TSP- June 2010

Mr. Tankless

Austin to Chicago: Scott LinebrinkTalks Baseball

JUNE 2010FREE

ALSO:Roy-O to Arlington?

Will Ferrell Hijacks the ExpressCedar Park Eyes Calder Cup

Ryan Jason Blackmon Golf TournamentAll Texas All Sports All the Time

the line-up

Publisher: Heath Samples

Editor: Heath [email protected]

Sports Information Director: "The Truth" Justin Fultz [email protected]

Contributing Writers: Ahmad Brooks, Marc Clampitt, Josh Conklin, Justin Fultz, Taylor Gaspar, TJ Greaney, Timothy Jenkins-Wade, Jessica Leyh, Marcy Lytle, Colby May, Corey Poché, Trent Reynolds, Heath Samples

Graphic Design: Abby Pound

Cover Photo: courtesy of Ron Vesely

Sales: Magan "Mae Mae" [email protected]

To advertise in Texas Sports Pro, call 972.567.0970. For editorial comments/suggestions, email [email protected].

Volume 1, Edition 3Copyright 2010 Texas Sports Pro. All rights reserved. Texas Sports Pro is published monthly. Views expressed in Texas Sports Pro are not necessarily the opinion of Texas Sports Pro, its staff, or advertisers.

Texas Sports Pro does not knowlingly accept false or misleading editorial content or advertising, nor is Texas Sports Pro responsible for the content or claims of any advertising or editorial in this publication. No content (articles, photographs, graphics) in Texas Sports Pro may be used for reproduction without permission from the publisher. Texas Sports Pro is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader.

Contact Us:Main Number 972.567.0970Fax Number 512.244.362312343 Hymeadow Dr. Ste. 2EAustin, TX 78750

03

THE BLITZ

IN THE 512/FROM THE EDITOR

UFC/OUTDOORS/KNOW YOUR STUFF?

MLB & MINORS

WEIRDOS/HOCKEY/RYAN BLACKMON FOUNDATION

FEATUREScott Linebrink

CALENDAR

NFL

NBA

COLLEGE SPORTS

CROSSWORD/TSP-APPROVED

BLITZTHE3

There are many different ways to show respect, but I’m not sure LeBron James realized at the time that his actions

potentially made an even bigger statement than he had intended. Recently, LeBron decided to put his actions to work by filing with the NBA for a formal approval to change his jersey number for next season. The All-Star said in November that he was thinking of giving up #23 out of respect for his hero, Michael Jordan. James says “I'm going to be No. 6.” He chose that number because that was the number he wore while playing on team USA’s “Redemption Team.”

That may be all fine and dandy but LeBron verbally petitioned the NBA and each individual team to retire Jordan’s #23 “out of respect to the greatest player ever.” Let’s pump those breaks for a second... I will agree with you that Jordan is on the short list of the greatest players of all time, but I think you need

to take a long hard look at the past before making a statement like that. I always hate the argument of “greatest ever” strictly because it’s unfair to judge based on different eras.

By switching to the #6, what are you saying about Bill Russell & Julius Erving, both of whom donned the number? I think you’re disrespecting them. Russell and Erving both paved the foundation for not just the creation of the NBA but for African Americans in sports. I would even argue that Bird & Magic were the real saviors of the league, and Jordan just took what they started and drove that into what we see today.

The Truth is that the NBA is too smart to do this for many reasons; but most importantly how could you qualify the

greats? Bill Russell, Julius Erving, Oscar Robertson, Wilt Chamberlin, Pete Maravich, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Elgin Baylor, John Havlicek, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird are just the beginning of the list of guys who actually deserve that kind of respect. In the end I think this is just a ploy for LeBron to sell more jerseys to help pay for his huge contract coming this summer.

When I was a kid I always picked the #’s that weren’t the most popular, so that if someday I were to be great, my number would stand alone, and that’s The Truth! I’m just say’n.

JUSTIN FULTZ

Photo courtesy of Wordpress.com

45689

1012141618

Disrespect Through Respect?

Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas MavericksAccording to Marc Stein of ESPN, Dirk will opt out of his current contract and become a free agent on July 1st. However, don’t croak Mavs fans. This is actually beneficial to the Mavericks as it will allow them to re-sign Dirk for less than he would otherwise make this season. Owner Mark Cuban states, “An opt-out gives us the ability to create financial room to add players ... The financial room is not cap room, just dollars we save in a new, but longer deal.” Let’s hope this all works out. Nobody in Dallas wants to see Dirk make like his buddy Nash…

Marion Barber/Felix Jones, Dallas CowboysJerry Jones stated previously this offseason that we may see Felix Jones become the starting tailback for the Cowboys in lieu of Barber. This makes sense as Barber’s production dropped once he became a starter compared to his pro-bowl productivity as a reserve in 2008. It also makes sense after viewing the games last season that Felix Jones would start and Marion would “finish.” However, Jones came out recently and said, “Barber looks quicker. He's just in great shape. He looks as good out here just in these initial practices as I've seen him look in his career.” So the starter in Dallas is still up in the air. What else would we expect from Jerry?

Roy Oswalt, Houston AstrosSince Roy-O asked to be traded (and who can blame him?), there have been multiple teams express interest in the ace. Perhaps the most interesting one is right down Interstate-35, though. Nolan Ryan has reportedly spoken with the Astros organization about taking Oswalt off their hands. This could be a problem however, as the Rangers are currently operating within the cloud of a regime-change, and along with that, operating on the dime of other owners… Some seem to think that the MLB will not allow them to make a deal like the one that would be made with Oswalt while this is still in the works. Regardless, the situation seems to work in all other facets: the Rangers have young, talented arms and the Astros like them. Look to see the names Martin Perez, Tanner Scheppers and Alexi Ogando come up in these talks as the Rangers look to solidify their rotation.

Texas Longhorns, Big 12 ConferenceCheck this out: The University of Texas may become an independent school. Yes, with talks hovering that the Big 12 may not be around much longer, or that it will be shaken-up, the Texas Longhorns have considered not only moving conferences (most likely to the Big 10) but perhaps even taking the independent-route, much like Notre Dame. The Longhorns certainly have the clout, money, and fan-base to do it. And FOX would be more-than-interested in speaking with the ‘Horns about some college football dealings… A.D. Dodds, says, “Nothing's off the table...if that's the way the world goes, then we'll go in that world." Dodds did shoot down the thought of moving to the SEC because of their lack of interest in academics…who can argue with that?

www.TexasSportsPro.com

HEATH SAMPLES

from the editor

04

512in the( )

Todd Merton, Ashley Anderson and Danielle Eldridge

Michelle Mosmeyer, Venancio “Fig” Figuero and Colleen Ryan

Larry Silver, Greg Needham, Jeremy Dildey and Chris Leblanc

Taylor and DJ legend Chad Austin

Taylor Gaspar signing autographs Taylor posing with some fans

Welcome back, friends. This is the third issue of the TSP, and we are excited about some things, and not so excited about others. Before I go any further, I would like to pay my respects to the family of Tobi Oyedeji. Tobi was a Texas A&M basketball recruit as well as an honorable human being, and we here at Texas Sports Pro pay remembrance to him as well as send our thoughts and prayers to his family and the entire Aggie community. Please find a short article concerning his story on page 17.

On another note, we are excited to say that we have introduced some headers into our publication. Sweet, yeah? Also, we are proud to say that from this point forward, we are partnering with ESPN Austin, The Horn, to provide you the best content possible. We like ESPN because they like sports. Tune-in to 104.9 any time of day to stay current and avoiding being “that guy” that didn’t realize the Rangers are now in first place…

Some teams that are anything but in first place would be those professional basketball teams from our beloved state of Texas … feel free to flip forward and check out what our own Corey Poche had to say about the “death” of the Dallas Mavericks… his findings may surprise you.

Also, may I just say this: if UT baseball doesn’t win it all, this editor will be surprised. Taylor Gaspar agrees with me on this, so flip forward and find her “Taylor Talk” on page 17.

Thanks for reading, y’all.

Heath SamplesEditor, Texas Sports [email protected]

Will Ferrell Hijacks the Express

Taylor Meets Her Fans

Watch Party for the Texas Stars at Third Base

in Round Rock

Reid and Reese Ryan with Will Ferrell

The Texas Stars have made hockey relevant to Texans again. As they keep winning, watch parties keep heating up...

ESPN Austin and Texas Sports Pro correspondent Taylor Gaspar stopped by the Twin Peaks locations in both Round Rock and central Austin to sign autographs, meet fans and promote the 2nd Annual Chip Shot Open, hosted by 104.9FM The Horn.

Rojo Johnson (Will Ferrell) made his baseball debut for the Express in May. It was a sight that every fan who attended the game will remember for years to come.

"Rojo Johnson"


05

UFC 113Fight 1: Cote/Belcher

UFC 113 was kicked off by the Patrick Cote/Alan Belcher fight. Belcher started the first round very aggressively as he was able to land many successful leg kicks until Cote took the fight to the ground. Cote then tried a kamora armbar submission, but was unable to finish it. The second round was started by Cote landing some huge punch combos, and then in one of the most amazing finishes I have seen in some time, Cote had Belcher pinned against the cage, but Belcher countered by lifting Cote up and slamming him to the ground head first. He then rolled onto his back for a rear naked choke for the win.

