rankings. No. 8 Andy Roddick, No. 32 John Isner and the top-ranked doubles team of Bob and Mike Bryan will represent the United States on an outdoor clay court at Santiago beginning Friday.

ET CETERA

Football: Running back Ahman Green agreed to play for the defending Grey Cup champion Montreal Alouettes when the CFL season begins in June. Green, 34, played in the NFL from 1998 to 2009 and is the Packers' all-time leading rusher. He played last season for the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League and hopes to get back into the NFL.

Broadcasting: Longtime NFL announcer Pat Summerall, 80, will receive the Vin Scully Lifetime Achievement Award in Sports Broadcasting. The former NFL kicker and tight end with the New York Giants and Chicago Cardinals will be honored May 2 in New York. Summerall's broadcasting career spanned six decades, mostly with John Madden on NFL games.

Winter sports: Marit Bjoergen of Norway captured her third gold medal at the Nordic world championships in Oslo, Norway, and the U.S. men finished fourth in the combined team event won by Austria. The American team featured Olympic champion Billy Demong and two-time world champion Todd Lodwick. … World Cup overall champ Carlo Janka had surgery Wednesday to correct an irregular heartbeat and hopes to ski Saturday in a giant slalom at Kranjska Gora, Slovenia.

Times wires

Bryan Burns, Times Staff Writer
Monday, February 28, 2011

almost 26,000 turn out for gasparilla classic

Close to 26,000 runners took to Bayshore Boulevard and the streets of Davis Islands for the 34th annual Gasparilla Distance Classic on Saturday and Sunday in Tampa.

In the prestigious 15K competition, Clearwater's Briana Whaley beat out more than 2,500 women's runner to win by 54 seconds.

Whaley, 32, broke the tape in 54 minutes, five seconds.

In the men's race, Andrew Letherby, also from Clearwater, earned a silver medal. Letherby, 37, clocked in at 47:05. He finished 43 seconds behind overall champion Jeremy Criscione of Bartow (46:22).

Local age group winners from the 15K include: (F10 and under) Jade Curtis, St. Petersburg, 2:06:29; (F11-14) Anna Cappelli, St. Petersburg, 1:41:21; (M11-14) Hunter McCann, Treasure Island, 59:09; (M15-19) Cameron Wheeler, St. Petersburg, 53:25; (F30-34) Whaley; (M35-39) Letherby; (M60-64) Albert Wieringa, St. Petersburg, 1:02:13; (M70-74) William Riley, St. Petersburg, 1:10:22; (M80-84) Larry Yost, Treasure Island, 1:40:34.

In the 5K Gasparilla Distance Classic, which featured more than 10,000 racers, Palm Harbor's Katherine McMeekin had the top overall finish among Pinellas County runners. McMeekin, 20, ran 18:34 to place fourth in the women's competition.

Pinellas age group winners in the 5K were: (F10 and under) Reagan Quilty, St. Petersburg, 21:45; (F30-34) Lisa Williams, Largo, 19:59; (F60-64) Ellen Kohn, Palm Harbor, 25:18; (F65-69) Carol Jean Vosburgh, Treasure Island, 27:53; (F70-74) Annette Frisch, St. Petersburg, 33:05.

Ben Martucci of Brooksville won the 5K in 14:53. Kari Grippo was the women's champion after running 18:11.

In the inaugural 8K competition on Sunday, Brianne Gaal of Cary, N.C., was the women's champion after running the 4.97-mile course in 32:34. She has lived in North Carolina for four years but is a former resident of St. Petersburg and graduate of Northside Christian.

Christina Noordstar, also of St. Petersburg, placed third in the 8K in 33:57.

The overall 8K champion was Joshua Prevatt of Brandon in 28:06.

Two locals won their age group in the 8K. Nathaniel O'Brien of St. Petersburg was the fastest runner in the men's 20- to 24-year-old age division after running 33:13. Largo's Loyce Williams earned first in the women's 60-64 group in 42:41.

Amy McClenathan from St. Petersburg won the women's masters title at Sunday's Gasparilla half-marathon. McClenathan, 51, crossed the finish line in 1:37:05 to take first place by a minute, 40 seconds.

