Diamond Demo: Clayton Kershaw

MLB Tonight's Al Leiter and Joe Magrane demonstrate how Clayton Kershaw has taken his game to the next level this season.

Warrior Signs Lacrosse Superstar Paul Rabil

Warrior has signed 2011 MLL Champions Boston Cannons midfielder and 2011 Major League Lacrosse (MLL) MVP Paul Rabil to lead its roster of sponsored lacrosse players. Effective immediately, Rabil will wear and use Warrior gear on the field, while training, and while relaxing off the field.

In addition to using current Warrior lacrosse equipment, footwear and apparel, Rabil will work with the Warrior team to design a new Rabil signature collection of products. "My years of playing lacrosse have exposed me to all kinds of gear, shoes, and materials.  Some work and some don't," said Rabil. "I am excited to be able to use my personal experiences and Warrior's creativity, product expertise and resources to create a revolutionary new line for lacrosse athletes."

"Paul leads the sport of lacrosse both on and off the field, so it is only fitting that he joins a leader in the industry such as Warrior," said Dave Morrow, founder and CEO at Warrior.  "Like Paul, Warrior is about hard work, doing things the right way, growing the game of lacrosse, and winning.  We are extremely excited to have Paul join the Warrior team."

"I am thrilled to be a part of the Warrior family and work with this group that shares my passion for lacrosse," said Rabil. "I look forward to working with the Warrior team to continue elevating my performance.  We will also support each other's charitable efforts as well as my foundation."  Rabil & Warrior will conduct a multi-city tour this fall partnering with various charitable organizations.

Headquartered in Warren, Michigan, Warrior is recognized as a premier manufacturer of innovative, high performance, cutting-edge equipment, footwear and apparel for lacrosse and hockey athletes of all ages and abilities. Founded in 1993 by former champion lacrosse player David Morrow, Warrior is a subsidiary of New Balance.

Rabil, 25, from Gaithersburg, Maryland was a four-time All American at Johns Hopkins University  where he was a member of the 2005 and 2007 NCAA Championship winning Blue Jay teams. He graduated from JHU in 2008 as the program's all-time leading midfielder goal and point scorer, a record that still stands. He was selected first overall by the Boston Cannons in the 2008 MLL Draft. In both 2009 and 2011 he was voted the MLL's Offensive Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player.

Schutt Sports Becomes Official Helmet for UT-Dallas

Schutt Sports has been named the Official Batter’s Helmet for the University of Texas – Dallas.

The multi-year agreement calls for the Comets softball and baseball teams to wear Schutt batters helmets and catchers gear. 

"We're fired up about this new opportunity and partnership with Schutt Sports. They offer the best technology and protective equipment on the baseball field, from catcher's gear to batters helmets and we're excited about the chance to put it on," says Shane Shewmate, head baseball coach at UT Dallas. "Our student-athletes work very hard to achieve their ultimate performance and Schutt has put their football protective technology in baseball equipment; that's really made the difference and elite athletes notice how much it helps them perform their best."

The agreement will give Schutt the chance to showcase its all-new AiR Maxx T Batter's helmets for baseball and softball players – a helmet that utilizes the TPU Cushioning technology the company features in its football helmets.

"Dallas is a very important market in the middle of a very import state for diamond sports," said Dianne Baker, national promotions manager for Schutt Sports. "Some of the best athletes in Texas play for UT-Dallas and it’s an honor for us to have them choose Schutt Sports as the company they want to gear up with."

Diamond Demo: Pitchers covering

MLB Network's Al Leiter demonstrates a pitcher's reaction when a ball is hit back up the middle.

Diamond Demo: Pitching signs

Al Leiter and Ron Gant show what pitchers do to keep pitches secret and what base runners do to steal signs.

Diamond Demo: Heyward's approach

MLB Network's Ron Gant takes a closer look at the plate approach of the Braves' Jason Heyward.

Diamond Demo: Revere's catch

MLB Network's Eric Byrnes heads into Studio 42 to break down Ben Revere's great catch against the Orioles.

Rawlings 5150 BBCOR Collegiate and High School Bat Program

Coaches, parents and booster clubs -  Rawlings is offering an amazing buy 3 get 1 free special on their BBCOR 5150 baseball bats. This offer ends 11/1/2011 and all bats must be shipped to your school. If your high school or college player is looking for a BBCOR bat for the 2012 season, this is your opportunity to save on bats trusted by back to back National Champs University of South Carolina.

Diamond Demo: A.J. Burnett

MLB Network's Al Leiter takes a look at the recent struggles of A.J. Burnett, saying that he needs to hide the ball.

Shock Doctor Adds Two NHL Stars as Endorsers

Shock Doctor, the mouthguard specialist, announced it is continuing to expand its Team Shock Doctor by signing endorsement contracts with two more elite professional athletes: Los Angeles Kings defenseman Jack Johnson and Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Nick Leddy.

