Ben Maller’s Sports Rumors & Notes

Rumors Archive for November 13, 2006

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NBA Rumors & Notes

Monday, November 13, 2006

It’s been widely understood that current Charlotte Bobcats coach Bernie Bickerstaff will focus on his general manager’s duties at the end of the current season. Given Larry Brown’s connections to this state and minority owner Michael Jordan’s connections to Brown as University of North Carolina alumni, the Brown-to-Charlotte rumors have made the rounds. Denver Nuggets coach George Karl said Sunday he wouldn’t bet on it. Karl and Nuggets assistant coach Doug Moe have been longtime confidantes of Brown, but Karl said he wasn’t sure when or if Brown would get back into the NBA game. “Larry’s all about teaching and this seems like a young, talented team he’d enjoy coaching,” Karl said. “But I probably wouldn’t bet on it.”

The Cavs might be keeping a close eye on the situation developing with the Seattle SuperSonics and point guard Earl Watson. He is unhappy with his playing time and has said so to the media, which prompted coach Bob Hill to make it clear he's unhappy with Watson's attitude. Recently, the Sonics signed starting point guard Luke Ridnour to a contract extension, making Watson the backup for the foreseeable future. ... What the Cavs can offer is salary relief if the Sonics eventually become interested in moving him. Watson has three years and $18.6 million left on his contract. The Cavs have five players with expiring contracts, though one of them, Anderson Varejao, is probably untouchable in such a deal.

Would Kevin Garnett demand to leave? I say no for now as I still believe he plays it out to get to the Lakers. Would it be worth a Bulls shot with P.J. Brown and Michael Sweetney—which is $11 million in expiring contracts to save the Timberwolves money—plus Ben Gordon, Tyrus Thomas (you don't need him if you have Garnett) and a top three protected No. 1 pick? After all, if you have Ben Wallace, you better look to win soon because it doesn't appear he's got the legs for four years. Still, I doubt Garnett is ready to go.

The Spurs haven't ruled out signing Fabricio Scola for themselves. Robert Horry may retire at the end of the season and Oberto, if he wants, can opt out of his contract. Chances are, however, the Spurs will continue to shop Scola's draft rights. His contract demands last summer – three years, $9 million – were more than reasonable for a middle-of-the-rotation player. That's also only a little more than the Spurs paid for Oberto. And while it's only been six games, Scola's countryman looks like a bargain.

While executive Celtics director of basketball operations Danny Ainge has said repeatedly that a season of underachievement will not prompt him to fire Doc Rivers, the coach's seat seems hotter than ever. If the Celtics are playing as hard as Rivers says, then the problems must lie elsewhere.

Will the NBA have to wait longer for Greg Oden? The Ohio Stater who is being called the next great NBA big man probably will not be able to play until midseason with slow-healing wrist surgery, and some teammates speculate he could stay in college another year.

Former Knicks coach Larry Brown spent last season trying to convince Isiah Thomas to trade Channing Frye for a veteran stud. In fact, Brown desperately wanted the Knicks to give up the farm for the Lakers' Lamar Odom. Brown juggled Frye's role, yanking him in and out of the starting lineup. Frye's confidence seemed to get shaken as the season wore on. It may be why Thomas is showing the patience of a monk in keeping Frye in the starting lineup despite his horrifying start to the season. Though David Lee is outplaying Frye dramatically, Thomas won't crack. His latest excuse is he doesn't want to tinker with Lee's role since he was having so much success. But Thomas also may not want to hurt Frye's trade value.

This cannot be what Michael Jordan had in mind for his Charlotte Bobcats. It seems the perfect time to do what the Bulls did, that change-the-culture thing. ... It seems hiring Larry Brown is the obvious answer. Brown is free to pursue any job after "settling" for $18.5 million with the Knicks on his approximately $40 million remaining. With the buyout in Detroit, his 2005-06 salary and the settlement, Brown made $35.5 million for coaching last season. Even Pat Riley had to gasp. The Bobcats have some talent, albeit young, and let's not forget this: Brown is a great coach. He does make teams better, the Knicks being the one exception. Charlotte is the perfect Brown fixer-upper. It's a team crying out for discipline and fundamental development.

All the hope and optimism that Chris Webber expressed during the preseason, when he felt confident he would play more like the player he was before major knee surgery in 2003, has been replaced with gloom and dejection. Webber is struggling with a reduced role that has seen him as likely to be on the 76ers' bench in the fourth quarter as on the court. After yesterday's practice at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Webber said solemnly that he has been asked to change his role but that it was "something that I don't think a player like me should adjust to." "It's not being in in the fourth quarter," he said. "It's things I've never had to deal with before... not being a main part of what's going on. So that's what I have to get used to."

