By Joe Smith and Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Thursday, September 15, 2011

TAMPA — NT Brian Price said every Bucs defensive lineman considers himself a starter.

And coach Raheem Morris rotates several players during games. But with Price tabbed to make his first start Sunday against the Vikings, the touted 2010 second-round pick is excited for the opportunity, knowing he will have even more to give when he gets completely healthy.

Last season, Price had surgery to reattach both hamstrings to his pelvis.

"I'm nowhere near 100 percent," he said. "Personally, I'm probably 60, 65 percent. So wait until I get to 100 percent. That's what I tell myself. And I keep going out there, fighting every day just to be great. And I have a long way to go and big shoes to fill."

Morris was pleased with Price's performance in Sunday's 27-20 loss to the Lions, noting how he was probably the healthiest he has been as a Buc, and it showed in his disruption and quickness up front.

That led Price to emerge as "the dominant guy last week at that position," Morris said, over Roy Miller and Frank Okam, two players the coach said needed to show him more.

Miller missed most of the preseason with a left MCL sprain.

"I just think Brian deserves it," Miller said. "I could do better from last week coming off all those weeks off and stuff. I could have a better game and am looking forward to it. I'm just excited. It's like I'm a prisoner scratching off each day of the calendar. I've got a lot to get off my chest."

MEDICAL MATTERS: With CB Myron Lewis (ankle) still not at full participation in practice, it's unlikely he'll play Sunday. But after Lewis went through a limited workout Thursday, Morris said he's encouraged he will be back soon.

For Lewis, who has been hampered by injuries since getting drafted in the third round in 2010, it has been a frustrating experience. He said he won't be back until he's 100 percent because, "you never want to go out there and put any bad film out there."

"College and high school, I was never hurt," he said. "And then one little nick turned into a few nicks. It's nothing serious, but just the missed time is kind of frustrating."

TROP TALK: The team practiced Thursday morning under the roof at Tropicana Field, something they did often last season to beat the heat.

And considering the Bucs went 10-6, they didn't want to change too much from a routine of working out at a place where the Rays have won two of the past three American League East titles under manager Joe Maddon.

"Went over there to steal some of that Coach Maddon Glow," Morris said. "Went and sat in his seat, rubbed around a little bit, rolled in that dust."

The reason was twofold this week with Tampa Bay preparing to play in a dome. The players got used to the lights and turf while practicing in pads.

Though some players, including QB Josh Freeman, cramped up due to the heat Sunday, Morris said he believes they handled the weather well.

"I thought we actually got stronger throughout the game," he said. "We just started to come on, and I put them in an adverse situation going into the two-minute (offense). They responded. They scored and gave us a chance to win. I thought we got better, thought we got stronger and stronger, and thought we were getting stronger at the end when they were starting to get weaker.

"(The Lions) won the game, so obviously, we didn't get strong enough. But from a conditioning standpoint, I felt good about where we were."

QUOTABLE: Morris on the need for defensive backs to help in run support against Vikings RB Adrian Peterson: "When you're talking about a great back like Adrian Peterson, you're talking about tackling as a unit. You're talking about gang tackling. We have to get a bunch of hats to the ball and rally to the football on every snap."

By Tyson Wallerstein, Times Correspondent
Thursday, September 15, 2011

What's hot: Twenty-plus-pound breeder redfish are feeding on bait balls around passes and bridges, as well as beach hard-bottom areas and piers.

What to look for: Terns and pelicans have been taking advantage of the abundance of juvenile baitfish along the beach, and the redfish often can be found in the same areas. Muddy, cloudy water under the birds can indicate the presence of big reds.

Tactics and tackle: Freeline or weigh down a big pinfish or grunt, (depending on the current), off the back of the boat and run a couple of chunks of fresh-cut ladyfish off the sides. While waiting for a bite, increase your chances by chumming with small pieces of ladyfish. Medium-heavy spinning or conventional rods and reels rigged with 40-pound braid and a 40-pound leader work best.

What else: Slot-sized redfish are showing up on the flats in the north Pinellas region. Mullet are working their way onto the flats, and the redfish are mixed in. Low incoming tides are best when targeting reds. Fan-cast topwater plugs if the floating grass isn't too bad. If there's too much grass, try a gold spoon or a weedless jerkbait in avocado red-flake.

Tyson Wallerstein runs Inshore Fishing Charters in the Clearwater/St. Petersburg area and can be reached at (727) 692-5868 or via e-mail capt.tyson@hotmail.com.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

There were a couple of local teams that won Labor Day tournaments, one for baseball and one for hockey. The Winning Inning's 12-year-old Tigers won the Labor Day Beach Bash tournament in Vero Beach on Sept. 3-5. And the Tampa Bay Lightning Squirt A team won the Labor Day Challenge in Ellenton.

The Winning Inning team, which is based in Clearwater, won five straight games to get the championship against the Tampa Terror. The Tigers defeated the Terror 7-5 to win the title. Members of the team are Trevor Benjamin, Mike Bessell, Ben Botham, Jack Clemons, Hayden Haberson, J.K. Kulaga, Billy Mock, Jonathan Norman, Cameron Pettway, Chase Rogalski, and Lucas Strozinsky. Coaches are Len Milcowitz, Vic Brunk and Dan Murray.

The Junior Lightning team also went undefeated in its tournament. The team, which plays out of the Clearwater Ice Arena and the Tampa Bay Skating Academy in Oldsmar, won five games, including the clincher over the Space Coast Hurricanes. Members of the team are Synjen Amende, Spencer Rose, Megan Rittenhouse, Jake Filuta, Jaxson Anderson, Alex Odom, Patrick Labutis, Colin Saar, Kelly Hill, Bradley Gordon, Sammy Barranco, Max Weinstock, Matthew Angilella, Ryan Ebensberger, Marcus Rose and Benji Harris. Coaches are CJ Anderson (equipment manager), Rob Labutis (assistant coach), David Rittenhouse (head coach) and Chad Hill (assistant coach).

Tennis

The Clearwater Local Fall Championships were held Sept. 10-12. The boys 18 singles winner was Alejandro Bueno, the 16 winner was Ganesh Rajaram, the 14 winner was Vincent Caracappa, the 12 winner was Daniel Moreno and the 10 winner was Stephen Echevarria. The girls 18 singles champ was Anna Abadias, the 16 winner was Ruijie Jiang, the 14 winner was Anastasha Worlds, the 12 winner was Sashinya Desilva and the 10 winner was Anna Babayan.