Fight 2: Slice/Mitrione

The second fight of the night featured Kimbo Slice vs. Matt Mitrione. Kimbo never seemed to have his head in this fight; and personally, I didn’t ever think he deserved a shot in the UFC regardless. He showed me why. As Bruce Bufer said during the intros, Kimbo is a brawler, not a mixed martial artist. Mitrione

won via TKO in the second round. After the fight, Dana White stated that Kimbo will never fight in the UFC again—about time.

Fight 3: Stout/Stephens

The third fight of the night was Sam Stout vs. Jeremy Stephens. The fight started with both fighters being very aggressive, but Stephens was able to land a couple of crushing hits. The second round was full of Stout’s submission attempts and a couple of his own crushing blows. This fight was going to be decided in the third, and Stephens was able to pull it out through a split decision. This fight was easily the best of the night, as it won “fight of the night” honors.

Fight 4: Koscheck/DaleyThe fourth fight was Josh Koscheck vs. Paul Daley. This fight started out in Paul Daley’s favor until what looked like an illegal knee to the head, but upon review it was established as a “grazing hit,” which is not illegal. Ever since that hit, Koscheck was all over Daley as he scored on numerous takedowns and wouldn’t let Daley get any good position.

At the end of the third round, as Koscheck was walking to his corner, Daley went over and threw a huge uppercut as Koscheck turned right into it. In the after fight press conference, Dana White said Daley was done and that he won’t have another fight in the UFC, serves him right.

Light Heavyweight Championship Fight:

Machida/Rua

The final fight of the night was Lyoto Machida vs. Mauricio Rua for the light heavyweight championship. The fight was stale until Machida was able to take Rua to the ground, but then the fight went back to stand up and Rua was able to counter Machida with a huge uppercut and then followed him to the ground, winning via KO. So your new Light Heavyweight Champion is Mauricio “Shogun” Rua.

JOSH CONKLIN

OUTDOORS WITH TJ GREANEY

It seems the fast paced lifestyles of most families today don’t always lend credit to what can be learned by watching a mockingbird in a mesquite tree or a red ant scurrying about on a dusty trail. The moments of quiet without television or traffic, schedules and telephones are not usually a priority in our urban settings. Summer camp can be a place kids learn to slow down and appreciate the land, water and wildlife.

I remember summer camp and lots of the things I learned there. We swam, canoed, made wooden crafts, shot 22 rifles and archery. I remember the campfire chats and the tricks we played on the other campers. Camp was one of the highlights of my summers growing up.

Today, kids have summer camp options of which I would have never dreamed. There is space camp, rock and roll camp, chess camp, baseball camp, survival camp, cowboy camp, cheerleader camp, soccer camp and more. These are all great camps and amazing experiences for kids to have, but there are outdoor camps, hunting and fishing camps, that would make even the most avid hunter or fisherman wish to be a kid again, alas if even for just one summer session.

Does Your Child Have “Outdoor-Deficit-Disorder?”

These outdoor hunting and fishing experience camps are perfect for the kid with outdoor deficit disorder (I made that term up years ago when my kids stayed inside too long). Ages for these camps range from nine years to seventeen years and can be boys only, co-educational or even a girl’s only extreme outdoor hunting and fishing camp. Yes, girls’ hunting and fishing culminating in the harvest of an animal… awesome. All the camps are about skills training, safety, fun and camaraderie. They take those with little or no outdoor skills and teach them the basic skills and what they need to be successful when hunting and fishing. Most of the camps will provide a hunter’s education certificate to those who complete the camp and are of age to receive the certificate. These certificates are required for most hunters in most states before they can legally hunt. What a great way for them to earn theirs.

Instruction at the camps usually include fresh or salt water fishing skills, archery, marksmanship, camp set-up, basic survival

skills, tracking game, game skinning and firearm safety. Different camps have different curriculums and different sessions offer different events or special training. Some camps include harvesting an animal and others don’t.

Life-changing moments are echoed many times over at the hunting and fishing camps. Many of the kids are repeat campers. They sit around the campfires and lay in their bunks for hours reliving the daily activities moment by moment. These experiences are not soon forgotten as they return to the world of television and video games, traffic and noise. Because of these camps maybe, just maybe, the kids stop a little more often and notice a spider in a bush or a deer grazing on the side of the road. They smell the air before a rain or hear the bird singing outside their window in the morning. Hopefully the camps instill moments of quiet respect and daydreams of outdoor adventures to come. For more information on these camps and activities go to www.kidsoutdoorzone.com

TJ GREANEY

Summer Hunting and Fishing Camps Any Grown-up Would Envy

Answers on page 18

knowyour

stuff??1. Who was the first Texas Ranger to hit 50 HRs in a season?

A.B.C.D.

Rafael PalmeiroAlex RodriguezJuan GonzalezFrank Howard

THETRUTHIS COMINGEmail any and all sports questions to

[email protected], and check out his answers next month.

2. Since 1990, which of the following Rangers have never led the team in HRs in a season?

A.B.C.D.

Juan GonzalezSammy SosaIvan RodriguezRafael Palmeiro

3. In 2003, Astro Craig Biggio manned CF for Houston, but he broke into the majors playing a different position--what position did he originally play?

A.B.C.D.

Kenny RogersR.A. DickeyChan Ho ParkColby Lewis

4. What Texas Ranger pitcher was second on the team with 10 wins in 2003 behind John Thompson's 13?

5. Craig Biggio has the most career hits in Houston Astros history with 3,060. Second behind him is Jeff Bagwell with 2,314. Who is third on the list with almost 2,000 himself?

6. By what name were the Astros originally known?

A.B.C.D.

Jose CruzLance BerkmanBob WatsonKen Caminiti

A.B.C.D.

TexansHighlandersSenatorsColt 45's


06

Should This Rangers Team Be Feared?

MLB

MINORS

RANGERs

REdHAWks

First, Ian Kinsler was out with an ankle sprain. As soon as he came back, Nelson Cruz went down with a hamstring injury. It seemed as if the Rangers would have to wait a long time before they saw their whole potential. Now that Cruz is back, the Rangers have put together one of the most dangerous lineups in Major League Baseball. If the Rangers didn’t have a penny pinching owner at the time in Tom Hicks, you could have also added Marlon Byrd to this lineup in place of Julio Borbon. That is besides the point, but what is relevant is this question: can this lineup keep up with the runs given up by the starting rotation?

Everyone got excited, myself included, after Vladimir Guerrero was signed. In comes a guy who had terrorized the Rangers at the Ballpark in Arlington (I know that isn’t the right name of it anymore, but I refuse to call it anything else) and now he was going to be playing half of his games in that ballpark. Plugging him into the middle of the lineup around Josh Hamilton and Nelson Cruz, and to hit behind Michael Young and Kinsler made even Nolan Ryan do back flips as his team was coming back. The hitting has been as expected so far, even with Hamilton having a slump to start the beginning of the year. Even while Justin Smoak is hitting under the Mendoza line, his on base percentage has been over .300 for the year, which is great for a guy in his first year of MLB action.

Pitching Woes Continue in Arlington

Unfortunately, hitting is only one part of the game of baseball. Outside of C.J. Wilson and Colby Lewis, the Rangers have yet to find three other quality starters to round out the rotation. Rich Harden, this year’s Kevin Millwood, can’t seem to find a way to pitch more than 5 innings in a game. Scott Feldman has been getting rocked around more than Lindsay Lohan’s career, and Derek Holland has been good since being called up,

though that’s only been in a few starts. The Rangers still haven’t found a long reliever to come in and eat up innings when Harden and Feldman can’t stay in long. Dustin Nippert and Doug Mathis have tried their luck at that spot, with horrible results. What the Rangers do have though is an amazing closing-out staff. Darren O’Day is pitching like he was last year, which is a great thing. Neftali Feliz is beginning to get comfortable in the closer role after Frank Francisco blew his opportunity to retain his spot. Speaking of Francisco, it seems as if he is starting to find his arm at the right time. The signing

of Darren Oliver got overshadowed with the signing of Vlad, but Oliver has made as much of an impact pitching-wise that Vlad has made with the stick. Oliver provides that great left hander from the bullpen that everyone craves. Finally, Chris Ray has been a great surprise and adds another key arm to the bullpen.

By going through all of this, I feel the Rangers need one of two things: one more quality starter to join Lewis, Holland, and Wilson (no team really has a great 5th starter, so I can’t really complain there) or a 6th starter/long reliever. It’s been a long time that the Rangers haven’t had that many needs, but it seems as if they have finally reached that point. The only problem this team is going to have in the future is retaining all of this young, amazing talent. Hopefully, with the new management squad coming in at some point, they can actually spend a decent amount of money, something that Tom Hicks has never done when it comes to keeping talent in Arlington. Nonetheless, this team has the firepower to score 5+ runs every night, but considering those standing on the mound, can they truly be feared?

COREY POCHE

Photo courtesy of MLB56.TK

Everyone who followed the Rangers, Chris Davis included, knew that Davis’ time would come. That notion became a reality, fifteen games into this season.