Johnson and Leddy will have access to wear the full line of Shock Doctor's performance-driven sports protection, including the unique ShockSkin Hockey base protective apparel and full line of superior mouthguards – during practices and while competing on the ice.  In addition, they will use the new Shock Doctor Performance Sports Therapy products when they are off the ice to help recover from any injuries they may incur and to get back on the ice more quickly.  They will also serve as advisors, working with Shock Doctor's research and development team, to provide feedback from their experiences as professional athletes using Shock Doctor products.

Johnson and Leddy join a growing roster of pro athletes who have discovered that Shock Doctor's revolutionary products are proving to be vital for better training and improved performance.  From NHL hockey players to NFL football players, from MLB players to NCAA football, hockey and lacrosse teams, athletes worldwide who want superior sports protection combined with performance enhancement are using Shock Doctor products ranging from mouthguards to base layer protection apparel. "Jack and Nick are star hockey players and we are extremely proud and excited to have them on Team Shock Doctor," said Tony Armand, CEO of Shock Doctor.  "We understand the significance of having such high-profile athletes on our team, and we look forward to working with them."

Minnesota native and 2010 Olympic Winter USA Hockey Team Silver Medalist Jack Johnson, who played high school hockey for Shattuck-St. Mary in Faribault, Minn., will be wearing Shock Doctor mouthguards and the ShockSkin Hockey base protective apparel as well as using the new Performance Sports Therapy products when he's off the ice to help recover from any injuries he may incur.  "My sports protection gear is the last thing I want to worry about when I'm in the heat of the battle on the ice and need to focus on what I'm doing," said Johnson.  "I know the Shock Doctor gear will not only provide me with the best protection available, it will also help me enhance my performance."  In 2005, Johnson skated for the U.S. National Under-18 team, where he helped Team USA take first place at the IIHF Men's World Under-18 Championship.  He was drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft and he played for the University of Michigan during his freshman and sophomore years of college before moving to the NHL in 2007.  Johnson was traded to the Los Angeles Kings before his sophomore season and began his NHL career with the Kings, where he has played since 2007.  In 2007/2008 he was named to the NHL Young Stars Team and in 2006/2007 received the CCHA Offensive Defenseman of the Year award.  Johnson helped lead the Kings to appear in the NHL playoffs for the last two years.

In addition to wearing Shock Doctor mouthguards when practicing and competing, former University of Minnesota and Eden Prairie High School star hockey player Nick Leddy will also be using the new ShockSkin Hockey base protective apparel designed to cover the gaps in hockey players' gear to provide maximum protection and enable them to focus on the game.  "I am excited to be working with Shock Doctor and to have the opportunity to wear their exceptional mouthguards and ShockSkin Hockey apparel so that I can focus on my job of playing hockey instead of worrying about my sports protection," said Leddy, "and if I get injured, I will have access to the best sports medicine products in the industry with the new Performance Sports Therapy products."  Leddy was drafted in the first round, 16th overall by the Minnesota Wild in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft and was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in February 2010.  As a member of the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers men's ice hockey team, Leddy was named Rookie of the Year for the 2009/10 season.

"As an expert in performance-driven sports protection, we put a tremendous amount of research and development into each and every one of our products," said Jay Turkbas, Senior Vice President of Product Development and Marketing for Shock Doctor, "which results in best-in-class sports protection.  Our goal is to help athletes understand how our innovative products with advance technology enable them to optimize their performance while protecting them at the same time.  Pro athletes such as Jack and Nick understand this, and they will be helping us convey this message to other athletes."

Shock Doctor is revolutionizing the sports protection category once again, this time with the technological innovation of ShockSkin Hockey – the first and only product of its kind.  ShockSkin Hockey base protective apparel moves like a second skin and the technology is sport specific to hockey.  The built-in protective apparel is uniquely designed to cover the gaps in football and hockey players' and gear, enabling them to focus on the game and enhance their performance.  ShockSkin Hockey consists of integrated fabric and vented foam pads, secured by high frequency seams, that move and contour with the body for ultimate comfort and protection.  With minimal weight and bulk, it integrates with football and hockey players' gear for full-on, full-time protection.  The breakthrough technology reduces wear and tear on players.

Diamond Demo: Pitching to Pujols

The Hot Stove crew looks at why Albert Pujols is so good and how opposing teams try to pitch around him.

Oakland Raiders use third-round pick for Pryor

The Oakland Raiders used a third-round pick in the NFL's supplemental draft Monday to select former Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor. (Aug. 22) (The Associated Press)

Xenith X1 Batting Helmet

The Xenith X1 Batting Helmet provides superior fit and comfort by adapting to the head. The X1 features strategically tuned shock absorbers which adapt to the hit, enabling it to pass the new NOCSAE Standard for baseball and softball batting helmets without the need for an oversized shell. The X1's patented Shock Bonnet® suspension system provides outstanding ventilation and is resistant to the growth of mold and other organisms.

Diamond Demo: Triple Play

MLB Tonight's Billy Ripken breaks down the Brewers' 6-4-2 triple play, the new pitchers' best friend.

