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Yankees reportedly ban Reggie

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Times wires
Monday, July 9, 2012

NEW YORK — The Yankees told Reggie Jackson to steer clear of the clubhouse and team events indefinitely after his comments about third baseman Alex Rodriguez, the Associated Press reported Monday.

In a Sports Illustrated interview last week, the ex-Yankees star and current team adviser said Rodriguez's stats are tainted because he admitted using performance-enhancing drugs and anyone who took them should not be allowed in the Hall of Fame.

Jackson has spoken to Rodriguez since. But the AP reported Jackson was told not to travel to Boston for last weekend's series to avoid being a distraction.

Blue Jays: Reliever Luis Perez, who left Sunday's game with a sore left elbow, was diagnosed with a torn ligament and is out for the year.

Braves: Shortstop Andrelton Simmons will miss at least a month with a broken right pinky sustained on a slide Sunday. … Ben Sheets, out of the majors for almost two years due to injuries, allowed three runs (two earned) over 52/3 innings in his second start at Double A. His next start hasn't been scheduled.

Orioles: Rightfielder Nick Mar­kakis, out since May 30 with a broken bone in his right wrist, will return Friday, the team said.

Sacramento team: Kevin Johnson, mayor of Sacramento, Calif., said he wants to lure a team to the city. Johnson added he has given up trying to keep the NBA's Kings in town. A plan for a new arena collapsed this year when the team backed out. Major League Baseball has no plans to expand. And the only team that has discussed moving, Oakland, is eyeing San Jose, Calif.


Tampa Bay Rays closer Fernando Rodney plans to shoot his arrow at All-Star Game

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By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Monday, July 9, 2012

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Rays closer Fernando Rodney wasn't sure of all the specifics Monday as he enjoyed — and was a bit awed by — the first day of the first All-Star appearance of his career.

But he knows exactly what he plans to do when he gets on the mound tonight.

And it will have a familiar, and rewarding, look for Rays fans.

Rodney said late Monday he is in line to pitch the ninth if the AL has the lead, but no matter what inning he works after getting the final out he plans to "shoot" his celebratory arrow into the air — as he usually does after getting a save for the Rays.

"I'm going to call the infield in and tell them that's what we're going to do, everyone be looking for this," Rodney said. "I'm going to miss (Rays first baseman Carlos Peña), though, because he's not going to ask me where it's going."

At 35, Rodney is one of the oldest players to make his first All-Star appearance, and as he was joined by his wife, four kids and a couple friends, he relished it.

"I'm happy to be here," he said. "I feel I belong today."

Rodney was asked repeatedly about the keys to his success this season and how well he has handled the pressure of closing.

"Not too many guys like it," he said. "I asked a couple. They say they don't like it because they don't want to take the responsibility to come into the ninth inning. But I say, why not? Have fun there. Maybe somebody doesn't have fun. I have fun when it comes to the ninth.

"I like to close the door and see everybody stand up and go, 'Rodney!' "

Rodney, second in the American League with 25 saves (among 26 chances) and who has a 0.93 ERA, said he didn't care what inning he pitched.

"I just want to come in and get my three outs and shoot the arrow," he said.

Notre Dame talks to Orange Bowl

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Times wires
Monday, July 9, 2012

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Notre Dame says it has had talks with the ACC about the Orange Bowl.

Last week the ACC signed a 12-year deal with the annual Miami bowl game. That contract starts in 2014, when the postseason format changes to a four-team playoff.

The deal gives ACC members access to the Orange Bowl in years the game does not host a national semifinal.

Notre Dame is interested in a deal that would give the Fighting Irish an automatic landing spot in seasons in which they are good enough to play in a top-tier game but do not make the playoff.

School spokesman John Heisler said in a statement that athletic director Jack Swarbrick has had discussions with ACC officials that and university presidents have been consulted.

Former Stanford star Sauer dies at 35

STANFORD, Calif. — Peter Sauer, a former captain at Stanford who helped lead the Cardinal to the 1998 Final Four, died Sunday night. He was 35.

The school said Monday that Sauer died in White Plains, N.Y., while playing in an recreational league game. The 6-foot-7, 225-pound forward from Pittsburgh was part of a team that reached four straight NCAA Tournaments under former coach Mike Montgomery. Stanford's coaching staff said Sauer was shooting free throws after a game, collapsed and hit his head.

"Peter Sauer was one of the most popular players I have ever coached," said Montgomery, now coaching at Stanford's rival, California. "He played on a Final Four team and was an integral part of the success of that group."

MONTGOMERY DEAL: Montgomery agreed to a two-year extension to remain at Cal through the 2015-16 season. Nine months ago Montgomery, 65, disclosed he had bladder cancer then had surgery that left him cancer-free. Last season he led the Golden Bears (24-10) to the NCAA Tournament, where Cal lost to USF in the first round.

SCHEDULING: The first game in Washington's renovated Husky Stadium will be Aug. 31, 2013, a week earlier than scheduled. The Huskies will face Boise State to open Husky Stadium after its $250 million renovation.

OHIO STATE: The Columbus Dispatch reported that linebacker Storm Klein, kicked off the football team last week after domestic charges were filed against him, confronted the mother of his child. The woman said in the police report that Klein "violently and purposely grabbed" her.

Leader gives 'best' to win time trial

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Times wires
Monday, July 9, 2012

BESANCON, France — If Monday's time trial at the Tour de France was "the test of truth," as one top rider called it, then Bradley Wiggins aced it.

The Olympic champion, aiming to be the first British winner of cycling's showcase race, sped to victory in the first big time trial, tightening his grip on the yellow jersey.

"That was my physical best out there," he said. "It's probably my best time trial ever."

The race against the clock is a discipline Wiggins loves. And it showed in the ninth stage, a 25.8-mile ride from Arc-et-Senans to Besancon. He finished 35 seconds ahead of Sky teammate and runnerup Christopher Froome.

Defending champion Cadel Evans of Australia, seen as Wiggins' most formidable rival, was a disappointing sixth. He called Wiggins and Froome "very, very, very strong riders."

A day earlier, Evans was all too aware of the stakes in the time trial: "Tomorrow is the test of truth. It's each with their own two legs," he said.

Evans was 1:43 behind. He remains second overall, trailing by 1:53. Froome rose to third, from sixth, and is 2:07 back.

"I was really motivated — the time trial is my thing," Wiggins said, adding that he had worked hard on his riding position, breathing and study of the course. "I am very happy now."