Steve Nash saw the Suns early-season struggles coming. He did — and said — all he could to prevent them during, and even before the preseason. And while the Suns had a rough early-season schedule — both in terms of opponents and logistics — Nash saw it as all the more reason that his team needed to prepare better for what was coming. “Our schedule, the trip and everything, was part of it. I came into camp in better shape than I was when I came back from Italy,” Nash said after the Suns improved to 2-5 by beating Memphis 96-87 Saturday night. “But even before that, absolutely, I thought we weren’t in shape. We were playing with fire. “(Coach) Mike (D’Antoni) gives us a lot of freedom. We don’t have to be in the gym all day long. But that puts the responsibility on each guy to make sure you are prepared, that you do your work. “You could see we were behind. And when that happens, it makes everything harder.”

New federal laws require unions to show their books to the U.S. Department of Labor. So for the first time the NBA Player's Association financial records have become public. It revealed plenty of interesting information. Last fiscal year, the NBA paid the NBA Player's Association $25 million of the league's merchandise and licensing income. Starting with the collective bargaining agreement in 1998, the players started getting a big piece of it, even those who are out of the league or retired. Michael Jordan got a check for $77,000, LeBron James got $40,000. That money is doled out based on service time, not individual sales. That's why Cavs General Manager Danny Ferry got more than James and Jordan, collecting $113,000, the same as Kobe Bryant. But those paled when compared to Cavs broadcaster Scott Williams, who got one of the biggest checks at $137,000. That's even more than Shaquille O'Neal's cut of $121,000.

Celts GM Danny Ainge has alluded to the need for a veteran, and he was all over Allen Iverson last summer. Now it’s a matter of finding the right player at the right price, although money wouldn’t matter if a major talent could be acquired in trade or free agency. It should probably stand to Ainge’s credit that he didn’t just go out and get a few players of age in the offseason. The plan of the president of basketball operations remains to develop young players, keep the ones he wants and trade others for a piece that can bring the puzzle into focus. All he’ll say about it these days is, “We’re not a finished product.”

Sonics guard Earl Watson hinted that he may be better suited playing with another team during his Friday comments, but he has not pursued any move. "I want to be the most professional I can be," he said. "I want to handle it the right way. But on the other hand, I have to communicate what I have to say and hopefully (he and Hill) can talk. If we don't have a chance to talk, it's whatever. This has been one of the most funnest teams I have ever been on. They make me want to be here."

Neither Isiah Thomas nor the Spurs' Bruce Bowen is expected to face further disciplinary action for their conduct during the Knicks' loss to San Antonio on Saturday, a league spokesman said yesterday. Bowen accused Thomas of threatening him during the game, saying the coach said he would "break his neck." Thomas became upset because he felt Bowen was intentionally sticking his foot under Jamal Crawford as the Knick guard was leaving his feet to take a jump shot, a tactic that Bowen has been accused of by Vince Carter and Ray Allen. Both Thomas and Bowen were called for technical fouls. Thomas also shouted to his players that the "next time (Bowen) does that, break his --- foot."

Kenton Martin is scheduled to have left knee arthroscopic surgery at the clinic Thursday morning. The Nuggets forward was diagnosed with having loose bodies in his left knee Nov. 8. While Martin has been projected to be out six to eight weeks, Nuggets trainer Jim Gillen said a better timetable would be known after surgery. Martin also had right knee microfracture surgery in the summer of 2005. "What I'm hearing is it's not that bad," said Martin, comparing his upcoming knee surgery to the previous one. "It's not microfracture surgery. I've got to keep telling myself that to keep me sane." Martin joined the Nuggets on their four-game road trip in Charlotte on Saturday. The 2004 NBA all-star will return to Denver with the Nuggets early Thursday morning and plans to drive to Vail for surgery just hours later. "What do I need to sleep for? When I get under the knife, I can sleep then. I'll be laid up. I'll get enough sleep," said Martin, who isn't certain whether he will stay the night in Vail.

The Bulls made inquiries about Antonio Davis, but he said he is retiring. It seems likely now with Derek Fisher taking over from Davis as president of the players' union.

Several opposing players have suggested officials give Dwyane Wade too much respect. ''He gets a whistle every time you touch him,'' Seattle's Ray Allen said after Tuesday's loss. ''Every time he drives, he's not getting fouled.'' Seattle's Rashard Lewis said the game is called differently for Wade -- ``some other guys, you can be more physical with.''

Andris Biedrins, the Warriors' 20-year-old center, is off to a blistering start this season -- foul shooting aside -- in helping Golden State to its first winning record in 10 months. Not only has Biedrins forced his way into coach Don Nelson's starting lineup, but he's leading fast breaks, getting isolation play calls and cleaning up around the rim. "He's been great," Troy Murphy perfectly summarized.