Prime 9: Post-deadline deals

MLB Network counts down the best post-trade deadline deals.

Under Armour Signs First Gymnast as Endorser

Under Armour announced a multi-year partnership with Olympic gymnast Alicia Sacramone, the first gymnast to sign with the company. As a member of the Under Armour team, Sacramone worked with the company on the design of a custom-made Under Armour leotard and will serve as a key Olympic ambassador for the Brand.

In addition to being a member of the silver medal-winning U.S. Olympic team in 2008, Sacramone is currently tied for the highest career tally of World Championship medals for U.S. gymnasts, including three golds, four silvers and two bronzes, making her one of the most successful gymnasts in U.S. history. Sacramone has been named USA Gymnastics’ Sportswoman of the Year four times (’05, ’06, ’07, ’10) and holds five U.S. vault titles as well as two U.S. National floor exercise crowns.

"Alicia's commitment to training and her determination to perform at the highest level makes her an inspiration to young athletes across the world and an ideal fit for the Under Armour Brand," said Tori Hanna, Director, Women's Sports Marketing, Under Armour. "While her numerous medals and accolades are a clear reflection of her talent, it is her indomitable spirit that sets her apart as a natural choice to become the first Under Armour athlete on the gymnastics floor."  

Sacramone joins an elite roster of athletes who have signed with Under Armour, including 16-time Olympic swimming medalist Michael Phelps, Olympic gold medalist skier Lindsey Vonn, U.S. Women's Team World Cup soccer star Lauren Cheney and three-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady, among others.

"I'm honored to join the Under Armour family, as Under Armour's emphasis on training and its dedication to the next generation of athletes aligns perfectly with my core values," said Sacramone. "I've always admired Under Armour apparel for its performance and style and now, to get the chance to work alongside such a high caliber of world champion athletes, it’s just an unbelievable opportunity."

When Sacramone is not competing or training, she coaches youth gymnastics at Brestyan's Gym in Burlington, MA and focuses much of her time giving back to the Children’s Hospital of Boston.

The Under Armour global headquarters is in Baltimore, Maryland, with European headquarters in Amsterdam’s Olympic Stadium, and additional offices in Denver, Hong Kong, Toronto, and Guangzhou, China.

New Little League Rules For Baseball Bats

Before the first pitch is thrown today at the 65th Little League World Series in South Williamsport, Pa., umpires will be studying the bats.

Equipment checks aren’t new, but what they’ll be checking for is. There is a new rule that restricts the type of non-wood bats that can be used. Similar to mandates issued by the NCAA and the national high school federation, Little League issued a moratorium on bats that contain composite materials in the barrel. All Little League bats must have a BBCOR (Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution) designation. The new standard ensures that non-wood bats perform more comparably to wood bats.

And similar to the California Interscholastic Federation’s waiver list that exempted certain bats last year, Little League subsequently allowed some composite-barrel bats if they did not exceed the performance standard after what is called an “accelerated break-in” process.

“All three organizations were going in the same direction at the same time,” Little League International spokesman Steve Barr said. “I don’t think one was in reaction to the other. We had a standard and the bats were exceeding the standard. It’s illegal to use one in a Little League game or practice.”

Read more at signonsandiego.com.

XENITH X2 VARSITY HELMET SPECIAL PROMOTION

BUY 10 X2 VARSITY HELMETS, GET 2 FREE!


The Xenith X2 varsity is simply the best football helmet available. It provides the best head protection by employing the Xenith Adaptive Head Protection® system that uses Aware-Flow® shock absorbers to adjust to the hit, instead of foam padding that does not adjust. The X2 is the most comfortable helmet available thanks to the fit-seeker bonnet system that adjusts to the contour of the player’s head provid- ing a secure fit so helmets do not “pop off” during contact. The X2 is light weight and very cool because air can circulate within the helmet, unlike foam packed helmets that hold heat in the helmet.


If you want your players wearing the best, buy the Xenith X2 varsity football helmet.


Now, for a limited time, when you buy 10 X2 varsity helmets at the regular team price of $200, you will receive 2 additional X2 varsity helmets free. That brings the average cost per helmet down to an affordable $166.67 per helmet. There is no cap on this offer so order as many helmets as you need. You will receive 2 free for every 10 you buy at regular price. 

Patriot's Danny Woodhead to Endorse TapOut Mouthguards

Nebraska native and New England Patriots Running Back, Danny Woodhead, joined the Battle Sports Science all-star team as an endorser. Woodhead joins newly signed Patriot, Chad Ochocinco, as another in wearing the TapouT Mouthguard this upcoming seeason.

Battle Sports indicated that recent testing done by Sport Injury & Ballistic Biomechanics Group at Wayne State University showed TapouT Mouthguards provide equal or improved levels of protection as mouthguards that cost nearly 3.5 times more. Additionally, the design of the TapouT Mouthguard has integrated channels that remain open so athletes can more easily breathe - oxygenating muscles and maintaining ease of speech.