• The East Lake Woodlands Fall NTRP tournament was held Sept. 9-11. The men's 3.0 singles winner was Larry Green, the 3.5 winner was Mario Penalosa, the 4.0 winner was William Parker and the 4.5 winner was Ruben Paliz. The women's 3.5 singles winner was Angel Sims, the 4.0 winner was Ann Rainer and the 4.5 winner was Brenda Sturm.

Golf

The Florida Junior Tour held a tournament at the Vinoy Club in St. Petersburg on Sept. 10-11. Sam Horsfield of Davenport won the boys 13-15 age group with a two-day score of 133, four shots better than Terrence Zhang of Orlando. The top local finisher was Anthony Quintessenza of St. Petersburg, who shot 75-75--150. In the girls 13-15 age group, Athena Yang of Winter Haven won with a score of 143, four shots ahead of Anna Newell of Tampa. Top local finishers include Madison Glennie of Clearwater (160), Emma Paschal of Palm Harbor (165) and Haydyn Gibson of Clearwater (168).

• The County Golf Association held an individual tournament at East Lake Woodland's North Course on Sept. 8. The regular division gross winner was John Lisenbee, who shot 74. The regular division net winner was Mike Stodart, who shot 72. The senior gross winner was Larry VanderBie, who shot 68. The senior net winner was Jim Hammar, who shot 66.

The CGA's better ball tournament was held Sept. 12 at Innisbrook's Osprey North course. The regular division gross winners were Ben Beckman and Ken Jones, who shot 65. The senior division gross winners were Mark Wheaton/Juice Ahern and Larry VanderBie/Mike Sanderson, who shot 65s. The overall net winners were Greg Rusilko and Pat Maxon, who shot 57.

Gymnastics

The Tampa Bay Turners Level 5 team competed in the Judges Cup at the University of Tampa on Sept. 11. Andrea Romero, Addie Bowen, Alyssa Scott and Emily Russek each won first place in the all-around division. Other winners were Romero (vault, beam), Cami Osborne (beam), Taylor Maronie (floor), Bowen (bars), Scott (vault, bars, floor) and Russek (bars, floor).

• LaFleur's Gymnastics of Largo competed in the Aloha Cup in Tampa. In AAU Level 3, winners were Cassidy Fruit (beam, floor, all-around), Caroline Gomes (bars), Amanda Krause (floor), Megan Reed (vault, bars) and Taylor Salgado (vault). In AAU Level 4, winners were Jacqueline Vincent (vault, bars, beam, floor, all-around) and Kira White (vault). In USAG Level 4, winners werers were Brynn Connell (vault), Lilly Kudelko (beam, floor, all-around), Angela Lumia (bars), Carina Lumia (beam, floor, all-around), Peyton Mondello (bars, floor, all-around), Savanna Pendergraft (bars), Emily Rich (floor, all-around), Katie Ross (vault, bars) and Cecilia Svoboda (beam). In USAG Level 5, winners were Elizabeth Clevenger (beam, floor, all-around), Brooke Gephart (beam), Allison Hollaway (vault), Kendell LaPlante (bars, beam, floor, all-around), Nicole Omasta (bars, beam, floor, all-around), Sydney Shannon (vault), Madison Swenson (vault, bars, all-around) and Shea Wheeler (beam).

By Rodney Page, Times Staff Writer


Thursday, September 15, 2011

Making news

Officials eye Hammerheads for protection

Sharks have been strictly regulated in Florida waters since 1992, and at the latest Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission meeting, several sharks were selected to be put on the protected list. Scalloped hammerheads, great hammerheads, smooth hammerheads and tiger sharks would be prohibited from harvest under the FWC's proposed rules. Research indicates those species have either been overfished or the population has declined. For other sharks, there is a one-per-person, two-per-vessel limit for recreational and commercial harvesters, and shark finning is illegal. A public hearing on the proposed rules will be during the November FWC meeting in Key Largo.

Things to do

Wednesdays: Watersports West offers free kayak and stand-up paddleboard lessons from 5-7:30 p.m. at Keegan Clair Park in Indian Rocks Beach. Bring water shoes. Information: (727) 517-7000.

Sept. 23-24: Florida Aquarium will offer wild dolphin ecotours on Tampa Bay aboard a 72-foot catamaran. See dolphins, bird sanctuaries and other native animals. Cost: $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and $18 for children. Information: flaquarium.org.

Sept. 24: The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 79 in Tampa will offer a paddle- sport course for canoers, kayakers and paddleboarders from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Gandy Boat Ramp in Tampa. Kayak fishing guide Neil Taylor and Russell Farrow of Sweetwater Kayaks will give seminars. Cost: $25 per person. Information: auxpaddle course@yahoo.com.

Rodney Page, Times staff writer

Solunar table

AM PM major minor major minor

9/16 8:45 2:35 9:15 3:00

9/17 9:35 3:25 10:05 3:50

9/18 10:25 4:15 10:55 4:40

9/19 11:20 5:10 11:50 5:35

9/20 0 6:05 12:15 6:30

9/21 12:50 6:55 1:05 7:20

9/22 1:35 7:40 1:50 8:05

By Terry Tomalin, Times Outdoors/Fitness Editor
Thursday, September 15, 2011

When Amanda Hus was a little girl growing up in Fort Myers, she dreamed about hiking the Appalachian Trail. "I used to read about it in magazines," said the 53-year-old former stay-at-home mom. "I said to myself, 'Some day.' "

The Tampa resident had done a few day hikes in parks and nature reserves, but nothing serious. Then last fall she heard a talk by hardcore backpackers about "thru hiking" the Florida Trail.

The hiking path, which stretches more than 1,100 miles from the Everglades to the Panhandle, doesn't get as much publicity as the fabled "AT," but for Floridians who love the state's scrublands, pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks it is every bit as beautiful.

"They said they were going to help support a group that would do the whole trail," Hus recalled. "So I went up after the talk and asked how I could sign up."

Hus didn't have any equipment except a pair of boots. So she went to Bill Jackson Shop for Adventure in Pinellas Park and started asking questions in the backpacking department.

"They outfitted me from head to toe," said Hus, who spent about $800 and began training with day hikes. "On Jan. 2, 2011, 12 of us started walking down at Big Cypress."

Every time the group hit civilization, the hikers connected with a van driven by fellow trail enthusiasts so they could restock supplies.