Justin Smoak, one of the Rangers top prospects, was finally given his call-up, thus sending Chris Davis back down to Triple-A Oklahoma City. Even as Smoak hits underneath the Mendoza Line, it appears that this move is going to stay permanent as no one is calling for Davis again. Thus, the question still presents itself: Can Chris Davis find the consistent swing that we have

seen brief glimpses of in his short stint in the Majors? Davis, who’s hitting .327 as of May 23rd, seems as if that groove is starting to find itself. His glaring flaw that has haunted him for his whole career is still showing: He’s had a strikeout 24 times in 101 at bats ( 1 strikeout in every 4.21 at bats). This number is still much better than what he showed in the majors (1 strikeout in every 2.61 at bats in 2009, 2.82 at bats in the 15 games of the 2010 season), but you have to realize that the competition/pitching

is far less in Oklahoma City than it is in the Big Show. What makes it seem a lot more like Chris is trying his hardest to get back up to the Rangers organization is the fact that he only has 2 home runs in those 101 at bats. You might be thinking, “But Corey, Chris Davis is a power hitter; why in the world would that be a good thing?” Everyone who follows baseball knows that Davis can hit the ball a country mile, but what he lacks is that consistency. He’s already gotten 33 hits and what that shows me is this: he is more worried about making contact this time around. Good.

I see a guy that is doing everything in his power to prove to Jon Daniels and the whole Rangers organization to not give up hope on him. At some point, Smoak’s lack of hitting will start to rub people the wrong way, and hopefully at that point for Davis, he will be showing Rangers fans that he is far from gone.

COREY POCHE

Will He Ever Find His Swing?

For the last month, the Rangers have had all the right things happen for them to earn their way into first place. The team that had a season-worst 6 game losing streak in April is long gone, replaced by a division leading team that hasn’t had more than a 3 game losing streak since.

Hitting:This seems to be a different team, and it really is thanks to the return of 2 of their middle-of-the-order hitters in Nelson Cruz and Ian Kinsler (and the impressive numbers Vlad continues to put up). Nelson Cruz returned in the middle of the month continuing the punishing pace he set before he went on the DL. In 10 games from his return, he hit .361 with 16 RBIs, almost doubling his total from the 19 games before he went on the DL, and all while hitting 6th. With an increase in his HR output, he can put himself back into contention for the triple crown, which will only bode well for the Rangers season. Ian Kinsler surprised no one when he returned in the middle of the order to hit over .300. His power numbers are not what they were last year due to his ankle injury, but with Cruz and Guerrero hitting as well as they are, they do not need to be. Ranger fans can expect his power numbers to increase as the year progresses.

Josh Hamilton struggled mightily in the series against the Blue Jays. Hamilton was 1-13 with 9 strikeout in that series, and that coupled with the Rangers getting swept encouraged a swap with Kinsler to the 5 hole. Since the move, his average has been on a steady rise, and Hamilton is ready to once again return to being a .300 hitter. Also starting to come on after a disappointing start to the season are David Murphy and Julio Borbon. While not a regular outfielder, Murphy is proving once again he is one of the best 4th outfielders in the majors. Borbon is beginning to justify the Rangers staying with him so long as their center fielder.

Pitching:While the Rangers starters have had some trouble going deep into games, they have been given a boost with the return of Derek Holland who has delivered nothing but quality starts upon his return. He has pitched so well that when Matt Harrison returns from the DL he will be pushed to the bullpen. Colby Lewis has proven that he is human, yet has still given the Rangers a chance to win almost every time out. C.J Wilson has continued to show he belongs in the rotation, and Neftali Feliz has definitely shown he is the Rangers’ closer of the future, racking up (13+) saves.

There have been signs of improvement with Rich Harden, and if he figures out how to return to his ace form, the Rangers will run away with the division.

The pitching this year has been much improved from years past, and for May has maintained the

level that they have produced from the start of the season. With the pitching staying consistent, the return of Cruz and Kinsler has translated to an increase in the Rangers win total and consistency. This lineup remains one of the best in all of baseball, and will only get better as Kinsler and Cruz continue to get strong, and Smoak becomes more relaxed at the major league level.

Looking Ahead:The Rangers have a pretty favorable schedule in front of them, with the Rays being the only 1st place team they are looking to play. While their June schedule won’t be a walk in the (ball) park, the Rangers play a 9 game series against 2 of the worst teams in baseball in the Astros and Pirates. The Rangers are poised to steamroll into the all-star break with an expanded division lead. With the sale of the ball club fast approaching, financial flexibility is likely at the trade deadline as well; and with the Astros performing as badly as they are this year, Oswalt would fit right in wearing another Texas team’s name across his jersey...

TRENT REYNOLDS

Rangers Getting It Together

Oswalt would fit right in wearing another Texas

team's name across his jersey...


07

Time for Ol' Roy to Sign Off

MINORS

MLB

ExpREss

AsTRos

When you think of the Astros of today, you think of two names: Lance Berkman and Roy Oswalt. Trading away one of your marquee names is one of the riskiest things that a team can do. How are your fans going to react? How is the team going to react to the loss of one of the locker room captains? In the case of Roy Oswalt though, I think even Astros fans, myself included, would be a little happy to see Roy ride off in the sunset to another team.

Let’s step into our time machine and go back three years, heck even two years for that matter. It’s now 2008, Roy Oswalt is coming off of his 8th consecutive great year, and never having an Earned Run Average higher than 3.54. Astros fans have high hopes for another great year from Oswalt, as well as watching the younger players get better and the veterans doing what they did last year. Fast forward to the end of the year and you are presented with ugliness. Oswalt

gets 30 starts, gets only 14 decisions with an 8-6 record, and puts up a 4.12 ERA, something Astros fans had never seen from him. His numbers, outside of his ERA and record, amount to a normal year for Oswalt, and naturally, he gets a little frustrated.

Thankfully for the Astros, Oswalt is a very quiet person, not one to voice his frustrations. Fast forward again to where we are today. So far this year, Oswalt has a lower ERA (2.35) than any

of his ERAs at the end of his 9 seasons before. Another astounding stat is that he hasn’t given up more than 3 runs in any of his starts. Just looking at that alone, it would appear that he is heading to a great season, even getting 9 decisions in his 10 starts. The bad news is that his record so far this year is 3-6. This is a guy who is currently 9th in the National League in ERA and WHIP (Walks and Hits per Inning Pitched), 5th in

the National League in strikeouts, but 2nd in the National League in losses. It’s like Roy Oswalt is the Zack Greinke of the National League, which is not a good thing at all.

Let the Man Go…

If I was in Oswalt’s shoes, I would be in all of my teammate’s faces, telling them to step their game up because I’m tired of having this heavy Jansport on my back. Roy, however, just quietly asks for a trade and goes on with his business. When he came out and stated it, he put it in an eloquent way, saying that he would, “approve of a move that would help the Astros organization.” The only problem

for the Astros is that if you trade Oswalt, you are basically giving up on this squad, and might as well put Berkman and Carlos Lee on the block. If all those 3 get dealt, it remains to be seen how the Astros fans act when the cornerstones of this team have all disappeared. I feel it is time for Roy to ride on to another team, but it would definitely be awkward to see him in any other uniform. Regardless, let the man use his numbers to get some W’s, ‘cuz these ‘Stros simply can’t get it done for him. He deserves this.

COREY POCHE

Rojo Johnson made his American baseball debut recently for the Round Rock Express. His raw talent never even got the chance to be displayed as Rojo was ejected after one wild pitch that hit a batter of the Nashville Sounds on May 6th. We should have seen it coming when he unzipped his warm-up jacket to reveal his ostentatious gold chains, and we most assuredly should have seen trouble approaching when he guzzled down a cool, crisp Budweiser right before throwing his few warm-up pitches.

When asked what was in his repertoire in his press conference after the game, Rojo responded, “I’m totally against the circle change. Always have been. I’m more of an octagonal-change kind of guy.” Interesting perspective. Perhaps it was that octagonal-change-up that beaned the Nashville Sound player…

Regardless, Rojo brought some excitement to Round Rock, and we hope he may return—perhaps he can stay out of prison long enough. One thing is certain: the national

media loves them some Rojo Johnson. There have been almost 1million hits on the website, YouTube, of his performance. Even ESPN has turned their attention to central Texas by placing Rojo’s performance on their “Not Top 10 List.”

Best wishes to Rojo as he…well, as he does whatever it is that he does. Thanks for the good times.

*Please note, Rojo Johnson is a fictitious character played by none other than the

greatest comedian of all time, Will Ferrell. Many thanks to Will for having some fun up at Dell Diamond.

TIMOTHY JENKINS-WADE

National Media Turns to Round Rock, Rojo

At this point in the new season the Astros are dead last among all teams in the MLB in three vital categories: team batting average, home runs, and RBI’s. The team batting average is a paltry .226; they have hit only 22 home runs, and have only 122 RBI’s through 43 games. By comparison, the Yankees have 50 home runs and have 230 RBI’s.

It looks like the 2010 Houston Astros have turned hardball ineptitude into an art form and they are without question the Picasso of Major League Baseball. Unfortunately, as they are right now, the Astros are a team only a mother could love.

Cha-Cha-Cha-Changes…

That being said, changes are already in the works in an attempt to shake things up. Opening day starting catcher J.R. Towles

was demoted to the minor leagues because of his failure to produce…yet again. But the interesting thing about J.R.’s demotion was that he wasn’t even sent to AAA Round Rock. In fact, J.R. was sent to AA Corpus Christi. How do you like them apples?

Another change the Astros made, in their attempt to right the ship, was to give Kaz Matsui his outright release. Kaz just hadn’t produced since his first season in Houston three years ago; and even then he wasn’t able to produce consistently due to various injuries keeping him out of the lineup much of the time.

The Kaz Matsui experiment just didn’t pan out and GM Ed Wade finally pulled the plug. I honestly didn’t think Wade would actually let Matsui go because of his big contract. I applaud Wade for at least trying to do something—anything—to turn the Astros’ fortunes around.