Overall, Italy's Vincenzo Nibali is fourth, 2:23 behind. Russia's Denis Menchov is fifth, 3:02 back, and Spain's Haimar Zubeldia is sixth, 3:19 off the pace.

Wiggins, who has the support of Froome in his title quest, entered the stage looking to move up in the standings.

"My goal was to get a minute on Cadel. … I've come away with a bit more than that, it's a bonus," Wiggins said. "Winning the stage is like Christmas — it's brilliant."

Taking stock at MLB's halfway point of the season

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Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Monday, July 9, 2012

Who is baseball's biggest surprise and will they hold on?

In 1979, the Pirates and Orioles met in the World Series. If the playoffs started today, both would make the postseason. The Pirates haven't had a winning season since 1992 — Barry Bonds' last season in the 'Burgh. The Buccos sit in first place in the NL Central. The Orioles, barely clinging to the second wild-card spot in the AL, haven't been to the playoffs since 1997.

Answer: The O's have been a nice story, but they're showing signs of fading. Last season on July 19 the Pirates were seven games over .500 and in first place. Then the bottom dropped out and the Bucs ended up losing 90 games. They're much better this season, but if they don't give Andrew McCutchen (the NL MVP so far) some help, the Pirates might not have enough offense to win the division. They need to make a deal.

Who is the biggest disappointment and will they turn it around?

The Rays certainly are scuffling, partly because of injuries, and haven't resembled the team many picked to get to the World Series. But at least they have a winning record. The Phillies have had some injuries (Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Roy Halladay), but that's not a good enough excuse for being a whopping 14 games out of first place.

Answer: The Rays, Red Sox and Marlins should be better. But at last year's All-Star break, the Phils were 23 games over .500. Now they're 13 under. They are, by far, baseball's most disappointing team and are so far out of it that they're talking about being sellers at the trade deadline.

Who is baseball's most disappointing player and why?

From 2008 to '10, Tim Lincecum of the Giants went 49-22 and won two Cy Youngs. Since the start of last season he is 16-24, including 3-10 with a 6.42 ERA this season. His 10 losses and 69 earned runs allowed are the most in the National League.

Answer: No one has the first clue to what's wrong. Lincecum appears healthy, but he has suffered a drop in velocity. What's stunning is the Giants are only a half-game out of first place.

Who's better, Bryce Harper or Mike Trout?

So far, the best debate of the season is who is better: the Nationals' 19-year-old rookie Bryce Harper (.282 with eight homers, 25 RBIs, 10 stolen bases) or Angels' 20-year-old rookie Mike Trout (.341 with 12 homers, 40 RBIs, 26 steals and, perhaps, the catch of the year in the outfield). The good news is we might have 20 years to figure out the answer.

Answer: In five years, I think Harper will be the best player in baseball. But right now, you have to take Trout. He might be the American League MVP.

Who is baseball's best team and who will win it all?

Based simply on record, the Yankees are at the top with a 52-33 record. While the Yankees have had injuries to their pitching staff (starters CC Sabathia and Andy Pettitte, and closer Mariano Rivera), their lethal lineup has remained, for the most part, healthy. You wonder if A-Rod and Derek Jeter can stay healthy in the second half.

Answer: How cool would it be to see the up-and-coming (some might say "here-and-now'') Nationals win the whole shebang. But we're going with a Rangers team that is first in the AL in batting average, first in runs and third in team ERA. Plus, after losing the past two World Series, the third time is a charm, right?

tom jones' two cents

With the All-Star Game tonight in Kansas City, Mo., Major League Baseball has reached the recognized halfway point of the season. Here are some questions that have come out of the first half, along with some answers for the second half.

Sports in brief: Federer matches Sampras' run at No. 1

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Times wires
Monday, July 9, 2012

tennis

federer ties sampras' mark at no. 1

WIMBLEDON, England — By tying Pete Sampras with a record seven Wimbledon titles, Roger Federer also has tied the American's career mark of 286 weeks at No. 1 in the ATP rankings.

In Monday's new rankings, Federer jumps from No. 3 to the top, overtaking Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. Federer last was No. 1 in June 2010. Djokovic, who'd been No. 1 since winning Wimbledon last year, lost to Federer in this year's semifinals. Andy Murray, who lost to Federer in Sunday's final, remains at No. 4.

There's also a new leader in the WTA rankings: Victoria Azarenka rises one spot from No. 2 while Maria Sharapova drops from No. 1 to No. 3.

autos

Failed test surprises Allmendinger

AJ Allmendinger is "shell-shocked" by his failed drug test, and his business manager said the suspended NASCAR driver is working hard to determine what went wrong.

Allmendinger was suspended by NASCAR just before Saturday night's race at Daytona for failing a random June 29 drug test. NASCAR on Monday received an official request for Allmendinger's "B" sample to be tested.

"He was a little dumbfounded and shell-shocked Saturday night, and (Sunday), it just seemed a little surreal," business manager Tara Ragan said. "It's just so far from AJ's character, and he's trying to come to terms with what has just happened and figure out how this could happened and respect NASCAR's process."

Penske Racing will use Sam Hornish Jr. this weekend at New Hampshire in Allmendinger's No. 22 Dodge. NASCAR and Penske officials haven't said what Allmendinger tested positive for.

cycling

Suit dismissed but Armstrong can refile

A federal judge handed Lance Armstrong a quick setback as he went to court to save his seven Tour de France titles and his reputation.

Armstrong filed a lawsuit aimed at preventing the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency from moving ahead with charges that he used performance-enhancing drugs throughout much of his long career.

Within hours, U.S. District Court Judge Sam Sparks in Austin, Texas, dismissed the 80-page complaint. He did not rule on the merits of Armstrong's claims and will let him refile.

et cetera

Horses: The owner of I'll Have Another says he sold his Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner to a farm in Japan for $10 million. J. Paul Reddam made his comments in a blog appearing on bloodhorse.com. I'll Have Another was retired with a tendon injury the day before he was to run in the Belmont Stakes.

Soccer: Rowdies forward Tsu­yoshi Yoshitake is the NASL player of the month for June. He scored four goals and had one assist in three games last month.

Times wires

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher David Price is very good now — but expects be better

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By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Monday, July 9, 2012

KANSAS CITY, Mo.

Success, sometimes, can be defined by the company you keep.