"Battle Sports Science is honored to have Patriots players such as Danny Woodhead and Chad Ochocinco sponsoring our products," said Chris Circo, CEO of Battle Sports Science. "It's important to see these high profile players heighten the awareness about the importance of protection and safety on the field."

Arizona's Concussion Education Law Kicks In

On Tuesday, Arizona became the first state in the United States to mandate all male and female athletes undergo concussion education and pass a formal test before play through a new program specifically geared toward students. The program is expected to become a model for other states to follow.

Arizona ranks second in the nation for traumatic brain injury and until now, there has never been a mandated education and testing program designed for student athletes to teach them about the dangerous effects of concussion.

Twenty-eight states, including Arizona, have concussion laws that require concussion education, removal from play and return to play. Arizona is the first to define and create the education directly targeting students through a new e-learning module and the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) is the first to require that every student complete and pass the education module in order to participate in athletics. This program, designed by AIA, Barrow Neurological Institute at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center and the Arizona Cardinals, is expected to change the face of high school sports in Arizona.

"The AIA recognizes the seriousness of this debilitating brain injury and is proud to be taking the lead in changing the way athletes are educated about traumatic brain injuries associated in sports," says Harold Slemmer, Ed.D., Executive Director of the AIA. The AIA is an association of public and private high schools throughout Arizona that oversees interscholastic activities including athletics in 275 schools.

"There are approximately 3 million sports-related concussions nationally each year," says Javier Cardenas, MD, neurologist at Barrow in Phoenix, who has taken a statewide lead in concussion prevention. "Players recognizing the signs and symptoms of concussion can prevent death and disability."

All student athletes through the AIA will receive their concussion education through Brainbook, an interactive online site created by Barrow and Arizona State University. Designed to look like a social media site, the students are taken through a series of educational content, activities and videos. At the end of the module, the students are required to pass a formal exam before being cleared to play. The module is the first collaborative educational effort between a pro football team, a hospital, and an interscholastic agency. Brainbook is currently being evaluated for implementation in other states throughout the nation.

In addition to the education program, Barrow has received a $250,000 grant from the Maddock Foundation to develop a research registry which will track concussed student athletes. This will be a powerful tool for Barrow neurologists and researchers to make never-before-known insights into the long-term effects of concussion.

The AIA, Barrow and the Arizona Cardinals have been partnering for the past year to create this milestone program. The NFL and the Arizona Cardinals have been very instrumental in passing concussion legislation.

"We are pleased to have worked with Commissioner Goodell's office to help protect young student athletes in all sports," says Michael Bidwill, President of the Arizona Cardinals. "This education module and research program today takes the Arizona legislation passed in February to the next level. We are very proud to be part of this revolutionary program."

New EvoShield Catalog

Check out the new catalog from EvoShield featuring the companies full product line. EvoShield now protects more than 200 professional and collegiate teams, Evoshield is the innovator of performance protective apparel – thinner, lighter, yet stronger gear designed to make athletes faster while protecting them better. Our protective gear is not only saving lives, but saving the careers of many elite athletes. We understand that gut-wrenching feeling when you have to watch from the sidelines rather than compete. Our brand is the symbolic battle cry of those that sacrifice for team, for pride, for victory.

Click here to download the EvoShield Catalog.

Diamond Demo: Fake pickoff move

MLB Tonight's Harold Reynolds and Ron Gant break down a fake pickoff move used by Jeff Fulchino of the Astros against the D-backs.

Pujols' mammoth homer

Albert Pujols crushes a two-run shot to left, his 29th homer of the season, to knot the game at 2 in the first inning.

Diamond Demo: Latos on pitching

Mat Latos talks about getting a downhill plane while pitching to batters.

Diamond Demo: Pine Tar

MLB Network's Harold Reynolds and Mitch Williams share a heated discussion over pine tar.

Diamond Demo: Hamilton walks off

MLB Network's Harold Reynolds and John Hart breakdown Elvis Andrus scoring on Josh Hamilton's infield single.

Shock Doctor Inks Vikings' Harvin

Minneapolis-based Shock Doctor said that Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin will join its Team Shock Doctor, an elite group of athletes who use Shock Doctor sports protective gear. 

Harvin will have access to wear the full line of Shock Doctor’s performance-driven sports protection including the Shock Doctor Ultra Carbon Chin Strap and full line of superior mouthguards – during practices and while competing on the football field.  He will also serve as an advisor, working with Shock Doctor’s research and development team, to provide feedback from his experiences as a pro competitor using Shock Doctor products.

The Sportstation donates equipment to visiting USSSA teams

CRYSTAL LAKE – Crystal Lake’s Nick Fattori was more than willing to offer the Dominican Republic baseball team the hat off his head.

Drew Fattori, with the help of his son Nick, help distribute equipment donated by The Sportstation to the 13U Dominican Republic baseball team.

Fattori, 13, was serving as the Dragones’ batboy this week when a situation arose at the McHenry County Youth Sports Association 13U Summer International Invitational.

The Dominicans loaded the bases, but had only three batting helmets among their equipment.

