Only Here For A Cup Of Coffee

Bengals sign DT Myers, re-sign LB Johnson

2007-04-23T08:56:00.000-07:00

The Cincinnati Bengals on Friday signed free agent defensive tackle Michael Myers to a two-year contract.

The Bengals also re-signed linebacker Landon Johnson, a restricted free agent. Financial terms of both deals were not disclosed.

Myers, 31, appeared in 32 games with Denver the last two seasons. Last season, the 6-2, 300-pounder led Denver's line last season with 80 tackles to go with two sacks, a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.

A starter at weakside linebacker, Johnson led the Bengals with 132 tackles last season. He has registered 289 tackles, 18 sacks and two interceptions since being drafted in the third round in 2004.

Cubs to move Soriano back to LF

2007-04-23T08:53:00.000-07:00

Alfonso Soriano is expected to rejoin the Chicago Cubs' lineup Monday and when he does, he'll be switched from center field back to left field, where he played last season with the Washington Nationals.

Soriano was out of the lineup Saturday for a fifth straight game after straining his left hamstring last Monday. After running in the outfield, he said he was ready to play but was advised by trainer Mark O'Neal to give the injury two more days to heal.

Manager Lou Piniella said putting Soriano in left would take some of the strain off the hamstring. Soriano, who signed an eight-year, $136 million contract in the offseason, said he was all for the move.

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Santo misses game with irregular heartbeat

2007-04-23T08:52:00.000-07:00

Cubs broadcaster and former All-Star Ron Santo remained hospitalized Sunday while underdoing tests for an irregular heartbeat. The 67-year-old Santo was admitted to the hospital Saturday night and his return to the radio booth is undetermined.

Santo was diagnosed with Type I diabetes when he was 18, and both legs were amputated below the knee in recent years. He had a heart bypass in 2000 and was diagnosed with bladder tumors four years ago.

Santo was a nine-time All-Star and five-time Gold Glove winner at third base for the Cubs.

Soriano strains hamstring

2007-04-17T11:11:00.000-07:00

Chicago Cubs center fielder Alfonso Soriano left Monday night's game against the San Diego Padres with a strained left hamstring after attempting a diving catch in the fifth inning.

The Cubs were leading 3-0 when, with a runner on third and one out, Clay Hensley lofted a fly to shallow center. Soriano raced in, dove and rolled over as he trapped the ball.

Soriano then got up and slipped while attempting a throw. Trainer Mark O'Neal tended to him, and Soriano walked off under his own power. He is day to day.

Henry gone for first half of season

2007-04-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

True to his tough words, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell handed out two of the toughest suspensions ever for off-field misbehavior Tuesday as the billboard for his new player conduct policy when he suspended Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry without pay for the first eight games of the 2007 season and Titans cornerback Pacman Jones for the entire season.

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Zambrano extends contract deadline

2007-04-02T09:53:00.000-07:00

Pitcher Carlos Zambrano extended his deadline to reach a contract extension with the Chicago Cubs beyond opening day, a sign the sides are nearing agreement.

Zambrano and the Cubs are thought to be discussing a five-year deal worth about $80 million. He had said he didn't want to negotiate past Monday's opener against the Reds.

"Our discussions have progressed to a point where we are extending the deadline for an indefinite period of time," Zambrano's agent, Barry Praver, said Sunday.

At $80 million, Zambrano would be getting the largest deal for a pitcher who wasn't eligible for free agency. The current high is held by Pedro Martinez, who received $75 million, six-year contract from the Boston Red Sox that ran from 1998-2003. Last August, Roy Oswalt agreed to a $73 million, five-year extension with the Houston Astros.

Zambrano and the Cubs agreed in February to a $12.4 million, one-year contract. He currently is eligible to become a free agent after the season.

Tribune plans to sell Chicago Cubs after '07 season

2007-04-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

Tribune Co. said it plans to sell the Chicago Cubs at the end of the 2007 baseball season, putting one of its most valuable assets on the block as it simultaneously announced Monday that real estate magnate Sam Zell was acquiring the media conglomerate. Analysts have estimated that the Cubs could fetch $600 million or more. Tribune bought the team in 1981 for $20.5 million.

"The Cubs have been an important part of Tribune for more than 25 years and are one of the most storied franchises in all of sports," said Dennis FitzSimons, Tribune chairman, president and chief executive officer. "In our last season of ownership, the team has one mission, and that is to win for our great fans."

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Cubs demote Mark Prior to minors

2007-03-29T06:25:00.000-07:00

Mark Prior was sent to the minors Wednesday where the Chicago Cubs hope he can regain the form that made him an 18-game winner and All-Star selection four years ago.

Prior, whose career has been slowed by an assortment of injuries, was optioned to Triple-A Iowa right after his final spring training start.

"It wasn't easy. But at the same time, this is good for his career," new Cubs manager Lou Piniella said. Prior had left the Cubs' clubhouse and wasn't available for comment after pitching just three innings in Chicago's 4-4 tie with the Colorado Rockies. "He handled it OK. He wasn't happy. He wasn't pleased. But you don't expect that," Piniella added.

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Wood will be sidelined for opener

2007-03-27T09:29:00.000-07:00

Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood will not be ready by Opening Day and was to be examined Monday after feeling discomfort in his right shoulder, while Mark Prior's fate will likely be determined Wednesday.

"For the most part, he'd been doing what everybody else did," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said Monday of Wood. "He had a couple setbacks, but truthfully, one wasn't throwing-related. We felt that by bringing him along slowly and not pushing him, that it was a reasonable expectation that he'd be ready by Opening Day."

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Cedeno will make Cubs roster

2007-03-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

Ronny Cedeno struggled last year after being handed the starting shortstop job in the off-season and was considered a long shot to make the Chicago Cubs when camp opened in mid-February.

But after working with former shortstop Alan Trammell, Cedeno's fielding has improved this spring and he's considered a cinch to make the final roster next week.

TE Kelly stays with Bengals

2007-03-09T13:38:00.000-08:00

Tight end Reggie Kelly signed a three-year contract Thursday with the Cincinnati Bengals, choosing to stay with one of the NFL's top offenses rather than leave as an unrestricted free agent. The 30-year-old Kelly played his first four seasons with Atlanta, his last four with Cincinnati. He caught 21 passes for 254 yards last season, his best totals with the Bengals.

Quarterback Carson Palmer called Kelly and lobbied for him to stay with the Bengals. "He told me I was a large ingredient to our success, and that he wanted me back for leadership as well as football," Kelly said.

Bengals release LB Simmons

2007-02-28T14:00:00.000-08:00

Linebacker Brian Simmons was released Wednesday by the Cincinnati Bengals, a surprising move by a team trying to improve one of the NFL's worst defenses while emphasizing character in the locker room.

Simmons, 31, has spent his entire nine-year career with the Bengals, who made him a first-round draft pick in 1998. He had two years left on his contract for $7 million.

Coach Marvin Lewis said the decision came down to the money. "This was not an easy decision to make," he said in a statement. "Brian has been a fine player on the field, and he has been a great example to all of our players as a team leader and a citizen. "But a new NFL year is about to begin with the start of free agency, and this allows us to best position our team under the salary cap to move forward for 2007. It will afford us options for signing other players who are a better overall fit, given the strengths and needs of our current roster."