Nets president Rod Thorn said Richard Jefferson has made good progress and the swelling in his left ankle is considerably reduced. While Thorn wouldn't rule out Jefferson playing Wednesday (tonight against Seattle is out) he also wouldn't bet on it. "Richard has incredible recuperative powers. The swelling had gone down significantly," said Thorn.

Other interesting tidbits include the revealing of union head Billy Hunter's salary, which is $2.1 million. The union also spent $152,000 on tickets to the All-Star Game and tens of thousands more on All-Star Weekend entertainment and hospitality.

76ers star Allen Iverson did not practice yesterday, instead taking treatment for a strain in the calf and Achilles' tendon area. "We'll see how he feels [today], and see how he feels [tomorrow]," Maurice Cheeks sa

Noted Houston coach Jeff Van Gundy about the excitement of getting top draft picks: "Everybody gets excited about youth except the coach, because he knows youth means mistakes, mistakes mean losses, losses mean you're fired."

The Bulls become the first team this season to test what is regarded as the league's toughest road assignment, the so-called "Texas Triangle" of Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. And this season, despite a slow start by the Western champion Mavericks, this may be the best the Texas Three ever have been.

Wizards coach Eddie Jordan still has a close relationship with Nets point guard Jason Kidd and has ties to his alma mater, Rutgers. "As long as Jason Kidd is there and some of those guys left over from the times I was coaching there, with the experiences we shared, it will always be special," Jordan said. "Right now, Gilbert Arenas means a whole lot more to me than Jason Kidd, I'd like to say that. But it is a team I played for and a team I coached to a high level so it's always a special experience to face them."

Who Knew? Former coach Larry Brown's $18 million dollar settlement with the New York Knicks means the mismanaged NBA team will be paying almost $80million to players and a coach no longer on the team

The Knicks will hold a moment of silence tonight for the late Ed Bradley, a season-ticketholder since 1983.

On Election Day, residents rebuffed their once-beloved Seattle SuperSonics, voting overwhelmingly for a ballot measure ending public subsidies for professional sports teams. The owners, who bought the Sonics in October for $350 million from Howard Schultz, the founder of Starbucks, had warned that the team would leave unless the city provided a new arena. The vote delighted Citizens for More Important Things, a group that, with the help of a statewide health care union, spent $60,000 to sponsor the initiative. Other cities “may be so desperate to lure tourists there that they have to overpay for an N.B.A. team,” said Chris Van Dyk, a founder of the group. “Seattle doesn’t have to lure anybody.” Mr. Van Dyk’s priorities are schools, transportation projects and health care, and he openly disdains wealthy people who buy professional teams, pay huge salaries to players and then demand handouts. Owners who threaten to take their teams elsewhere, Mr. Van Dyk said, are no better than “the neighborhood crack cocaine dealer.”

Sonics forward Danny Fortson has a contract with Reebok, but his basketball shoes were giving him calluses. So on Saturday, the 6-foot-8, 280-pound Fortson inconspicuously strolled downtown Atlanta in search of some new shoes. He came upon a Friedman's Shoes looking for a size 16. The salesman had just one pair in 16, and guess what they looked like? Black low tops with a white stripe. "The Reeboks were hurting my feet and I had to buy something just for (Saturday's) game," he said. "If there were a high-top 16, I would have worn it. Actually, I felt comfortable running in them."

Ex-NBA and North Carolina great Michael Jordan told Nuggets guard J.R. Smith that he "should have gone to North Carolina." Smith, who went to the NBA straight from high school, responded: "Yes, sir."

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MLB Rumors & Notes

Monday, November 13, 2006

The Tigers would probably have to part with Jeremy Bonderman in any trade for Mark Teixeira. Aubrey Huff, should they sign him to a free-agent deal, would cost them a first-round draft pick in 2007. ... Do not absolutely rule out Teixeira.

The New York Mets, whose lack of depth in the rotation cost them in the playoffs, plan to push for Dontrelle Willis, according to reports, even though the Marlins rejected their interest last summer. The Mets could offer a package that would include outfielder Lastings Milledge and reliever Aaron Heilman. Or they could dangle pitcher Philip Humber, the third player selected in the 2004 June draft, or Mike Pelfrey, a 6-foot-7 right-hander who was 2-1 last season in four big-league appearances.

The Braves are listening to offers for second baseman Marcus Giles, who appears likely to be dealt for several reasons — his salary ($5.5 million or more in 2007), his pending free agency after next season, and organizational depth in middle-infield prospects. Schuerholz said restoring the pitching staff to an elite level remains his top priority — as difficult as that might appear considering the team's payroll constraints. San Diego and Cincinnati are among teams interested in Giles. The Padres have a setup reliever the Braves covet, Scott Linebrink.