No problem. Fattori, donning the required batboy helmet, gladly removed his and handed it to the next batter.

But Fattori didn’t stop there. He suggested to his father, Drew, the vice president of operations for Crystal Lake Baseball, that they help the team out with some of CLB’s equipment, even if it was slightly used.

“If you look at these travel teams, they have home and away jerseys, $200 bats, matching helmets, they have everything,” Nick Fattori said. “Even matching spikes sometimes. The [Dominican team] had three helmets, they couldn’t even play without using our [batboy] helmets. I just thought, ‘We have a bunch of stuff at our fields that’s not being used, so let’s throw them some helmets and shoes so they can play baseball.’ ”

“Everyone in the country should be able to play baseball. Everyone in the world.”

The spirit of the MCYSA tournaments, which includes the 15U and 11U Summer International Championships, along with the 13U invitational, is about playing hard, competing at your best and trying to win a major title. But also it encompasses sportsmanship and consideration to those less fortunate.

That attitude is on display this week with the Dominican Republic team and with Sri Lanka, which arrived several days too late to play in the 15U and 13U tournaments, but whose teams are playing exhibition games organized with mostly local teams that have been eliminated.

Dominican Republic Dragones catcher Frank Abreu put on equipment Friday in a USSSA Summer International Championships game against the Barrington Eagles at Lippold Park in Crystal Lake.

Both teams were short on proper equipment, but both have seen an outpouring of generosity on their first visits to the U.S.

“Nick’s a catcher and he said [the Dominican Republic’s] catcher’s gear is falling off,” Drew Fattori said. “He said, ‘We have to do something for them.’ I immediately called our board and we donated some helmets and other gear. I was so proud of my sons [Nick and A.J.] for thinking of that. The players were so grateful. They were ecstatic. It makes you feel good.”

Others jumped in to help.

Drew Fattori called The Sportstation, a sporting goods company in Tinley Park which supplies the league, and general manager Jack Felkamp arrived Friday afternoon with boxes of shoes and other equipment in a van. What the Dominican players didn’t use, Felkamp sent to Veteran Acres Park, where Sri Lanka’s 13U team was playing Lake in the Hills Thunder.

MCYSA executive tournament director Gregg Sibigtroth, who owns Players Choice Academy in Huntley, donated some gloves and used bats to Sri Lanka. Huntley Baseball Association is doing the same and will also pay to ship the equipment back to Sri Lanka.

Carlos Ortega, the treasurer and interpreter for the Dominican Republic’s team, said making the trip here was difficult. The team has to have sponsorship for each player, and finding good equipment also can be hard.

Carlos Ortega speaks to Northwest Herald reporter Joe Stevenson before Friday's game.

“In terms of what you can get there, it’s not that easy,” Ortega said. “Most of the shoes we are getting here will be passed on to other kids. When their feet cannot go into those shoes, they will hand them over to someone else. That’s the way it is, which is good.”

Ortega said coming to the U.S. will be a lifetime highlight for many of their players.

“Playing on fields like this, for us, is like playing in the major leagues,” Ortega said. “You see how well-prepared they are. You can find that in the Dominican Republic at one of the academies that major league baseball sponsors. But normally, a kid will not play on a field like this with the grass and field so level. That is the major difference.”

Ortega’s son, Carlos, ran over from third base between innings and shook hands with Felkamp as a team representative.

“Thanks a lot,” the younger Carlos said. “This will make us play better as a team.”

Sri Lanka’s players also have it difficult finding proper equipment in an island country where volleyball, cricket and soccer are more popular.

“We don’t have shops to buy most things,” said Nalaka Ambawatte, the general secretary and interpreter for Sri Lanka’s team. “Most of what we get are from donations from Japan and the U.S.”

Jack Felkamp receives a "thank you" from Carlos Ortega.

Sri Lanka finally arrived Wednesday after several snags in its travel plans, and when they arrived at Lippold Park Thursday, not all of the players had their own gloves or shoes. One player’s glove was held together with yarn and wire, until Bill Oeffling, the Glove Doctor who works a stand at the tournament, got a hold of it.

Tournament organizers said Oeffling worked his magic in a few minutes, handed the player back his glove and the boy looked as if he had found gold.

“There are no words to express how much we appreciate this,” Ambawatte said. “Thank you is not even enough.”

The Thunder won the game, 10-4, Friday afternoon at Veteran Acres, in a low-key, fun atmosphere. Thunder players batted from the opposite side, used a wood bat and didn’t take every extra base. The Sri Lankan players seemed thrilled just to be here.

“Baseball just bonds everyone together,” said Carolyn Schofield, an MCYSA board member who coordinated the bat kids for the tournament. “It is really neat to see, the common thing in baseball is there’s no barriers.”

JUGS Football Passing Machine and Field General Football Machine

JUGS Field General™ will give you these quality features:

• Throws accurately up to 50 yards, allowing you to hit your receivers in stride, running any route in your playbook.
• Simulates punts with a hang time of over 5 seconds, allowing you to do drills that include both punt and punt return teams.
• Light-weight and portable—weighs less than 95 lbs.
• Comes with its own transport wheel. This makes the JUGS Field General™ easy to move to any spot on your practice field.