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Prior to start spring training game Monday

2007-02-28T09:44:00.000-08:00

Oft-injured Chicago Cubs pitcher Mark Prior was pushed up to start next Monday in a spring training game against the Seattle Mariners.

After the team worked out Monday, Cubs manager Lou Piniella said Prior will pitch in Chicago's fifth exhibition game. Only 24 hours earlier, Piniella said the right-hander would not make an appearance until the second time through the rotation late next week. Originally, Piniella had planned to start left-hander Ted Lilly against the Mariners on March 5.

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Zambrano, Cubs deftly avoid arbitration

2007-02-20T14:33:00.000-08:00

The Cubs and Carlos Zambrano reached agreement Tuesday on a one-year, $12 million contract and avoided arbitration. The Cubs had hoped to settle before a 2 p.m. MST hearing at the Phoenix Hyatt. On Feb. 15, the Minnesota Twins and Michael Cuddyer settled on a one-year deal minutes before his arbitration hearing began.

Zambrano, 25, who made $6.5 million last year, was seeking $15.5 million. The Cubs countered with an offer of $11.025 million before the deal was reached.

The right-hander posted a 16-7 record and 3.41 ERA in 33 starts last season, matching his career high in wins. Cubs manager Lou Piniella has named Big Z his Opening Day starter.

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Bengals designate DE Smith

2007-02-15T13:59:00.000-08:00

Defensive end Justin Smith has never made the Pro Bowl in his six-year NFL career. But coach Marvin Lewis considers him to be indispensable.

The Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday designated Smith as their franchise player. NFL teams have until February 22 to designate eligible unrestricted free agents as franchise or transition players.

"We are pleased to designate Justin as our franchise player," Lewis said. "He has been a consistent performer and worker. This move helps us keep our core players together, and it gives us an opportunity to continue negotiating for a longer-term contract with Justin."

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Sign me before season or I'll leave

2007-02-14T09:40:00.000-08:00

Chicago Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano has a new message for the team: sign him to a new contract before the season starts or he'll leave and become a free agent after it's over.

"I'm ready to sign and I would do my job anyway with the Cubs this year," Zambrano said in an interview with WGN-TV that was reported Tuesday by the Chicago Tribune.

"Whatever happens, I don't want to know about a contract during the season. I want to sign with the Cubs before the season starts. If they don't sign me, sorry, but I must go. That's what Carlos Zambrano thinks."

Zambrano, 16-7 with a 3.41 ERA and 210 strikeouts last season, asked for $15.5 million in arbitration. The team offered $11.025 million. He made $6.5 million last season.

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Cubs trade Ryu to Devil Rays

2007-02-14T09:37:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Cubs traded right-hander Jae Kuk Ryu to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays on Tuesday for two minor leaguers, outfielder Andrew Lopez and right-hander Gregor Reinhard.

Ryu, 23, was originally signed by the Cubs as a non-drafted free agent on June 1, 2001, and is 0-1 with an 8.40 ERA in 10 games. He spent several stints with the Cubs last season and made his major league debut May 14. He was also 8-8 with a 3.23 ERA in 24 appearances for Triple-A Iowa.

Lopez, 20, was the Devil Rays eighth-round selection in the 2005 draft. He batted .256 at Class A Princeton last season. Reinhard, 23, was picked by the Devils Rays in the sixth round in 2005. He was 6-10 last season with Class A Southwest Michigan.

Carson Palmer named MVP of Pro Bowl

2007-02-12T11:34:00.000-08:00

Carson Palmer never stopped being a fan during his first Pro Bowl week, from getting a Vince Young autographed helmet right down to winning the game’s MVP when he directed the last-minute drive that lifted the AFC to a 31-28 victory over the NFC Saturday in Hawaii.

“It was a thrill just being on the sidelines with a guy like Coach (Bill) Belichick and going down the field in the last two minutes,” Palmer said via phone after becoming the Bengals’ first postseason MVP. “Just handing off to a guy like LaDainian Tomlinson. It was the best of the best.”

But a lot of it was old hat, like hooking up with teammate Chad Johnson for a touchdown as well as the key play in the final drive that led to Chargers kicker Nate Kaeding’s 21-yard field goal with no time left.

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Tyson checks himself into rehab

2007-02-07T14:48:00.000-08:00

A lawyer for Mike Tyson said Wednesday the former heavyweight champion has checked himself into an in-patient treatment program for "various addictions" as he awaits trial on drug charges.

"He needed to get involved in something that would help him with his addiction," said David Chesnoff of Las Vegas. Chesnoff wouldn't describe Tyson's addictions, but police said the boxer told officers that he used cocaine frequently.

Chesnoff said Tyson checked himself into an undisclosed facility shortly after appearing in a Phoenix courtroom.

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Prior signs deal to avoid arbitration

2007-01-31T14:42:00.000-08:00

The Cubs and rehabbing right-hander Mark Prior came to terms on Wednesday on a one-year contract, avoiding salary arbitration and leaving Carlos Zambrano as the only arbitration-eligible Cub left unsigned for 2007.

Prior, 26, is coming off an injury-shortened season in which he was 1-6 with a 7.21 ERA in nine starts. He was asking for $3.875 million in arbitration, while the Cubs countered with an offer of $3.4 million.

According to SI.com, Prior took a pay cut and will reportedly make $3.575 million in '07. If he reaches some incentives, the right-hander could also make an additional $300,000.

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Cubs part ways with Rusch

2007-01-26T07:39:00.000-08:00

The Cubs announced Thursday that they have released left-handed pitcher Glendon Rusch, whose 2006 season ended early because of a life-threatening blood clot in his lung.

Rusch, 32, has compiled a 60-94 record and 5.01 ERA in his nine big-league seasons, including a 3-8 record and 7.46 ERA last season for the Cubs. He needs four more appearances to reach 300 games in his career. Of his 296 appearances, he made 211 starts.

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Cubs, Floyd reach agreement

2007-01-24T14:05:00.000-08:00

Free agent outfielder and first baseman Cliff Floyd agreed Wednesday to a one-year contract with the Chicago Cubs after spending four seasons with the New York Mets. The deal includes a mutual option for 2008.

Floyd, a Chicago native, was limited to 332 at-bats last year because of an injured Achilles' tendon and will likely serve as a backup with the Cubs. Alfonso Soriano is expected to start in center, with Matt Murton in left and Jacque Jones in right.

The 34-year-old Floyd had surgery on his left foot in October, after hitting .244 with 11 homers and 44 RBIs. The Mets replaced him in left field with Moises Alou, a free agent who agreed to a contract in October.

An All-Star with the Florida Marlins in 2001, Floyd batted .273 with 34 homers and 98 RBIs for the Mets in 2005. He has a .279 average, 213 home runs and 781 RBIs during a career that began with the Montreal Expos in 1993.

Bengals CB Joseph arrested for marijuana possession

2007-01-22T11:11:00.000-08:00

Bengals cornerback Johnathan Joseph was arrested early Monday and charged with possession of marijuana, the ninth Cincinnati player arrested in the last nine months.

The arrest came three weeks after coach Marvin Lewis promised to get tougher on player misconduct, hoping to stop a series of arrests that has embarrassed the team and drawn the attention of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

Joseph was arrested on U.S. Route 42 in northern Kentucky. He lives nearby in Union, Ky. The Boone Country sheriff's office arrest report said Joseph was the passenger in a vehicle driven by a woman who had a suspended license, was driving slowly and weaving.