But after a few days Hus realized her pack was full of nonessential items (such as a book she was too tired to read, extra fuel, etc.)

"We just dumped my backpack upside down and poured everything out," she said. " 'This has got to go, this has got to go.' … It is amazing to look at all the things you think you need but you really don't."

One by one, Hus' fellow hikers dropped out. One had to go back to college. Another had to return to work. Two succumbed to injuries. But Hus and a handful of others kept going.

"I was never scared or fearful for a moment on the trial," she said. "I loved every minute of it."

There was a point in North Florida, hiking through a forest that recently underwent a controlled burn, when her enthusiasm began to ebb. "It was a little rainy, the sky was gray and we had to walk through ankle-deep water, day after day," she said. "It was kind of depressing, but even then I never thought that I would rather be home."

Hus pressed on. Then, on March 12, 2011, she finished her trek at Fort Pickens at Gulf Islands National Seashore, exactly 1,150 miles traveled from where she started 10 weeks earlier.

"I didn't want to stop," she said. "I felt like crying. It was the most fantastic thing that I have ever done."

Would she do it again?

"In a heartbeat. You bet."

And she would recommend a similar adventure for anyone willing to try.

As fall nears, now is the time to prepare for hiking season. The Florida woods are best October through April so get your hiking books, buy some maps and plan an expedition.

Some of the best places to hike in Florida can be found just a short drive from the Tampa Bay area. The segments of the Florida Trail that run through the Richloam, Croom and Citrus tracts of Withlacoochee State Forest can keep a trail walker busy for years. With nearly 160,000 acres of wilderness to explore, Withlacoochee has hiking and backpacking trails that will challenge beginners as well as experts.

To learn more about the Florida Trail, go to floridatrail.org. Bill Jackson Shop for Adventure will host another a Florida Trail presentation at 7 p.m. Oct. 17.

Times wires
Thursday, September 15, 2011

Sprint Cup

What: Geico 400

When/where: Today, practice (ESPN2, 2 p.m.; Speed, 6); Saturday, qualifying (Speed, 1:30 p.m.); Sunday, race (ESPN, 2 p.m.); Joliet, Ill.

Fast facts: Jeff Gordon wonders if Richard Childress Racing intentionally caused a caution at Richmond last week to help Kevin Harvick win. Gordon was leading Harvick in Saturday's race when RCR driver Paul Menard spun with 16 laps to go. The drivers pitted, Harvick was first off pit road and pulled away on the restart, going on to win. Gordon questioned if Menard spun on purpose. "I don't want to blame him for any of that if it's not true," Gordon said Thursday. "But when you listen to the radio, and I've had other people translate it to me, it sounds a little fishy." Harvick said he was told a flat tire caused Menard to spin out.

Standings: 1. Kyle Busch and Harvick, 2,012; 3. Gordon, 2,009; 4. Matt Kenseth, 2,006; 5. Carl Edwards, Jimmie Johnson, Kurt Busch and Ryan Newman, 2,003; 9. Tony Stewart, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Brad Keselowski, 2,000 and Denny Hamlin, 2,000

Nationwide

What: Dollar General 300

When/where: Today, practice (Speed, 4:30 p.m.); Saturday, qualifying (Speed, noon), race (ESPN2, 3:30 p.m.); Joliet, Ill.

Standings: 1. Ricky Stenhouse, 950; 2. Elliott Sadler, 934; 3. Reed Sorenson, 905

Trucks

What: Fast Five 225

When/where: Today, practice, qualifying (Speed, 3:30 p.m.), race (Speed, 8 p.m.); Joliet, Ill.

Standings: 1. James Buescher, 588; 2. Johnny Sauter, 576; 3. Timothy Peters, 574

IndyCar

What: Japan 300

When/where: Today, practice; Saturday, practice, qualifying; Sunday, race (Versus, 12:05 a.m.); Motegi, Japan

Standings: 1. Dario Franchitti, 507; 2. Will Power, 502; 3. Scott Dixon, 430

NHRA

What: O'Reilly Auto Parts Nationals

When/where: Today, qualifying; Saturday, qualifying (ESPN2, 12:30 a.m. Sunday); Sunday, final eliminations (ESPN2, 8:30 p.m.); Concord, N.C.

Standings: Top Fuel — 1. Del Worsham, 2,110. Funny Car — 1. Mike Neff, 2,110. Pro Stock — 1. Greg Anderson, 2,110. Pro Stock Motorcycle — 1. Eddie Krawiec, 2,110

Formula One

Next: Singapore Grand Prix, Sept. 25, Marina Bay Street Circuit, Singapore

Times staff, wires
Thursday, September 15, 2011

ANAHEIM, Calif. — At 41, Teemu Selanne is returning for another season with the Ducks, agreeing Thursday to a one-year contract.

Selanne, heading into his 19th season, was the league's eighth-leading scorer last season with 80 points, the third-best season by a player in his 40s in league history.

He will be the third-oldest player in the league this season, behind Lightning goalie Dwayne Roloson, 42 on Oct. 12, and Red Wings defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom, also 41 but a little more than two months older than Selanne.

Selanne — the Ducks' career leader in goals, assists, power-play points, winning goals and games played — signed a contract worth $4 million, the Orange County Register reported.

For the past few seasons, Selanne has approached playing on a season-to-season basis. He said he had "so much fun" last season he knew he wanted to keep playing but offseason knee surgery made him wonder whether he could physically.

"I really feel like I can still play at the same level I played at in the past," Selanne said. "The main factor for me is that I can be healthy, my knee is okay to play at this level, and I can use my speed and play at my level."

In a video for fans posted on the Ducks' website, Selanne said, "You guys knew that I can't stop playing yet. So I'm back at least one more season. My middle name is 'one more.' "

The Ducks open the season in Selanne's native Finland against the Sabres.

sabres: Defenseman Tyler Myers, the 2009 rookie of the year, signed a seven-year, $38.5 million deal extension.

stars: The financially troubled franchise signed an agreement to be sold to Vancouver businessman Tom Gaglardi and filed a prepackaged bankruptcy plan to help facilitate the transaction. The deal is subject to a court-approved auction and league approval.

By Matt Baker, Times Staff Writer
Thursday, September 15, 2011

DADE CITY

Little brothers in big families face two options. Get better, or get bruised. Trey Dudley-Giles did both. The first one was easy. Taking hits from a future Big Ten cornerback drives you to grow stronger. Playing catch with a minor-leaguer forces you to throw harder. Shooting hoops with an all-county guard makes you want to get faster. Is it any wonder the Pasco senior developed into a three-sport star and a three-star football prospect with a handful of major-college offers?