Local age group winners in the half-marathon include: (F15-19) Kacy Seynders, Palm Harbor, 1:34:27; (M15-19) Sam Chandler, St. Petersburg, 1:19:35; (F50-54) McClenathan; (F65-69) Millie Hamilton, Redington Beach, 2:04:18; (M70-74) Ilhan Bilgutay, Clearwater, 1:50:44; (M85-89) Douglas McGarvey, Clearwater, 2:04:30.

Elias Gonzalez was the champion of the half-marathon, leading nearly start-to-finish in 1:11:09. Jessica Crate of Melbourne took the women's title in 1:20:06.

BOLT run five-MILER

A handful of area runners were age group winners at the Bolt Run Five-Miler in Tampa on Feb. 19.

David Garcia, 14 of Safety Harbor, placed first in the men's 11-14 division with a time of 39:22.

Largo's Lisa Williams added another age group win to her lengthy resume. Williams, 32, ran 32:49 for first place in the women's 30-34 group.

Claiming the men's 45-49 division was Matt Rogers of Dunedin. Rogers, 48, ran 33:46 for the victory.

Sally Smith, 52 of Largo, had the top time in the women's 50-54 division at 42:15.

Al Kohn's time of 36:47 was good for first in the men's 55-59 group. Kohn, 59, is from Palm Harbor.

Ellen Kohn, 60 of Palm Harbor, took the women's 60-64 group in 41:32.

Dave Kaplan, 65 of Clearwater, ran 40:09 for the win in the men's 65-69 group.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Monday, February 28, 2011

PORT CHARLOTTE

Kelly Shoppach needed help.

The 2010 season was by far the most trying of his career, and with how poorly he played in his first year with the Rays, how frustrating it was to miss two months with a knee injury and how he looked and felt, he had to do something. After an intensive winter workout regimen with a private trainer, and an extensive overhaul of his diet that included a chef preparing his meals 5½ days a week, Shoppach showed up to spring training with a noticeably better body and markedly bigger plans. "I still know there's an everyday ability that I have," he said. "And I'd just love to showcase it."

The Rays hope, at the least, that he's half right.

Shoppach was brought in last season to share the catcher's job with Dioner Navarro, but it didn't work out too well. The knee injury knocked him out from mid April until early June, and he was never really right, hitting just .196 overall, with little of the power nor much of the production against left-handed pitchers the Rays had expected.

The best thing to come out of his season, arguably, was the emergence of John Jaso, who was called up when Shoppach was hurt and became one of the season's best success stories, especially as Navarro also struggled.

Shoppach said he holds no resentment, especially since he got his first shot in the big leagues due to others' injuries, nor is he posturing for more playing time based on anything but performance.

But he is confident, at 30, he can reclaim at least his share of the job — and maybe more.

"I don't know how the playing time is going to work, but I think if I'm playing up to my capabilities, I'd play as much as we expected to play last year," he said. "And really, I played plenty last year — I played against almost every left-handed starter — I just didn't play very well.

"I'm going to get back to doing the things I can do against left-handers. I'm going to get back to that, and it's going to work. It's going to work."

With Jaso hitting only .191 against left-handers (with a .610 OPS), the Rays need Shoppach to do so. As bad as his year was, he did hit .261 and post a respectable .823 OPS against lefties. But with Jaso usually good for only three games in a row, Shoppach will have to play occasionally against righties, and that was ugly last year: a .114 average (8-for-70 with 38 strikeouts) and a .432 OPS.

"Even in a down season last year, Kelly was still very productive against lefties," executive vice president Andrew Freidman said. "That said, we strongly believe he has more in the tank against both righties and lefties and fully anticipate him having a much better season offensively."

Plus, manager Joe Maddon said, "it's up to us to put him in the right situations."

Shoppach — making $3 million this season, with a $3.2 million 2012 option — brings more than just his bat, specifically experience, game-planning and extensive prep, all benefits for a young pitching staff and Jaso. Also some leadership, evidenced last week when he took all the catchers out for a big dinner at The Perfect Caper restaurant.