Monday afternoon, Rays pitcher David Price looked out from behind his table and over a gaggle of microphones, digital recorders and cameras at the All-Star Game media session to see Josh Hamilton to his right, Prince Fielder across the aisle and Miguel Cabrera to his left. Derek Jeter was nearby. Joe Mauer. David Ortiz.

The view, Price acknowledged, was pretty good.

"When you look around and see all these nameplates out here, these are the guys you see just about every night on ESPN doing something good," Price said.

"It's awesome being in this room with these guys. These are the best players in baseball right now. To be a part of that group is very special."

Price, though, should feel comfortable being there by now.

Though he's only in his third full season in the big leagues and though he's only 26, this is the third consecutive year he has been named an All-Star.

"(Sunday) night, looking through the media guide, it kind of hit me," Price said. "I didn't see a lot of 3s — All-Star selections, 3. That was a good feeling. There were a lot of big-name guys that had 1 and had 2, and some of them had 3. It makes you feel good. It puts things in perspective."

Price has certainly earned his way since unleashing the lightning in his left arm, going 52-30 with a 3.31 ERA in 106 starts. And there was plenty of praise flowing from his fellow All-Stars.

"He's one of the best pitchers in the league," Yankees lefty CC Sabathia said.

"At the top," Baltimore centerfielder Adam Jones offered.

"One of the greatest," added Giants, and former Yankees and Royals, outfielder Melky Cabrera.

"He's a guy," Yankees centerfielder Curtis Granderson said, "that if I had to win one game, I'd start him to win it."

But there's a theory — "a really scary" one, as Rays pitching coach Jim Hickey calls it — that Price can become even better. And Price is the first to endorse it.

"I completely agree," Price said, ticking off a to-do list of improvements including having better control of his cutter, being more consistent with his changeup and eliminating the occasional bad starts that still skew his seasons and foul his mood.

"I'm not there yet," Price said. "I know I'm nowhere near being a finished product right now. And when I do (get there), I would love to watch the results."

So, how much better?

"I don't think he's halfway there yet," ESPN analyst and former big-leaguer Rick Sutcliffe said.

"Considerably better," Hickey said. "And I mean considerably better. Like the best-pitcher-in-the-league-for-10-years better."

"As long as he stays healthy," teammate James Shields said, "he definitely could be a Hall of Fame-type pitcher."

Rays manager Joe Maddon said Price's development can be broken into three stages.

"At the beginning, I always talked about fastball command, and now he's got a lot better with that," Maddon said. "And then it was development of other pitches, and he's done that.

"Now I think it's the understanding of when to use his pitches. That's the next level. And when that comes together, that's when he's going to get really as good as he can become."

Which is?

"Not unlike what a Sabathia has grown into," Maddon said. "Not unlike what a (Justin) Verlander has grown into. I think he's slowly arriving at that level. Or maybe quickly."

Incorporation of the other pitches to complement his fastball and slider has been the biggest development this season. And his colleagues have noticed.

"He has some of the best stuff in the game, no doubt about it," said ace Dodgers lefty Clayton Kershaw. "And from the look of it this year, he's kind of using everything a little more; not just blowing people away all the time, though he could still do that obviously."

Granderson said he and Red Sox first baseman Adrian Gonzalez were just discussing that exact thing during their series last weekend.

"We were talking about how he's not just throwing hard the whole time, how he can go ahead and keep you off-balance by changing speeds, getting a little bit of movement and deception," Granderson said. "Oh yeah, and he's still got 96-97 (mph) whenever he needs it."

Take the talent and add in Price's age, health, competitiveness, desire and work ethic. The possibilities are staggering.

"David showed us right away that he has an electric arm and wants the ball in big moments," Rays executive vice president Andrew Friedman said. "And since then, we've seen him improve steadily in terms of his fastball command and the development of all of his secondary pitches.

"David demands so much of himself, and because of that, the sky is the limit to what he can do. He is already elite, and I don't think anyone would question that he has the ability to be the best pitcher in the game on an annual basis. With his drive and commitment, we fully expect that he'll continue to improve."

In that case, he'll be the one in the room everyone else wants to see.

Marc Topkin can be reached at topkin@tampabay.com

Wade 'fine' after surgery

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Times wires
Monday, July 9, 2012

MIAMI — Dwyane Wade of the NBA champion Heat had surgery Monday on his left knee and is expected to need up to eight weeks to recover.

Wade can begin therapy immediately and the Heat said the All-Star guard is expected to be ready for the start of training camp. The procedure took 20 minutes, and Wade wrote on his Twitter page Monday afternoon that he is "doing fine."

Wade was bothered by knee pain and swelling throughout the postseason but played in all 23 playoff games. He had fluid removed midway through Miami's second-round series with Indiana and needed treatment several times a week during Miami's run to the title.

Camby returning to Knicks, reports say: Marcus Camby is returning to New York, while the Rockets continue to reshape their roster.

Camby, 38, agreed to rejoin the Knicks in a deal that sends three players and two second-round draft picks to Houston, the Associated Press reported. Yahoo Sports reported Camby's deal was for three years and $13.2 million.

The 6-foot-11 Camby will be back in New York where he played from 1998-2002.

The Rockets will get guard Toney Douglas, centers Josh Harrelson and Jerome Jordan and second-round picks in 2014 and '15.

Though Camby has battled injuries during his NBA career, he remains a productive rebounder and shot-blocker even after 16 seasons.

The No. 2 overall pick in the 1996 draft and native of Connecticut became a fan favorite before the Knicks dealt him Denver in 2002. He should become a valuable backup at center to Tyson Chandler.

Also, Steve Novak is returning to the Knicks with a four-year deal worth $15 million.

The team claimed Novak after he was waived by San Antonio and went on to lead the NBA in 3-point shooting at 47.2 percent. Novak averaged 8.8 points in 54 games.

Howard update: The machinations on a complicated, four-team trade to send Magic center Dwight Howard to Brooklyn were moving forward Monday, according to several reports. It would involve 10 players, several of whom would need to be signed and traded for salary cap purposes, and the participation of the Cavaliers and Clippers.

The Magic would receive four first-round draft picks — three from the Nets, who would also sign and trade Brook Lopez to Orlando. The Magic requested Lopez's medical records Monday, a sign that team officials are ready to consummate a deal, provided that they are satisfied with the center's health.

