You get props…..

1-Jim Thome, Jeremy Guthrie and Gregg Zaun

“Sliced bread is actually the best thing since Gregg Zuan.”

OH, LOL! Relax Baltimore; we’ve been waiting for our power-hitting catcher! He’s just a few years older than what we expected.

And by a few years, I mean 64.

But he did have 4 more RBI than Matt Wieters Sunday. He should probably be the permanent catcher for Jeremy Guthrie; who, for a day at least, resembled a pitcher again.

I resembled a pitcher once. Unfortunately it was this pitcher……

(I like to call him “The Dominican Bachman” myself)

2-Troy Aikman, Lou Holtz, John Cooper, Thurman Thomas, Jay Novacek, Jim Donnan, Randall McDaniel, and Roger Brown

John Cooper’s special day wasn’t quite the same after he realized Lloyd Carr had beat him to the induction ceremony.

It was strange to hear Lou Holtz open his speech by saying “I’m happy to be here and all, but I just don’t know if I’m good enough. I really have no idea how I can compete with a fella like Jim Donnan. He’s just so good. We’re lucky to be here. I don’t think we have a chance of winning.”

Troy Aikman and Jay Novacek said they were thankful to have the chance to remember their life before their pro careers. They only wished their teammate Michael Irvin was capable of doing the same thing.

All of these one-liners are just part of the new “Glenn Clark’s corny one-liner” Comedy Class which will be available this semester at the Community College of Baltimore County. It isn’t actually a credited class; just an excuse for me to try to surround myself by pretty girls with low standards.

3-Bo Van Pelt and Rick Rhoden

Bo Van Pelt won the golf tournament this weekend that you were allowed to play in if you weren’t good enough to play in the other actually important golf tournament. You know-the one that was nearly won by a guy who retired 15 years ago.

Does Bo Van Pelt really get a trophy for that accomplishment? REALLY?

The event Rhoden won was called the “I don’t watch golf when the talented players play; why in the hell would I watch when the guys who aren’t talented play?” Open. It’s some sort of celebrity event; which still confuses me as to why Rhoden is there.

But thanks to Deadspin for this screen shot of Michael Jordan and an inflatable penis. You didn’t read that wrong; it’s just Michael Jordan and an inflatable penis. Which reminds me of the average Thursday at my grandparents’ house.

4-Brandon Snyder, Wally Crancer, Nathan Moreau, Patrick Kantakevich, and Matt Hobgood

Thus far in his pro career, Matt Hobgood has given up one run on hits over 1 inning; and has committed one error.

I was going to make a crack here about how he was already better than Rich Hill; but I’m a little concerned about Rich Hill’s self confidence. Look at the poor kid…..

I’d say he could drown his sorrows with 3-400 beers; but he can’t legally drink for another 5 years.

(Editor’s note: Please tell me his baseball card doesn’t look like one of those cards you had in Little League. Hilarious!)

5-Robin Soderling

Won a tennis tournament this weekend. You’d probably care more, but you thought Robin Soderling did the song “Show Me Love” in 1993.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anxalMu9zoM[/youtube]

6-Alberto Contador

Seriously, why the hell does EVERYONE IN THE WORLD have a better name than I do? Helio Castroneves? Dario Franchitti? Steele Stanwick? ALBERTO FREAKING CONTADOR????????

Clearly their parents loved me more than my parents loved me. Which I’m just going to have to live with.

Lance Armstrong apparently won’t be winning the Tour De France. Which only means that the Tour de France’s ratings will again be a 2 instead of a 5.

(Editor’s note: Those ratings points aren’t in millions.)

7-John Lackey, J.A. Happ, Jason Marquis, Dan Haren, Clayton Kershaw, Roy Oswalt, and Bronson Arroyo

You know what. I take it all back. J.A. Happ’s name is actually Jay Happ. HAHA! Someone’s parents loved them less than my parents loved me!!!!!!!

(Editor’s note: My parents really do love me. With that in mind, can I borrow like $100? And by “borrow”, I mean “spend on beer and never pay you back.”)

That’s a picture of Bronson Arroyo and a person who I assume must be a close family friend.