The Orioles, according to a source, have discussed signing outfielder J.D. Drew, who recently opted out of his contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Sammy Sosa hopes to decide within a couple of months about returning to baseball. "If I go, I'm going to go because I know I'm going to make it," he said. "I'm ready, and if somebody wants my services, then definitely I've got to be ready 100 percent. "I played this game for 17 years at the major-league level, and I put up beautiful numbers. I'm not going to go up there to embarrass myself. No way, Jose."

It's not clear that Seattle can be a big player in landing a major offensive threat. They'd love to sign Carlos Lee as the left fielder (Raul Ibanez would move to right) or, maybe, Nomar Garciaparra as a full-time DH. Garciaparra's younger brother, Michael, is in the Mariners' minor league system, and playing with family might be a lure for the longtime star shortstop who moved to first base this year for the Dodgers. A longer shot -- much longer -- is DH Frank Thomas, who revived his career in Oakland this season. Another intriguing thought, especially considering that his left-handed swing is ideal for Safeco Field, is Barry Bonds, but the Mariners aren't believed to covet him.

The Phillies are believed to have joined the Alfonso Soriano sweepstakes as the general managers' meetings take place in Naples, Fla. "We've had some discussions with some players," assistant general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said cryptically. Asked if he believed whether the 5-year, $73 million deal Ramirez got would inflate the market for Soriano, who generally is considered a slightly higher-rated player, Amaro was noncommittal. "We'll see. It depends on how people evaluate Soriano," Amaro said. "A lot of people see Ramirez as a more valuable player than Soriano." The Phillies are not among them. They are expected to offer Soriano as much as $15 million a season for as many as 6 years.

Some in the industry and close to the San Diego organization wouldn't be stunned to see Jake Peavy traded, citing the Padres' penchant for dealing players as their heaviest salaries come due; the emergence of starters Chris Young and Clay Hensley, who combined will make about $1 million; and Peavy's shoulder flare-ups in May and in a second consecutive September.

Perhaps Astros GM Tim Purpura's biggest headache this offseason is deciding what to do at third base, where Morgan Ensberg, Aubrey Huff and Mike Lamb are in the mix. Ensberg had a miserable, injury-filled 2006, prompting a trade for Huff at midseason. Huff, who is younger and has better credentials than Ensberg, would like to return to the Astros, but at what price? Ensberg is arbitration eligible and figures to draw interest on the trade market. Purpura spoke last week with Seth Levinson, the agent for Huff, about possibly bringing him back in 2007, a move that would almost certainly signal an end to Ensberg's days in Houston.

Trading Freddy Garcia, Javier Vazquez or Mark Buehrle would free up at least $9.5 million, money that would come in handy in the White Sox pursuit of a leadoff hitter and for a raise for arbitration-eligible third baseman Joe Crede. "It's all going to depend on what they can get for each guy," said a veteran American League scout, who ranked Buehrle ahead of Garcia and Vazquez in terms of trade value. "They might not be able to get a reliever and a prospect by dealing any of those three guys, but it should help them address their needs this off-season."

GM Jim Hendry turned up the volume on the off-season, confirming the Cubs' interest in Alfonso Soriano. The free-agent outfielder with the ability to lead off, hit 40-plus home runs and steal 40 or more bases is reportedly seeking a seven-year deal that could be worth more than $100 million, making him the most expensive position player available.

The Angels will probably intensify their efforts to sign free-agent slugger Alfonso Soriano. They are also pursuing free-agent center fielder Gary Matthews Jr. If the Angels' bid for Japanese right-hander Daisuke Matsuzaka falls short, they will probably make a strong push to sign free-agent left-hander Barry Zito and look to use one of their young pitchers — Ervin Santana, Jered Weaver or Joe Saunders — in a trade for a slugger such as Toronto's Vernon Wells, Baltimore's Miguel Tejada or possibly Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez.

The Astros have put together a list of free agents they plan to pursue, a list that includes hitters Alfonso Soriano, Carlos Lee and Gary Matthews Jr. and pitchers Jeff Suppan, Woody Williams and Kip Wells. A trade is also a possibility. "I wouldn't rule out anything at this point," said Tim Purpura when asked if the Astros might make some news this week. "Some clubs are starting to make some trades."

The spendthrift Yankees and pitcher-hungry Blue Jays reportedly are interested in Randy Wolf as a second or third option, so his final decision might be delayed as other pieces fall into place. People close to him have said that Wolf, in the past months, has made preparations to leave the Philadelphia area. Amaro said negotiations with Wolf remain static, but he indicated that the Phillies would be competitive with any offer. "A lot of it depends on whether Wolfie wants to come back," Amaro said.

Talks about a deal for outfielder J.D. Drew or shortstop Julio Lugo, both free agents believed to be high on the Red Sox’ wish list, could pick up steam at these meetings. Or, the Red Sox could discover that an outfielder or shortstop previously thought of as untouchable is on the trading block. A starting pitcher of Beckett’s caliber - Jake Peavy, anyone? - could become a popular topic.