When a Boone County sheriff's deputy asked Joseph to get out of the vehicle, he smelled marijuana. The deputy searched Joseph's black backpack with a Super Bowl logo and found a bag of marijuana in a pouch, the arrest report said.

Joseph was released Monday morning, and his first court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 5. Marijuana possession is a misdemeanor that carries a maximum of one year in jail and a maximum $500 fine. He was the team's first-round draft pick last season and had positioned himself to take over a starting job next season.

Cubs, Floyd closing in on contract

2007-01-22T06:07:00.000-08:00

Cliff Floyd and the Chicago Cubs are nearing agreement on a one-year contract, a deal that may include an option for 2008 that the outfielder can control.

Floyd, who was born in Chicago, is likely to make a decision this week. Several AL West teams and Pittsburgh also have shown interest in the 34-year-old left-handed hitter -- Pirates manager Jim Tracy managed Floyd at Double-A.

Limited to 332 at-bats last year with the New York Mets because of an injured Achilles' tendon, Floyd likely would be a backup with Chicago. Alfonso Soriano probably will wind up in center, with Matt Murton in left and Jacque Jones in right.

Samardzija passes up NFL to sign with Cubs

2007-01-19T12:37:00.000-08:00

Notre Dame wide receiver Jeff Samardzija will take his talents to the baseball diamond rather than the football field. Opting to pass up a chance at the NFL, Samardzija on Friday signed a five-year contract with the Chicago Cubs.

ESPN 1000 in Chicago reported Samardzija's deal is worth less than pitcher Mark Prior's first contract with the Cubs. When Prior was selected second overall in 2001, his deal was worth $10.5 million.

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Cubs kick off caravan with good news

2007-01-17T12:05:00.000-08:00

The Cubs began their winter Cubs Caravan tour on Wednesday with good news regarding Mark Prior, who is throwing off the mound and making good progress.

"Mark is up on the hill, throwing some bullpens and doing well," Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said Wednesday before boarding a bus with other players and staff for a trip to downstate Illinois.

"The reports have been encouraging, and we're all keeping our fingers crossed," Hendry said. "We'd love to show up and have the old Mark back and feel like we have a great, new player come in that we weren't expecting. We wanted to cover ourselves in depth if Mark was behind, but if he's on schedule, we'll feel like we got a bonus."

Prior, 26, is coming off an injury-shortened season in which he was 1-6 with a 7.21 ERA in nine starts. A shoulder injury hampered him, and he was forced to devote this offseason to rehab. Pitching coach Larry Rothschild said he talked to the right-hander every week for progress reports.

"He's going through a pretty strenuous program and has been throwing for quite a while," Rothschild said.

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Pacers, Warriors swing 8-player trade

2007-01-17T12:02:00.000-08:00

The Indiana Pacers traded Al Harrington and Stephen Jackson to the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday for forwards Troy Murphy and Mike Dunleavy as part of an eight-player deal designed to shake up two struggling teams.

The Pacers also sent guard Sarunas Jasikevicius and forward Josh Powell to the Warriors, who gave up forward Ike Diogu and guard Keith McLeod.

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Cubs agree with LHP Ohman on two-year deal

2007-01-17T06:34:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Cubs on Tuesday agreed to terms with lefthanded reliever Will Ohman on a two-year contract. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Ohman, 29, set career highs last season in games (78), innings (65 1/3) and strikeouts (74). He went 1-1 with a 4.13 ERA, holding the opposition to a .208 batting average.

Zambrano asks for $15.5 million

2007-01-17T06:33:00.000-08:00

On a day when dozens of players asked for big raises, Chicago Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano asked for the biggest. Zambrano submitted a proposed salary of $15.5 million in arbitration on Tuesday, while batting champions Joe Mauer and Freddy Sanchez also sought huge hikes.

Zambrano went 16-7 for the Cubs last year and made $6.65 million. He was offered $11,025,000 by Chicago and is eligible for free agency after the season. Both his request and the club's offer were the highest numbers traded this year.

Cubs sign IF Tomas Perez to minor-league deal

2007-01-15T06:24:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Cubs on Friday added some infield depth with the signing of Tomas Perez to a minor-league contract.

Perez hit .212 with no homers and 16 RBI in 99 games for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in 2006. He started 68 games at five different positions, including 33 at shortstop and 18 at second base.

The 33-year-old has hit .240 with 24 homers and 180 RBI in 781 games over 10 years with Toronto, Philadelphia and Tampa Bay.

Cubs to make more moves

2007-01-12T07:03:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Cubs are trying to add two outfielders, and a trade of right fielder Jacque Jones remains a possibility. Jones, signed for $9 million over the next two seasons, could be a bargain for a club in need of an outfielder.

With or without Jones, the Cubs are likely to sign free-agent left fielder Cliff Floyd, and they also want a stopgap in center until top prospect Felix Pie is ready.

Pie, 21, could win the job in spring training, complicating the Cubs' pursuit of veteran center fielders such as Darin Erstad and Steve Finley.

Webber headed back home

2007-01-12T07:02:00.000-08:00

The Detroit Pistons are close to reaching an agreement with free agent Chris Webber, sources close to the negotiations said Thursday night. Webber, 33, who had the final two seasons of his contract bought out by the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday, will return to his Michigan roots where he once starred for Detroit Country Day High School and the University of Michigan.
Webber, who's still clearing waivers, can't officially with a team until Monday.

He is expected to sign for a pro-rated $1.87 million-a-season, 10-year-veteran contract.
All along, sources said, the Pistons were Webber's No. 1 choice upon leaving the 76ers. They would give him a chance to finally reach the NBA Finals and perhaps compete for his first NBA title.

Bengals DE Geathers gets extension

2007-01-12T06:56:00.000-08:00

Defensive end Robert Geathers' breakout season earned him one of the biggest contract extensions in Cincinnati Bengals history.

Geathers signed a six-year extension Thursday that will pay him $14 million next season in various bonuses and salary, making him one of the team's top-paid players. He can earn $32.5 million in salary and bonuses over the six-year deal.

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Jackson could follow Petrino

2007-01-08T10:56:00.000-08:00

Bobby Petrino’s move from Louisville to Atlanta as head coach of the Falcons is going to cause a domino effect that may affect the Bengals sooner rather than later.

Word from around the NFL is that Petrino may turn to Bengals receivers coach Hue Jackson to revive the career of Falcons quarterback Michael Vick as his offensive coordinator and it could come down Monday with Petrino scheduled for an afternoon news conference.

Jackson, who is in the mix because he worked with Petrino at Arizona State in the early ‘90s, couldn’t be reached for comment. Last week, head coach Marvin Lewis said his coaches are under contract, but they can leave for a promotion.

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Arizona close to Unit deal

2007-01-04T12:07:00.000-08:00

The New York Yankees and Arizona Diamondbacks are "very close" to the framework of a trade that would send five-time Cy Young Award winner Randy Johnson back to Arizona for right-handed reliever Luis Vizcaino and a pitching prospect, according to a source with knowledge of the talks.