Jeff Keppinger, who has been very effective with the playing time he has received, has replaced Matsui at second base. Through 43 games Keppinger has the team’s highest batting average at .292 and it’s going to be tough to keep him out of the lineup now.

How Much Longer Until Castro Is An Astro?

Humberto Quintero has taken over the starting catching job after Towles was sent to AA Corpus Christi. And they signed Kevin Cash to be the back-up for the time being.

As every Astro fan knows, Jason Castro is the Astros’ stud catcher-in-waiting. And he will be with the big league club soon.

But right now the Astro’s brain trust (I know what you‘re thinking, the term “Astros brain trust” is an oxymoron like ‘jumbo shrimp’ but stay with me here) want Castro to get a little more seasoning in AAA Round Rock before they call him up. It is widely believed that he will be called up either just before, or after, the All-Star break. Until then, he will continue to hone his craft for the Express in Round Rock.

MARC CLAMPITT

Astros: A Work Of Art

Wins33202

PlayerR. OswaltB. MyersW. RodriguezF. PaulinoB. Norris

Astros' Pitching in 2010

ERA2.353.254.335.086.80

Losses63675

IP69.061.052.051.143.2

It's like Roy Oswalt is the Zack Greinke of

the NL, which is not a good thing at all...


...the Astros are a team only a mother could love.

08

HOCKEY TExAs sTARs

SPECIAL THE RYAN JAsoN blAckmoN fouNdATIoN

Ryan Jason Blackmon struggled with learning delays, which physicians and therapists attributed to his premature birth. At 15 months he was hospitalized due to an illness and experienced complete muscle breakdown. He went from a walking toddler

back to an infant that could not even feed himself. Medical providers attributed the muscle breakdown to his body's reaction to a virus.

Ryan was diagnosed with VCFS-Velo Cardio Facial Syndrome. This is the second most common chromosome disorder. Downs Syndrome is number one. Ryan’s muscle breakdown continued to worsen, and just two days before his fourth birthday he was admitted to the hospital because his muscle breakdown was so dangerously high that it could affect his major organs. He then seemed to improve and was discharged, although unable to walk on his own.

Each day, Ryan seemed to be gaining his strength, and blood tests confirmed that his muscle breakdown was recovering. For this reason, February 7, 2009 came as a

huge shock to his family. They woke up that Saturday morning, ate breakfast together as a family, but Ryan was clearly not feeling good and wanted to lie down. Ryan’s father laid him down with his pillow and blanket, and he soon fell asleep. Ryan passed away in his sleep on the sofa. Ryan touched so many lives during his short time here, and it is evidenced by the support and outpouring of love from friends. Brandy Jones and the staff at Teravista Golf Club organized an inaugural golf tournament to help with the medical and unexpected cost of losing a child. Built upon their generosity, the Ryan Jason Blackmon Foundation was created to use Ryan's legacy to help other children that struggle with learning disabilities. The foundation was organized to provide secondary education scholarships (currently just in Williamson County until

the foundation grows) for individuals with learning disabilities. The 2nd Annual Ryan Jason Blackmon Golf Tournament is scheduled for June 5th, 2010. The tournament will be held at Teravista Golf Club in Round Rock, TX. It is an 8:00 am shotgun. There will be food, a live auction, silent auction and raffle, shopping and pampering, as well as activities for the children. Contact Clark Blackmon at Teravista for more information (512) 651-9851 or check out the Facebook page. It is hoped that through The Ryan Jason Blackmon Foundation, Ryan’s life will touch the lives of others in need.

MARCY LYTLE

In his young career, Texas Stars winger Jamie Benn has played with and against some of the best hockey players in the NHL, including his rookie season with the Dallas Stars this year. However, it is his experience in the AHL's Calder cup Playoffs that has stood out the most to the 20-year old. According to Benn, his time with the Texas Stars is the most extraordinary career experience yet.

"In the past, I've scored some pretty special goals, and I've been on pretty special teams. I knew coming in that we had a good team going into the playoffs, and they had a really great regular season. I just wanted to come in and contribute and do what I can and help them win, but being able to contribute in games with this team has got to be number one so far," said Benn.

Contribute he has, including scoring the game-winning goal which lifted the Stars over the Chicago Wolves in Game 7 of the West Division finals and into the Western Conference Finals. The 20-year old has had several multi-point nights at Cedar Park Center, a memorable one being the team's first hat trick on home ice in Round 1 against the Rockford IceHogs. He also netted two goals in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals against Hamilton. His second goal of the night came in overtime and tied the series 2-2.

Benn, currently leading the AHL in playoff scoring, could not be more humble about what he's done for the Texas Stars. "I've

kind of just taken it all in. Just going out there, playing hockey and having fun. I think that’s the biggest thing that I can do," said Benn.

The Texas Stars have shown their character throughout the regular season and into playoffs. An inaugural team reaching Round 3 of the AHL playoffs is extremely rare, but the Stars have proven themselves again and again, moving from the Division Finals into the Conference Finals against the Hamilton Bulldogs. Benn's 13

goals have certainly added the extra push the team needed to keep pressing on.

"You have to play every game like it’s another Game 7, and almost do or die. I think we've all been watching the NHL playoffs and we've seen what Philadelphia did, and I think our team has a lot of character and can do the same," explains Benn about the Stars' playoff mentality.

"We've had some good wins and we showed a lot of character in our team and proved what we can do. We don't get much time off, but that's just the way the playoffs are."

As far as Central Texas is concerned, Benn can stay as long as he likes and a lengthy playoff run is welcome anytime.

JESSICA LEYH

Photo courtesy of the Stars

Jamie Benn Pushes Stars Through Playoffs

Have you ever heard of a sports bar that combines Washers, Horseshoes, Live Music, Beach Volleyball, Professional BMX Dirt Trails, and a very large Playscape? Well, now you have: Weirdos Beach Volleyball Bar and Grill is home to Austin's newest phenomenon - the Extreme Sports Bar. This laid back, anything goes, Southern California style bar is the hottest thing to hit Austin since 6th Street itself. By offering a home to everyone, including chopper ridin' bikers on Thursday nights, to live music enthusiasts every Wednesday through Sunday nights, and some of the lowest drink prices in Austin, Weirdos is quickly gaining a reputation for having something fun for everyone. If you're a fan of Beach Volleyball, you're definitely in luck. Weirdos offers 2 championship-level Beach Volleyball courts with over 7,700 square feet of sand, and 25-foot tall stadium lighting allowing extended play until 2:00am. Weirdos has teamed up with Project: Serve, Austin's ONLY community based Beach Volleyball Training Company, to provide Youth, Juniors, and Adult training sessions. Adult group lessons and boot camp fitness sessions are held every Monday - Friday, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm, and Tuesdays 6:00 - 7:30pm, and 7:45 - 9:15pm at the low cost of $10.00 per session. Beginners are welcome!

Project: Serve and Weirdos have partnered with Beach Volleyball Legend, Sinjin Smith and the AVP (Association of Volleyball Professionals) to hold Austin's most

comprehensive, athletic Youth and Juniors Beach Volleyball camps beginning June 7th and going all summer long till August 13th. Please visit www.projectservevolleyball.com, or www.w e i r d o s a u s t i n . c o m to sign up and for registration information. Beach Volleyball Leagues are also available. Saturday, May 8th brought with it a Truly-Texas live music

metamorphosis as 1,561 people descended upon Weirdos to watch Country music star, Kevin Fowler turn the bar into Austin's newest large live music venue! With a 2,700 person capacity, a brand new 1,000 sq. ft. resort style back bar, and “101X: Radio” Concert events already scheduled, Weirdos is ramping up for a freshman Summer that will undoubtedly bring with it phenomenal shows and great times.

BOBBY JONES

Photo courtesy of Bobby Jones

SPECIAL locAl

Weirdos Invade the ATX

2nd Annual Golf Tournament


09

FEATURE scoTT lINEbRINk

Recently, TSP experienced the privilege of interviewing White Sox’ pitcher, Scott Linebrink, about baseball, life, and what his favorite kind of Jello happens to be (its red). Here’s how it played out:

TSP: What do you think about the recent no-hitter by Dallas Braden?Scott: An amazing accomplishment. I had the privilege of watching my teammate, Mark Buehrle, throw one last year and it was probably the coolest experience I have ever had on a baseball field. I still get goose bumps when I talk about it.

TSP: What’s the longest ball you’ve ever hit?Scott: I once hit a ground-rule-double in Atlanta, but I've had plenty of balls hit off me further than that…

TSP: Do you have any tips for minor leaguers trying to be called up?Scott: The same thing that has made you successful as a minor leaguer will make you successful as a big leaguer. The most accomplished big leaguers are simply the guys who learn to deal with failure the best.

TSP: Are days you pitch different? How hard is it to be a middle reliever vs. a set-up guy or closer?

Scott: There are challenges to each. Some games reach a climax in the sixth or seventh innings, not just the ninth. A good bullpen makes a good team, and a good closer makes a good bullpen.

TSP: Hypothetically, as a general manager, what would you want out of your pitching staff? Scott: Guys who throw strikes.

TSP: Would you mind sharing a childhood memory about baseball?Scott: My first baseball practice ever I had to be dragged kicking and screaming by my mom because my dad was out of town at the time. At that point there were probably some doubts about my level of commitment to the game. I have to give the credit to mom for making me stick it out at the beginning.