His work this winter, with trainer Erick Minor at the Strength Studio in Fort Worth, Texas, is a good sign. Focusing on resistance training and nutrition (no fast food, organic meats, fresh vegetables), Shoppach dropped fat and added muscle, the net result being a firm 227 pounds that has him feeling stronger than ever. "It was all about clean living," Shoppach said. "I've never been one to brag, but I'm really proud of what I was able to accomplish in four months."

Now he's ready to take it onto the field.

"I know physically I'm going to be in better shape to help contribute, and if you're healthy and feeling good, you're going to play better," he said. "I think there's a real chance to make another run at this thing, so you do whatever you can, whether it's you being in the limelight or somebody else."

Marc Topkin can be reached at topkin@sptimes.com.

Times wires
Monday, February 28, 2011

WASHINGTON — In the first quarter, Derrick Rose brought out the oohs and aahs with a backward between-the-legs pass to Joakim Noah for a fastbreak dunk. In the second quarter, Luol Deng was walking to the locker room even before his 3-pointer from the corner swished at the halftime buzzer.

In the fourth quarter, Rose fed Deng and Noah for back-to-back dunks that pushed the lead to 24. It was then time for Bulls fans to change their chant from "M-V-P" for Rose to "Sca-la-breeee-nee" for beloved sub Brian Scalabrine, who came off the bench and hit a 19-footer that had the fans roaring in the road arena.

The Bulls frolicked past the Wizards 105-77 on Monday night, an easy win coach Tom Thibodeau's team needed against a bad team as it heads into the teeth of a five-game road trip.

"Thibs came in and talked to us and was telling us we can't let down against teams like this, where we've got to come out and play aggressive and have an edge," said Rose, who had 21 points and nine assists. "You don't never want to come into a game like this where you give them confidence."

The Bulls won their third straight and seventh in eight games to move within a game of the Heat in the Eastern Conference. Up next: games at Atlanta, Orlando and Miami to finish up the road trip.

GAME HIGHLIGHTS: Ray Allen had 25 points and Paul Pierce 21, including a late 3-pointer and two free throws, to help the visiting Celtics hold on for a 107-102 victory over the Jazz. … Newcomers Raymond Felton and Wilson Chandler combined for 31 points to help the host Nuggets rally for a 100-90 win over the Hawks, their third in four games since the deal that sent Carmelo Anthony to the Knicks.

AROUND THE LEAGUE: Spurs point guard Tony Parker is expected to miss two to four weeks with a strained left calf muscle. … Mike Bibby reached a buyout agreement with the Wizards, freeing him after two games. Bibby was acquired last week from the Hawks. … Cavaliers forward Antawn Jamison will likely miss the rest of the season with a broken finger that will require surgery. … Nuggets forward Danilo Gallinari sat out against the Hawks because of a sprained left big toe.

Bulls 105, Wizards 77

CHICAGO (105): Deng 9-17 1-1 21, Boozer 3-11 6-6 12, Noah 8-10 3-4 19, Rose 7-17 5-6 21, Bogans 1-2 0-0 3, Gibson 2-2 0-0 4, Brewer 1-4 0-0 2, Korver 4-10 0-0 11, Watson 2-5 4-5 8, Asik 1-2 0-0 2, Scalabrine 1-1 0-0 2. Totals 39-81 19-22 105.

WASHINGTON (77): Howard 5-10 0-0 10, Blatche 6-14 3-3 15, McGee 1-3 3-4 5, Wall 3-14 3-4 9, Young 6-15 0-0 14, Seraphin 2-5 2-2 6, Lewis 1-3 0-0 3, Evans 3-7 0-0 7, Crawford 1-6 0-0 2, Booker 2-6 0-1 4, Yi 1-3 0-0 2, Shakur 0-1 0-0 0. Totals 31-87 11-14 77.

Chicago 25 25 28 27— 105

Washington 20 17 20 20— 77

3-Point Goals—Chicago 8-23 (Korver 3-6, Deng 2-5, Rose 2-8, Bogans 1-2, Watson 0-2), Washington 4-13 (Young 2-6, Lewis 1-2, Evans 1-3, Howard 0-1, Crawford 0-1). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Chicago 62 (Noah 11), Washington 42 (Blatche 11). Assists—Chicago 24 (Rose 9), Washington 19 (Wall 10). Total Fouls—Chicago 17, Washington 21. A—17,873 (20,173).