Diamondbacks officials expect to request from Major League Baseball a negotiating window – typically 72 hours – to discuss a contract extension with Johnson, who has a no-trade clause, and his agent, Alan Nero. Johnson, 43, also must pass a physical. He had surgery to repair a herniated disk in November.

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Cubs agree to one-year contract with LHP Cotts

2007-01-04T09:28:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Cubs on Wednesday agreed to terms on a one-year contract with lefthander Neal Cotts, who was acquired from the crosstown rival White Sox on November 16. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Cotts made $400,000 last season.

The deal for Cotts, who was acquired for righthanders David Aardsma and Carlos Vazquez, marked the first time that the Chicago teams completed a trade since July 29, 1998, when the Cubs sent righthander Jon Garland to the White Sox for righthander Matt Karchner.

Cotts, 26, appeared in a career-high 70 games last season with the White Sox, going 1-2 with a 5.17 ERA. He was dominant in 2005, going 4-0 with a 1.94 ERA in 69 games and recording the win against Houston in Game Two of the World Series. The hard-throwing Cotts is 10-7 with a 4.52 ERA in 199 career games over three-plus seasons with the White Sox.

Giants land Zito

2006-12-28T09:45:00.000-08:00

Free-agent left-hander Barry Zito and the San Francisco Giants have agreed to a seven-year, $126 million contract, according to baseball officials.

Zito, the 2002 American League Cy Young Award winner with the Oakland Athletics, considered offers by the New York Mets, Texas Rangers and Seattle Mariners before relocating across the Bay.

Bengals C Braham announces retirement

2006-12-28T06:21:00.000-08:00

After donning Cincinnati Bengals' black and orange for over a decade, center Rich Braham has decided to call it quits. Braham on Wednesday announced he will retire after this season.

A 13-year veteran, Braham will be honored in a pregame ceremony Sunday when the Bengals host the Pittsburgh Steelers.

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Sammy Sosa begins training for return to major leagues

2006-12-22T09:18:00.000-08:00

Sammy Sosa began training Thursday in hopes of returning to the major leagues. "I feel like I did when I was a rookie," Sosa told The Associated Press. "I have a lot of spirit and a desire to return. I think I can play three or four more years in the form I am now."

Sosa hit the ball out of the park 15 times while training at a field in San Pedro de Macoris that is operated by the Japanese Central League's Hiroshima Carp.

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Cubs promote Bush to assistant GM

2006-12-20T12:24:00.000-08:00

Randy Bush was promoted to assistant general manager by the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday.

Bush, a member of two World Series winning teams with the Minnesota Twins, had joined the Cubs as a special assistant to general manager Jim Hendry on Jan. 26, 2005. He also served as the organization's minor league hitting instructor in 1999.

Bush, a first baseman and outfielder, was a career .251 hitter in 1,219 major league games, all with the Twins.

Nuggets reach agreement to acquire Iverson

2006-12-19T13:19:00.000-08:00

The Denver Nuggets apparently have won the Allen Iverson sweepstakes. According to a report on ESPN.com, the Nuggets on Tuesday reached an agreement in principle to acquire the superstar guard from the Philadelphia 76ers.

The report stated that pending league approval, the trade would send guard Andre Miller, forward Joe Smith and a pair of 2007 first-round draft picks to Philadelphia.

Marquis taking physical to complete deal with Cubs

2006-12-19T12:25:00.000-08:00

Right-hander Jason Marquis was having a physical Tuesday, the last step to completing his three-year, $21 million contract with the Chicago Cubs.

The deal was agreed to earlier this month, but Marquis had to pass a physical before it could be announced. The signing is the latest in a flurry of deals for the Cubs, who have committed almost $300 million to upgrade a team that went 66-96 last season.

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Cubs sign Ward to one-year deal

2006-12-15T13:18:00.000-08:00

The Cubs secured a backup first baseman and outfielder as well as a left-handed bat all in one on Friday when they signed free agent Daryle Ward to a one-year contract with a mutual option for the 2008 season.

Ward, 31, led Major League pinch-hitters with 17 RBIs and a .645 slugging percentage last season, and his four pinch-hit homers were tied with Cincinnati's Javier Valentin for the most in the Majors. He batted .355 off the bench, fourth best among pinch-hitters last season. Being a pinch-hitter isn't easy.

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Pollack needs neck surgery, career in doubt

2006-12-14T14:15:00.000-08:00

Bengals linebacker David Pollack will need surgery for the cracked bone in his neck, likely ending his football career. Pollack cracked the bone while making a tackle against the Cleveland Browns on Sept. 17 and was placed in a halo brace that immobilized his neck. Doctors told him that if the fracture healed on its own, he could resume his career.

The 2005 first-round draft pick was examined Thursday by a specialist who recommended surgery on the fracture, which hasn't healed as hoped. Pollack is expected to have the operation in the next few weeks.

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Marquis likely to join Cubs

2006-12-11T06:01:00.000-08:00

Pitcher Jason Marquis is likely to become the latest acquisition in the Chicago Cubs' offseason spending spree. Marquis and the Cubs are negotiating a three-year contract, a person with knowledge of the talks said Saturday, speaking on condition of anonymity because no announcement had yet been made.

Terms have not yet been agreed to -- the deal is likely to be in the $20 million range. Talks were delayed when Cubs general manager Jim Hendry was hospitalized for two days during the winter meetings. Hendry was released from an Orlando, Fla., hospital on Friday and planned to return to Chicago on Sunday.

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Bengals WR McNeal arrested in Houston

2006-12-04T21:10:00.000-08:00

Once again, a member of the Cincinnati Bengals is in trouble with the law. The Cincinnati Enquirer reported Monday on its web site that Bengals rookie wide receiver Reggie McNeal was arrested and charged with resisting arrest in Houston over the weekend.

According to the report, McNeal struck a police officer after being refused entrance to a nightclub which was closed. McNeal's bond was set at $1,000 and he is scheduled to appear in court Friday.

McNeal, 23, was selected in the sixth round of last April's draft but has not received much playing time this season for Cincinnati. He is the seventh Bengals player arrested this season.

Suite deal: Soriano's filled with perks

2006-11-30T06:28:00.000-08:00

Alfonso Soriano will be paid $18 million annually in the final five years of his $136 million, eight-year contract with the Chicago Cubs, the fifth-richest contract in baseball history. Soriano's deal gives him a complete no-trade provision and guarantees a suite on Cubs road trips, according to contract information obtained by The Associated Press. In addition, Soriano is guaranteed six premium tickets for each home game during spring training, regular season and the postseason -- and for the All-Star game if he is selected. Soriano receives an $8 million signing bonus and will get a $9 million salary next season. His salary increases to $13 million in 2008 and $16 million in 2009, then goes up to $18 million from 2010-2014. Soriano, who turns 31 in January, will be 38 in the final year of the deal.

There are also plenty of incentives for the five-time All-Star, who will be the Cubs leadoff hitter. He gets $250,000 for collecting most All Star votes, $350,000 if he is selected the World Series MVP, $250,000 for the league championship series MVP, $300,000 for the MVP award and $75,000 for a Gold Glove. As another provision, Soriano will donate $25,000 annually to United Way and $25,000 annually to Cubs Care foundation.