The Nets were awaiting medical records on Howard, who is recovering from back surgery. Under the current deal, the Nets would also obtain Jason Richardson, Chris Duhon and Earl Clark from Orlando.


Detroit Tigers' Prince Fielder wins Home Run Derby

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By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Monday, July 9, 2012

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Detroit 1B Prince Fielder hit the most home runs and won the All-Star Derby on Monday, beating Toronto RF Jose Bautista in the final round.

But it was Yankees 2B Robinson Cano who, while not hitting a single ball out of the park, made the most noise.

The Kauffman Stadium fans were not happy with Cano, the designated American League squad captain, for bypassing Royals DH Billy Butler for the team and let him know, alternately chanting Butler's name and booing and jeering Cano.

"This is for the fans, and that's how they feel. I'll take it," Cano said. "You make the decisions you think are right, but they're not."

Butler was diplomatic, saying he had no issues with Cano or his decision to pick Fielder, Bautista and Boston DH David Ortiz. But, he added, "I'm very happy to be liked here."

Fielder hit a record-tying 12 in the final round to Bautista's seven and 28 overall (including two of 476 feet), joining Ken Griffey Jr. as the only multiple Derby winners.

"It means a lot just being mentioned with Ken," said Fielder, who also won in 2009 in St. Louis. "If I'm invited, definitely I'll keep doing them, They're lot of fun; just a lot of fun."

Angels LF Mark Trumbo and Cardinals RF Carlos Beltran (a former Royal) were the semifinalists. Cano, Rockies RF Carlos Gonzalez, Pirates CF Andrew McCutchen and Dodgers CF Matt Kemp were eliminated in the first round.

FOR STARTERS: NL manager Tony La Russa was questioned about his choice of Giants RHP Matt Cain as his starter ahead of Mets knuckleballer R.A. Dickey. La Russa said he felt Cain was worthy but also acknowledged some concern over how his catchers would handle the knuckler.

And with Giants C Buster Posey starting, La Russa said it made sense to pair Cain with him then have Phillies C Carlos Ruiz warm up Dickey and bring them in together.

La Russa, who acknowledged it was "a tough call," said they "wanted to reward Matt Cain for a career of excellence that's getting better and better." And also, "I don't think it detracts at all from R.A.'s accomplishments and being here. Whenever he pitches, it's going to be a great event for him and for baseball and for ourselves."

Dickey, who is 12-1 with a 2.40 ERA compared with Cain's 9-3 and 2.62, said he was a little disappointed.

"I'm not going to break down in tears over it," he said. "But at the same time, I'm a competitor. I want to pitch. I want to start. I had a good enough first half to be considered."

La Russa also chose Gonzalez as his DH.

FUN AND GAMES: Not all the questions and answers at the media sessions are serious.

Among the topics Rays LHP David Price talked about: his favorite Japanese candies, Kansas City barbecue, his fondness for fountains, the last text message he sent (which he was asked to read on camera), his Vanderbilt education and — courtesy of Rays in-game host Rusty Kath — what cliches he prefers.

Price, wearing his Rays retro cap (backward) pretty much went along with anything. Then he got to provide his biggest reply of the day, reading one item from Monday night's top 10 list from the Late Show with David Letterman.

From, "Fun facts about the All-Star Game," Price delivered No. 6: "All-Star etiquette requires players to spit discreetly into a handkerchief."

MISCELLANY: La Russa, who retired after leading St. Louis to the World Series, is the fourth inactive manager to lead an All-Star team. … The NL has won the past two All-Star Games, its first win streak since taking three from 1994-96. … Tonight's musical performers include American Idol winner Phillip Phillips and country stars Luke Bryan and Kellie Pickler.

Home run derby

At Kansas City

First Round

Tot Long

Jose Bautista, Toronto 11 439

Carlos Beltran, St. Louis 7 436

Mark Trumbo, L.A. Angels 7 439

Prince Fielder, Detroit 5 454

Carlos Gonzalez, Colorado 4 433

Andrew McCutchen, Pittsburgh 4 436

Matt Kemp, L.A. Dodgers 1 420

Robinson Cano, N.Y. Yankees 0 0

Second Round

2R Tot Long

Prince Fielder, Detroit 11 16 476

Mark Trumbo, L.A. Angels 6 13 457

Jose Bautista, Toronto 2 13 428

Carlos Beltran, St. Louis 5 12 459

Swing off (5 swings)

Tot Long

Mark Trumbo, L.A. Angels (5 swings) 1 417

Jose Bautista, Toronto (3 swings) 2 442

Finals

Tot Long Avg.

Prince Fielder, Detroit 12 476 432

Jose Bautista, Toronto 7 438 418

Tampa Bay Lightning extends Teddy Purcell, acquires B.J. Crombeen

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By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

As good as Teddy Purcell felt Tuesday about signing a three-year, $13.5 million contract extension, the Lightning right wing said he understood the pressure to produce will be greater than ever.

General manager Steve Yzerman even said the organization will "expect (Purcell) to be better and will push him to be better."

"When they show that trust and faith in you, you want to show them they made the right decision," Purcell said. "It makes you that much more hungry."

The extension, which runs through 2015-16 and pays an average $4.5 million, begins after next season, the last on Purcell's current two-year, $4.725 million deal.

Tampa Bay also traded for tough-guy right wing B.J. Crombeen and a 2014 fifth-round draft pick, sending fourth-round picks in 2013 and '14 to the Blues.

Crombeen, who turned 27 Tuesday, missed half of last season because of a fractured left shoulder sustained during preseason.

But the 6-foot-2, 210-pounder, who will make $1.05 million on a one-way contract, had seven goals and 14 points in 80 games in 2010-11 while averaging 12:47 of ice time. He also tied for sixth in the league with 17 fights. The Lightning had only 23 fights all last season, according to hockeyfights.com.

"He's tough, no question," general manager Steve Yzerman said. "He knows that role. He's an intelligent guy who knows what he has to do and when he has to do it. But mostly we like him because he competes hard. He has some skill. He's a legitimate player."

"When you first find out the news and you've been in a place for a few years it's always a little bit of a mixed bag of emotions," said Crombeen, who added his shoulder is fully healed. "At the same token I am really excited to start out with Tampa. Things are obviously going in the right direction."

But Purcell, 26, who could have been an unrestricted free agent after next season, is an emerging star, so locking him up has broader implications.