LeBron James comes to Tim Tebow’s defense on Twitter

In Denver they're dealing with a unique quarterback controversy.

Last year's starter, Kyle Orton, had a pretty solid year considering he was on a 4-12 team. But the guy he's competing against, well, is Tim Tebow. And Tebow has a certain je ne sais quoi that has endeared him to some and caused him to be reviled by others.

The weird situation is known simply as "The Tebow Thing." And it is very real. You can read about it in today's Sun-Times, in fact.

ESPN analyst Merril Hoge made it known in no certain terms which quarterback he believes should be handed the Broncos' reins.

"He is awful as far as accuracy goes and what's kind of even more disturbing, he's probably worse moving and running around with the football and throwing than he is from the pocket," Hoge said while discussing Tebow on "SportsCenter."

He piled on later, tweeting, "Sitting watching tape off bronco offense from last year! Orton or Tebow? It's embarrassing to think the broncos could win with tebow!!"

Tebow responded on with his own pithy tweet.

"Hey Merrill...... 'ppreciate that," he microblogged, breaking a nine-day stretch of Twitter darkness.

It didn't there, of course.

LeBron James decided to jump into the fray.

"Tim Tebow will succeed in the NFL," James tweeted. "He's a hard worker, a student of the game, a natural born leader and most of all a WINNER! It takes time and he'll be nice."

"Listened to Merril Hoge today on SC and he was just blasting Tebow," he continued. "The man hasn't even play a full season and its only his 2nd yr in. Guys get on that TV and act like they was all WORLD when they played. How bout encouraging him and wishing him the best instead of hating!!"

Not sure why, exactly, James is getting involved in this, but I bet Tebow is happy another public lightning rod has his back.

Source: Chicago Sun-Times

TCU 2012 Big East schedule released

CBSSports.com's Brett McMurphy spoke with TCU athletic director Chris Del Conte at Big East Media Day this week in regards to the program's future, particularly in the Big East. Del Conte spoke about head coach Gary Patterson'sopportunity to "create his own shadow" and the $105 million expansion and renovation to Amon Carter Stadium. The stadium construction is expected to be done in time for the 2012 season, which will kick off against Grambling Sept. 8.

Here's how the Horned Frogs first season in the Big East is shaping up:

HOME GAMES
Grambling
Oklahoma
Virginia
Cincinnati
Louisville
South Florida
West Virginia

ROAD GAMES
Pittsburgh
Connecticut
Rutgers
Syracuse


Seems pointless to try and predict how this schedule will look for the Horned Frogs seeing as we are still a season away, but we can do it anyway.

Connecticut, Rutgers, and Syracuse were picked 6,7, and 8 in the 2011 preseason media poll, so I find it difficult to foresee either of those teams quickly becoming big-time threats before 2012. Pittsburgh could certainly present a challenge, though much of the defense that is expected to dominate in 2011 will have graduated. I expect opportunity to host the rest of the possible Big East title contenders in a rowdy new stadium will benefit the Horned Frogs in their initial season as a league member.

Bubba Smith Dies at 66

Bubba Smith, an outsize presence in the National Football League who went on to a prolific career in television and the movies, was found dead on Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles. He was 66.

The cause was not yet known, a spokesman for the Los Angeles County coroner’s office said, adding, “There is no indication of anything other than natural death."

The 6-foot-7 (or possibly 6-foot-8), nearly 300-pound Smith, a defensive lineman, was the No. 1 draft pick for the Baltimore Colts in 1967. He spent nine seasons in the N.F.L., playing on two Pro Bowl teams, in 1970 and 1971. In 1971 he helped propel the Colts to a 16-13 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl V.

Traded to the Oakland Raiders before the start of the 1972 season, Smith played two seasons with them before winding up his career with the Houston Oilers. He retired after the 1976 season.

Afterward, Smith made a career of playing rather large men on film and television. He was best known for his role as Moses Hightower, the mild-mannered florist-turned-lawman in the film comedy “Police Academy” (1984) and many of its sequels.

He starred in the short-lived TV crime series “Blue Thunder” (1984) and had roles on many other shows, including “Good Times,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “Semi-Tough,” “Hart to Hart,” “Married With Children” and “Family Matters.”

He was also seen in a well-known series of Miller Lite commercials — “Tastes Great; Less Filling” — in the 1970s and ’80s.

Charles Aaron Smith, known since childhood as Bubba, was born in Beaumont, Tex., on Feb. 28, 1945. His father coached the high school football team on which he played; the elder man’s techniques, Bubba Smith told The New York Times in 1971, included whacking his son with a board he brought to the field for that purpose. What redeemed these episodes, the son said, was that “he didn’t holler.”

Smith played defensive end at Michigan State, where his size and prowess gave rise to the chant “Kill, Bubba, Kill,” which emanated frequently from the stands. He was named an all-American in 1965 and 1966.