"He can hardly help it," Pirates coach Tom McHugh said. "He'd have to try to avoid it."

But Dudley-Giles couldn't avoid the bruises all of the time, and one dark mark from eight years ago will never heal.

• • •

Dudley-Giles has too many siblings to count. Eight, says his mother, Lillie Dudley, if you want to get technical. Sixteen or so, says his father, Ricky Giles, if you include cousins and nephews and blood relatives who might as well be brothers.

Either way, Dudley-Giles grew up as the youngest in a family where you did two things: You went to church, and you played sports.

"He was in a house where they played ball all the time," said his father, a longtime Pasco coach.

And most of the time he played against his older family members, who became Pirates stars. Eric Southward led Pasco County with 17 points per game in 2000. Deshawn Southward spent five years as an outfielder in the Twins' organization. Josh Johnson starred at quarterback before signing with Purdue as a defensive back in 2009.

Giles said his son "held his own pretty good" most of the time. Dudley-Giles didn't back down but he took some lumps, too.

During one football game in the courtyard of their Dade City apartment complex, Dudley-Giles ran over the middle — and Johnson popped him hard.

"Oh, no, you can't hit me like that," Dudley-Giles said. "Next time I had to make a cut or something."

Dudley-Giles got better.

He learned to slash back on Johnson. By the time the baby brother got to peewee football, McHugh realized Dudley-Giles was a special talent.

"You could see it when he was little, no matter what sport he plays — basketball, baseball, football," McHugh said. "It's just there."

Getting better against his family helped Dudley-Giles become one of the North Suncoast's top talents. The moves he honed in the courtyard faked out defenders for two long touchdown catches against Hernando in the preseason game.

But it's the bruise from the brother who's no longer around that keeps him going.

• • •

Johnson and Dudley-Giles are close, but Dudley-Giles was as close to Deshawn Southward, even if their ages were 15 years apart.

"We just had that connection," Dudley-Giles said.

Southward took his little brother to Little League and high school games. He gave him advice about sports and life.

They ran around in the front yard. Dudley-Giles began to run effortlessly like his big brother.

"A lot of his stuff came from Shawn," his father said.

A lot of it still does.

In November 2003, Southward, 25, was killed in a car wreck in Zephyrhills. Dudley-Giles was 10, and one of his closest friends was gone.

"He took it hard," his mother said.

Dudley-Giles still thinks about his older brother. He posts birthday wishes to him on Facebook. His signature on some text messages tells him to rest in peace.

He hangs a picture of Southward in his locker and talks to it before every home game, dedicating each performance to him.

"I just try to play for that," Dudley-Giles said. "Keep him with me."

• • •

Dudley-Giles has honored his family's legacy with the Pirates.

He plays basketball, hit .455 last year as an all-North Suncoast outfielder and is one of the area's most dynamic receivers and defensive backs.

Dudley-Giles caught nine touchdowns and averaged 23 yards per reception his junior year. The 5-foot-10, 170-pound speedster has offers from Rutgers, East Carolina, Florida Atlantic, among others, and has three touchdowns through two games of his senior season.

When Pasco plays its nondistrict finale tonight against Wiregrass Ranch, Dudley-Giles will suit up for the Pirates like much of his family before him. He'll look at a picture of Southward in his locker and mutter a few words.

Then one of the area's top players will run out onto the field with the lessons and lumps from the past, playing with the skills he learned from his older brothers and in memory of the one who's gone.

Matt Baker can be reached at mbaker@sptimes.com. News researcher Caryn Baird contributed to this report.

Times wires
Thursday, September 15, 2011

Phillies 3, Marlins 1

Game 1

PHILADELPHIA — Kyle Kendrick threw five strong innings in the opener of a day-night doubleheader, and Hunter Pence and Raul Ibanez hit RBI doubles in the first inning for the Phillies.

Times wires
Thursday, September 15, 2011

NBA

Report: owners divided in talks

Disagreement among owners was why Tuesday's labor talks with players ended in pessimism, ESPN reported Thursday.

The sides initially found reason for optimism, ESPN said. Commissioner David Stern and Peter Holt, head of the owners' executive committee, believed the players' proposal to take 52 or 53 percent of basketball-related income, compared with 57 under the old agreement, was basically fair.

Owners also were considering backing off their demand for a salary freeze and allowing players' future earnings to be tied to revenue growth, a critical point for players. But when they met by themselves, the Cavaliers' Dan Gilbert and Suns' Robert Sarver expressed dissatisfaction with many points, ESPN said, visibly annoying the Knicks' James Dolan and Lakers' Jerry Buss.

Gilbert on Twitter called the report "sad & pathetic."

The sides met separately Thursday for updates.

More basketball

France in semifinals behind Parker, Noah

The Spurs' Tony Parker and the Bulls' and former Gator Joakim Noah led France into the semifinals of the European championship with a 64-56 win over Greece in Lithuania.

France meets undefeated Russia, which beat Serbia 77-67. Spain and Macedonia play in the other semifinal today.

Parker scored eight of his 18 in the fourth quarter as France rallied. Noah had a team-high eight rebounds and a key steal and two free throws in the final minute.

WNBA: Erin Phillips made a turnaround jumper with 1.5 seconds left to give host Indiana a 74-72 win over New York in the opener of the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Soccer

Ex-official's appeal of lifetime ban rejected

The sport's governing body rejected Mohamed bin Hammam's appeal against a life ban from soccer over allegations he offered bribes during his campaign to unseat Sepp Blatter as its president this year.

Bin Hammam posted Twitter messages saying he would challenge FIFA's decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

FIFA said its three-man appeal panel met for seven hours before upholding a July ruling by the ethics body to expel bin Hammam. Because of the bribe accusations, bin Hammam dropped out of the presidential race three days before Blatter was re-elected unopposed in June.

Argentina: Former national coach Sergio Batista said he'll sue former national coach Diego Maradona for accusing him of taking bribes from an agent to put certain players on the team.

Et cetera

Drugs: Four-time track cycling world champion Alex Rasmussen was suspended by the Danish federation over missed doping tests and fired by his team. He will miss next week's world road championship. … The Court of Arbitration for Sport reduced the doping ban for a Polish kart driver who was 12 when he tested positive for a banned stimulant from two years to 18 months.