The Newfoundland native took a big step last season with career bests of 24 goals, eight power-play goals, 41 assists and 65 points. Imagine his numbers had he not gone 16 straight games without a goal from Nov. 9 though Dec. 12, a stretch that extended to just three goals in 27 games through Jan. 10.

"I want to be more of a go-to guy and be more consistent," Purcell said. "Hopefully, I'll take another big step."

He has the tools, including one of the league's best wrist shots. Yzerman also praised his puck-handling and "hockey sense."

"He knows the game," Yzerman said. "His play has elevated and it continues to get better and we think there's a lot more up potential. That's a reason we wanted to get him tied up for a few more years. We expect him to get better and we'll push him to get better."

DOAN WATCH: The Lightning is interested in Shane Doan, but it does not appear the unrestricted free agent has much interest in Tampa Bay.

"I've called and haven't gotten a call back, so I assume there's not an interest there," Yzerman said. That's all I can say."

Doan, 35, who has at least 20 goals and 50 points in 11 of his past 12 season, wants to stay with the Coyotes, but ownership issues may cause him to leave. The Penguins, Red Wings, Canucks and Sharks have been mentioned as possible destinations.

How will SEC defenses adjust to unique offenses of Missouri, Texas A&M?

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By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Will Muschamp made national headlines during his spring booster tour when he joked that if Florida fans take a trip to Texas A&M's College Station campus, they will not want to go again.

But the Florida coach admits facing Texas A&M's offense won't be a laughing matter.

As the former defensive coordinator at Texas, Muschamp is very familiar with the unique offensive styles Texas A&M and Missouri bring to the SEC — which they became officials members of July 1 — and believes league teams might be in for a surprise.

"It's a different animal," Muschamp said of Missouri's offense. "From a formation standpoint, it's going to be an adjustment for our league. What it does is create a lot of matchups and space plays."

With the addition of Missouri and Texas A&M, established SEC teams are preparing for what could be the biggest change in offensive philosophy to hit the league since Steve Spurrier arrived at Florida with his Fun 'N Gun more than two decades ago and Urban Meyer with his spread offense in 2005.

"They are going to bring a different dimension to this league," said Auburn coach Gene Chizik who was in the Big 12 as Iowa State coach from 2007-08.

As Florida and Auburn move away from the spread, Missouri will use its own version, which almost never huddles, uses three- or four- or even five-receiver sets and is led by James Franklin — who threw for 2,865 yards and completed 63.3 percent of his passes last season.

New Texas A&M coach Kevin Sumlin brings a high-powered passing attack similar to what he used at Houston. Under Sumlin, Houston led the nation with 8,387 yards and 93 touchdowns last season. And even though it's a new team, the style of play will be similar.

"I think there are a lot of things that have to stay consistent with what we do philosophically because that's what we believe," Sumlin said.

Many are eager to see if the high-powered offenses of the two former Big 12 members can continue to flourish against the defenses in the SEC. Missouri ranked No. 12 nationally and fifth in the Big 12 last season at 475.6 yards per game while Texas A&M was ninth and fourth, respectively, at 490.2.

Comparatively, the SEC's best offense, Arkansas, ranked 29th in the nation at 438.1.

But the nation's top three defenses (and five of the top eight) belonged to SEC schools. Missouri coach Gary Pinkel is well aware of the league's defensive reputation.

"Time will tell how that goes," Pinkel said. "Obviously, there are some great defensive coaches in this league and some great defensive teams. I've watched it for years. But I also think you have an offensive philosophy, you do what you do. We were 11th in the nation in rushing offense last year in the spread offense, so we like to run the football. We like to be balanced. But there's an asterisk there. As we go along, we adjust what we want to do."

Georgia will get the league's first shot at neutralizing the Tigers offense when the two meet in the Sept. 8 SEC opener.

"Our league is pretty diverse," Georgia coach Mark Richt said. "There's not one way of doing things in the Southeastern Conference, so to speak. "They'll be doing some things that a lot of our teams do in the league. They may spread out a little bit more than most teams in our league do offensively but not anything that no one has ever seen before."

Maybe not. But Chizik said if league coaches aren't prepared, they might be in for a huge surprise.

"Missouri probably won't change much from the last couple of times we've played them," Chizik said. "It's very challenging. They have some great ideas, philosophically. Gary does a great job of taking whatever talent they have and trying to curtail the offense to be able to take advantage of what skills they do have or don't have."

Ultimately, how successful the new kids on the block can be remains to be seen.

"We've played against that style in our league before, so it's not going to be something that's completely different," Alabama coach Nick Saban said. "And I'm sure they've played against good defensive teams in their league. I think it's a challenge for all of us to look at the things they do technically and try to make sure we can adapt and adjust to it."

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

MLB commissioner Bud Selig calls Tampa Bay Rays' attendance 'inexcusable,' 'disappointing'

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By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Commissioner Bud Selig didn't have a timetable for any action on the Rays stadium situation, much less a course for resolution. But he did have some (more) harsh words for the Tampa Bay community regarding lack of support for the team.

Selig said Tuesday it was "inexcusable" and "disappointing" that the Rays rank 29th in attendance among the 30 teams, and at 20,582 are more than 10,000 below the league average. He said he was "concerned" but wouldn't acknowledge any plan beyond continuing his ongoing "discussions" with Rays principal owner Stuart Sternberg.

"Look, they've run a great operation, they're a very competitive organization, they have very competitive teams," Selig said. "To see that they're No. 29, I think it is, in attendance, it's inexcusable. Nobody can defend that. …

"It's disappointing. And I know that people down there, some people, will be offended. Not the fans, not the people who go every day and I know they have great intensity, the people there. … I watch a lot of games every day, sometimes all 15 of them, and I pay great attention not only to what's happening on the field, but to the attendance.

"So to use my father's old line, nothing is ever good or bad except by comparison. I'll rest my case. It's disappointing. And I'm concerned."

How, or when, that concern manifests into action is the primary issue, especially with the current stalemate between the team and St. Petersburg Mayor Bill Foster over the potential of a new stadium.

Selig's position has been that Sternberg, like all owners, knows what it the best course of action for his team, and is waiting for direction from him. Sternberg hasn't said much on attendance or the stadium situation recently, but has suggested that Major League Baseball, and Selig, eventually will get impatient and initiate action.

Selig made his comments during his annual All-Star question-and-answer session with members of the Baseball Writers Association of America. Talking to the Tampa Bay Times afterward, he wouldn't reveal much more.