The Devil Rays already have made modest steps toward becoming players in the free-agent market. Inquiries have been made about former All-Star starter Mark Mulder, whose shoulder surgery this past season made him a potential free-agent bargain.

Major League Baseball is determined to get a better grip on its baseballs. Before arriving Sunday at the general managers' meetings, Joe Garagiola Jr. met with team equipment managers last week to determine how teams store their baseballs. The league would like more uniformity, which is why there will be discussion midweek about the feasibility of other clubs adding humidors, the computer-calibrated, climate-controlled shed used by the Rockies. "We want to know where they go from the moment they arrive until they are used in the game," said Garagiola Jr., MLB's senior vice president of operations, Sunday afternoon. "We didn't know as much as we would like about how the baseballs are kept." No one provides more specific data and bread crumb paths of their baseballs than the Rockies. Still, the Rockies' humidor drew loud grousing that morphed into suspicion last season. Teams averaged an all-time low 10.72 runs and 2.07 home runs per game at Coors Field, drawing public complaints from managers Grady Little of the Los Angeles Dodgers and ex-Oakland skipper Ken Macha to players such as Arizona slugger Luis Gonzalez and Milwaukee's Jeff Cirillo. One clever reader dubbed the baseballs Spongeball Square-pants.

The left-handed Barry Zito, who may wind up making the most money of any of the pitchers out there, is kindly disposed to Seattle. A close compatriot of Zito told the P-I this week, "Barry absolutely loves Seattle," but the Mariners, who have something around $20 million to spend, may find the price to high.

The Rays also reportedly were one of several teams (including the Padres) to place a bid with the Japanese League Yakult Swallows to try to secure negotiating rights on 27-year-old third baseman Akinori Iwamura. Iwamura, who helped Japan win the inaugural World Baseball Classic and has won five Gold Gloves in Japan, could be a fit at third base (where B.J. Upton finished this past season) or at second base if Jorge Cantu is traded.

The Orioles have interest in free agent pitchers Mark Mulder and Gil Meche. "This [ Jaret Wright trade] does not preclude us from pursuing another starter," Duquette said.

General manager Jim Hendry denied the Cubs have closed the door on re-signing center fielder Juan Pierre but said they would look for replacements while he gauges his value as one of the top available leadoff men.

It's possible the Padres could be adding a Giles – Braves second baseman Marcus, which would fulfill the dream of the Giles brothers to play on the same team. But Brian Giles, a right fielder whose best spot is left field, could draw trade interest from clubs that believe Giles has better value outside of Petco Park and are looking to move a big contract. Giles, who will turn 36 in January, is guaranteed $9 million in 2007 and $12 million in 2008.

There is another free-agent pitcher who claims Northwest roots. Adam Eaton, who is from Snohomish, is a pitcher high on the Seattle radar, both because the soon-to-be 29-year-old has a good upside (54-45 with a 4.40 career ERA) and shouldn't break the bank.

On San Diego's trade front, teams such as the Braves and Yankees have flashed interest in reliever Scott Linebrink and there are reports that outfielders Ben Johnson and Brian Giles could be available.

The Rockies will resume negotiations with Kaz Matsui today and could re-sign him by midweek. ... Colorado must demonstrate deep pockets to stay in the hunt for center fielder Dave Roberts.

There are other pitchers in Japan. On Friday, the Hanshin Tigers said they would grant left-handed starter Kei Igawa's longtime request and would post him. Igawa's posting won't cost that much. But he does present some interesting assets. He's only 27, one year older than Matsuzaka. He's left-handed, always a plus. And he has numbers, including a 93-mph fastball that has led to three Central League strikeout titles, including this season, when he fanned 194. A 20-game winner in 2003, he was 14-9 this season with a 2.97 ERA. ... Seattle general manager Bill Bavasi won't comment on Igawa, or on any of the free agents on the market. But a lower price tag -- the posting fee goes to the player's old club, and a contract still must be negotiated with the player -- makes Igawa a less costly alternative for the Mariners.

Among the other free agents who could fit Tampa Bay's needs and price range are Angels second baseman Adam Kennedy, Rangers starter Adam Eaton, Cardinals starters Jeff Weaver and Jason Marquis, Marlins third baseman Wes Helms and Brewers reliever Dan Kolb. Former Rays closer Danys Baez and former Rays shortstop Julio Lugo also are free agents who could fit right back in with their old club, but both are expected to command more money than the Rays would be willing to pay.

Jose Valentin has agreed to a contract with the Mets that will more than quadruple his salary. Valentin has agreed to terms on a one-year deal with a vesting option for 2008 that would guarantee him $4 million - and considerably more if the option vests. It's a huge pay raise for the 37-year-old infielder, who earned a relatively economical $912,500 last season and reportedly was courted by a handful of other teams this month. The vesting option for 2008 is based on plate appearances, and the agreement was reached pending a physical.