Soriano wants to warm up for Cubs in Dominican winter league

2006-11-27T08:42:00.000-08:00

Dominican Republic (AP) -- Alfonso Soriano wants to warm up for his Chicago Cubs debut by playing for his hometown team in the Dominican winter league.

"I'm going to ask permission to play for the Eastern Stars when I get back to Chicago for the press conference where they're going to introduce me next week," the slugger told The Associated Press on Friday after arriving in the Caribbean country.

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Cubs sign Soriano to $136 million contract

2006-11-20T08:04:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Cubs' ownership is showing new manager Lou Piniella that they are serious about winning. Chicago radio station ESPN 1000 reported Sunday that the Cubs have signed outfielder Alfonso Soriano to an eight-year contract worth approximately $136 million. The move would clearly mark the highlight in an already busy offseason for the Cubs, who have signed free-agent infielder Mark DeRosa and have re-signed third baseman Aramis Ramirez and righthander Kerry Wood.

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Cubs re-sign C Blanco

2006-11-15T10:00:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Cubs on Wednesday re-signed veteran catcher Henry Blanco to a two-year contract with a mutual option for 2009. Financial terms were not disclosed. Serving primarily as a backup to Michael Barrett, Blanco, 35, batted .266 with six home runs and 37 RBI last season for the Cubs. Blanco is a career .225 hitter with 49 homers and 225 RBI over eight-plus seasons with Chicago, Minnesota, Atlanta, Milwaukee, Colorado and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

DeRosa cashes in on career year, to sign with Cubs

2006-11-14T16:01:00.000-08:00

Mark DeRosa is poised to cash in on his career year. The Chicago Cubs reached an agreement on a three-year, $13 million contract with DeRosa on Tuesday. The agreement was first reported by ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney. DeRosa, who played six positions for the Rangers last season, is expected to be the Cubs' regular second baseman.

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Ramirez and Wood stay with Cubs

2006-11-14T11:13:00.000-08:00

Aramis Ramirez decided to stay put. Coming off a career year at the plate, the third baseman gave up a chance to explore the free-agent market, agreeing Sunday to a $73 million, five-year contract with the Chicago Cubs.

On the first day free agents could negotiate money with all 30 teams, oft-injured pitcher Kerry Wood also opted to stay with the Cubs, agreeing to a $1.75 million, one-year deal that could be worth up to $6 million.

Ramirez, who initially joined the Cubs midway through the 2003 season in a trade with the Pirates, had opted out of the final two seasons of a $42 million, four-year contract and filed for free agency on Oct. 30. His new deal contains a mutual option for 2012.
"He proved to Chicago that when you leave $20 million or $30 million on the table, it's where you want to go," Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said. "Both sides gave a little bit at the end."

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Yankees trade Gary Sheffield to Tigers

2006-11-10T13:43:00.000-08:00

Gary Sheffield was traded from the New York Yankees to the Detroit Tigers on Friday for three pitching prospects. Sheffield played for Tigers manager Jim Leyland and team president Dave Dombrowski in 1997, when Leyland managed the Marlins to the World Series title and Dombrowski was Florida's general manager. "I'm more than happy to be reunited with guys that I'm familiar with," Sheffield said.

Ladies and Gentlemen Jim Hendry has dropped the ball yet again. The one guy who is guaranteed to have a monster season next year and lord knows we don't trade for him.

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Cubs re-sign RHP Miller to one-year contract

2006-11-09T13:50:00.000-08:00

Wade Miller is rewarding the Chicago Cubs for their patience. The righthander opted to return to the Cubs on Thursday, signing a one-year contract. Financial terms were not disclosed. Miller, 30, was limited to just five starts at the end of last season as he experienced complications from offseason shoulder surgery, going 0-2 with a 4.57 ERA.

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Cubs hire Gerald Perry as hitting coach

2006-11-08T14:57:00.000-08:00

Chicago Cubs manager Lou Piniella completed his staff Wednesday when Gerald Perry agreed to a two-year deal to be the team's hitting coach. Perry, who was Oakland's hitting coach last season, rejoins Piniella. He served as the Seattle Mariners hitting coach from 2000-2002 when Piniella was managing there.

"Lou's a proven winner. We had a real good relationship in Seattle and we won. We averaged 100 wins a year," Perry said.

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“LEN & BOB BASH” CHARITY CONCERT

2006-11-08T06:42:00.000-08:00

Chicago Cubs television announcers Len Kasper and Bob Brenly announced plans today for their inaugural "Len & Bob Bash" concert that will be held Thursday night, January 18, 2007, at the House of Blues. Ryan Adams will be the concert headliner and all proceeds will be donated to Chicago Cubs Charities.

"Bob and I have both been treated so wonderfully by everyone in Chicago and we have been looking to find a way to give something back," said Kasper. "We both love music and with the Cubs Convention set to start the next day, we hope this will be a fun and rewarding way to kick off the baseball season in Chicago."

"When Len came to me with this, I thought it was a great idea," said Brenly. "This is going to be a very fun show for a great cause. Chicago Cubs Charities does great work in town and we're excited to be able to add our support with this event."

Tickets go on sale to the public on Saturday, November 11 at 10am and can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling 312-559-1212, or at www.ticketmaster.com. There will be an exclusive internet pre-sale of tickets beginning Wednesday morning November 8 through the House of Blues at www.hob.com/venues/clubvenues/chicago/.

Cubs hire DeJesus to assist Piniella

2006-11-07T09:23:00.000-08:00

Former Major League shortstop Ivan DeJesus was hired as a special assistant to Chicago Cubs manager Lou Piniella on Monday after spending the past six seasons as a minor-league manager for the Houston Astros. The 53-year-old DeJesus batted .254 in a 15-year career that began with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1974. He played with the Cubs from 1977 to 1981, before being traded to Philadelphia for Hall of Fame second baseman Ryne Sandberg and shortstop Larry Bowa. He spent three seasons with the Phillies before stints with the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees, San Francisco Giants and Detroit Tigers. He appeared in the World Series with the Phillies (1983) and Cardinals (1985).

Ramirez says Cubs still his first choice

2006-11-03T06:42:00.000-08:00

Third baseman Aramis Ramirez hopes to stay with the Cubs. Ramirez said Thursday that several teams have contacted his agent to discuss his availability since he filed for free agency this week. "The Cubs are my first choice but I'm a free agent because I had to give myself the opportunity," Ramirez said during an interview with The Associated Press.

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Who can cover Chad? SI

2006-10-25T06:56:00.000-07:00

Chad is on the cover, but he’s also back. Chad Johnson, golden Mohawk and all in a Halloween haze of Bengals colors, dominates the front of the Sports Illustrated issue that hits newsstands Wednesday. Which is also the day he says he plans to return to his old trash-talking self and come out of his season-long cocoon. And the Bengals have suddenly become a staple in the SI staples. After 17 years of no covers and just four covers in the 21 years before that, this is the third Bengals cover in the last five months. After hearing that SI deemed him cover worthy, Johnson exclaimed Tuesday, “Wednesday? That’s funny because that’s when I’m going to go back to being my old self.” “Marvin, I love you to death,” is how Johnson is going to explain it to head coach Marvin Lewis. “Trust me. It’s for the good of the team.” The magazine asks, “Trick or Treat: Is the NFL’s Bad Boy Really Good Guy?”