"I've talked to Stu a lot, and Stu and I will continue our discussion," he said. "I'd just rather not comment any further than I did."

Despite ranking 29th, the Rays are experiencing a modest increase in attendance, about 7 percent, over the same point last season, when they averaged 19,269 through 43 dates. At their current pace, they would draw 1,667,142; in their four previous seasons they averaged 1,770,284.

Union chief Michael Weiner, who also spoke to the BBWAA, said the players have a stake in the team's success as well, and noted that "some of the players understandably have expressed some frustration," but there isn't much they can do.

"In the end they have a contract with the Tampa Bay Rays, they play in a certain facility, they play in a certain location, metropolitan area, and those guys are going to play as hard as they can."

On other topics:

2013 schedule: With the Astros' move to the AL requiring interleague play throughout the season, the number of interleague games is likely to increase from 18 to 19 or 20, with all teams in a division playing a similar, though not exact, schedule. Games against natural rivals, such as the Marlins for the Rays, will be cut in some years from six to three or four. The number of intradivision games may go up slightly.

Instant replay: Selig said the appetite among owners and MLB officials for expansion of instant replay is "very low."

Drug testing: In-season blood testing for HGH could start as soon as 2013.

Marc Topkin can be reached at topkin@tampabay.com

At All-Star Game, Tony La Russa ends baseball career where it started

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By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — After signing for a $100,000 bonus on the night of his June 1962 graduation from Tampa's Jefferson High, Tony La Russa began his professional baseball career in the Kansas City A's organization, making his big-league debut the next season.

Fifty years, one month and four days later, he planned to take off his uniform for what he said will be the final time after managing the National League team in Tuesday's All-Star Game.

"It's amazing, isn't it," he said in his office before the game.

La Russa, 67, retired in October after leading the Cardinals to the World Series, the third championship of his 33-year managerial career.

But at the request of commissioner Bud Selig — for whom La Russa now works as something of a special assistant — he went back into the dugout to manage the NL team, an assignment typically handled by the previous years World Series participants. He is the fourth to manage an All-Star Game while not being active manager, the second to do so after retiring (joining John McGraw). It was the sixth All-Star Game he managed.

"I was really bothered that I was going to miss this," La Russa said. "Very appreciative that the commissioner has given me an invitation to be here."

What made it more special was that the game was in Kansas City, where he pulled on a major-league uniform for the first time.

"There's an amazing coincidence," La Russa said. "We don't talk about my playing career, but I started here when I was 18 years old in 1963 as a Kansas City A's. And to think the last time I'm going to put on a uniform is going to be in Kansas City is just an unbelievable coincidence to believe."

La Russa ranks third in all-time managerial wins with 2,728, trailing Connie Mack (3,731) and McGraw (2,763).

At All-Star Game, Tampa native Tony La Russa ends baseball career where it started

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By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — After signing for a $100,000 bonus on the night of his June 1962 graduation from Tampa's Jefferson High, Tony La Russa began his professional baseball career in the Kansas City A's organization, making his big-league debut the next season.

Fifty years, one month and four days later, he took off his uniform for the final time after managing the National League to an 8-0 victory in Tuesday's All-Star Game.

"It's amazing, isn't it," he said in his office before the game.

Afterward, La Russa, 67, was somewhat reflective.

"I was aware that this was going to be it," he said. "But, you know, this happened a lot last year during the comeback and the playoffs. You just get wrapped up like you usually do in trying to win the game. It consumes you.

"The last couple of innings, the coaches and I talked about it. It rarely happens where you can enjoy the moment. I enjoyed it."

La Russa retired in October after leading the Cardinals to the World Series, the third title of his 33-year managerial career.

But at the request of commissioner Bud Selig — for whom La Russa now works as something of a special assistant — he went back into the dugout to manage the NL team, an assignment typically handled by the previous year's World Series partici­pants. He is the fourth to manage an All-Star Game while not an active manager, the second to do so after retiring (joining John McGraw). It was the sixth All-Star Game he managed.

"I was really bothered that I was going to miss this," La Russa said, "very appreciative that the commissioner has given me an invitation to be here."

His former players welcomed him.

"It wasn't weird,'' Cardinals infielder David Freese said. "It felt right. It was cool.''

What made it more special for La Russa was the game was in Kansas City, where he first pulled on a major-league uniform.

"There's an amazing coincidence," La Russa said. "We don't talk about my playing career. But I started here when I was 18 years old in 1963 with the Kansas City A's. And to think the last time I'm going to put on a uniform is going to be in Kansas City is just an unbelievable coincidence to believe."

La Russa ranks third in managerial wins with 2,728, trailing Connie Mack (3,731) and McGraw (2,763).

Dooley downplays departed Dawg

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Times wires
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Former Georgia football coach and athletic director Vince Dooley said Isaiah Crowell's arrest and dismissal might turn out to be a blessing in disguise for the Bulldogs.

Crowell, the Bulldogs' leading rusher as a freshman last season, was dismissed June 29 after being arrested on felony weapons charges. Crowell has since transferred to I-AA Alabama State.

"I don't want to put any pressure on them, but losing that guy may have been the best thing to happen to them," Dooley told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "It was a bad apple-type thing."

Dooley, who coached the Bulldogs to six SEC championships and a national title over 25 seasons, said the negative effects of being a troublemaker and distraction far outweighed any skills Crowell brought to the field.

"That kind of thing will unite a team many times," Dooley said. "Historically, when things like this have happened in the past, they tend to have a unifying effect on teams. They go on to have an even better season than they were predicted to have."

Bowls: Dates and times for all 35 games were released. The Beef 'O' Brady's Bowl in St. Petersburg will be at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21 (a day later than last season). The Outback Bowl moves back to Jan. 1 after a season on Jan. 2 because of NFL football. Game time remains 1 p.m. The BCS title game will be at 8:30 p.m. Jan. 7 at Miami's Dolphin Stadium.

Basketball: Enlarged heart cited in death

A medical examiner said an enlarged heart probably caused the death of Peter Sauer, captain of the Stanford team that reached the Final Four in 1998. Sauer died Sunday at age 35 during a recreational game in White Plains, N.Y. There is no timetable for a final report.

Orange Bowl Classic: Florida State will face Tulsa and Florida will face Air Force on Dec. 29 in Sunrise. Game times have not been determined.

Iowa: Coach Fran McCaffery signed a seven-year extension with a base salary of $1.3 million. Last season, his second, he led the Hawkeyes to the NIT.