Rugby: The United States held off World Cup rookie Russia 13-6 to register its third win ever at the sport's marquee event in New Plymouth, New Zealand.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic, who won his third major title of the year Monday at the U.S. Open, said he will play for host Serbia in the Davis Cup semifinal against Argentina that begins today.

Times wires

Thursday, September 15, 2011

STARKVILLE, Miss. — Jarrett Lee completed 21 of 27 for 213 yards and a touchdown and No. 3 LSU defeated No. 25 Mississippi State 19-6 Thursday night.

Lee's 19-yard touchdown pass to Rueben Randle with 11:56 to play gave LSU a 16-6 lead. His only mistake was an interception minutes later, but as it had all game, LSU's defense stuffed Mississippi State. LSU (3-0, 1-0 SEC) had 14 tackles for a loss and held the Bulldogs (1-2, 0-2) to 193 total yards and two field goals.

With Mississippi State's cowbells providing the backdrop, LSU won its 12th straight in the series dating to 1999.

Lee's success is quickly making LSU fans forget about expected starter Jordan Jefferson, who has been suspended all season after being arrested for his alleged role in a bar fight in August.

Asked about Lee's play, coach Les Miles said: "I liked it. He gave us a lot of leadership.''

LSU's Spencer Ware rushed for 107 yards on 22 carries.

LSU hurt itself for much of the game before its late-game breakout. In the third quarter, the Tigers committed five penalties in less than nine minutes, losing 67 yards.

But LSU's defense was good enough to make up for all those transgressions, constantly putting pressure on quarterback Chris Relf and disrupting the Bulldogs' running game, which had at least 300 yards in each of the first two games.

Late in the game, the small contingent of LSU fans chanted "This is our State," a jab at Mississippi State's marketing campaign that is constantly shown on the Jumbotron.

fan survives heart attack: A Notre Dame fan who had a heart attack during last weekend's game at Michigan survived to watch the final touchdowns from a hospital bed, the school said.

Leo Staudacher's heart stopped during the second quarter of Saturday night's game at Michigan Stadium, the school said. The 69-year-old survived thanks in part to one bystander who performed CPR and others who called for a medical team.

"It was the fans and their prompt CPR that saved my life," said Staudacher, who was visiting Ann Arbor with his sons.

The medical team took him to the University of Michigan Health System's Cardiovascular Center, where he watched part of the final quarter of Michigan's win.

"It was great to witness an amazing matchup between two old rivals, at least for the first quarter and half," he said, adding that he has a better opinion of Michigan now.

boise state: Starting safety Cedric Febis, sidelined by eligibility questions, was reinstated by the NCAA and will be available tonight at Toledo (8, ESPN).

Clemson: Starting left guard David Smith was scheduled to have arthroscopic shoulder surgery Thursday and will miss Saturday's game against Auburn.

kentucky: Starting running back Raymond Sanders will miss two to three weeks after aggravating a right knee injury in practice. The Wildcats host Florida on Sept. 24.

minnesota: Five days after suffering a seizure, coach Jerry Kill was released from the hospital. He headed straight for the football offices and attended practice later, and plans to coach Saturday, perhaps from the press box.

Oklahoma: Regents are scheduled to meet Monday, and conference affiliation — including the legal ramifications of a switch — is on the agenda.

Texas: Cleve Bryant, a longtime assistant to coach Mack Brown, was fired this year for sexual harassment, according to documents obtained by ESPN.

basketball: Missouri's Frank Haith, the former Miami coach implicated in the recent benefits scandal in Coral Gables, spoke for the first time on the matter, though due to NCAA restrictions, he couldn't say much: "I'm still unsure of what all I can say," Haith told KTRS radio in St. Louis. "First of all … I did nothing wrong at the University of Miami." … Former Arizona coach Lute Olson contends in a lawsuit that he lost more than $1 million by investing in "bogus" bonds with David Salinas, a Houston financial adviser for college coaches who committed suicide while under investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission. … Tennessee women's forward Alyssia Brewer, a senior whose effort has been criticized by coach Pat Summitt, will leave the program.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Thursday, September 15, 2011

BOSTON — RHP Jeremy Hellickson showed the Rays something Thursday. They knew the rookie could pitch well in tough situations, as he did against the Red Sox despite not having much command of his fastball to pick up his 13th win and lower his ERA to 2.91.

But it was the emotion the usually stoic Iowan showed — pounding his hand in his glove, throwing his gum — as he battled through 52/3 innings in the 9-2 win.

"He has that within him,'' manager Joe Maddon said. "He hides it pretty well, but it certainly indicates that beneath this really calm exterior there's a little bit of fire burning, and I kind of like it.''

"You rarely see that from him. It doesn't happen,'' CF B.J. Upton said. "Everyone in here knows how big these games are. He bowed up and made some pitches when he needed to.''

Hellickson sheepishly said he couldn't help himself, especially after allowing the Sox only one run when they rallied in the third and left the bases loaded: "It was a big game. It was a big inning right there.''

SHIELDS UP: RHP James Shields has the "Big Game" nickname, and he relishes the opportunity to pitch in big games, as he will tonight. "Every game from here on is the biggest game of the year for us," Shields said. "This is a time where people need to step up a little bit as individuals and help the team out. And I think (tonight) is a good time for me to step up and get this job done."

MEDICAL MATTERS: OF Sam Fuld's right wrist was still sore, limiting him to pinch-running and defensive duties. Fuld, who strained a tendon on a swing Wednesday, said it felt "a little bit better." … RHP Kyle Farns­worth continued a rest-and-treatment regimen with his tender elbow but is not cleared to play catch, the first of multiple steps to get back on the mound. The Rays haven't ruled out a return for next week.

MORE MOORE: A homer by Orioles C Matt Wieters put a bad finish on it, but the Rays raved about 22-year-old rookie LHP Matt Moore's debut Wednesday, noting his composure, smooth delivery and deceptive velocity.

"This kid is going to be really good," Maddon said. "I don't know exactly how it's all going to work out in the near future and the future, but I'll say this: He has a chance to be very special."

Moore's velocity is his most eye-catching feature, especially because it doesn't appear that he's throwing that hard. Of Moore's 27 pitches, 22 were 95 mph and up, according to MLB.com data, with three at 98.

"That was the easiest 96 I think I've ever seen," LHP David Price said. "When he threw that first pitch, I thought it was going to be 90-91, and it popped up at 96. It doesn't even look like the ball really jumps out of his hand. It's just so smooth. … It gets on hitters pretty quick."