Suns 104, Nets 103, OT

PHOENIX (104): Hill 2-6 0-0 4, Frye 3-8 0-0 7, R.Lopez 6-8 2-3 14, Nash 3-13 4-4 10, Carter 2-10 0-0 5, Gortat 8-11 1-2 17, Dudley 3-6 2-2 10, Pietrus 5-10 0-0 13, Warrick 7-12 2-2 16, Brooks 3-8 0-0 8. Totals 42-92 11-13 104.

NEW JERSEY (103): James 3-4 0-0 6, Humphries 8-15 0-1 16, B.Lopez 12-23 4-5 28, Williams 5-14 2-2 13, Morrow 6-16 5-5 22, Outlaw 5-8 0-1 10, Vujacic 2-6 0-0 5, Uzoh 1-2 1-2 3, Petro 0-1 0-0 0. Totals 42-89 12-16 103.

Phoenix 26 26 17 27 8— 104

New Jersey 23 28 15 30 7— 103

3-Point Goals—Phoenix 9-25 (Pietrus 3-5, Brooks 2-3, Dudley 2-3, Frye 1-4, Carter 1-6, Hill 0-1, Nash 0-3), New Jersey 7-21 (Morrow 5-10, Vujacic 1-3, Williams 1-5, Outlaw 0-3). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Phoenix 52 (Frye 8), New Jersey 51 (Humphries 15). Assists—Phoenix 28 (Nash 15), New Jersey 32 (Williams 18). Total Fouls—Phoenix 14, New Jersey 20. Technicals—New Jersey defensive three second 2. A—15,836 (18,500).

Celtics 107, Jazz 102

BOSTON (107): Pierce 4-10 11-11 21, Garnett 7-13 2-2 16, Krstic 4-7 3-4 11, Rondo 9-16 0-0 18, Allen 9-15 2-2 25, Green 2-6 1-1 5, Davis 2-8 3-4 7, Wafer 0-1 0-0 0, Bradley 2-6 0-1 4, Johnson 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 39-82 22-25 107.

UTAH (102): Kirilenko 6-11 6-8 18, Millsap 5-13 7-7 17, Jefferson 11-21 6-7 28, Harris 6-11 6-7 19, Bell 1-4 0-0 2, Miles 1-6 0-0 2, Hayward 1-5 2-2 4, Favors 4-5 1-2 9, Watson 0-2 3-4 3. Totals 35-78 31-37 102.

Boston 30 26 23 28— 107

Utah 21 32 22 27— 102

3-Point Goals—Boston 7-15 (Allen 5-8, Pierce 2-4, Davis 0-1, Green 0-1, Wafer 0-1), Utah 1-7 (Harris 1-4, Miles 0-1, Bell 0-2). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Boston 48 (Garnett 14), Utah 47 (Jefferson 19). Assists—Boston 22 (Rondo 11), Utah 16 (Harris 5). Total Fouls—Boston 27, Utah 21. Technicals—Garnett, Boston defensive three second, Jefferson, Utah defensive three second. A—19,911 (19,911).

Nuggets 100, Hawks 90

ATLANTA (90): Williams 4-14 5-6 13, Jo.Smith 4-7 2-2 10, Horford 10-15 1-2 21, Teague 1-6 5-6 7, Johnson 10-23 2-2 22, Crawford 3-12 3-5 11, Pachulia 1-3 2-2 4, Powell 1-3 0-0 2, Wilkins 0-2 0-0 0. Totals 34-85 20-25 90.

DENVER (100): Chandler 6-14 2-2 15, Martin 6-11 2-7 14, Nene 6-13 1-1 13, Lawson 3-5 0-0 6, Afflalo 2-10 4-4 8, Felton 7-12 2-2 16, J. Smith 6-10 5-6 19, Andersen 3-3 0-0 6, Harrington 1-4 1-2 3. Totals 40-82 17-24 100.