TSP: Explain the story behind the number you wear…Scott: I wear #71 in honor of Mark Merila, my bullpen catcher in San Diego who is battling a brain tumor. He is 38 years old and has three kids and despite his physical condition has a wonderful attitude because of his faith in Christ. He is a tremendous inspiration, especially when I think things are going bad for me.

TSP: What challenges have you faced in your career?Scott: Challenges in this game are actually very similar to everyone else's. It's just that when we mess up in a MLB game, everybody sees it on ESPN and the negative thoughts can get compounded if you let them.

TSP: Have you ever had to peg a guy knowing it might not turn out well?Scott: Yes. That's part of the game but there's a way to do it and get your point across without putting the hitter in danger of getting seriously hurt.

TSP: How much pressure is it to live up to baseball’s unwritten rules as a pitcher?Scott: There is constant pressure and it can

overwhelm you if you focus on the expectations each time you take the mound. I have found the most freedom in making it my purpose to honor God with each pitch. Every outing can be an act of worship if I acknowledge God's gift of talent and use that gift to bring Him glory.

TSP: What really goes on in an MLB dugout?Scott: Lots of sunflower seed spitting and gum chewing.

TSP: What’s your favorite prank?Scott: I like things that make loud noises and cause people to jump.

TSP: What’s your most embarrassing moment with a girl?Scott: I’m still trying to figure girls out…

TSP: Favorite cartoon character?Scott: Snoopy.

TSP: Funniest Major Leaguer?Scott: Brian Giles.

TSP: Best place you’ve traveled?Scott: Seattle.

TSP: What is an average day like for a Major League ballplayer? Scott: Breakfast around nine at whatever local diner is close by. I like to read in the morning and start the day off with some Word time. I usually head to the field around two for a seven o’clock game. Batting practice is the bane of pitchers because we have to sit in the outfield and shag all the balls the hitters hit. After the game, it's get home as fast as I can so I can put my girls to bed.

TSP: Tell us about your family...Scott: Kelly and I married in 2003. She grew up in the Georgetown area and played volleyball at Mary Hardin-Baylor. She was also raised in the Lutheran Church like me. Our daughters are Ellie Jane (3 years old in June), and Abigail (born last December).

TSP: If you could have a fantasy baseball team, who would be on it?Scott: Brad Ausmus- Catcher, Vinny Castilla- Third base, Derek Jeter- SS, Chase Utley- Second Base, Lance Berkman- First Base, Matt Holliday, Carlos Beltran, Matt Kemp- Outfielders.

TSP: Major Leaguer you least like?Scott: Any hitter trying to get a hit off me.

The TSP would like to thank Scott for his time and for answering our questions—especially the one about his favorite cartoon character. Everybody likes Snoopy, word-up Scott.

JUSTIN FULTZ & HEATH SAMPLES

All photos courtesy of Ron Vesely

10 Good Minutes with an MLB PitcherMcNeil High School (Austin) Graduate & Chicago White Sock, Scott Linebrink


6 7 8

JUNE

13 14 15

20 21 22

27 28 29

Astros vs. Nationals 7:05pm FSHExpress vs. IOW 7:05pm MiLBtv


Rangers vs. Rays 2:05pm FSSWExpress vs. NAS 7:05pm MiLBtvNCAA Baseball Regionals TBD

Astros @ Rockies 7:40pm FSHExpress vs. NAS 7:05pm MiLBtvNCAA Baseball Regionals TBD

Astros @ Rockies 7:40pm FSHExpress vs. NAS 7:05pm MiLBtv

Astros @ Rockies 7:40pm FSHAztex vs. Timbers 7:30pm

Rangers @ Brewers 1:10pm FSSW Express @ NEW 6:00pmNCAA Baseball Super Regionals TBD NCAA Baseball Super Regionals TBD

Astros @ Royals 7:10pm FSHExpress @ IOW (1) 5:05pm MiLBtvExpress @ IOW (2) (Make-Up) MiLBtv

Astros @ Royals 7:10pm FSHExpress @ IOW (1) 7:05pm MiLBtv

Express vs. OMA 7:05pm MiLBtvNCAA College World Series NCAA College World Series

Rangers vs. Pirates 7:05pm FSSWAstros vs. Giants 7:05pm FSHExpress vs. ALB 7:05pm MiLBtv


Express vs. NAS 6:35pm NCAA College World Series

Express @ NAS 7:05pmNCAA College World Series

Astros @ Brewers 7:10pm FSHExpress @ NAS 7:05pmNCAA College World Series

Astros @ Brewers 1:10pm FSHNCAA College World Series

1@

7:10pm, FSSW

@7:10pm, FSSW

vs.1:05pm, FSH 7:05pm, FSSW

vs.

7:05pm, FSSW

vs.

7:05pm, FSSW

vs.

12:05pm, FSH

@7:05pm, MiLBtv

@ @6:10pm, FSSW

@6:10pm, FSSW

@1:05pm, FSSW 7:05pm, MiLBtv

vs.Omaha, Nebraska Omaha, Nebraska

@7:05pm, FSSW

@7:10pm, FSH

@9:05pm, FSSW

@9:05pm, FSSW

* Weirdos volleyball camps begin, thru August 13

9 10 11 12

16 17 18 19

23 24 25

30S p o r t s C a l e n d a r

26



Rangers vs. Rays 7:105pm TXA-21Express vs. IOW 7:05pm MiLBtvNCAA Baseball Regionals TBD

Rangers vs. Rays 7:05pm FSSWExpress vs. NAS 7:05pm MiLBtvNCAA Baseball Regionals TBDAztex vs. Islanders 7:30pm

Astros @ Rockies 7:40pm FSHAztex vs. Timbers 7:30pm

Astros @ Rockies 2:10pm FSHExpress @NEW 7:00pm

Rangers @ Brewers 7:10pm TXA-21Express @ NEW 7:00pmNCAA Baseball Super Regionals TBD

Rangers @ Brewers 6:10pm FSSW Astros @ Yankees 12:05pm FSHExpress @ NEW 6:00pmNCAA Baseball Super Regionals TBDAztex vs. Whitecaps 7:30pm

Astros @ Royals 7:10pm FSHExpress @ IOW (1) 7:05pm MiLBtv

Astros @ Royals 7:10pm FSHExpress @ IOW 7:05pm MiLBtv Express vs. OMA 7:05pm MiLBtv

Express vs. OMA 7:05pm MiLBtvNCAA College World SeriesAztex vs. F.C. Blues 7:30pm



Express vs. ALB 7:05pm MiLBtvNCAA College World Series

Express @ NAS 6:35pm NCAA College World SeriesAztex @ F.C. Blues 6:30pm

Astros @ Brewers 1:10pm FSHNCAA College World Series

32 4 5@

7:10pm, FSSW

@7:10pm, FSSW 7:05pm, FSH 6:05pm, FSH

vs. vs.

7:05pm, FSSW

vs.7:05pm, FSSW

vs.6:05pm, FSH

@9pm, PPV-Live

@6:10pm, FSSW

@6:10pm, FSSW

@7:05pm, TXA-21

@6:05pm, FSSW

Omaha, Nebraska Omaha, Nebraska

@7:05pm, TXA-21

@2:05pm, FSSW

@9:05pm, FSSW

@

12

NFL coWboYs

The Return Of T.O.?“We’re connecting like Montana and Rice.” Roy William’s latest comments sound more like Terrell Owens than I’d like for them to. In fact, that’s the only Owens-like similarity one can draw between the two receivers. At least T.O. put up above-average numbers to go with his over-the-top statements. The former Longhorn wide-out—Williams—finished last season tied for the 107th best WR in the NFL in terms of receptions… pretty sure Jerry Rice was never lumped-in with company like that. Perhaps Roy should be a little more like Jason Witten, etc… and just keep his mouth shut until AFTER he does something worth mentioning.

Roy may not have many opportunities to earn those worthwhile comments if the new #88 has anything to say about it. The number formerly donned by players like Drew Pearson and Michael Irvin is now being sported by Da ‘Boys #1 pick, Dez Bryant. Although he recently has had to fight through a stomach virus, according to Calvin Watkins of ESPN-Dallas, Dez is looking sharp thus far in camp. Even his counterpart, Williams, commented on what would occur if he (Roy) fails to perform better than he has since arriving in Dallas, “No. 88 is going to be

right there. He's that good. He's going to be right there regardless. I've got to stay on my game.” Fans in Dallas are simply hoping that somebody can step up—and not so much with their mouth, but more so with their performance on the field.

Buehler?In other recent Cowboy news, David Buehler has assumed the place kicking duties. Personally, I am a little shocked. After the fiascos last season (Nick Folk, Shaun Suisham) it would seem as though this Super Bowl contender would find somebody who could put the ball through the uprights. Both Shayne Graham and Matt Stover are still available as free agents. Buehler was unable to lock up the position last year and since being a Cowboy has been focused solely on kickoff duties. It seems sophomoric for Dallas to overlook this position simply because there are other glaring needs in tackle and safety. This IS the team that led the league in missed FG attempts last year with 11 (tied with Houston). Thus, this columnist believes place

kicker is just as important. I hope Buehler proves me wrong. If he can get his mechanics down, and be consistent, perhaps fans in Dallas won’t have to be saying, “Buehler? Buehler?” (Had to…)

Crayton & Hurd: Same Book, Different Look

Though both Patrick Crayton and Sam Hurd are seeking trades, the former is withholding himself from OTA’s and the latter has shown up to participate (and hurt, in fact—Hurd is recovering from offseason thumb surgery). Both realize what Dez Bryant means to the Cowboys, they are simply handling it differently. Perhaps more

important than Dez even, is the emergence of potential in Jesse Holley, Manuel Johnson, Brandon Williams and Kevin Ogletree. Miles Austin became Dallas’ best option at WR seemingly overnight, and Jones & Co. believe the same could occur with one of these other young players. Hurd and Crayton do not have the same potential as these greener guys. If you could choose, I believe the Cowboys would assuredly keep Crayton, but he’s unwilling to stay (obviously). However, I

think it may be time to let Hurd go. Let these younger wide-outs develop and see what happens. Regardless, Tony still has Witten, Austin, Dez, Felix, Martellus, etc. to throw the ball to… Whose name comes next?