MISCELLANY: The Rays have won 23 straight when scoring five or more. … Moore was the 10th rookie pitcher used, tying the team record (2001's 100-loss squad). With Russ Canzler's debut Thursday — walked and said it was "surreal" — they have used 16 rookies total, tying the 2001 team mark. … The win clinched a second straight above-500 road record (41-33, including 19-10 at AL East sites). … Moore might not be available again until Saturday, Maddon said. … The 34 active players are the team's most since 35 at the end of 2008.

Times wires
Thursday, September 15, 2011

GAINESVILLE — Florida's Sharrif Floyd watched from the sideline the first two games, unable to change his situation, unable to help his defense.

The sophomore defensive lineman sat out the season opener while under NCAA investigation, then missed another game after the governing body ruled he received $2,700 from an individual not associated with the university. He was ordered to sit two games and arrange to repay the money to charity. The decision devastated Floyd, who cried as coach Will Muschamp told him he couldn't play.

His return against SEC rival Tennessee on Saturday could be equally emotional.

"Getting Sharrif Floyd, that does a lot for our team," teammate Lerentee McCray said. "Just motivation, just bringing our brother along. It gives us a real big boost going into an SEC game."

UF failed to record a sack in last week's game against UAB, and Muschamp has repeatedly said he wants more pressure from his defensive ends.

Floyd played in every game last year and emerged from fall practice as one of the team's most versatile and disruptive defenders.

Volunteers coach Derek Dooley said the Gators "probably have the most talented defensive line in the country" with Floyd, McCray, Dominique Easley, Jaye Howard, Omar Hunter and Ronald Powell.

"We're going to have to block for these guys," Dooley said. "It doesn't matter how open you are, if you can't deliver the ball to them, it doesn't matter.''

UM: Harris returns

CORAL GABLES — Miami QB Jacory Harris said he "might shed a tear'' about his season debut against Ohio State after a one-game suspension.

"I'm so happy to be back on the field,'' he said. "I'm really, like, ready to run out of that tunnel and just run out with my team. They're the ones that have been by our sides throughout everything that's occurred these past couple of months. We just want to have a great game together."

Out for season: TE Blake Ayles will not play this season because of lingering effects of a head injury, the third time the USC transfer had a college season cut short by a medical issue.

Times wires

FSU: Shaw shines

TALLAHASSEE — Since enrolling at Florida State last year, sophomore WR Kenny Shaw has been labeled the team's best route-runner. He shows precise cuts, angles and ability to get into the right soft spaces in coverage.

Ask the Orlando native how he became so good at running routes and he always brings up one name: Tom Shaw.

The two aren't related.

When he was in high school, Kenny Shaw attended Tom Shaw's speed and performance institute in Kissimmee. He originally learned the art of proper route-running there, he said. But beyond the fundamentals that he picked up there is something else that he believes has helped.

On Sundays, he goes into Doak Campbell Stadium to run through a set of routes, alone.

"I come out on my own time and basically, just visualize me coming in and out of my cuts with (QB) EJ Manuel," he said.

This and that: With WR Willie Haulstead missing his third straight game, and senior Bert Reed potentially missing his first of the season, Shaw's touches in practice have increased. "That's what good players do. They take the reps that other players can't," Shaw said. … Reed practiced Thursday but likely will be a gametime decision, coach Jimbo Fisher said. … Fisher said he has liked Bryan Stork's work at center this week and likely will keep him there. Jake Fahrenkrug moves to left guard.

Coley Harvey, Orlando Sentinel

UCF: A return home

ORLANDO — UCF backup LB Ray Shipman is looking forward to a return to the Miami area, where he attended high school, when the Knights play at FIU on Saturday. Shipman joined the Florida basketball team in 2008, then left for UCF to play football. "Very excited," he said when asked how he felt about showing off his football skills in Miami. "Get my opportunity to go out there and do whatever I can to help the team."

Shipman said he's committed to keep making up for lost time.

"I feel like … just improving, improving, improving, trying to be my best and be the best football player I can become," he said.

Iliana Limon, Orlando Sentinel

Times wires
Thursday, September 15, 2011

MILWAUKEE — All-Star 1B Prince Fielder, a free agent this offseason and represented by Scott Boras, said Wednesday in an interview with TBS that this is likely his last season with the Brewers.

"I'm signed for this year, but being real about it, it is probably the last year," Fielder said.

Though it has become increasingly evident the Brewers won't be able to keep Fielder, these comments were the most he has said on the subject in some time.

"It's the same thing I've been saying," Fielder said. "That's what you guys said last year. Probably. It is what it is."

Meanwhile, reliever Francisco Rodriguez was quoted by CBSSports.com as saying he wasn't happy about the lack of save chances he says he was promised when he came over from the Mets at the All-Star break.

"They told me one thing; they haven't done it," Rodriguez told reporters.

GM Doug Melvin said on his weekly radio show Thursday that "it shouldn't affect us, the way we perform on the field."

Marlin files grievance Vs. team: LF Logan Morrison filed a grievance against the Marlins because of an August demotion to the minors. He was sent down Aug. 13, several hours after he skipped a team meet-and-greet with season-ticket holders. Morrison was batting .249 at the time, but he was second on the team with 17 homers and third with 60 RBIs.

He filed the grievance Aug. 25, two days after he was recalled from Triple-A New Orleans, saying it was a wrongful demotion. The team had no comment.

"The players association agreed I should apply for a grievance," Morrison said. "It's about protecting rights. Guys who have been here for a long time want to make sure their rights won't be stepped on."

Morrison hit his 20th homer of the year in Florida's 3-1 loss to the Phillies in the opener of a day-night doubleheader Thursday.

"I want to put it behind me, and it's not about money," Morrison said. "I want to stand for what's right.

Superstitious Tiger: Manager Jim Leyland, whose Tigers went into Thursday's late game against the A's with a 12-game winning streak, said he will wear the same underwear until the streak ends. "I'm superstitious," said Leyland, who couldn't pinpoint exactly how many days he has worn the same underwear.

Frustrated Met: Manager Terry Collins fumed after New York lost its sixth straight game, 10-1 to the Nationals, one shy of its longest skid this season. "The perception I have right now: We folded it up. And I won't stand for that," Collins said. "You want to see me be intense? You guys are going to see it."

Cardinals: Cleanup hitter Matt Holliday will miss four or five days with an injured right hand, which he hurt while taking practice swings in the on-deck circle. Holliday has an inflamed tendon in the middle finger. He will be re-evaluated early next week.