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P.DUB GETS LOOK

2006-10-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

The Bengals are apparently concerned enough with their banged-up wide receiver corps that they are bringing in former first-rounder Peter Warrick for a tryout. Reached late Monday night via phone, Warrick said this will be his second workout since being released from Seattle after the final preseason game.

“I feel good," said Warrick, who has also worked out for Detroit. "I’ve been working out; I still think I can help. It’s tough sitting and watching. You hope no one gets hurt, but that’s what I’ve had to look for.”

Warrick, 29, the fourth player selected in the 2000 draft, visited the Bengals at their hotel when they were in Tampa last week and went to the game. He said he has been working out with trainer Tom Shaw in his native Florida, but he wasn’t too sure about the Bengals injury situation behind Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh.

Cubs name Trammell bench coach

2006-10-24T06:40:00.000-07:00

Former Tigers manager and six-time American League All-Star shortstop Alan Trammell was named on Monday as the bench coach and infield instructor for new Cubs manager Lou Piniella.
Trammell, 48, signed a two-year contract with the Cubs, the team announced. Trammell spent his 20-year Major League career with the Tigers from 1977-96, and compiled a .285 batting average with 185 home runs and 1,003 RBIs in 2,293 games. "We are extremely happy to add Alan to the staff," said Cubs general manager Jim Hendry. "His credentials on the field as a player, instructor and coach speak for themselves. He will be an invaluable person for Lou Piniella to lean on during the game, and he brings a special expertise in working with our infielders."

Bengals activate RB Perry from PUP list

2006-10-20T12:33:00.000-07:00

The Cincinnati Bengals will welcome back their valuable third-down pass-catching back for Sunday's game against Carolina. Perry was activated from the physically-unable-to-perform list on Friday after missing the first six weeks of the season due to ankle and knee injuries. A first-round pick in 2004, Perry had 51 catches for 328 yards and two touchdowns and also rushed for 279 yards on 61 carries last season.

Chad Johnson wants bolder offense

2006-10-19T06:34:00.000-07:00

Chad Johnson's demeanor these days -- no boasts, no guarantees, no trash talk whatsoever -- matches the Cincinnati Bengals' mundane offense. And the Pro Bowl receiver says it's time for both to change. His solution: Throw caution to the wind and throw the ball long. "That's what we did before, all the time," Johnson said. "Carson didn't care what defensive back or what safety was over the top. For what? Care for what? Just go make the play anyway."

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Piniella vows to make Cubs a winner

2006-10-18T06:49:00.000-07:00

Lou Piniella mentioned all facets of Chicago Cubs' baseball: the long-suffering and passionate fans, including the ones who fill up the bleachers; the ivy on the walls of Wrigley Field; and past greats like Ernie Banks, Billy Williams and Ferguson Jenkins. They are just part of the team's lore, though. Losing baseball has been the longest tradition for a franchise looking for its first World Series championship since 1908. But Piniella said Tuesday he welcomes the challenge as the latest manager to pull on the cap and jersey of Chicago's north side team and try to make it a winner. With a promise from management that the Tribune Co. will spend the money to upgrade the roster, he left the TV booth for a three-year deal worth nearly $10 million, with an option for a fourth. "I was considered other places, but really this is where I wanted to come," said Piniella, making the fifth stop of his managerial career.

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Tyson says he may fight against woman

2006-10-17T10:55:00.000-07:00

Mike Tyson says he may include bouts with women on his next tour, and mentioned professional boxer Ann Wolfe, who is 21-1 with 15 knockouts. "She's such a prominent, dominant woman in the boxing field," Tyson said. When asked if he was joking about fighting women, Tyson said, "I'm very serious."

The 40-year-old former heavyweight champ launches "Mike Tyson's World Tour" on Friday in Youngstown, Ohio.

Source: Piniella expects Cubs to go hard after A-Rod

2006-10-17T10:38:00.000-07:00

Lou Piniella, who will be formally introduced as the new Chicago Cubs manager Tuesday afternoon, wants to acquire embattled -- and possibly available -- New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez. Sources familiar with the situation told ESPN.com that Piniella, who is extremely close to Rodriguez, expects the Cubs to aggressively pursue the 10-time All-Star. The 63-year-old manager and the 31-year-old Rodriguez have what amounts to a quasi-father/son relationship; Rodriguez was managed in Seattle by Piniella from 1994-2000. It is that relationship -- and the tantalizing talent of Rodriguez -- that has prompted Piniella to want to explore a trade with the Yankees.

For the Cubs, whose management experienced the rare and unnerving sight of empty seats at Wrigley Field this past season, the attraction of Rodriguez is obvious. He would immediately strengthen a lineup in dire need of power. He is normally an accomplished defensive player. And despite his postseason difficulties, he has a career .305 batting average and 464 career home runs in 13 major league seasons.

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Cubs to target Soriano

2006-10-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

With Piniella on board, Hendry will quickly try to furnish his superstar manager with a star-studded team. Sources said the Cubs have identified potential free agent Alfonso Soriano -- whom they view as a center fielder and leadoff hitter -- as their primary target in rebuilding a team for Piniella.

Piniella takes on challenges with Cubs

2006-10-17T10:24:00.000-07:00

New skipper will seek to end World Series drought. Lou Piniella will try to do something no one has accomplished since 1945 -- get the Chicago Cubs to the World Series.

Piniella, 63, was named the Cubs' 48th manager on Tuesday, replacing Dusty Baker, whose contract was not renewed after four seasons in Chicago. Baker came close, leading the Cubs to the National League Central Division title in his first year in 2003. They were one game away from getting to the World Series, yet came up short. The Cubs haven't won a World Series since 1908, the longest drought in professional sports.

Can Piniella change that? He'll get started now after signing a three-year contract worth $10 million with an option for a fourth that would make the total deal worth $15 million.
"Long-suffering Cubs fans, they have great passion," Piniella said at a press conference at Wrigley Field. "I saw that from the broadcast booth here and we're going to win. ... We're going to go to Spring Training and work hard and get the job done."

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Bengals LT Jones headed for knee surgery

2006-10-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

The Cincinnati Bengals will enter a challenging portion of their schedule without starting left tackle Levi Jones. Bengals coach Marvin Lewis announced Monday that Jones likely will need arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. Jones suffered the injury in the first half of Sunday's 14-13 loss at Tampa Bay.

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Report: Piniella agrees to manage Cubs

2006-10-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

Lou Piniella apparently will take his fiery brand of managing to "the Windy City."
Chicago radio station ESPN 1000 reported Monday that the Chicago Cubs have agreed to a three-year deal with Piniella. Financial terms have not been finalized, but the radio station is reporting that Piniella will receive approximately $3 million annually. The Cubs officially will announce the hiring of Piniella on Tuesday at Wrigley Field. Piniella, 63, faces a difficult task in turning around a Cubs franchise which posted a 66-96 record in 2006 and has reached the postseason just twice in the last 17 years.

The subject of numerous recent rumors, Piniella owns a career record of 1,519-1,420 in 19 seasons with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, the Seattle Mariners, the Cincinnati Reds and the New York York Yankees. He guided the Reds to a World Series championship in 1990 and twice was named American League Manager of the Year while with the Mariners.