Don’t get too suicidal just yet. I mean, if you heard this, you’d sleep with him too….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjhrMWhB6Uo[/youtube]

8-Michael Phelps

God is this a stretch. I’m honoring Michael Phelps for winning more ESPY awards than anyone else; and the ESPY awards were actually taped on Wednesday; then aired on Sunday.

Of course, this gave me the perfect opportunity to find out what else was on TV Sunday night; because I’d rather have a giant wart on my foot than watch the ESPY’s.

(Editor’s note: the last line was probably only funny to my friend Julie; who recently had a wart removed from her foot. She’d be really embarrassed if she ever knew I wrote this publicly, but she’s a pretty girl; so there’s no chance she’ll ever read it. Yeah, pretty girls ignore me. It’s like high school all over again.)

Back to the point; as I Facebooked Sunday night (and if you’re not my Facebook friend, your life isn’t quite as meaningful), having the ESPY’s as the only sports viewing option Sunday night; I decided to give Brooke Knows Best a shot.

Who am I kidding? I watch every week.

9-Nik Caner-Medley

This is going to come as a surprise to you; but I had no idea Nik Caner-Medley was playing for the LA Clippers’ Summer League team. No, I’m serious. I stopped stalking him 7 months ago.

After hitting a pull-up jumper over Wizards guard Nick Young, Caner-Medley laughed and said “I’m from Maryland. Nobody can beat me.”

GOD IT NEVER GETS OLD!!!!!!

10-Garrett Jones, Albert Pujols, and Alfonso Soriano

In other baseball news; Orlando Hudson will reportedly end up collecting more than double his salary thanks to an incentive-laden contract. No word on whether the Orioles can seek an incentive-laden refund from Felix Pie.

11-The Blackberry Commercial with U2 doing “I’ll Go Crazy If I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight”

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caQYB7eKaCg[/youtube]

Never before have I wanted to buy a Blackberry, spend 100 dollars to see a band from the upper deck of a football stadium; AND somehow try to change my life to make myself a better person. You want the definition of effective advertising? Holy crap.

12-Kyle Busch and NASCAR

With newspapers no longer being able to afford to send motorsports writers across the country to watch grown men drive cars; NASCAR has figured out another way to fill their press boxes, and it is absolutely a smart idea. Bloggers can now apply for credentials to NASCAR races. Well, bloggers NASCAR approves of anyway. Which truly does go to show that anyone can have a voice in the era of new media. Even if their thoughts are WAY off base. Sorta like this noted NASCAR follower…..

13-D2: The Mighty Ducks

Look, my TV was just as confused as you’d imagine when I flipped to the Hallmark Channel Saturday morning. My TV actually said to me “Dude, you don’t even let your girlfriend watch this channel.”

But if you don’t think this is the most inspiring scene in the history of movies, kindly leave.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyVF1glhAfk[/youtube]

I wish I could explain this further, but this scene lead to my best friend (noted musician John Chambers of “The Waywords”; whose new record is available on iTunes and I’ll charge him for that plug later) nearly having to go to the hospital before Artscape Saturday. Use your imagination.

14-Smoothie King’s “Caribbean Way”

Are they a sponsor? Who cares. They’re AMAZING. This is what God intended for us to drink. (He intended for us to eat Chick-Fil-A chicken sandwiches if you’re asking.)

15-Robert Randolph

HOLY CRAP WHAT WAS THIS??????

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkDH1wON7UU[/youtube]

I think I just got pregnant.

I can only pray that anyone who attended Artscape Saturday night realized just what it was they were witnessing. July 18, 2009 will forever be remembered as the day that one man saved the city of Baltimore.

One of our former interns had to leave right after Robert’s 2nd song. My girlfriend (You know her-”The Luckiest Dang Gal on the Face of the Planet”) looked at me and said “Where is she going?” I looked back and said “I don’t know. But I know this much. It’s not as good as here.”

Did anyone notice the sharp-looking Joe Flacco jersey Robert’s bassist-Danyel-was sporting? I wonder where that came from…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmazjnzllJA[/youtube]

Oh right. You’re welcome Baltimore.

You got lucky……..