Captain's Corner: Threadfin are key bait

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By Tim Whitfield, Times Correspondent
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

What's hot: The shark bite has been pretty good. Inshore tackle works for the most part. The hot bait is a large threadfin herring. Net a bunch and put them in the well; the ones that die become chum. Use a 50-pound leader and a long shank J-Hook. Sharks 4 feet and under are great adversaries on light tackle. If you get a blue fish or other undesirable fish, use them for bait on the big rods.

Tips: Black drum are at all the major bridges; look for them on a slack tide or a barely-there tide. Soft-scented plastics are the bait of choice, but when the tide is churning deploy a blue crab with a throw weight. Look on pilings and in the shade offered by bridge spans. A well-placed fly will result in a hookup and these fish are lazy fighters. Drag them away from the pilings with the electric motor and fight them in the open.

By-catch: This week our best was a tarpon in the 120-pound class. While fishing for sharks, we put three fish in the air, had one on with a wire bite tippet (she found the prop). I quickly cut the wire off and we hooked up two more times and got one to the boat.

Tim Whitfield can be reached at tim@swiftfishcharters.com or (813) 714-0889.

Blood clot puts Mets pitcher in hospital

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Times wires
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Mets starting pitcher Dillon Gee is out indefinitely because of a blood clot in an artery of his pitching shoulder, the Mets said Tuesday.

Gee complained of numbness in the fingers of his right hand after Saturday's start against the Cubs. After tests, doctors on Monday used a catheter to break up the clot. Gee will remain hospitalized for a few days.

The Mets said only that his return to baseball activity is "undetermined."

"I'm really nervous for him," Mets manager Terry Collins said. "I'm really scared for him. Hopefully, they got it really early because it had not been bothering him until the other day and he didn't say anything until the game was over about his finger."

Gee is 6-7 with a 4.10 ERA. He was supposed to start Friday. Instead, Chris Young will do so. His replacement in the rotation hasn't been determined.

Halladay scheduled to pitch in Clearwater

Phillies star pitcher Roy Halladay will make a rehab start for Class A Clearwater on Thursday at Bright House Field. The righty has not pitched since May 27, when he left with a right lat muscle strain. If all goes well, Halladay likely will return to the majors on Tuesday.

Braves: Ben Sheets, 33, who hasn't pitched in the majors since 2010 because of arm injuries, will be called up to start on Sunday, CBSSports.com reported. The righty has made two starts at Double A.

Indians: The union said it might file a grievance against the team if it withholds pay from lefty Nick Hagadone. The Indians put the reliever on the disqualification list for sustaining what it called a "self-inflicted injury to his pitching hand," after a poor outing against the Rays on Friday. A decision likely will come Sunday, Hagadone's next payday.

Marlins: Heath Bell lost his job as closer for the second time this year. The righty, who signed a three-year, $27 million deal during the offseason, has blown two of his past four chances and six of his 25 overall. Manager Ozzie Guillen said for now, he won't designated a closer.

Orioles: J.C. Romero, who was pitching at Triple A, opted out of his contract and became a free agent. The lefty reliever, who has pitched for six teams over 14 seasons, was released by the Cardinals on May 13 after recording a 10.13 ERA over 11 appearances.

Yankees: Joba Chamberlain struck out two and allowed an unearned run over one inning of a rookie-level Gulf Coast League game in Bradenton. It was the righty's first game since dislocated his right ankle in Tampa bouncing on a trampoline with his son March 22. His next appearance is undetermined.

Sports in brief: U.S. Army set to end longtime NASCAR sponsorship

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Times wires
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

autos

army set to end longtime sponsorship

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The U.S. Army will not return to Stewart-Haas Racing next season, effectively ending its sponsorship in NASCAR altogether after a decade.

SHR said Tuesday it is pursuing a new sponsor.

"The U.S. Army has been a great partner of Stewart-Haas Racing since the team's inception," said Brett Frood, executive vice president of SHR. "It has been a mutually beneficial relationship …"

The Army has been in NASCAR for 10 seasons, and at one point was a primary sponsor. It moved to SHR to sponsor Ryan Newman in 2009 when the team was formed.

The decision to leave NASCAR comes as Rep. Betty McCollum of Minnesota and Rep. Jackson Kingston of Georgia are pushing an amendment that would prohibit military sponsorship of sports.

IndyCar penalizes Foyt team: IndyCar has penalized A.J. Foyt Racing for an illegal fuel cell in Mike Conway's car at Toronto. Foyt was fined $15,000 and the team was docked 10 points. Conway finished third in Sunday's race at Toronto. The infraction was found during a postrace inspection.

soccer

Maradona fired after poor finish

Diego Maradona was fired as coach of Al Wasl after a season in which the club finished in eighth place in a 12-team league and failed to win a second-tier competition. The former Argentine great had one year left on his contract.

Expectations were great when Maradona arrived in Dubai on a two-year deal in May 2011. He was popular with fans and helped put United Arab Emirates soccer on the map, but his team did not qualify for next season's Asian Champions League or win any domestic titles.

Maradona could not be reached for comment. A successor was not announced.

et cetera

Tennis: Top seed and defending champion John Isner of Tampa beat qualifier Sergei Bubka 7-6 (7-3), 4-6, 6-3 in an opening-round match at the Hall of Fame Championships in Newport, R.I. … Big-serving Lukas Rosol, who stunned Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon, beat fifth-seeded Robin Haase 6-4, 7-5 to advance to the second round of the Mercedes Cup in Stuttgart, Germany. Rosol beat the Spanish star in the second round at the All England Club this month, but despite that win dropped three places to No. 103 in the ATP rankings.

Golf: Former champion Mark O'Meara withdrew from the British Open in Lytham, England, next week because of an undisclosed injury. O'Meara won in 1998 at Royal Birkdale at age 40, making him the oldest player to win two majors in one year. He had won the Masters that April. O'Meara, 54, was not replaced in the field because the Open already is above the 156-man limit.

WNBA: Tamika Catchings scored 23, including the winning free throws with 8.4 seconds left, to give host Indiana an 84-82 victory over New York. … Kara Lawson scored 17 and Tina Charles had 16 as Eastern Conference-leading Connecticut beat host Washington 77-70 for its third straight win. … Candice Wiggins scored 25, Maya Moore had 24 and visiting Minnesota beat Tulsa 107-86. … Candace Parker had 22 points and 14 rebounds to lead Los Angeles to a 90-71 victory over host Phoenix for its fourth straight win. The Mercury has been without Diana Taurasi (strained hip flexor) since May 31, going 3-12 in her absence.