The Phils have indicated they are interested in Joe Borowski and David Weathers for their bullpen and Miguel Batista and Jeff Suppan for their starter vacancy.

There may be more competition at catcher. The Rockies are concerned enough about Yorvit Torrealba's recovery from shoulder injuries to express interest in starters, among them Rod Barajas. They are also attempting to sign Geronimo Gil, late of Baltimore, to a minor-league deal.

Scratch the ridiculous rumors of the Cardinals having an interest in signing Barry Bonds; there's nothing to it. If the Cardinals make a run at any prominent free-agent hitter, it will be Alfonso Soriano.

Of all the free agents who are searching for a way to land in the winner's circle more often, Seattle free agent Gil Meche ought to take a hard look at the Cardinals, if they're interested. Because Meche seems like the ideal project for Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan. Meche has a power arm and a good breaking ball, but mentally can't seem to put things together. Duncan can help. But if other teams are willing to wildly overpay for Meche, forget about it.

Though the Marlins will listen to offers for anyone, a team official said the payroll has been raised enough to afford Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera (who could combine to top $12 million).

It's on to Plan B already for the Angels, whose top free-agent target, Aramis Ramirez, fell off the market Sunday when the third baseman signed a five-year, $73-million deal to remain with the Chicago Cubs. "The first person who called me when the deal was announced was Bill Stoneman, and he was pretty disappointed," Paul Kinzer, Ramirez's agent, said of the Angels general manager. "If Aramis left Chicago, he probably would have gone to Anaheim — it was the best fit outside of the Cubs. But Chicago came in with their last bullet, and Aramis didn't want to leave."

Philadelphia is making a strong push for free agent Wes Helms, with GM Pat Gillick visiting him in Alabama. Helms wants to play every day, which Florida can't guarantee.

Ron Gardenhire said all his coaches have signed contracts and will be back. And former Twins player and coach Paul Molitor and ex-manager Tom Kelly will be back in their same roles working with minor leaguers.

Washington's Manny Acta, 37, is set to be the youngest manager in the majors. (Cleveland's Eric Wedge is 38.) The players who know Acta, though, seem unconcerned by that. "I don't think it'll matter for us at all," Chad Cordero said. "I really don't think it matters what age anybody is. If the guy can manage, he can manage."

Jose Valentin is expected to return as the Mets' starter at that position, but with utility infielder Chris Woodward also a free agent, the source said the Valentin signing does not preclude the Mets from pursuing another middle infielder from among free agents Julio Lugo, Mark DeRosa or Rich Aurilia.

The Mets must hire a replacement for third base coach Manny Acta, who will be named the Nationals' new manager tomorrow. The official said Acta's successor will "not necessarily" come from within the Mets' organization, but minor-league employees Ken Oberkfell, Howard Johnson and Gary Carter figure to be the leading internal candidates.

Chris Britton's numbers in three separate stints with Baltimore were fairly impressive. He was 0-2 with a 3.35 ERA in 52 games. He whiffed 41 and walked 17 in 532/3 innings, holding hitters to a .228 average (righties batted only .186). Of all AL rookies with more than 40 innings, he had the third lowest ERA. Yanks GM Brian Cashman liked Britton's strong arm and ability to "put it where he wants to." He's the only one of the four right-handers the team has acquired in the previous three days that is expected to challenge for a spot on the 2007 opening-day roster.

Asked if he planned to talk to Mark McGwire and encourage the former Cardinals slugger to address the issue of performance-enhancing drugs in order to increase his Hall of Fame chances, Sosa was non-committal. "If anybody comes to me and asks for advice, definitely I am going to help—that's me," he said. "When you're talking about Mark McGwire … [he belongs in] the Hall of Fame."

Despite having filed for free agency, look for Twins pitcher Brad Radke, 34, who was paid $9 million this year, to announce his retirement at a Metrodome new conference next month.

Who Knew? Since the rookie of the year award was first given out in 1947, no rookie has hit more doubles than Nats 3B Ryan Zimmerman's 47; he is tied with St. Louis's Albert Pujols (2001), Boston's Fred Lynn (1975) and Cincinnati's Vada Pinson (1959). Among NL rookies during that time, only Pujols, St. Louis's Ray Jablonski (1953) and Los Angeles' Mike Piazza (1993) drove in more runs than Zimmerman's 110.

Phillies manager Charlie Manuel will join the Phils' GMs in Naples, Fla., for at least part of this week. It is unusual for managers to attend GM meetings. Manuel's presence indicates that the Phils will be interviewing candidates to replace Art Howe, who last week joined the Rangers as bench coach after accepting a job last month as the Phillies' third base coach. Manuel has insisted that he wants an accomplished third base coach with major-league experience.