On Friday, Piniella took himself out of the running for the San Francisco Giants' opening. He has also spoken to the Washington Nationals and Texas Rangers, although he said the Washington job is not an ideal fit. Piniella, 63, has been working in television since parting ways with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays after the 2005 season following three difficult years as manager.

Fox Sports fires baseball analyst for remarks

2006-10-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

Fox Sports fired baseball analyst Steve Lyons, hours after he made ethnically inappropriate comments on the air during the Detroit Tigers-Oakland A's championship game Friday. Lyons is a former baseball player who has been working for Fox Sports since 1996. He also is an analyst for the Los Angeles Dodgers broadcasts.

Lyons ran afoul of Fox Sports for comments he made during the game after analyst and former manager Lou Piniella said expecting a player to repeat his performance was like "finding a wallet on a Friday night and looking for one on Sunday and Monday, too." A little while later, Piniella said Oakland A's infielder Marco Scutaro was "en fuego," to which Lyons responded: "Lou's hablaing some espanol there, and I'm still looking for my wallet. I don't understand him, and I don't want to sit close to him now."

There were no repercussions on the air at the time, but Fox executives told Lyons later Friday that he was fired.

Cubs ready to introduce Piniella as manager

2006-10-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

Negotiations between the Cubs and their top managerial candidate advanced so quickly Sunday, the team expects to complete talks today and introduce Lou Piniella as their new manager by Tuesday, according to team and industry sources.

Formal negotiations on a multiyear contract with Piniella's Chicago-based agent, Alan Nero, began Sunday, the day after the veteran manager's duties as a Fox analyst ended with the conclusion of the American League Championship Series.

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Piniella likes 'challenge' of Cubs job

2006-10-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

If the Cubs want veteran manager Lou Piniella, the feeling appears to be mutual -- especially with the New York Yankees no longer an option for 2007. Piniella expressed deep interest in the Cubs job during an exclusive interview Tuesday with the Sun-Times before Game 1 of the American League Championship Series.

''Yeah, I've talked to the Cubs,'' said Piniella, who is broadcasting the ALCS for Fox. ''Chicago is a wonderful city. And the Cubs are a very storied franchise. They have great fans. I had a nice conversation with their general manager, Jim Hendry. He's a real baseball guy. We just have to wait and see what happens.

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Cubs interview Girardi

2006-10-10T06:25:00.000-07:00

Joe Girardi, considered a leading candidate for the Chicago Cubs' managing job, interviewed for the position on Monday. The Florida Marlins fired Girardi last week. He guided them to a 78-84 record and kept them in contention for a playoff spot until late September despite having the majors' youngest team and lowest payroll.

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Cubs coaches get heave-ho

2006-10-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

The Baker era in Chicago reached more closure Tuesday when all of the Cubs' coaches were told their one-year contracts would not be renewed for 2007. The clean sweep included pitching coach Larry Rothschild, the only member of the staff who preceded the Baker era.

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Baker out as Cubs manager

2006-10-03T07:59:00.000-07:00

Dusty Baker is out as the Chicago Cubs' manager following a last-place finish and a failure to take the team to the World Series in his four years. "I wish we could have gotten it done but we didn't," Baker said. "You see four years come to pass very quickly."

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MacPhail resigns as Cubs president

2006-10-03T07:57:00.000-07:00

An emotional Andy MacPhail resigned Sunday as president and CEO of the Chicago Cubs after failing to get the team to the World Series during his 12-year tenure. "This is the first thing I've ever done in baseball that I didn't have a high level of success at," MacPhail said, his voice cracking.

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Racist threats don’t deter Baker

2006-08-23T14:02:00.000-07:00

The fact that Cubs manager Dusty Baker has received racist hate mail won’t affect whether he wants to come back in 2007, he said Monday. “No, I don’t think so,” Baker said. “You realize that some people feel the way they feel. It’s sad that you have to get those. But on the other hand, it’s something that I experienced, not directly but indirectly, when I was with Hank Aaron before. This sort of prepared me for now even though I didn’t know it was going to prepare for me for now.

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Cubs acquire catcher for Perez

2006-08-23T13:41:00.000-07:00

In Spring Training, Todd Walker, Jerry Hairston Jr., and Neifi Perez all were battling for the Cubs' starting second base job. Now, all three are gone. The Cubs did their part to help Detroit now as well as help themselves in the future, dealing Perez to the Tigers on Sunday in exchange for Minor League catcher Chris Robinson. The Tigers were looking for help in the infield after second baseman Placido Polanco separated his left shoulder on Aug. 15. Perez, 33, can play second, short and fill in at third if needed.

"It's a real good fit," Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said Sunday. "There wasn't much interaction with [Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski] and I about this until last night.
"It's no secret that when you're doing as well as they are and you lose an outstanding player like Polanco, we all know Dave Dombrowski was going to try to act quickly," Hendry said.

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Tyson To Box Exhibition Bout On PRIDE Show?

2006-08-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson has no plans to return as an active boxer, but will fight a series of up to 10 exhibition matches in the next several months, sources close to Tyson said Friday. Tyson, 40, will train for those bouts at the Aladdin. The source said a ring will be set up in the casino and Tyson will work out in a public area for an hour a day. An Aladdin spokesperson said talks are ongoing and declined further comment. Tyson, who is staying at the Aladdin, could not be reached for comment. But multiple sources said he will have a news conference next week in Las Vegas to discuss the venture.

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Palmer planning to play next game

2006-08-23T06:38:00.000-07:00

Carson Palmer said Sunday he expects to play in the Cincinnati Bengals' preseason game next Monday against Green Bay, provided he doesn't have any swelling this week in his surgically rebuilt knee. Coach Marvin Lewis was noncommittal earlier about when his starting quarterback would get on the field for the first time. Later, Palmer said he plans to be under center against the Packers.

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Bengals, Levi Jones agree on $40 million extension

2006-07-25T13:42:00.000-07:00

Cincinnati Bengals left offensive tackle Levi Jones has reached agreement on a six-year contract extension through the 2012 season. The extension is worth slightly more than $40 million and includes $16.3 million in guarantees.

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ESPN FIRES REYNOLDS

2006-07-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

ESPN yesterday fired analyst Harold Reynolds from Baseball Tonight, sources told The Post. The reason was not immediately known.

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Cubs put Derrek Lee back on the disabled list

2006-07-25T07:58:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Cubs placed first baseman Derrek Lee on the 15-day disabled list Monday with inflammation in his right wrist, and said there are no plans to shelve the NL batting champion for the rest of the season. Lee, a two-time Gold Glove winner, broke two bones in his right wrist in a collision with Rafael Furcal of the Dodgers on April 19. He was activated from the DL on June 25 but has experienced some pain and weakness in the wrist since his return.

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Cubs activate RHP Prior for Friday's start

2006-07-21T14:48:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Cubs activated Mark Prior from the 15-day disabled list and will start the oft-injured righthander in Friday's game against the Washington Nationals. Prior, whose season did not commence until June 18 because of a strained muscle in his right shoulder, is 0-4 with a 7.71 ERA. He was placed on the DL for a second time last week in a move retroactive to July 5 due to a left oblique muscle strain.

The 25-year-old Prior spent the first two months of the 2004 season on the DL with right Achilles tendinitis. He was sidelined at the beginning of 2005 with inflammation in his right elbow, then missed time after it was fractured

The second overall pick in the 2001 draft, Prior was selected to the National League All Star team in 2003, when he went 18-6 with a 2.43 ERA in 30 starts.