HEATH SAMPLES

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia

Big D? Big Mouth.

Years Pro5R77251112

WR'sMiles AustinDez BryantRoy WilliamsPatrick CraytonKevin OgletreeSam HurdJesse HolleyManuel JohnsonBrandon WilliamsRyan Titus

Wide Receivers On Cowboy's Roster


13

NFL TExANs

April was a very good month for the Houston Texans. They had a successful draft which yielded them some exciting and talented young players. With their first three picks they were able to snag hard-hitting corner back Kareem Jackson, fast and powerful running back Ben Tate, and cat-quick defensive tackle Earl Mitchell--all of whom should be able to provide the Texans with immediate help in their quest for their first playoff berth.

But the Texans serendipitous month of April didn’t stop there. They also re-signed restricted free agent (SS) Bernard Pollard who was a key to the vast improvement of their defense. And they signed free agent kicker Neil Rackers - who spent the past seven seasons with the Cardinals and is 41-of-45 (91.1 percent) on field goal attempts since 2008, including 16-of-17 in 2009 - to compete with current Texans kicker Kris Brown.

But then the calendar turned to May.

Brain Cushing, the Texans slobber-knocking defensive Rookie of the Year linebacker was suspended without pay for the team's first four games of the 2010 season for violating

the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances. Come again? Yeah, that’s right. If you didn’t already know, as of right now, Cushing will miss the Texans first four games of the 2010 season. Consequently, the team will need somebody else to step up and

perform in his absence for games against the Colts, Redskins, Cowboys, and Raiders.

The Tate -N- Slaton ShowRounding out the month of May, rookie running back Ben Tate, the second-round draft pick out of Auburn, was limited in OTAs by a hamstring injury. In fact, he didn’t practice at all the first week and it’s not clear yet when he'll be ready to go full-speed.

"He had a problem with his hamstring Friday," Kubiak said, "We're not comfortable with just turning him loose, so we'll evaluate him for a couple of days and go from there. He's going to miss a little time."

Despite all the bad luck the Texans had in May, fans should fight the urge to feel like there’s a black cloud following their team around. In fact, things have already started getting better. Besides Andre Johnson returning to practice, running back Steve Slaton showed up at OTAs having dropped a little weight and looking like his old self again. This is great news because the Texans are counting on both Tate and Slaton big-time.

Additionally, the Texans and their fans have something else to look forward to. It’s called June.

MARC CLAMPITT

Photos courtesy of Jockosphere and PicturePush

May: A Turbulent Month For Houston

Exp. 7/31/10 Exp. 7/31/10 Exp. 7/31/10


14

NBAI finally reached the American Airlines Center the other day to start my investigation of “Who Murdered the Dallas Mavericks?” I also pondered what could cause the demise of this team over a number of years. After looking over certain things, I have finally come up with the killer. What I thought would be an extensive investigation, actually came down to only three suspects. Without further ado, I present my findings:

Culprit 1: Jason KiddFrom the moment that the trade occurred that gave the Mavs Jason Kidd, I have been suspicious. When the Mavs had Devin Harris, they had a point guard who could score and a guy who could slash to the basket, making the defense crash in on him, and give Dirk more open looks. Jason Kidd, while a good passer, couldn’t slash to the basket even if he got a perfect screen on his guy. He also was hurting this team all season long in that the only way he could score is from set three pointers.

While Kidd makes up for his lack of scoring with passing and leadership, he implodes on the defensive side. With the NBA going in the direction that it is, teams are looking for two things in their point guard of the future: speed and athleticism. Kidd was torched all series long against the Spurs by Tony Parker and George Hill (whom the Mavs could have drafted with the first pick they gave up in the Kidd deal). At this point in his career, I’m not even sure that Jason Kidd could guard his own shadow, much less talented NBA point guards.

Culprit 2: Head CoachesBoth Rick Carlisle and former head coach Avery Johnson are to be considered here.While the regular seasons brought good

records for Avery Johnson, I bring you two postseason problems: the NBA Finals against the Heat, and the upset at the hands of the Golden State Warriors. Of all the people who could expose Avery as a wannabe head coach, it had to be the former head coach Don Nelson. In only the second time in NBA history, an eight seed upset a number one seed. The Warriors embarrassed the Mavs worse than your mom does when she shows your fiancé your baby pictures of you naked in the tub… Now we have to consider Rick Carlisle, given the recent collapse at the hands of the Spurs. The way that the Mavs dominated that first game, I was thinking there was no way that the Spurs had a shot. Carlisle should have followed the slogan, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Caron Butler, who had a great game 1, somehow only gets 17 minutes in game 3. Jose Juan Barea (32 minutes), who is just as much as a defensive liability as Kidd, got Butler’s minutes. This number gets more sickening when Butler put up 35 points in game 5, facing elimination, and Rodrique Beaubois puts up 16 points in 21 minutes in game 6, which was key in the Mavs’ comeback in that game. Carlisle easily allowed Greg Popovich to take over the series and let his Spurs play the game at their tempo. Coaching killed the Mavs in this scenario.

Guilty Party: Mark CubanCuban was handed the team in January of 2000 and it seemed as if the Mavericks were set ablaze. He came into a great situation with Nash, Finley, and Dirk at the helm, setting up a great core to build around. It seemed as if players would come in one year and out the next in a “win now” attempt that kept falling short.

The summer of 2004 came, and Steve Nash was a free agent. He had turned 31 and was dealing with back problems, but it still seemed that Nash hadn’t reached his peak yet. Cuban was willing to give 4 years, $40 million with a 5th year partially guaranteed. The Suns came back with a 6 year, $63 million contract. Cuban didn’t want to raise his offer and Nash walked…

How did Cuban respond? By giving Erick Dampier a 7 year, $73 million contract after having one good year. What Cuban didn’t realize was that Dampier played like that since it was his “contract year” and he was playing for a new deal. Since that year, it has been a constant decline for Dampier, who will thankfully be off the Mavs payroll after this coming year.

How did Nash respond? By winning back to back MVP awards the two years right after leaving the Mavs, and brought what was a thought to be dead team in the Suns to a constant contender.

Conclusion:It seems as if this team may not be able to be revived. Is there any hope for this team and is there any light at the end of the tunnel? Check us out next month as we look into any operations that could bring this dead team back to life (in spite of their owner).

COREY POCHE

Split(ter) DecisionIn 2007, the Spurs drafted Brazilian big-man Tiago Splitter. From that date until now—almost three years later—he is still yet to be seen on an NBA court. The Spurs hope that changes this upcoming season. With the flailing performance of previous-signee Richard Jefferson, the Spurs hope to get over their semifinals playoff sweep at the hands of the Suns by welcoming Splitter. ESPN reports that Splitter would have an impact much like Oberto did for the Spurs. The kid knows his place and has solid basketball IQ. He wouldn’t have to do a lot, playing

alongside Duncan and Ginobili (and Hill). That all sounds fine, except that Tiago has yet to commit to coming to San Antonio. As of now, the MVP of the ACB-Spanish League will play in Brazil this summer. Most of those down on the Riverwalk are hoping the front office figures out a way to bring Splitter to San Antone.

Bye-Bye to Bogans, MasonWith the breakout performance of George Hill fresh on the minds of San Antonio, most believe that Keith Bogans and Roger Mason have seen their last days in the black and white. Hill simply deserves any and all of the minutes that these other guards would be getting, and if the Spurs do begin to seriously consider trading Tony Parker, Hill becomes that much more valuable.

Parker to NY, Favors to SA?Tony Parker and superstar wife Eva Longoria may end up in New York. According to many

reports, Parker’s closest friend—super-soccer-stud Thierry Henry—is going to be playing in New York for the Red Bulls of the MLS. Although Parker denies any interest in playing for anyone other than the Spurs, many disagree… Parker and Longoria just seem as though they would fit in the Big Apple. She’s simply too attractive for…San Antonio. Plus, Parker may actually be expendable. As mentioned, George Hill has proven he is more than capable, and giving up Parker may provide the trade bait needed to move up (way up) in the draft to land Georgia Tech's Derrick Favors. In the event that Tiago Splitter does not come to SA, Favors would be more than suitable. Besides, Parker only has one year left regardless. And with the recent signing of Ginobili and the play of Hill…who knows what Parker’s future will be.

HEATH SAMPLES

mAvERIcks

NBAspuRs

Murder Investigation

Spurs Moving Forward

The Legacy of LeBron

By: Ahmad Brooks

Not every "great" player is, or will become, a champion. Like a kid trying to ride a bike for the first time, LeBron James has fallen off his throne in every attempt to win a championship in his seven-year NBA career. When are we going to see the "King" take his throne as the next great champion?