This afternoon, the Baseball Writers' Association of America will kick off its awards season by naming the National League's rookie of the year, an honor for which Nationals 3B Ryan Zimmerman is a front-runner, joining Florida second baseman Dan Uggla, shortstop Hanley Ramirez and pitcher Josh Johnson, among others. "I've looked at the numbers a couple of times," Zimmerman said. "It's going to be close."

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NFL Rumors & Notes

Monday, November 13, 2006

Bears GM Jerry Angelo held off on pursuing a contract extension past 2007 for Rex Grossman over the last several weeks. The body of work as well as the body of the quarterback was understandably not proved solid enough yet. But before the big victory over the Giants, Angelo assessed Grossman's status. "We like Rex," he said. "He's still a work in progress. [Sunday] is his 16th start, so it's still early. "The things we see for the most part have been pretty good. When he has a poor game, it's obviously bothersome, and I'm not going to say it's no big deal. It's going to take some time, and then we'll be in a better position to evaluate him. It's not like we have to make a decision right now. "But nobody is thinking he isn't the answer."

Mike McCarthy wants Brett Favre to play again next season and aims to convince him to return, according to Fox Sports reporter Jay Glazer. Glazer reported on "Fox NFL Sunday" that the Packers' coach disclosed his intentions for the Green Bay Packers quarterback during an interview Saturday night. Glazer was the sideline reporter for the Packers' game at Minnesota on Sunday afternoon on Fox, working with play-by-play announcer Kenny Albert and analyst Brian Baldinger. "Everybody talks about him retiring," Glazer said, referring to Favre. "But (Saturday) night, his head coach, Mike McCarthy, told me, 'I am going to try to convince Brett to come back one more year.' "

CBS NFL "insider" Charley Casserly said Sunday that if Bill Cowher quits coaching Pittsburgh, the Steelers will promote offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt to head coach.

Hot seat: Jim Mora, Falcons head coach. Consecutive losses to two of the league's worst teams (Lions, Browns) puts Mora behind the 8-ball. A second straight season out of the playoffs could secure his fate if Atlanta doesn't get it together.

Pats DE Richard Seymour had his playing time limited in yesterday's game, and hinted that it wasn't his choice. "I just go when my number is called. I don't say when I go in and come out," Seymour said. "We have coaches who tell us some of those rotations. We leave it up to them. Obviously, you don't always agree with everything that goes on, but you respect it. But you definitely don't have to agree with everything." Seymour acknowledged that he isn't 100 percent, with his left elbow and groin nagging him.

The Redskins record, is likely to intensify the calls for quarterback Jason Campbell, a first-round pick in 2005, to start after being inactive for 27 games. Joe Gibbs said he had no immediate thoughts about making a quarterback change, although he did have veteran backup Todd Collins warming up in the final minutes with the outcome no longer in question.

Bucs GM Bruce Allen asked about the future of QB Chris Simms in Tampa: "I think it's early for that. I think those type of questions are more for his representatives than they are for us. "We're going to continue that dialogue. He's here every day."

Lions head coach Rod Marinelli also dismissed the possibility of a quarterback change from Jon Kitna to Josh McCown. "I believe in him 100 percent. What he brings to the table, I've seen him have some games where he's started slow and he finishes really strong," Marinelli said. "He's got that great mental toughness to him. And he's got the leadership I'm looking for. That would be why." Marinelli also cautioned against jumping to conclusions that Detroit's struggling offense was the fault of the quarterback.

The Titans are expected to welcome defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth back today as long as the team's medical staff is satisfied with the steps he's taken in dealing with anger management issues during the past six weeks. Haynesworth and his representatives are scheduled to meet with the Titans, who want assurances that Haynesworth has taken the proper steps. The NFL suspended Haynesworth for five games after he stomped on Cowboys center Andre Gurode's helmet-less face during a game on Oct. 1.

Whatever the Rams can salvage in this rapidly deteriorating season, they must now do without one of the game's best left tackles. Seven-time Pro Bowler Orlando Pace is out for the year with a torn muscle in his left arm. Pace suffered the triceps injury on an innocent-looking play with 5 minutes left in the second quarter. "It was really kind of a freak thing," Pace said. "I was just punching out, which I've been doing my whole life. But on this one, it kind of snapped."

Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis likely will miss about a month with a broken right hand, an injury that could end what has been a decidedly uneven season for him and his team. Bubba Tyer, the Redskins' director of sports medicine, said Portis would undergo surgery as soon as today to repair the fourth metacarpal bone in his right hand, which is the bone that runs below the ring finger. Tyer said Portis would have screws inserted to stabilize the bone, but that the injury would be particularly difficult for Portis, because as a running back he must be comfortable gripping the football. Portis is right-handed.