1-Kenny Cooper Jr. and Nicci Wright

Holy crap we almost lost to Panama???? Why the hell are all of our good players playing for money right now???? Poor Bob Bradley had to let Jason Berken play!!!!!

In news completely unrelated to soccer; hearing the name Nicci Wright (the Washington women’s team’s coach who pitched a shutout when pressed into action as a goalkeeper) reminded me that adult film actress Nikki Benz is attractive…..

She pitched a shutout once too. Yeah, in my pants! High five!

2-Stewart Cink

This is really a shame. I was looking forward to seeing Tom Watson drink from the Claret Jug. Of course it would have been prune juice; but I bet it would have been a wild party nonetheless.

Congratulations to Stewart Cink for beating up an old man. I’d be more upset, but it’s golf. I legitimately picked Nick Faldo to win the damn thing the other day. Tom Watson winning wouldn’t have been an amazing accomplishment; this is the same sport that has crowned John Daly king on more than one occasion.

3-The guy standing outside Erin Andrews’ peephole………

…….for now.

Let’s admit two things here:

One-we all think whoever is responsible is a creep who deserves to suffer a lawsuit and/or prison time. He’s the lowest of low human beings; and completely disgusting.

Two-Not one of us can really admit to having not Googled “Erin Andrews peephole” at some point this weekend.

Look man, if it didn’t exist; I would have never searched. (Editor’s note: That’s probably not true. I probably would have searched at some point in my life even if I didn’t know it existed. There’s always a hope, right?)

Also, I don’t really get the fascination this country has with Erin Andrews. I mean, there are other hot chicks in the world of sports, aren’t there?

Okay, maybe that wasn’t the best example.

4-Oscar Salazar

You mean to tell me that I don’t have to play for the Orioles anymore?

And I get to move here……?

This is a joke, right? You’re all just having fun with old Oscar; aren’t you???

5-Maikon Bonani

Haven’t heard the story? The South Florida kicker fell 30 feet from an amusement park ride and is apparently okay.

I remember growing up I always felt like the people who were running the potentially dangerous thrill rides at my favorite amusement parks were probably expertly trained, highly paid, and easily the most responsible people in the world. If lives were in peril; they would be immediately available to step in and save the day.

But after a recent trip to a local amusement park (the one in Largo. It will remain nameless.), I have now become very aware that the ride operators are about as qualified for difficult situations as I am to talk about Sonya Sotomayor. Who I think will make a hell of a Secretary of State whenever the UN gets around to giving her the ol’ thumbs up.

(Editor’s Note: Please don’t tell me it is spelled “Sonia.” This was a bit. “Sonia” Sotomayor is going to be the next attorney general. I know that. I’m not stupid.)

(Editor’s 2nd Note: Does anyone else find it funny that I write these notes as the “editor” when I don’t actually do any editing? I usually just type out whatever nonsense comes to my mind at 1am and then I allow Intern Steven Patrick to tell me Monday morning that I spelled “figuratively” as “pineapple.” Look man, we all make mistakes.)

6-Anyone who got their news from Walter Cronkite

You had one of the great newsmen of all-time. We have Andy Rooney bitching about fruit.

[metacafe]http://www.metacafe.com/watch/cb-pXIzaMIWUQXMZ1WQCjdxuZ_DjqzCD1_l/rooney_eat_more_fruit/[/metacafe]

7-Nerds

Could you imagine a better weekend to come out of your parents’ basement? I mean, not only did Harry Potter come out and make something like 100 trillion dollars; but Baltimore became the world’s nerd hub for the weekend….

Thanks to Examiner.com for the picture of……..that. Otakon hit the Baltimore Convention Center, and from what I can tell; Otakon is basically just the same as your average downtown bar or club. Everyone there is just trying to get laid. The only difference is that most of the people at your average bar or club have actually gotten laid before.

You’re a zero……

(CORRECTED MONDAY AFTER MY POOR MISTAKE. MY APOLOGIES TO MICHAEL KAY, WHO I AM GUESSING PROBABLY DOES NOT READ THIS ANYWAY…..)

John Sterling

On Friday night, I heard something so vile I almost threw my beer across the room.