Times wires

Cavs' pullout slows Howard trade talks

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Times wires
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

ORLANDO — The Cavaliers might receive a standing ovation the next time they play in Orlando, because Cleveland, in a roundabout way, could prevent Dwight Howard from going to the Brooklyn Nets.

The Cavaliers withdrew from discussions about a potential three-team trade with the Magic and the Nets — with the Akron Beacon Journal reporting that the Cavs never were very interested in the deal.

The Cavs' decision didn't mean a deal to send Howard to Brooklyn was dead. It meant that the Nets had to try to find a third team willing to take unrestricted free agent Kris Humphries or that the Nets and the Magic had to agree to a two-team deal.

Meanwhile, the Magic continued to discuss possible deals with the Rockets, Lakers and Hawks. HoopsWorld reported that those teams had discussed a possible deal that would send Howard to the Lakers, center Andrew Bynum to the Rockets and a mixture of young players and draft picks to the Magic.

The deal with the Nets and Cavs would likely have left the Magic with 7-foot center Brook Lopez and several draft picks. Lopez missed all but five games last season with a stress fracture in his right foot and a sprained ankle.

Around the league

CLIPPERS EXTEND GRIFFIN: Blake Griffin and the Clippers agreed to a five-year contract extension that could be worth as much as $95 million, the Los Angeles Times reported. Griffin will make the maximum if he is voted to start on two All-Star teams. He was voted in as a starter by the fans last season.

DUNCAN TO STAY PUT: Star center Tim Duncan agreed to a three-year extension worth about $36 million to stay with the Spurs, Yahoo reported. Also, ESPN reported that guard Danny Green and forward Boris Diaw agreed to deals with San Antonio.

SICKLES' HENSON SIGNS: The Bucks said they signed first-round draft pick John Henson, who played at Tampa's Sickles High, to a multi-year contract. The 6-foot-11 Henson was the 14th overall selection out of North Carolina.

WARRIORS-76ERS DEAL: The Warriors agreed to trade Dorell Wright to the 76ers for the rights to a player in Europe, the Associated Press reported. Golden State would receive Edin Bavcic of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The move would free up about $4 million in salary cap space for Golden State, which drafted small forwards Harrison Barnes of North Carolina and Draymond Green of Michigan State.

SALARY CAP: The league set the 2012-13 cap at $58.044 million, same as this season, and teams could begin signing players today. All of the deals agreed to in the past week plus can become official today. The luxury tax level is also unchanged, remaining at $70.307 million.

OTHER DEALS: The Pistons signed Andre Drummond, their first-round draft pick from Connecticut, to a multiyear deal. … The Hawks signed John Jenkins, their first-round pick out of Vanderbilt. … The Heat agreed to a deal with forward Rashard Lewis, who will take the $1.35 million veteran minimum. His agent, Tony Dutt, said Lewis would sign today. … The Timberwolves agreed to a deal with Russian guard Alexey Shved, AP reported. … JR Smith's agent said Smith will re-sign with the Knicks.

Information from Times wires was used in this report.

Melky Cabrera named All-Star MVP in return to Kansas City

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By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, July 10, 2012

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Giants Melky Cabrera didn't see the All-Star Game as a stage for redemption.

But after being traded in the offseason from Kansas City to San Francisco for pitcher Jonathan Sanchez, it turned out be exactly that as he was named MVP for a single that sparked the NL's five-run first inning single and a two-run homer.

"I didn't come to win an MVP," Cabrera said through an interpreter. "That's just a surprise."

Cabrera's overall performance has been something of a surprise, as he leads the majors with 119 hits and has a .353 average. Making it tougher from the Royals' perspective, Sanchez is 1-5, 6.75.

"The same opportunity that Kansas City gave me last year is the same opportunity that San Francisco is giving me every day to showcase my talents."

HAPPY DAYS: Cubs 1B/OF Bryan LaHair was pretty sure he was the player most excited to be at Monday's All-Star media session. Tuesday, getting to play in the game, was even better for the former St. Petersburg College star.

"I'm even happier than (Monday)," LaHair said.

LaHair went in to play defense in the seventh, and batted in the ninth, grounding out against Rays closer Fernando Rodney.

LaHair was among the least likely All-Stars, a 29-year-old who got his first chance this season to play regularly in the majors and got off to such a hot start that he was voted to the All-Star team by the players.

RAYS UPDATE: The Red Sox set their rotation for the weekend series at the Trop, with LHP Franklin Morales facing RHP Jeremy Hellickson on Friday, RHP Clay Buchholz against LHP David Price on Saturday and ace RHP Josh Beckett opposing RHP James Shields on Sunday. … OF Jeff Salazar, who was under consideration for the final roster spot at the end of spring training, was released from Triple-A Durham, where he hit .216 in 68 games. … 3B Evan Longoria is expected to be at tonight's ESPY awards in Los Angeles as the dramatic finish to last season is up for Best Moment honors.

CHILDS PLAY: There were a record five rookies on the rosters — Ryan Cook (A's), Yu Darvish (Rangers), Mike Trout (Angels) for the AL, Bryce Harper (Nationals) and Wade Miley (Diamondbacks) for the NL. … Harper, 19, was the youngest All-Star position player, and third youngest overall, behind Tampa's Dwight Gooden in 1984 and Hall-of-Famer Bob Feller in 1938. He had a rough debut, losing a fly ball in the lights that dropped behind him. … Trout is the first rookie position player to make the AL team since Longoria in 2008.

MISCELLANY: The NL has won three straight for the first time since 1994-96, and leads 43-38-2. … It was the first shutout since the NL's 6-0 win in 1996, and the largest margin of victory since a 13-3 AL win in 1983. … It was the second time a team scored five or more runs in the first inning; the other was 2004. … Atlanta's Chipper Jones, in his final All-Star Game before retiring, singled in his lone at-bat. … The 61 players used were a record for a nine-inning game. … The Kauffman Stadium fans had a roaring ovation for Royals DH Billy Butler, then again booed Yankees 2B Robinson Cano, for leaving Butler out of the Home Run Derby. … Royals legend George Brett threw out the ceremonial first pitch, to Butler.

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