In game three versus the Celtics this year, James' kingliness was evident as he racked-up 38 points, 7 assists, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks in 39 minutes of work. LeBron followed that dominant performance with his lowest shooting percentage from the field in the series (38%) and went 0-for-5 from three point range. James shot 2-of-7 from the field in the final quarter as he missed a layup, had one shot blocked by Rasheed Wallace, missed two three pointers and turned the basketball over. Not an MVP-like performance.

LeBron’s Struggles Date Back Farther Than Just This Year…

In fact, LeBron has been far from stellar the last four postseasons as the chief of the Cavaliers, considering the high expectations. With the eyes of the entire basketball world watching during Game 1 of the 2007 NBA Finals, the 22-year-old James--who has rarely failed to rise to any occasion--flopped like never before. The rest of the series wasn’t much better, and while he took the Cavaliers as far as they've ever gone, he failed to reach royal heights of even winning a single game in the Finals.

Last year, though averaging 33 points/game during the Eastern Conference Finals, James shot 31% from 3-pt range and the Cavs had no answer for Dwight Howard who averaged 22 points and 11 rebounds a game.

Players like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Kobe Bryant have resumes which show their ability to not only carry their teams during the regular season, but to elevate their games in the postseason. The two-time NBA MVP wants to be great and create a legacy like no other; however he must get over the hurdle hobbling his game in the playoffs. James has a tendency to struggle with teams having a dominant front-court not afraid to bump bodies with him. The Cavs have bent over backwards trying to create a championship atmosphere and kingdom for James. Mo Williams, Shaquille O’Neal and Antawn Jamison are players that were brought in to strengthen the supporting cast for LeBron to bring a championship to Cleveland, but we’re all still waiting to “witness” the king take his throne and solidify his legacy. Only time will tell where LeBron will take his show on the road or whether he has what it takes to take an NBA team to the top. One thing is for sure, wherever LeBron James lands this off-season, we’ll all be watching to see if he can finally assume his throne as the true “King” of the NBA.


15

NBA

Much like the appearance of Haley’s comet, which is highly anticipated as it is only visible once every 76 years, NBA teams and fans have eagerly been awaiting the 2010 summer of free agency because of the extraordinary amount of talent that will be available. In fact, the talent pool is so deep that many teams have long been positioning themselves to take advantage of this surplus in an effort to ameliorate their situations quickly. In that regard, the Rockets are no different.Houston will more than likely be looking to add a quality big man to their frontcourt to provide more scoring as well as a defensive presence in the paint. But it would not be a surprise if they signed a SG to give them some depth behind starter Kevin Martin. In a perfect Rockets world, they would add both.

Rockets Look To Make A Splash In Free Agency

As for adding a big body down low, it would be ideal if they could get someone who would be both proficient at PF as well as able to slide over to C for the minutes that Yao is on the bench (or injured list). That would be extremely helpful.With these thoughts in mind, here is a run-down of some of the 2010 free agents, and their chances of becoming a Houston Rocket:

Group 1: Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, Dirk Nowitzki, Paul PierceAnalysis: Of course, any fan of the Rockets would love to see any of the above players come to Houston. They are all super talented, and adding any one of them would instantly make the Rockets contenders. Chances of coming to Houston: Slim-to-none for any of them… and “Slim” just left town.

Group 2: Chris Bosh, Amare Stoudemire, Joe Johnson, Rudy GayAnalysis: Again, it would be a happy day in Houston if the Rockets could acquire any of these players. They can all ball, and would immediately elevate the Rockets into the “contender” category.Chances of coming to Houston: It is possible, but don’t hold your breath.

Group 3: Carlos Boozer, David Lee, Udonis Haslem, Mike MillerAnalysis: Boozer, Lee and Haslem can all provide help on the boards, which the Rockets sorely need. Additionally, Boozer and Lee can score. Mike Miller would provide quality depth from the perimeter.Chances of coming to Houston: Assuredly do-able.

The Amazing MoreyOkay, with all that being said, don’t be surprised if GM Daryl Morey works his magic and pulls a free-agent rabbit out of group 1 or 2. Don’t ever underestimate the amazing Morey. He has done it before and could do it again.

MARC CLAMPITT

RockETs

2010: A Summer Odyssey

May 29

June 12

July 3

2010 NBA Free Agents

'09-'10 Stats29.9, 7.3, 8.526.6, 4.9, 6.624.3, 11.024.8, 7.6

OUT (injured)21.2, 4.6, 4.9

22.9, 8.019.6, 11.318.2, 4.419.7, 6.0

PlayerL. James, SFD. Wade, SGC. Bosh, PFD. Nowitzki, PFY. Ming, CJ. Johnson, SGA. Stoudemire, PFC. Boozer, PFP. Pierce, SFR. Gay, SF

'09-'10 TeamCavaliers

HeatRaptors

MavericksRocketsHawksSunsJazz

CelticsGrizzlies

*All stats in the form: points per game, rebounds per game, assists per game


16

TEXAS TECH

Texas Tech’s 6 year post season drought is likely to continue. The Red Raider baseball team lost a much-needed series against last place Nebraska recently, dropping all three games. The series sweep sunk TTU below .500 in conference play, as they finished the season with 27 wins and 27 losses overall, going 13-14 in Big 12 play. As a result, their chances of attaining an automatic bid to the post season took a big hit. They could, however, win the Big 12 tournament for an automatic bid, but they will have to get by some tough teams. Heading into Wednesday’s opening round of the Big 12 Championships at the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark in Oklahoma City, Tech will open tournament play at 9 a.m. as the 5-seed, against suddenly surging Texas A&M (36-19), the 4-seed. The Aggies have won five of their last six conference games. Tech will also face top-seed and national No. 1 Texas (46-8) at 3 p.m. on Thursday, and No. 8 seed Missouri (27-25) after that.

What are their chances of pulling out a Championship? If you first look at Tech’s team stats you will see a team that is ranked third in the Big 12 in hitting, but ranked last in pitching. Also, their pitching ace Chad Bettis will not be around to take part in the first round of the tournament, as he will be finishing up the tail-end of a 4 game suspension. The odds are certainly against them in regards to post season play, but it certainly is possible.

Tech has the ability to play strong baseball. They took the series against a strong Oklahoma team in April, beat Texas in March, and have experienced a few other surprises as well. But with the highs come the lows, and being swept by Nebraska is certainly one of those lows.

The good news:-Tech is a young team that can get hot.-They have improved from last year and from the year before that. -This is their first non-losing record in three years. -They still have a chance for post season play.-Chad Bettis has one more year.

Regardless of how the tournament turns out, and being a Tech fan and alum’, I will say that I am not disappointed with the season Tech had. They certainly surpassed my expectations in many areas. I have even higher hopes for next season; let’s hope this trend of improving continues in Lubbock.

COLBY MAY

Photo courtesy of RedRaiders.com

BAYLOR bAsEbAll

bAsEbAllPost-Season Drought Likely To Continue

Baylor finished 31-21 overall, and 12-13 in the conference, good for 5th in the Big 12; but most importantly they finished the regular season riding a 5-game win streak. The Bears beat Tech, Dallas Baptist, and swept Oklahoma State to wind-down the season. Another bit of blessed news in Waco is that the Bears beat highly-ranked TCU late in April.

Other good news comes in the form of Tyler Collins and Joey Hainsfurther. Both players are swinging the bat at a .350+ clip, and Hainsfurther hasn’t missed a start all season. Logan Vick and Raynor Campbell are also swinging their bats well, both hitting .335.

A couple of Bear arm-slingers are performing solidly as well. Logan Verrett has pitched over 80 innings on the year in his 12 starts and has a sub-3.0 ERA at 2.98. Willie Kempf

leads the team in wins with 7, to go with his 2 losses. His ERA is 3.53.

Some bad news for the Bears, though, is that the conference is simply really stout. Texas is arguably the best team in the country (and there’s no argument to the fact that their pitching staff IS the best in the nation), and the Bears also would have to fight off Oklahoma, K-State, and A&M in order to win the conference tournament. All of those teams bring some heat; and in the Regionals that will assuredly follow conference tournaments, there will be even more talent standing in between the Bears and Omaha. TCU is currently #6 in the nation, and Rice is in the top-20. Couple that with Texas being #1 (or 2 depending on the poll), and Oklahoma being a top-15 squad, and there are just too many good teams around.

If there’s good news in Waco it is this… basketball season is only months away. (Thank you LaceDarius Dunn for staying… and a big thanks to Scott Drew’s recruiting class).

TIMOTHY JENKINS-WADE

Photos courtesy of Big12Sports

Bears In the Hunt?


17

IS THIS TEXAS' YEAR?

UT’s ERA. Good for 1st in the Big 12. Baylor is a distant 2nd at 3.84

Number of wins by UT pitcher Brandon Workman—good for 1st in the Conference. Teammate Cole Green is tied for second with Barret Loux of A&M with 6.

Wins by the UT pitching staff. K-State and Texas Tech are tied for 2nd with 13.

Opposing batting average vs. Longhorns. Rival A&M’s pitching staff is 2nd, giving up a .256 average.

Number of Runs allowed by the Longhorn pitching staff. Baylor finds themselves a distant 2nd again, having given up 112 runs.