As a senior, Smith took part in what came to be called the “game of the century” — one of several games so designated in the annals of college football — played at home against Notre Dame on Nov. 19, 1966. Smith sacked and knocked out Notre Dame quarterback Terry Hanratty in the first quarter, and the game ended in a 10-10 tie.

Smith was the author, with Hal DeWindt, of the book “Kill, Bubba, Kill!,” published by Simon & Schuster in 1983. In it, Smith intimated that Super Bowl III — in which his highly favored Colts lost to the upstart Jets under Joe Namath — was fixed, although he supplied no evidence. Smith’s assertion drew fire in the news media.

Information on Smith’s survivors was not available. (His brother Tody played for the Dallas Cowboys, the Oilers and the Buffalo Bills.)

Smith was named to the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988. Michigan State retired his number, 95, in 2006.

For all his acclaim, Smith, drawing on the teachings of his father, was philosophical about his abilities.

“He taught us to be humble off the field,” Smith told The Times in 1969. “Inside, I’ve got to feel I’m the best, but if I tell you I’m the best, then I’m a fool.”

A version of this article appeared in print on August 4, 2011, on page B18 of the New York edition with the headline: Bubba Smith, N.F.L. Star And Actor, Is Dead at 66.

St. Louis manager says fans took insults too far

MILWAUKEE | St. Louis manager Tony La Russa said some fans took the personal heckling too far late Tuesday night.

La Russa appeared to briefly engage in some banter after Tuesday’s 8-7, 11-inning win, then called the fans “idiots” in comments after a game in which both teams saw star players beaned, and the Cardinals’ Yadier Molina was ejected for arguing balls and strikes.

“It’s going way too far when they start cursing your family and the funniest one, the guy’s yelling, ‘I hope you get shingles again,’ ” La Russa said Wednesday. “That’s just stupid.”

La Russa said that Brewers officials removed several fans near St. Louis’ dugout during the game. The 66-year-old La Russa struggled with shingles for nearly two months earlier this season, missing six games because of the condition.

The game turned tense in the seventh.

Albert Pujols was hit in the seventh inning on the left hand near the wrist he broke earlier this season. X-rays after the game were negative. Brewers star Ryan Braun was then plunked by Jason Motte in the bottom of the inning.

“You don’t want to get into a bean ball war,” Braun said. “That’s never fun.”

La Russa had not heard from Major League Baseball about potential discipline for Yadier Molina, who appeared to make contact with plate umpire Rob Drake after arguing a called third strike in the 10th inning.

Drake had to wipe his face after it appeared he was hit by spittle while Molina was yelling. Molina maintained he did not spit on Drake, saying he was sweaty and any contact he made with Drake was incidental.

Read more: http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/03/3055706/st-louis-manager-says-fans-took.html#ixzz1U3vZnfJG

Schutt Sports Becomes Official Helmet for Lone Star Conference Softball

Schutt Sports, the leading domestic manufacturer of batters helmets in the United States, has been named the Official Helmet of the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference for softball.

The multi-year agreement calls for the conference teams to wear Schutt batters helmets and catchers gear; it also requires Schutt to provide custom softball collectibles to the schools as fund-raising tools.

“The Lone Star Conference schools are right in the middle of softball country,” said Dianne Baker, national promotions manager for Schutt Sports. “This deal gives us great exposure in some key markets and puts our best equipment on some of the best players in the country.”

The agreement will give Schutt the chance to showcase its all-new AiR Maxx T Batter’s helmet for softball players – a helmet that utilizes the TPU Cushioning technology the company features in its football helmets.

In addition, Schutt Sports will present an annual Coach of the Year Award for softball and will also sponsor the All-Conference Team.

“We’ve been looking for this type of opportunity for our member schools,” said Stan Wagnon, commissioner of the Lone Star Conference. “The fact that these helmets are top-of-the line, as well as made here in the United States means quite a bit to us and our schools. The fund-raising part of this program also makes this a win-win for both the Lone Star Conference and Schutt.”

About Schutt Sports:
Schutt Sports is the leading domestic manufacturer of batters helmets in the United States and a household name in the sporting goods industry. The Official Base Supplier to Major League Baseball®, Schutt Sports is also the world’s leading maker of football helmets and faceguards.

About the Lone Star Conference:
The LSC, founded in 1931, has developed from a five-team conference of Texas-based schools to an 11-member league that spans three states (Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico). The league's mission is to foster student participation and success among member institutions in Division II intercollegiate athletics as an integral part of each institution's total educational program. The LSC strives for academic excellence, stresses involvement within the community, and prides itself in upholding traditions while continually seeking new opportunities to provide student-athletes with a unique and superior experience.

Martz pleased with Chicago Bears line's progress

BOURBONNAIS, Ill. – It typically takes some time for an offensive line to gel. But Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz is pleased with the progress the No. 1 unit has made early in training camp.