Atlanta 25 22 23 20— 90

Denver 21 25 25 29— 100

3-Point Goals—Atlanta 2-19 (Crawford 2-8, Wilkins 0-1, Jo.Smith 0-1, Teague 0-1, Williams 0-3, Johnson 0-5), Denver 3-14 (J. Smith 2-4, Chandler 1-4, Felton 0-1, Harrington 0-1, Afflalo 0-4). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Atlanta 55 (Horford 16), Denver 50 (Martin 11). Assists—Atlanta 15 (Horford 4), Denver 22 (Felton 7). Total Fouls—Atlanta 17, Denver 15. Technicals—Pachulia, Atlanta defensive three second. A—16,163 (19,155).

Times wires
Monday, February 28, 2011

Until the Kings made the biggest move of NHL trade deadline day by prying forward Dustin Penner away from the Oilers, the further breaking up of the Panthers dominated the dealing.

Penner was the main marquee player to change teams on Monday. The Oilers, with the NHL's worst record, unloaded their star forward for prospect defenseman Colten Teubert, a first-round pick this year and a draft selection next year.

The day's 16 deals involved 35 players and 12 draft picks, nowhere near the record level of last year when 31 trades with 55 players included were completed.

This was the fewest number of trades on deadline day since 2000 when there were 12.

Other familiar players on the move included Devils center Jason Arnott, who waived his no-trade clause to go to the Capitals for Dave Steckel; the Thrashers' Fredrik Modin, sent to the Flames for a seventh-round pick; and Hurricanes forward Sergei Samsonov, sent to the Panthers for Bryan Allen.

"We've got a young group," Capitals GM George McPhee said. "Specifically with Arnott, he's been the captain of an NHL team, he's won a Cup — and those kinds of intangibles were something we wanted in the room."

Arnott said he was happy to join a Stanley Cup contender.

The Panthers also dealt veteran forward Radek Dvorak to the Thrashers for forwards Niclas Bergfors and Patrick Rissmiller.

Brad Richards, the highest-profile player believed to be on the market and a potential unrestricted free-agent center, is staying with the Stars, at least until July 1 when he can sign anywhere. The Rangers had interest.

The Blue Jackets traded the last player from their original team in the 2000-01 season, sending Rostislav Klesla to the Coyotes.

around the league: Senators defenseman Chris Phillips signed a three-year, $9.25 million extension. … Rangers backup goalie Martin Biron broke a collarbone after being struck with a shot at practice and is out indefinitely. …The Red Wings signed goaltender Jimmy Howard to a two-year, $4.5 million deal. … The Kings signed right wing Justin Williams, their second-leading scorer, to a four-year extension worth $14.6 million.

Monday's game

First Period—None. Penalties—None.

Second Period—1, Chicago, Sharp 33 (Toews, Keith), :44. 2, Chicago, Kopecky 12 (Stalberg, Campbell), 6:22. 3, Chicago, Toews 23 (Kane, Sharp), 14:02. Penalties—Schultz, Min (delay of game), 7:56; Scott, Chi, minor-major-misconduct (instigator, fighting), 14:18; Staubitz, Min, minor-major (boarding, fighting), 14:18; Havlat, Min (tripping), 18:38.

Third Period—4, Minnesota, Havlat 20 (Clutterbuck), :45. 5, Minnesota, Burns 16 (Brodziak, Havlat), 15:48. 6, Chicago, Hossa 16 (Toews), 18:08 (sh). Penalties—Hjalmarsson, Chi (holding), 3:39; Bolland, Chi (tripping), 10:45; Kopecky, Chi (delay of game), 16:38. Shots on Goal—Chicago 14-10-10—34. Minnesota 9-5-12—26. Power-play opportunities—Chicago 0 of 2; Minnesota 0 of 3. Goalies—Chicago, Crawford 23-12-3 (26 shots-24 saves). Minnesota, Backstrom 20-15-4 (34-30). A—19,155 (18,064). T—2:19.