“Long fly ball……….that’s a Tex Message, to the 2nd deck. You’re on the mark, Teixeira!”

I want to drive to New York tomorrow to boo both of them. That’s worse than the “A-Bomb for A-Rod.”

Ugh.

-G

This is a depressing weekend for me. This will be the first time since August I will not be including my “weekend picks”, as no local college teams are playing football, basketball, or lacrosse.

I could pick the Orioles’ games; but that’s just depressing.

However, I do have a question. Is anyone going down to Nationals Park this weekend that might not have gone to a game had the series been at OPACY? I fall into that category myself, as I will be headed down Sunday, and admittedly wouldn’t go this weekend if the Birds were at home. But the chance to go down at yell at some Redskins fans DOES appeal to me.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…..

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester ‘not shocked’ O’s swept in New York

Bob Haynie getting ‘agitated’ by Orioles’ losing

Chris Bonetti says Tillman, ‘rest of cavalry’ ready to take Eaton’s spot in rotation

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says with rotation spot possibly in question, Eaton hammered in loss to Yankees

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of sweep

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Orioles ‘see themselves’ in interleague foe Nationals (they’re both terrible)

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Rich Hill, Birds travel to Nationals Park to open interleague play tonight vs. Jordan Zimmermann, Nats

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Elias Sports Bureau confirms Reimold first player to hit first MLB home run off future Hall of Famer Rivera

Yankees Official Site’s Bryan Hoch says Chamberlain leaves with injury in 1st, Yanks win anyway

Tides Official Site says Berken ‘effective’, but gets no decision in loss to Rochester

Baysox Official Site says Altoona’s John Lincoln dominant in shutout win over Bowie

Keys Official Site says Beato gave up 2 runs over 6 innings to lift Frederick to win over Lynchburg

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says 43,000 at Yankee Stadium to see Bombers sweep Birds

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Izturis could return to lineup tonight

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Huff got hit in only at bat against Chamberlain

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says attendance at Camden Yards down 2,500 per game this season

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says June 9 ‘most likely’ date for Wieters to get call-up

The Sun’s Candus Thomson says MASN analyst Dibble thinks Nats, O’s will have real rivalry ‘soon’

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Hammock had 2 hits for Tides in loss

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks Eaton made final start after ‘reading between the lines’ of Trembley’s pre-game comments

The AP says Aceves gets win out of pen for Bombers

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Waring, Joseph picked up RBI’s for Keys in win

Washington Post’s Dave Sheinin says Markakis ‘proving worthy’ of contract extension

Virginian-Pilot’s Rich Radford says Wieters homered for Tides in loss

New York Post’s George A. King says Cano, Matsui homered for Yanks in win

New York Times’ Jack Curry says Roberts, Markakis homered for O’s in loss

New York Daily News’ Mark Feinsand says Jeter, Cano, Teixeira, Cabrera all doubled off Eaton in 1st to help Yanks get out to early 4-0 lead

Newsday’s Arthur Staple says Aceves ‘rescued’ Girardi, Yanks for 9th straight win

Newark Star-Ledger’s Marc Carig says Girardi happy to see Adam Jones leave town

Bergen Record’s Al Iannazzone says Rivera finished game for 9th save

SI’s Ted Keith has Birds 24th in power rankings

Yahoo! Sports’ Steve Henson has O’s 29th in power rankings (Nats 30th)

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says starting RT job Oher’s ‘to lose’

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Marcus Smith, Kelley Washington pressing Demetrius Williams for #3 receiver spot

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Team President Cass expects ‘both union and league to work hard’ in CBA negotiations

ESPN.com’s James Walker says ‘zero chance’ Ravens sign Vick

HORSE RACING:

Belmont Official Site says Zito’s Brave Victory, Miner’s Escape work in preparation for third leg of Triple Crown

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Zito looking to win 2nd straight Belmont after winning with Da’Tara last year

Thoroughbred Times says Derby winner Mine That Bird, Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra each galloped at Churchill Downs Thursday

The AP’s Richard Rosenblatt says Chocolate Candy, Dunkirk, Mr. Hot Stuff, Flying Private all running Belmont after skipping Preakness