Sosa says he'd return to MLB for right offer

2006-07-19T13:45:00.000-07:00

Sammy Sosa is not retired and could hit some more home runs in the major leagues.
At least, that is what he said Wednesday. "I'm not retired. I'm young and happy," said the Dominican to a radio station in Santo Domingo. "I wanted a break, but I'm getting ready to come back for the right offer," said Sosa.

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Prior back on DL

2006-07-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

Cubs right-hander Mark Prior went back on the 15-day disabled list Friday, this time with a strained left oblique muscle. He got hurt while taking batting practice last Saturday in Milwaukee. Prior, who began the season on the disabled list with a sore shoulder, came off it June 18 and went 0-4 in four starts with a 7.71 ERA. He was scratched from his start last Sunday.

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Bengals have a 'Tough' decision

2006-07-14T06:52:00.000-07:00

In using their 2007 third-round pick to select former Virginia standout Ahmad Brooks in the NFL supplemental draft, the Cincinnati Bengals added a more physical presence at inside linebacker. At 6-foot-2 and 260 pounds, Brooks has the size to be physical and can be moved around on third down as a pass-rusher. He has shown glimpses of potentially being a playmaker as an inside linebacker, although the Cavaliers primarily played a 3-4 scheme instead of the base 4-3 defense the Bengals have employed. With a number of talented linebackers, including David Pollack, Odell Thurman, Landon Johnson, Brian Simmons and now Brooks, Cincinnati coach Marvin Lewis could switch to more of a hybrid scheme or even convert to a 3-4. With one year remaining on defensive end Justin Smith's contract, the Bengals couldn't commit to the scheme full-time until 2007, but they can begin the transition this season.

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Prior scratched from start

2006-07-10T06:51:00.000-07:00

Cubs right-hander Mark Prior was a late scratch from Sunday's game against the Milwaukee Brewers because of strained muscle on his left side. The injury occurred while Prior was taking batting practice before Saturday night's game. The team said it was too early to determine whether the right-hander would need to be placed on the disabled list for the seventh time in his five-year career.

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Bulls reportedly trade Chandler to Hornets

2006-07-06T06:32:00.000-07:00

Tyson Chandler is ready for a fresh start. The Chicago Bulls agreed Wednesday to send the center to the New Orleans Hornets for veteran forward P.J. Brown and swingman J.R. Smith, the Chicago Tribune reported Wednesday night on its Web site.

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Wallace leaving Pistons to sign with Chicago

2006-07-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

Ben Wallace is bringing his rebounds, blocks and steals to the Chicago Bulls. The free-agent center, a four-time Defensive Player of the Year, is leaving the Detroit Pistons to sign with the Bulls, a person within the NBA said Monday.

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Barrett suspension to end in time for White Sox rematch

2006-06-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

Michael Barrett's 10-game suspension for punching A.J. Pierzynski ends Friday just in time for the Cubs' catcher to play in what promises to be an emotionally charged rematch with the White Sox. "I just reacted," Barrett said Wednesday, looking back on his punch that set off a brawl May 20. "Like I said, I'm not happy about what happened. ... You know we all make mistakes, we all do things that certainly when you look back on, hindsight is 20-20. But it's time to move on and play baseball."

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Lee activated from disabled list

2006-06-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Cubs activated slugger Derrek Lee from the disabled list on Sunday, and he was in the lineup at designated hitter against the Twins one day sooner than initially planned.
Wearing heavy tape on his right wrist and a brace when he reached base, Lee went 1-for-4 with a single and two strikeouts in an 8-1 loss to the Twins.

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Barrett's suspension upheld

2006-06-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

Chicago Cubs catcher Michael Barrett's 10-game suspension for punching the White Sox's A.J. Pierzynski was upheld by Major League Baseball on Monday. Barrett's suspension began with Monday night's interleague game against the Indians. He will be eligible to play again June 30 against the White Sox.

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Prior decision could come Friday

2006-06-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

Mark Prior was sore Wednesday, one day after his best outing in four minor league rehabilitation starts, and still not sure when he'll make his season debut with the Chicago Cubs.
Prior allowed one unearned run and four hits in 6 2-3 innings for Triple-A Iowa on Tuesday night at New Orleans. He threw 90 pitches and struck out 10. "I think we'll make a decision in the next couple of days," said Prior, who's been on the disabled list all season while recovering from a sore shoulder. "My stuff I feel is fine, good enough to compete at this level. It's more of a question of stamina, where do I want to be as far as pitch count," he said. Prior is scheduled to throw in the bullpen at Wrigley Field on Friday. If he feels ready and is cleared, he could start Sunday's game against the Detroit Tigers. He's also made two rehab starts at Single A and one at Double A.

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Prior pitches 6 2-3 innings in strong rehab start

2006-06-14T06:23:00.000-07:00

Chicago Cubs right-hander Mark Prior had the most effective start of his four rehab outings in the minors, holding the Triple-A New Orleans Zephyrs to four hits and one unearned run in 6 2-3 innings. Prior, working his way back from a muscle strain in his right shoulder, walked one and struck out 10 in his first appearance for the Iowa Cubs. He did not get the decision in Iowa's 2-1 victory. "I felt like with the stuff I had today I could definitely go out and compete," Prior said. "I could take this stuff to the big leagues and have something to work with. More than anything else right now, it's a question of endurance. I'll know more about that in 24 or 48 hours."

The Cubs will decide in the next few days if Prior, who threw 90 pitches -- including 63 strikes -- will make another start for Iowa or join Chicago for the first time this season. Prior was scheduled to join the Cubs on Wednesday and a decision on where he'll make his next start could come by Thursday. Prior threw consistently between 90-92 mph.

The Executioner Pulls Plug

2006-06-12T12:19:00.000-07:00

If this is indeed Bernard Hopkins' final fight, he showed how it's done: Stick and move, score a knockdown, go the distance. Result? A unanimous decision over Antonio Tarver for a light heavyweight title.

You gotta love B-Hop, one of my favorite boxers of all time. Here's to a great career and an enjoyable and well deserved retirement.

Cubs ready to sign Irish WR Samardzija

2006-06-12T08:47:00.000-07:00

The Cubs expect to reach a four- or five-year contract agreement later this week with fifth-round draft pick Jeff Samardzija, the Notre Dame wide receiver who is intent on being a professional pitcher.

Wood placed on 15-day DL

2006-06-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

Chicago Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood was placed on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to June 7, because of stiffness in his right shoulder. "I'm not injured, I didn't hurt anything," Wood said Friday. "I think it's something that comes along with shoulder surgery. I've had a tough time recovering and getting this thing ready to go every fifth, sixth or seventh day sometimes. We'll take the time to get it right now and get back before the All-Star break and finish the season healthy."

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Prior pitches five innings in 6-4 win for AA Diamond Jaxx

2006-06-09T13:43:00.000-07:00

Mark Prior allowed three runs and four hits in five innings of a rehab start for Double-A West Tennessee on Thursday night. Prior, who has been on the Chicago Cubs' disabled list all season because of a sore right shoulder, helped the Diamond Jaxx to a 6-4 win over the Birmingham Barons.

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