Indians: Shin-Soo Choo (strained left oblique) was activated from the DL and started in right vs. the Rangers, but he left in the second with left rib cage aggravation.

Royals: RHP Luke Hochevar (elbow) is being shut down for the season. Triple-A RHPs Luis Mendoza and Vin Mazzaro, will likely move into the rotation.

Times wires
Thursday, September 15, 2011

LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher returned to practice Thursday after the death of his mother and is expected to play at New Orleans on Sunday.

Urlacher missed Wednesday's practice to go to Texas after Lavoyda Lenard died Monday night.

"Sometimes when you're going through tough times like he is right now, you want to get back with your support group, which is here with his teammates," coach Lovie Smith said. "It was good to get him back, see his face and show some support that way.

"Football is pretty important to him. So you know he's excited about playing the game this Sunday."

Urlacher, who was unavailable for comment, is set to attend the funeral Saturday.

Vikings linebacker hurt

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Vikings starting middle linebacker E.J. Henderson will have an X-ray on his sore knee that caused him to miss practice.

His status for Sunday's game against the Bucs hasn't been determined.

Coach Leslie Frazier said Henderson, who practiced without problems Wednesday, woke up with swelling. The team is unsure sure how he got hurt.

In his place, younger brother Erin Henderson and recently acquired Xavier Adibi took reps.

Raiders want field goal record: Oakland has appealed to Elias, the league's official statistician, to rule Monday's field goal by Sebastian Janikowski against the Broncos a 64-yarder instead of 63, which matched the league record of Tom Dempsey and Jason Elam. Replays indicate holder Shane Lechler placed the ball between the Raiders' 47- and 46-yard lines. The rules call for the distance to be rounded down.

Pryor appeal: The agent for Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor met with commissioner Roger Goodell about overturning his five-game ban. Agent Drew Rosenhaus said he expects a ruling shortly. Pryor, who left Ohio State amid allegations of exchanging memorabilia for tattoos, was suspended for manipulating his eligibility for the supplemental draft.

Bengals: Quarterback Andy Dalton will start against the Broncos on Sunday. The rookie bruised his right wrist and forearm in the opener and was replaced by Bruce Gradkowski. He didn't throw at practice Wednesday but did Thursday.

Bills: Receiver Stevie Johnson missed practice with a sore groin that has been bothering him for about a month. He's expected to play Sunday against the Raiders.

Falcons: Fullback Ovie Mughelli, who missed most of the opener with a knee injury, and defensive tackle Corey Peters, who missed all the opener with a knee injury, practiced and are expected to play Sunday against the Eagles.

Jets: Linebacker David Harris missed his second straight practice with a toe injury. Receiver Santonio Holmes was limited with a sore knee and quadriceps. Both are expected to play Sunday against the Jaguars.

Rams: Running back Steven Jackson missed his second straight practice with a strained quad but said he has not ruled himself out for Monday against the Giants. Coach Steve Spagnuolo said Jackson will be evaluated closer to Monday.

Saints: Saying "that's why I hired my agent," quarterback Drew Brees does not expect his effort to sign a contract extension to be a distraction. He is in the final year of a six-year, $60 million contract. The New Orleans Times-Picayune reported that agent Tom Condon met with the team Tuesday. ESPN.com reported the sides are far apart.

Steelers: Safety Troy Polamalu was fined $15,000 for a horse-collar tackle on Ravens running back Ray Rice on Sunday, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported.

Titans: Safety Chris Hope missed his second straight practice, and coach Mike Munchak said his status for Sunday vs. the Ravens will depend on how quickly his shoulder strengthens after popping out in the opener.

Dolphins avoid blackout: Miami and team sponsors will buy unsold tickets so Sunday's home game against the Texans will air locally. As of Thursday morning, about 10,000 remained. The tickets, bought at a 66 percent discount, will be given to season-ticket holders.

Diversity: The league showed an increase of 30 percent in diverse employees in executive-level jobs, according to a study by the Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport at the University of Central Florida. The report gave the league its second straight A for racial hiring and second straight C for gender hiring for an overall B. Diverse employees at or above the vice president level increased by 30 percent (from 20 in 2010 to 26 in 2011). Female employees increased by 36 percent (11 in 2010 to 15 in 2011).

Times wires
Thursday, September 15, 2011

PHILADELPHIA — He was so close to another shutout, but Cliff Lee had to settle for a team win Thursday.

Ryan Howard hit an RBI double in the 10th inning soon after Lee fell one strike short of his seventh shutout, and the Phillies beat the Marlins 2-1 to sweep a day-night doubleheader.

The Phillies, who won the opener 3-1, reduced their magic number for clinching a fifth straight National League East title to two.

Jose Lopez spoiled Lee's shutout bid when he hit a tying homer on an 0-and-2 pitch in the ninth.

"Obviously, that's frustrating," Lee said. "But what can you do about it. What's done is done. You got to get the next guy out."

Lee struck out 12 and allowed five hits in nine innings, failing to earn his 17th win.

Michael Martinez walked to lead off the 10th against Burke Badenhop. Howard then lined a 3-and-1 pitch deep to left-center, and Martinez scored easily.

Times wires
Thursday, September 15, 2011

LEMONT, Ill. — Feeling as though he had nothing to lose, Justin Rose shot his best round of the year Thursday to open the BMW Championship.

Playing in temperatures that barely reached the 60s, Rose had nine birdies to shoot 8-under 63 for a two-shot lead over Webb Simpson and Mark Wilson in the third of four events of the PGA's FedEx Cup.

"Didn't expect that going out there," Rose said. "I looked to the weather, and I thought it was going to be a day to hang in there. Little did I know I was about to play … certainly my best round of the year by a long, long way. And it could have been top five, top 10 rounds I've ever played."

Rose, 31, has gone 10 tournaments without a top 10 finish. He is No. 34 in points, and because only the top 30 advance to the Tour Championship, he figured he might as well relax. He didn't miss a fairway and had to scramble for par only twice.

"I've got nothing to lose this week," said Rose, who added he cleaned up his swing with coach Sean Foley on Tuesday. "Guys who are 26, 27, 28, 29, who have played well all year, they might be pretty tense this week."

Simpson won his first tour event a month ago at Greensboro, then won again two weeks later to move to the top of the standings. He birdied four of his first six holes Thursday and six overall.