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says assistant Keith Booth picked to attend BCA seminar

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Vasquez works out for Wizards, feels game has improved

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says new Wizards assistant Sam Cassell worked out Vasquez for ‘Zards

Examiner Steve DeClue says Stephenson’s choices down to Terps, Arizona

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Vasquez in no rush to choose between NBA Draft, return to College Park

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Vasquez previously worked out for Spurs, Cavaliers; still plans on working out with Timberwolves

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Vasquez does not vision himself as shooting guard

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Vasquez talking to Gary ‘almost every week’

Washington Examiner’s Craig Stouffer says Vasquez will return to Terps or go to NBA; will not play professionally in Europe

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

Washington Post’s Josh Barr says Wake joins Louisville, Virginia Tech, Terps ‘in pursuit’ of Gaithersburg DB-RB Ofori

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich offers video of slimmed down Friedgen

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says DT Dion Armstrong needs to ‘come through’

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Northern Guilford (NC) WR prospect interested in Terps (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem profiles Virginia safety prospect Andre Simmons (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Ryan Young, Max Schmidt named All-American by USILA

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Long Beach center prospect Monique Oliver picked Rutgers over Terps

UMBC LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Poillon, Blevins, Hopmann, Wimer named All-American by USILA

LOYOLA LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Koppens, Ricci named All-American by USILA

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Wharton, Boyle, Michael Evans, Michael Kimmel, Brian Christopher named All-American by USILA

Inside Lacrosse’s Terry Foy says Michael Evans wins William C. Schmeisser Award for top defensive player from USILA

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Michael Evans only local player to make All-American first team

NAVY LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Andy Tormey, Tim Paul named All-American by USILA

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Washington Times’ Mike Fratto says Niumatalolo’s daughter Alexcia going for NCAA Lacrosse Championship with Terps

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-There IS a local college team playing lacrosse on the women’s side this weekend, and I think the Terps will be there until Sunday’s Championship game. I’ll say the Terps top Carolina tonight 9-6, and then fall to Northwestern Sunday 12-9. I guess I did make weekend picks after all.

-Chris Waters will make the start for Adam Eaton on Tuesday. Take it to the bank.

-Congratulations to Ralph Friedgen, who I hadn’t seen until his appearance on First Take yesterday on ESPN2. He looked really good; and I think it’s very cool that he had dedicated himself to his health this offseason.

Talk to you this weekend.

-G

I will admit to being a bit heartbroken seeing the Nuggets lose to the Lakers last night. I will admit that I am openly rooting for Carmelo Anthony, as I enjoy seeing the success of a Baltimore kid….despite the fact that he went to Syracuse instead of Maryland.

I heard ‘Melo was seen on ESPN yesterday wearing a Red Sox hat; and I’ll admit that it bothered me. But this is the same guy who has MULTIPLE Ravens tattoos, which he showed off proudly when he was honored at M&T Bank Stadium for winning the gold medal at last Summer’s Beijing Olympics. The guy knows where he’s from, and he LOVES Baltimore.

And someone over at Camden Yards SHOULD think about shipping a hat out to Denver…

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…….

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Nestor Aparicio thought Yankee Stadium similar to US Cellular Field in Chicago

Keith Melchior says Trembley needs to go if Birds keep ‘bumbling and stumbling’

Thyrl Nelson says Birds should keep playing Pie

Glenn Clark says Adam Jones amongst best hitters in baseball

Drew Forrester says fans seemed more interested in Springsteen show than O’s game

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Bergesen effective into 6th; but Chris Ray beat up as Birds fall to Yankees

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Guthrie looks to break Orioles’ losing slide tonight vs. Eaton, Yanks

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Andino got start due to Izturis’ strained groin

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Adam Jones returned to lineup after hamstring strain

Yankees Official Site’s Jared Diamond says Sabathia shut down O’s in win

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Roberts scored only run, Huff tallied only RBI in Orioles’ loss

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Bergesen changes number from 64 to Mussina’s 35

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks David Hernandez, David Pauley could come to Baltimore in ‘next week or two’