Playoff chase

With nonshootout wins (the first tiebreaker) and games remaining. Division winners get the top three seeds:

EastPts. Wins GR

1. Flyers 86 38 20

2. Lightning 81 32 20

3. Bruins 79 35 20

4. Penguins 80 32 18

5. Capitals 76 31 19

6. Canadiens 73 31 19

7. Rangers 70 26 18

8. Hurricanes 67 25 19

9. Sabres 65 24 21

10. Maple Leafs 63 23 19

11. Thrashers 63 23 19

WestPts. Wins GR

1. Canucks 87 37 19

2. Red Wings 82 34 20

3. Sharks 78 32 19

4. Coyotes 76 30 18

5. Kings 74 28 20

6. Blackhawks 74 29 19

7. Flames 73 25 18

8. Stars 72 28 20

9. Wild 72 31 19

10. Predators 72 26 19

11. Ducks 71 29 19

12. Blue Jackets 68 27 21

Times wires
Monday, February 28, 2011

DUNEDIN — Florida Auto Exchange Stadium held plenty of memories for Phillies RHP Roy Halladay.

Not all were good.

Halladay, who pitched two shutout innings during a 6-3 win over the Blue Jays on Monday in his first spring start, spent 12 years in Toronto before being traded to Philadelphia. Though he eventually developed into a two-time Cy Young Award winner, he got off to a rocky start.

"I got sent down four times in the office back here," Halladay said to Phillies manager Charlie Manuel. "The last time was to A ball."

So Halladay told MLB.com that he had no plans to stick around after his outing.

"I'll be glad to get out of here," he joked before leaving — for Bright House Field in Clearwater, where he continued his workout.

Halladay allowed two singles, struck out one and walked one.

"Just being in the game again is fun," he said. "You can throw as many bullpens and you want, but it's always different once you get out there."

Yanks: Help for Jeter

LAKELAND — Yankees SS Derek Jeter will be doing extra work with hitting coach Kevin Long as he adjusts to a change in his stride at the plate.

The pair are set for an additional session today at the Yankees' complex. Jeter is not scheduled to travel to Bradenton for a game against the Pirates.

"We're going to work even a little bit more than we've been working," Long said after New York fell 6-2 to the Tigers. "His timing is just a little bit off on the outside pitch. He's got to wait a little longer on those pitches. And the ones inside, he's a little late on."

Jeter is no longer striding with his left foot. He made a smaller adjustment late last season, shortening his stride after a session with Long.

Jeter batted .270 last season, 44 points below his career average. He has acknowledged that he doesn't feel comfortable at the plate.

"We can't go crazy here," Long said. "He's just starting out spring training."

PRIOR SHARP: Onetime Cubs RHP Mark Prior pitched a perfect inning with a strikeout. Prior, who hasn't pitched in the majors since 2006, is trying to earn a job as a long reliever. "If I'm healthy, I know I can compete at this level," Prior said.

Jays: Reliever hurt

DUNEDIN — Blue Jays LH reliever Jesse Carlson was shut down with inflammation in his left shoulder and was set to have an examination later Monday.

"We're going to back him out for a couple of days," manager John Farrell told MLB.com. "He has some inflammation and some irritation in the shoulder. We'll have more on his exam after it's over and completed."

Carlson, 30, is competing for one of the final two spots in the Toronto bullpen.

BAD START: LHP Jo-Jo Reyes, bidding for one of the final two rotation spots, walked two and threw 17 of 31 pitches for strikes in two innings. "In the second inning, I got out of synch just a tiny bit," Reyes said. "My tempo was a little off. I was rushing it."

Times staff, wires
Monday, February 28, 2011

TAMPA — Now that is how you do Senior Night.

Leondra Doomes-Stephens, playing in her final college home game, led USF with a career-best 25 points and 13 rebounds to guide the Bulls to a 58-55 upset of No. 17 Georgetown at the Sun Dome on Monday night.

"I had a lot of confidence (Monday), and my team played hard with me," said Doomes-Stephens, who added four assists and zero turnovers. "Every time I shot the ball, I always thought it was going in."

Doomes-Stephens, who went 8-for-11 from the field, had her first double double, and she and fellow guard Andrea Smith (24 points) were the only Bulls to score in the final 13 minutes. Smith was clutch down the stretch, scoring eight of USF's final nine, including four free throws in the final 1:06.