Players presently working with the first team are J’Marcus Webb at left tackle, Chris Williams at left guard, Roberto Garza at center, Lance Louis at right guard and rookie Gabe Carimi at right tackle.

Roberto Garza is expected to anchor the offensive line this season whether he plays guard or center.

“There’s a couple of things with the line that are very, very encouraging,” Martz said Tuesday in Bourbonnais. “First of all, Garza last year had a terrific year. He played exceptionally well. Moving J’Marcus back over to the left side, he’s probably a little more comfortable over there.

“The progress that that group—Chris, Garza, all those guys—made together the second half of season, [they] continued to get better every week and we’ve kind of picked up with that a little bit.

“Now Carimi, he’s going to learn what’s going on. But he’s not intimidated by anything. He’s got that great work ethic. He’s athletic. He’s what we were looking for to help us at the tackle position, so we think we’ve resolved some of those issues.

“Obviously we miss Olin. [His exit was] unexpected and it hurts all of us. We were very attached to Olin. But at this point, the five that we have in here, we’re very comfortable with. We’re happy with the progress that they’re making and I’m very encouraged by it, and obviously Mike [Tice] is the guy you want coaching those guys.”


Click here to read the entire article from Chicagobears.com.

MLB Trade Deadline: Power Ranking All 30 Teams Post 2011 Deadline

Written by Adrian Fedkiw
on August 1, 2011

The non-waiver trading deadline has come and gone, but teams still have another month to add talent due to the waiver deadline.

The waiver process goes like this. Each team, in reverse order of the overall standings this season, gets a chance to claim a player. If a claim is made, the original team has three options:

1. Let the player go without compensation

2. Take the player off waivers to make him untradeable

3. Work out a trade with the claiming team

It’s a second opportunity for a team like the Yankees, who didn’t make a non-waiver deadline deal for the first time since 1999.

Houston’s Wandy Rodriguez and his $39 million contract will still be available, as Houston wants to cut its payroll to $60 million. If a ballclub still needs a bat, Josh Willingham could land somewhere.

It also gives teams who fall out of contention, like the Twins or Rays, a chance to dispose players whose contracts end at the conclusion of the regular season.

We’ve seen several significant deals made after the non-waiver deadline over the years.

In 2001, with the Cardinals five games back of the wild card, they obtained starting pitcher Woody Williams for outfielder Ray Lankford. St. Louis got hot and won the wild card by three games.

The Cards landed Larry Walker from the Rockies in 2004 to add depth to their lineup. They won the pennant but fell to the Red Sox in four games in the World Series.

The Phillies got pinch-hit specialist Matt Stairs in 2008. He hit the big go-ahead home run in Game 4 of the NLCS to beat the Dodgers.

Lastly, the Giants acquired Cody Ross last year. He won the 2010 NLCS MVP en route to a World Series crown for San Francisco.

You’ll notice that I’ve used midseason and preseason prospect rankings in this piece.

Click here to read the rest of the article by Adrian Fedkiw.

Diamond Demo: Aybar's bunt

MLB Tonight takes a look at whether or not Erick Aybar's bunt against Justin Verlander was ill-timed.

Rawlings Signs Steven Jackson To Endorse Football Helmet Line

Rawlings today announced the signing of professional football running back Steven Jackson to an endorsement contract for Rawlings NRG Quantum football helmets.  Jackson will serve as the primary helmet endorser, joining professional running backs Ronnie Brown and Frank Gore on Rawlings’ Football Advisory Staff.  

"I really like the fit and feel of the helmet, and I feel protected and secure when I wear it,” Jackson said. “I'm looking forward to being the face of Rawlings and their Quantum football helmet and increasing their presence in the NFL."

“We’re excited to add Steven to our Football Advisory Staff as we continue our commitment to develop helmets that meet the protective needs of today’s athletes at all levels,” said Mike Thompson, Senior Vice President of Marketing for St. Louis-based Rawlings. “Watching Steven locally, we appreciate his hard-hitting, physical playing style and are excited to see him lead the evolution of the Rawlings Football brand.  We recognize the factors of style, comfort and technology that Steven looks for in a helmet and the NRG Quantum meets his high-level demands.”

Jackson will wear the Rawlings NRG Quantum helmet on-field this season and appear in the company’s print, digital and video marketing materials and promotions, including dynamic content on facebook.com/rawlingsfootball.

The Rawlings NRG Quantum helmet for adult and youth football players employs three proven technologies that when assembled create revolutionary impact absorption focused on reducing impact and better protecting players.

• Rawlings AIA™ – Active Impact Absorption™ has dual air bags with a scientifically-designed spacer material allowing for instant and long-lasting protection, unlike standard conventional foams.  
• Rawlings C3™ – Custom Comfort Cushion™ allows players to customize their helmets’ fit.  The proprietary rate-dependent passive impact absorption cushioning provides maximum protection without sacrificing comfort.  
• The Rawlings Heat Exchange™ has strategically placed vents and padding systems that create optimized air flow and temperature control. 

Please use our quote form for additional information regarding the Rawlings NRG football helmets.