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Huff booed at Yankee Stadium after showing up Joba Chamberlain

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says DL ‘not out of the question’ for Izturis

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Snyder homered, Patton threw shutout in Baysox win

Examiner Jay Trucker says Rich Hill MVP of week for Orioles

The AP says A-Rod, Teixeira homered for Bombers in win

Frederick News-Post says Bascom tough luck loser for Keys

New York Daily News’ Mark Feinsand says Andino made crucial error in 7th to help Yankees put things away

New York Times’ Joe LaPointe says Yankees won 7th consecutive game

New York Post’s George A. King III says A-Rod/Teixeira did ‘Maris/Mantle imitation’

Newark Star-Ledger’s Marc Carig says Jeter picked up bases loaded double, 3 RBI in win

Newsday’s Jim Baumbach says A-Rod hit 5th homer in 33 at bats in win

Virginian-Pilot’s Rainer Sabin says Justin Christian, Oscar Salazar homered for Tides in win

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Rice shoulders load at RB with McGahee hurt, McClain playing FB

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Mason not practicing during Passing Camp; Heap, Smith limited

The Official Site says Harbaugh ‘not surprised’ to see so many veterans at Passing Camp

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Flacco has no trouble with simulated blitzes

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Suggs, Ngata only veterans not in attendance at Passing Camp

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Oher getting bulk of reps at Right Tackle

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Heap sitting out Passing Camp drills with back injury

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens players were ‘surprised’ by Willie Anderson’s decision to retire

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Harbaugh has ‘high hopes’ for Kelley Washington

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says 52, McGahee amongst surprising veterans to attend Passing Camp

Examiner Tony Wisniewski says Gregg thinks he could beat UFC Champ Lesnar

Examiner Phil Macek says Ravens news adds to ‘excitement’ of new season

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Trevor Pryce thinks Oher ‘looks like Julius Peppers, has attitude of serial killer’

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Clayton, Cousins, Terry, Barnes, Talavou, Phillips, Rolle, Carr, F. Washington, Walker also dealing with injury issues

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Suggs to get bigger contract than James Harrison

HORSE RACING:

Belmont Official Site says decision coming today on Charitable Man for third leg of Triple Crown

Daily Racing Form’s Jay Privman says Mine That Bird returned to work at Churchill Downs after van ride back from Pimlico

Thoroughbred Times says Da’Tara jockey Alan Garcia would ride Charitable Man in Belmont

Thoroughbred Times’ Frank Angst says interest in Rachel Alexandra helps raise Preakness ratings 24%

Thoroughbred Times says trainer Woolley thought Mine That Bird ‘looked good’ in workout

The Sun says 3 million more people watched NBC’s Preakness coverage this year than last year

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem profiles Atholton WR/S target Matt Robinson (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Goins may decide to stick with Terps

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Sean Burns says Groot, Jeff Reynolds named to USILA North-South Game

TOWSON BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says commit Will Adams diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Disease

UMBC LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Poillon, Settembrino to participate in USILA North-South Game

LOYOLA LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Koppens, Ricci selected to USILA North-South Game

STEVENSON LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Sean Burns says Dailey, Kazimer named first team All-American

Inside Lacrosse’s Sean Burns says Greg Furshman, Mike Simon, Nic Bevacqua named to USILA D3 North-South Game

MORGAN BASKETBALL:

The Sun says former St. Frances star Aric Brooks to transfer from Jacksonville to Morgan

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says FB Kevin Campbell looking forward to Ohio State game

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina says ‘speed’ key to DC Buddy Green

SALISBURY LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Kylor Berkman, Kevin Maynard to participate in USILA D3 North-South Game

BALTIMORE COLTS:

Sporting News’ Matt Crossman says Raymond Berry thinks NFL needs to take ‘fine line’ with issues like Vick

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-While the Ravens have downplayed the various injuries to players who aren’t fully participating in Passing Camp; I have to remind everyone that the Ravens do NOT have to be honest about everyone’s health in the offseason. It doesn’t appear as though anyone’s injuries are serious, but you really don’t know.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

If Luke Scott does head to the DL, I would imagine Oscar Salazar will be the guy to get called up. The Orioles are not ready to commit to Nolan Reimold, so the call-up wouldn’t really make that much sense.