"Luckily, I was able to keep the momentum," Simpson said. "It was a good day for the tough course and tough conditions."

LPGA: Jennifer Johnson shot a career-best 7-under 65 for the first-round lead at the Navistar Classic in Prattville, Ala. Johnson, a third-year pro with $84,809 in earnings, pledged half this week's winnings to the Wounded Warrior Project, which provides services to injured soldiers. She was 6 under on the back nine, including an eagle on the par-4 15th when she holed out with a 6-iron from 150 yards. Lexi Thompson, 16, sat one back. She hit all greens in regulation and had seven birdies, Seminole's Brittany Lincicome shot par 72, Tampa resident Kristy McPherson 75, Tampa's Cindy LaCrosse 76 and Clearwater's Jenny Gleason 82.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Thursday, September 15, 2011

Rays at Red Sox

When/where: 7:10 tonight; Fenway Park, Boston

TV/radio: Sun Sports; 620-AM, 680-AM (Spanish)

Starting pitchers:

Rays

RH James Shields (15-10, 2.70)

Red Sox

RH Josh Beckett (12-5, 2.49)

Watch for ...

Big Game James: Shields faces the Sox for the fifth time this season after working 8 1/3 innings against them Sunday. He is 1-8 with a 6.99 ERA in nine Fenway starts.

No Joshing: Beckett returns after missing his last start due to a sprained right ankle. Beckett hasn't allowed an earned run in 17 innings vs. the Rays this year and is 8-4 with a 2.94 ERA overall.

Key matchups

Rays vs. Beckett

Johnny Damon 14-for-55, 2 HRs

Evan Longoria 10-for-35, HR

Ben Zobrist 1-for-16

Red Sox vs. Shields

David Ortiz 14-for-49, 3 HRs

Dustin Pedroia 14-for-48, 2 HRs

Marco Scutaro 15-for-58, 2 HRs

On deck

Saturday: at Red Sox, 4:10. Ch. 13. Rays — Jeff Niemann (10-7, 3.97); Red Sox — Jon Lester (15-7, 3.07)

Sunday: at Red Sox, 1:35. Sun Sports. Rays — David Price (12-12, 3.34); Red Sox — Tim Wakefield (7-6, 5.13)

Quote of the day

"Everyone was a little anxious to see him in the game."

Jim Hickey, Rays pitching coach, on the communications mixup that had LHP Matt Moore leave the bullpen prematurely Wednesday night

'Honor' of the day

RHP Kyle Farnsworth finished a pedestrian 12th in Sports Illustrated's poll of players about who is the "meanest" big-leaguer. White Sox C A.J. Pierzynski was No. 1. Phillies 2B Chase Utley was second.

Numbers of the day

66

Degrees at first pitch Thursday in Boston.

.178

Batting average for Red Sox vs. Rays.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Thursday, September 15, 2011

BOSTON — Having lost momentum and opportunity in Baltimore, and off to a sluggish start Thursday, the Rays needed something to break their way.

Turned out it was B.J. Upton's Louisville Slugger.

And if the Rays somehow pull this off and beat out the Red Sox for a playoff spot, the shattered piece of ash — 34 inches long, 31 ounces and black — will take on legendary status as the broken bat that broke the hearts of the Fenway faithful.

Sparked by Upton's unlikely hit, the barrel of the bat flying at shortstop Marco Scutaro just before the ball went through his legs, the Rays rolled to a 9-2 win in the opener of this showdown series.

"You're always looking for signs, man," Rays manager Joe Maddon said. "You're looking for signs from the baseball gods. They've got to throw you a sign once in a while, got to give you something to further the belief.

"Believe me, when I saw that I thought, 'Hey, let's see what's going to happen for the rest of this game.' "

What happened was the Rays rolled, their silenced bats coming to life. Evan Longoria followed immediately with a three-run homer for a 4-0 lead, and Casey Kotchman and Upton added two-run shots. Starter Jeremy Hellickson battled into the sixth on a chilly, damp and windy night, and four relievers teamed for 10 outs.

And what happened then was the Rays took a vital step in the right direction, the first of several required, as they closed to within three games of the Sox in the AL wild-card race, though with only 13 remaining. (They also clinched the season series by improving to 10-5 vs. the Sox, ensuring a one-game playoff would be at the Trop.) The four-game series continues tonight, with James Shields facing Boston's Josh Beckett.

"It's one game, and it's great to get the first one, and we can move on to (tonight)," Maddon said.

The struggling Sox helped with another poor effort as they lost for the seventh time in their last eight games and ninth in 11, including four straight to the Rays.

The Rays had their first two men on of the night with two outs in the third when Upton hit a sharp grounder to short. The barrel of the bat got to Scutaro just before the ball, and both ended up going through his legs.

"I saw the bat at the last moment," Scutaro said. "I just jumped. Couldn't do anything else about it. I thought maybe (today) I'm going to tell (coach Tim Bogar) to hit me ground balls and also bats so I can work on that."

Upton breaks a lot of bats — three or four already on this road trip, so he's got more being shipped to him — but never one that worked out so well. Or featured such good timing.

"That is definitely a first for me, but I'll take it," Upton said. "I think enough things haven't gone our way this year."

Maddon had pretty much the same take: "Obviously we got a break with the broken bat, my God, never seen that one before, ball and bat arriving at about the same time in the hole at shortstop. That was fortuitous, but we took advantage of it."

It took only four more pitches from Kyle Weiland, the first of seven Boston pitchers, as Longoria delivered, his 27th homer overall, and 22nd since June 11. His 75 RBIs since then are the most in the majors over that span.

The Sox got one run back as Hellickson teetered a bit, but the Rays tacked on two in the sixth on a homer by Kotchman. And then Upton struck again with a seventh-inning blast against the wind over the Green Monster in left-center — "punctured," Maddon said — to make it 8-1.

The Rays have beaten the Red Sox six straight times, and 10 in 15 overall, including five of six at Fenway, and the key has been their pitching, holding the Sox to a .178 average.

"Pitching, man," Boston DH David Ortiz said.

Times wires
Thursday, September 15, 2011

Phillies 2, Marlins 1

10 innings, Game 2

PHILADELPHIA — Ryan Howard hit an RBI double in the 10th, one inning after Cliff Lee fell one strike short of his seventh shutout, and the Phillies swept a doubleheader. The Phillies reduced their magic number for clinching the National League East to two. Jose Lopez hit a tying homer on an 0-and-2 pitch off Lee.