USF (13-18, 3-13 Big East) opened Big East play 1-13 but finished the regular season with back-to-back wins. The last time the Bulls beat a team ranked in the Associated Press Top 25 was against DePaul on Feb. 5, 2008.

The Bulls, who made 10 of 24 3-pointers, will have the 13th seed in the Big East Tournament, opening play Friday against 12th-seeded Pittsburgh.

NO. 1 UCONN 82, SYRACUSE 47: Maya Moore had 23 points as the host Huskies (29-1, 16-0) completed their ninth undefeated Big East regular season.

NO. 12 DEPAUL 70, NO. 7 NOTRE DAME 69: Felicia Chester had 20 points, and her layup with six seconds left lifted the host Blue Demons (26-5, 13-3 Big East) after the Irish (24-6, 13-3) erased a five-point deficit in the final 1:49.

UC 65, NO. 20 MARQUETTE 62: Shareese Ulis had 20 points and had six of the host Bearcats' 13 3-pointers as Cincinnati stunned the Golden Eagles (22-7, 10-6 Big East).

NO. 3 BAYLOR: Senior guard Melissa Jones was being evaluated by doctors a day after hitting her head while diving for a loose ball. She is questionable for Wednesday night's game.

AP POLL: Miami moved from 12th to 10th and FSU stayed at No. 14. Connecticut remained No. 1.

Men

KANSAS ST. 75, NO. 7 TEXAS 70: Rodney McGruder had 22 points as the Wildcats handed the Longhorns (24-6, 12-3 Big 12) their second straight loss and third in four games.

NO. 8 NOTRE DAME 93, NO. 19 VILLANOVA 72: Tim Abromaitis hit a career-high nine 3-pointers and scored 30, and Ben Hansbrough had 30 points and 10 assists in his final home game as the Irish (24-5, 13-4) routed the Wildcats (21-9, 9-8) to secure a double bye in the Big East Tournament.

DEPAUL: Freshman and top scorer Cleveland Melvin will miss the rest of the season with a sprained left thumb.

AP POLL: Ohio State returned to No. 1, marking the third week in a row a new team topped the poll. Florida dropped one spot to 14th. Utah State entered at No. 25, replacing Temple.

Information from Times wires was used in this report.

By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Jaterra Bonds of the Florida Gators has been selected to the SEC All-Freshman Team, chosen by the league's women's basketball head coaches and announced today.

This is the third consecutive year a Gator player has earned a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team. Bonds joins current Gator sophomore Jennifer George as the most recent recipients.

Bonds is Florida's second-leading scorer overall and in SEC games, averaging 8.9 points per game in both, while also ranking second for assists (77) and three-pointers (41).

Bonds is a two-time SEC Freshman of the Week recipient, most recently honored on Feb. 28 for helping UF to a pair of upset wins, including the regular-season finale against No. 22 Georgia (Feb. 27), when she scored a career-high 22 points. She has appeared in every game but one this season, and has 13 starts.

"What I love most about coaching Jaterra has nothing to do with ball handling, or her defense or her ability to score and all those things are great, but it's how she competes," UF head coach Amanda Butler said. "She really wants to compete and win. She's fiery. She wants the biggest defensive challenge. She wants to hit the big shot. Those are things you can't put into a player. Jaterra has that inside of her and that's what you saw from her (in the Feb. 27 win) against Georgia."

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Tampa Bay Rays manager Joe Maddon always reserves the right - and often uses it - to change his mind.

But he said Tuesday that his plan, as of now, is to keep John Jaso as the primary leadoff hitter and hit Johnny Damon second. When the Rays face a lefthander and Jaso isn't in the lineup, B.J. Upton appears the most likely candidate to hit leadoff.

This isn't major news, but Maddon had been saying he hadn't decided whether to hit Damon leadoff or second. So, for now, he appears to have made that decision.

"Without anything changing, I see it that way,'' Maddon said. "I still like the way (Jaso) works his at-bats, I like his baserunning skills.''

Maddon said, however, he wouldn't shy away from using Damon if circumstances did change. "I'm not anticipating that, but I would not run away from it if he was amenable and I thought it was necessary,'' Maddon said. "I still like Jaso up there.''