TEXAS

Where to Go From Here?

bAsEbAll

TEXAS A&MbAsEbAll

-2.39 Team ERA-Two 10+ game winners-0.81 ERA for closer Chance Ruffin-Combined 3 losses between their 3 weekend starters-21 Game winning streak-28-1 in their last 29 games

With stats like those, is there really much hope for any other team? Those aren’t even looking into the hitting stats, where their 71 home runs this year was a team record. We are also talking about the team that was one game away from winning the College World Series last year. It’s hard to imagine any other team truly competing with this team, especially after seeing the former champions, LSU, fall faster than MC Hammer’s career. With a solid pitching rotation, including the bullpen and closer, a strong hitting top of their line-up, and a coach who has been there many times before, it seems as if the Longhorns are going to be at the top once again.

Dominance on the MoundIt has been a very long time, possibly never, that we have seen a weekend rotation be this dominant. Every team usually has that great Friday starter, and after that it starts to go downhill quickly. When your Sunday starter, Brandon Workman, finished the year 11-1 you just know that you are in for great things. Add in a Saturday starter of Cole Green, who’s 10-0, a Friday starter in Taylor Jungmann, who posted a 2.20 ERA, and you have three pitchers who can be dominant in the post-season. As mentioned above,

when your closer has a .81 ERA, 13 saves, and a 6-1 record, it closes any hope that a team may get once the starter is pulled. With these four guys in your arsenal with a bitter taste from last year, you have to be scared for what they are going to do come post-season time.

Keyes, Please…I remember when I was at Texas A&M and was attending all of the baseball games, I saw this guy in batting practice absolutely destroying the ball. He was sending ball after ball way over all parts of the fence, and I mean WAY over the fence. I was wondering to myself, “Why in the world is this guy not playing?” Well, Kevin Keyes finally came around and he is someone you have to pay attention to. At 6’4”, 225 lbs., Keyes is already a physical presence at the plate. When he hits .307 this year with 13 home runs, it puts even more fear when he comes up. Add in the fact that he has 3 guys hitting at least .340 in front of him, and now you are usually looking at him with guys on base.

It seems as if the only way that Augie Garrido will ever stop coaching this team is if he passes away in the dugout. While some of his actions have been looked down upon, one thing is still for sure: the old man can coach. He has always said that, “Any trophy besides 1st place is used as a doorstop,” and I feel as if he won’t be receiving another doorstop this year.

COREY POCHE

Coach Childress has done it yet again. Since he came to College Station in 2006, the Aggies will be making a regional in its 4th consecutive year. For a little history reminder, the last time that Texas A&M achieved that feat was from 1986-1989. His aggressive base-running coaching style has brought rejuvenation to this baseball team, as well as Olsen Field. So, where does this team go next?

This A&M baseball team is clearly led by senior captain Brodie Greene, who seems like he has been there for 10 years. It also doesn’t help that Greene is their best hitter as well, hitting .376 for the year with 10 home runs. They are also led by a weekend rotation of Barret Loux, Ross Stripling, and the combination of Clayton Ehlert and Michael Wacha. Having a four pitcher starting rotation like they do can provide big dividends in the post-season, especially if they find themselves in the loser’s bracket of the Regionals moving forward. They are also set in the closer department with John Stilson, who sports a 0.98 ERA and a 7-1 record to boot. Outside of those 5 guys, it

starts to turn into a crapshoot of mediocre pitchers. Shane Minks is really the only strong semblance of any bullpen material, so the Aggies are going to need long innings from their starters.

After giving a short little background, it’s time to finally look at where they may be heading for Regionals. They will play in 4 games first in the Big 12 tournament, and it’s a foregone conclusion that they won’t be hosting come Regional play. Texas will be hosting a regional for sure, but the selection committee doesn’t like to place two teams in the same conference together. The other two likely destinations will be TCU again or Fayetteville, Arkansas. I would have to think it would be TCU, so since school is out, hopefully A&M can field a good crowd to show up. I know that I’ll be watching for sure. Either way, it looks as if Texas A&M will be seeing post-season play for awhile to come.

COREY POCHE

The Eyes of Texas are upon Rosenblatt Stadium. The 2010 Texas Longhorn baseball

season has yet again been a stimulating and exciting journey to follow. With hopes of making an appearance in the final NCAA College World Series, the Longhorns’ momentum does not seem to be dwindling anytime soon. As college baseball heads into post season play, Texas remains a top contender on the Road to Omaha. The trio of pitching aces is the first factor in this dominating Texas Baseball team. Taylor Jungmann, Cole Green, and Brandon Workman are the masters of the mound, striking fear into each and every player that steps foot into the batter’s box. This triple threat is only the first ingredient in a recipe for sheer domination. The depth of the pitching staff, impressive at-bats from the plate, and a field full of defensive gems makes this program a force to be reckoned with. This powerhouse will have any opposing team apprehensive of stepping in the way of the inexorable Longhorn train. If this Longhorn train continues, I have to believe that the Texas Longhorns will clinch yet another Big 12 Championship title and come out victorious in postseason play. The probability of seeing a burnt orange dog pile on the field at Rosenblatt Stadium is getting greater with each passing week.

-Taylor GasparTune in to Taylor TV at 1049thehorn.com

He had just dropped off some of his friends from a school sponsored prom after-party. He had just told his

father he was on his way home. He had done everything that a parent dreams their kid would do. Unfortunately, he didn’t account for himself. For reasons unknown, Tobi Oyedeji’s car crossed over a median, colliding with a Jeep head-on. Tobi was only 10 minutes away from home. With the Aggie network the way it is, word spread very quickly, sending shockwaves throughout a campus and a state that had recently broke for summer vacation. He was a kid who had every good trait that you would want in a soon-to-be college student: polite, always smiling, good student, and always cared about how his friends and family were doing. Tobi Oyedeji was a 6’9”, 220 pound power forward who could do a little bit of everything on the court. He was a consensus top 100 recruit by every recruiting site you could find. When he

first arrived in College Station, Coach Mark Turgeon told him he needed to gain some weight to hang with the big dogs of college basketball. Next visit in, Tobi shocked the A&M coaching staff at his physical appearance. He wanted to show his team that he was committed to doing anything he could to see as much time on the court as possible.

It’s never a good thing to see anyone pass away, but when it’s someone who had the personality of Tobi, it stings a lot more. Coach Turgeon was already so close to the kid that he paid for the funeral services. Statuses and groups were put up on Facebook by any and every Texas A&M student, giving out prayers to the family and friends. It doesn’t come as a surprise that when Tobi’s father wondered why he chose A&M over all the other major colleges that were recruiting, his simple reply was, “It feels like family.” Tobi Oyedeji passed away at the age of 17.

COREY POCHE

Photo courtesy of TexAgs

In Reverent Memory


18

WWW.KENTUCKYCROSSWORDS.COMACROSS:1. Banks, Sandberg, Santo, Billy Williams, and et al5. Home of the Flying Dutchmen that became "The Pride"8. He played TE for BYU and the Seattle Seahawks, _______ Mili9. Two-time Junior Welterweight champion, "Kid Pambele"11. Todd McLellan became their coach in June 200813. Cincinnati Reds' manager from 2005-200716. Former New York Knicks' Harry "The Horse"18. Basketball HOF'er Drazen19. Last of the independent owner/drivers in Nascar24. ACC regular season men's basketball champs 26 times26. Long-time Washington Senators/ Minnesota Twins first baseman, HOF member "Hammerin' Harmon"27. Hockey players, brothers Eric or Jared or Jordan or Marc28. Their home is in Arlington29. University of Alaska Fairbanks sports teams

DOWN:1. Color of Alabama's "Tide"2. Notable blocking TE for the Steelers (1995-2003) and the Texans (2004-2008)3. This University joined the WAC for all sports in July 20054. The most popular sport in the world?5. University of Wisconsin men's basketball coach from 1971-1985

6. He hit two grand slams in a single inning on April 23, 1999 (for the St. Louis Cardinals)7. First Major Leaguer to rack-up 3,000 hits, ________ Anson10. Led NL shortstops in HR's from 1999-200112. This Barber's final game was the 2007 NFL pro-bowl14. Drafted 1st overall by the Seattle Mariners in 199315. Baseball HOF member "Orator Jim"

17. He managed the White Sox (1951-54, 1976) and the Orioles (1955-1961) after retiring as a ML catcher20. Site of Soldier and Wrigley fields21. LA arena, ________ Center22. Baseball pitcher Jeff or Danny23. Canadian ice hockey player, Derek24. He posted 5,714 MLB career strike outs25. He quarterbacked at UCLA from 2002-2005

1. (B) Alex Rodriguez. A-Rod hit 52 in 2001 and then 57 in 2002; prior to that Frank Howard had hit 48 in '69 and Palmeiro hit 47 in both 1999 and 2001.

2. (C) Ivan Rodriguez. Pudge hit 27 in 2000, which was good for second on the team behind Palmeiro. Juan-Gone led the team in HR's 6 times in the '90s, and Palmeiro did the same twice. Slammin' Sammy led the team with 21 in 2007 during his stint in Arlington.

3. Catcher. Biggio is best remembered as a second baseman alongside Jeff Bagwell as half of the "Killer-B's" combo; but before moving into the IF and evetually to CF, he was an all-star catcher.

4. (D) Colby Lewis. Ironically, Lewis is back with the Rangers this season, and currently leads the team in SO's.

5. (A) Jose Cruz. Cruz has 1,937 career hits as an Astro from the years

1975-'87. Berkman is closing in on him with 1,575--good for 5th all-time.

6. (D) Colt-45's. The franchise began in 1962 as the Houston Colt 45's. No jokes, please. The team is enough of one already, yeah?

G

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