Just in case. That was the only reason Cowboys linebacker Greg Ellis returned to the field. He already had been carted off in the third quarter with an injury. He wanted to be able to walk off. And after the Cowboys wrapped up their 27-10 win against the Arizona Cardinals, there was Ellis in sweat pants and a hat, "walking" off the field. On crutches. He did it just in case. Because after tearing his left Achilles' tendon in the third quarter Sunday, his season is over. And, maybe, his career. "I wanted to walk off initially because you deal with the reality of stuff, and I don't plan for it to be my last game," said Ellis, 31. "But, in case it is, I can say I went back out there and walked off without somebody carting me off. That's important to me." After Ellis' successful switch from end to linebacker during training camp, losing him could be devastating to the Cowboys' defense.

Charles Tillman's contract, like that of fellow Bears cornerback Nathan Vasher, expires after the 2007 season. Tillman is making $845,000 in the final year of his original five-year deal and would become an unrestricted free agent after that contact, unless his deal is extended. His future with the team beyond that is uncertain at best. The Bears already have said they'd be interested in talking about an extension of Vasher's contract after this season. No. 3 cornerback Ricky Manning Jr. received a $21 million deal prior to this year.

WR Bethel Johnson is signed for just this season, but he said he hoped to stay with the Vikings.

Ricky Williams admitted it will be difficult to say so long to the CFL and his Argos teammates. At least the goodbyes don't necessarily have to be forever, should the NFL star have the desire to return. Argos president Keith Pelley said last night that Williams will return to the Miami Dolphins next season, as he is contractually obligated to do. But Pelley is hopeful Williams' year in Double Blue was enjoyable enough for the 29-year-old to consider a return before his playing days are done. "I certainly gave him an open invitation to come back here when he is finished in the NFL," Pelley said amid the gloom of the Argos post-game dressing room after a 33-24 loss to the Montreal Alouettes in the CFL East final. "If he plays two or three years down there, hopefully he'll come back up and end his career in the CFL. I think he is very open to that."

The Bears designed a special orthopedic shoe for LB Brian Urlacher and covered it in "goo" to further protect his foot. He said he was close to 100 percent, and pain was not a factor. "I didn't really feel it," Urlacher said. "At the beginning I was a little worried—not worried, but it was in the back of my mind. It feels good, and I was able to run around and do some things."

Is Marty Booker worth keeping at $3.1 million next season? Word is Miami wants to add a speedy playmaker at receiver. But with the cap increasing to $109 million, a dynamic finish might convince the Dolphins to retain Booker, especially if they can't sign anyone better. Derek Hagan's development also plays into this.

Giants left tackle Luke Petitgout was forced out with a fracture to his left fibula. The injury could be season-ending, but while walking out of the locker room on crutches, Petitgout said he expected to be back. "I'll be fine . . . a couple of weeks," said Petitgout, who was encouraged to hear the broken bone is not weight-bearing. "Guys have played with it before." Petitgout will be re-evaluated today. Bob Whitfield, a 35-year-old, 15-year veteran, replaced Petitgout and struggled, getting beat twice by defensive end Alex Brown for sacks of Eli Manning.

Braylon Edwards had a message for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are coming to Cleveland on Sunday. ``We're coming after their (butts),'' Edwards said after the Browns' 17-13 win over the Atlanta Falcons. Edwards' pointed remark came as a result of the Steelers' 41-0 drubbing of the Browns on Christmas Eve of last season, a game Edwards watched at home due to an injured knee. ``This is not a situation where they say the past is the past,'' Edwards said. ``No. The hell with that. We're coming after their (butt). You don't beat somebody 41-0 at their own house. ``We're coming for the Steelers. Point-blank, period.''

Raiders QB Aaron Brooks watched the game in uniform for the first time since straining a chest muscle in Week 2. He was listed as the inactive third quarterback after practicing all week. Brooks' return date has not been set. "I haven't seen enough yet," coach Art Shell said. "He threw better last week than he did the previous week, so I'll find out where he is."

Redskins safety Adam Archuleta did not play in any defensive series during Sunday's 27-3 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Archuleta played on special teams, both on kickoffs and punt coverage, and was credited with one special teams tackle, but for the first time this season he did not play a prominent role on defense.

Chiefs coach Herm Edwards said he’ll know Tuesday whether Trent Green will be cleared to fully participate in all practice drills, seemingly the final step before his veteran quarterback can play. “I’m going to sit down and talk with him,” Edwards said, “and see what the doctors say.” Green has been out since Sept. 10 because of a severe concussion and spent another Sunday on the sidelines. His friend Damon Huard had led the Chiefs to a 5-2 record as a starter before Sunday, but the offense sputtered in Miami. Edwards said the developments would not prompt him to rush Green’s return. “No, no no,” Edwards said. “No way.”