I also get the feeling tonight might be Mark Hendrickson’s final twirl in the rotation, at least for now. Rich Hill is ready to do; although I’m not exactly certain what a healthy Rich Hill even gives the Birds.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…..

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Bob Haynie says Adam Jones ‘ahead of schedule’

Nestor Aparicio ‘excited and honored’ to participate at Preakness

Glenn Clark says Phelps, Hoff return to pool this weekend in Charlotte

Nestor Aparicio says Woolley thought Mine That Bird ‘looked good’ in breeze

Vince Fiduccia says with MLS not coming anytime soon, Chelsea-AC Milan best chance to see soccer

Glenn Clark says Phelps allegedly had threesome with attractive Baltimore stripper Theresa White

Mark Mussina says brother Mike always thought good pitchers who struggle are hiding injuries

Ed Frankovic says first OT playoff win in 8 years send Caps to Game 7 with Pens

Drew Forrester says Steckel gets winner to lift Capitals past Penguins

Nestor Aparicio says Caps-Pens Game 7 at Verizon Center Wednesday night

Nestor Aparicio says Mike Green struggling with stick change

HORSE RACING:

Preakness Official Site says Casanova Move second choice for Black-Eyed Susan

Preakness Official Site says Hull out of race

Daily Racing Form’s Jay Privman says Pimlico line maker Carulli says Rachel Alexandra would be favorite

Daily Racing Form’s Marcus Hersh says Velasquez rides Big Drama for first time at Pimlico

Daily Racing Form’s Marty McGee says Borel rode Mine That Bird in workout

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says owners felt Hull would have been ‘compromised’ by Rachel Alexandra

Thoroughbred Times’ John Scheinman says Big Drama went 4 furlongs in :50 on Pimlico track

Thoroughbred Times’ Ron Parker says Rachel Alexandra ahead of Pioneerof The Nile in Triple Crown poll

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says Mine That Bird ‘breezed’ four furlongs at Churchill Downs

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says Hooh Why highlights field for Black-Eyed Susan

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Rachel Alexandra had ‘aura of invincibility’ at Kentucky Oaks

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Friesan Fire 3rd horse to arrive at Pimlico, following Big Drama and Papa Clem

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Ripken saw ‘signs’, picked Mine That Bird to win Derby

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens could well be without Mason, Suggs during Training Camp

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens have contacted Washington, haven’t worked out contract

Examiner Tony Wisniewski concerned about Marcus Smith’s performance vs. starting CB Foxworth

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Washington could be signed before passing camp next week

SI’s Peter King says Mattison has to get Ravens to ‘respond’

NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks thinks Chris McAlister will end up with Browns

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Jones has no explanation for ‘breakout’ season

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Jones showing ‘rapid progress’ this season

The Sun says Jeter, Teixeira, Damon, Torii Hunter amongst those impressed by Jones

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says red hot Longoria leads Rays into Camden Yards tonight

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Arrieta improves to 3-1 with win for Baysox

Examiner Jay Trucker says Markakis MVP of Orioles’ week

Carroll County Times’ Rich Dubroff says OPACY attendance ranked 22nd in baseball through Saturday’s game

Fox Sports’ Aram Tolegian has O’s 23rd in power rankings

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps ‘deep enough’ to replace DHB

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh checks in with NJ WR prospect Cory Reeder (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Tyler Radecki checks in with Milford Mill prospect Isaiah Brown (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says target Will Barton likes Kentucky

The Diamondback’s Nick Rhodes says Steve Francis may invest in College Park bar Santa Fe

CBS Sports’ Gary Parrish says Stephenson ‘like supermodel with herpes’

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter checks in with commit Stoglin (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Sean Burns impressed Notre Dame’s Ryan Hoff couldn’t get off single shot

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Terps, Orange battling for first time since ‘97

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Terps-Orange showdown scheduled for noon Saturday at Hofstra

The Diamondback’s Michael Katz says Terps benefitted from ‘sloppy’ play from Irish

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps put together 7th straight season of 10+ wins

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps ‘silenced’ Notre Dame

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Jays-Cavs set to face off at noon Sunday at Naval Marine Corps Stadium

TOWSON LACROSSE:

The Official Site says midfielder Randall Cooper interested in pursuing medical career after lacrosse

LOYOLA LACROSSE:

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Hounds to start series with Navy

NAVY LACROSSE:

Examiner Tom Flynn says lacrosse continues in Annapolis despite Mids’ Tournament exit

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Wickham ‘should be favorite’ to start in cage for Mids in 2010

BALTIMORE BULLETS:

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says Jack Marin still happy he picked NBA over hospital career

SWIMMING:

The AP’s Paul Newberry says Phelps brings ‘tarnished image’ to pool return

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I guess Maryland is in a better spot for DeShawn Painter; and with Terence Ross the horizon, that would be a very good pairing.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

If Calvin Borel has a one year deal to ride Rachel Alexandra, then he’s doing the right thing by riding the horse. As much as Chip Woolley and Mark Allen want to have Borel riding Mine That Bird; Borel has to do the right thing for the people who just spent big money on a horse and want that investment to pay off.

Borel also has to make a judgment for himself. He’s never won the Run for the Black Eyed Susans before, and it would be part of his legacy and his chance to establish himself as a Hall of Fame jockey. If Rachel Alexandra is as good as everyone thinks she is; this decision is a no-brainer.

Horse racing IS better off for having Rachel Alexandra in the field Saturday, as it offers the compelling “boys vs. girls” storyline the sport was playing up before Eight Belles’ run in the Kentucky Derby a year ago. Obviously a Triple Crown run would be better for the sport, but almost NO ONE thinks that is possible. A win for Rachel Alexandra might not make the Belmont quite as exciting, but a 2nd place finish by Rachel Alexandra could set up for a “Battle of the Sexes” run in the third leg of the Triple Crown.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…..

Best of Sunday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester says commitment to Pie could affect Birds’ LF decision

Nestor Aparicio says Pie reached base 3 times in loss

Glenn Clark hopes to see Washington do “Squirrel” in Baltimore

Nestor Aparicio says Freel trashes time with Orioles in Chicago media

Glenn Clark says Stevenson, Salisbury to face off in quarterfinal showdown Wednesday

Nestor Aparicio says all KOBST finalists to attend event in Dundalk Wednesday night

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Gooden ‘front runner’ to start next to 52

The Official Site says Harbaugh reported L.J. Smith had groin issue over weekend

The Official Site’s Geoff Peckham profiles cheerleader “Abbie M.”

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Gooden plans to be ‘new and improved’ Bart Scott

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Mason could miss Training Camp, but says he’ll be ready for season opener

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Rosburg doesn’t think Gano, Hauschka ready to be NFL kicker yet

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Grubbs missed minicamp due to ankle surgery

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Kruger struggled on Day 1 of minicamp due to lack of sleep

Examiner Phil Macek says Birk Ravens’ best offseason acquisition

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Gooden showing off speed thus far in offseason

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Washington ‘most impressive’ of receivers trying out over weekend

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Marcus Smith ‘flashed some ability’ during minicamp

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Uehara’s solid start wasted by pen in loss to Yankees

The Official Site offers numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says after day off, Birds host Rays tomorrow with Hendrickson facing Sonnanstine

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Trembley was interested in Rich Hill’s performance Sunday

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Birds celebrate Mother’s Day by going all pink Sunday

Yankees Official Site’s Bryan Hoch says Yanks get 3 run bomb from Damon to beat O’s

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Scott to have MRI on shoulder

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Jim Johnson touched up by Damon to take loss

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says McCurry ‘raising eyebrows’ at Delmarva

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Huff homered, showed up Chamberlain with fist pump

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Trembley should have left Uehara in game

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Chamberlain got last laugh by shutting O’s down after Huff’s homer

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Salazar, Reimold could be options if Scott heads to DL

Chicago Tribune’s Paul Sullivan says former Oriole Freel ‘devastated’ he couldn’t get on field for Cubs

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Hill throws 6 scoreless innings for Tides as they beat Bisons

Carroll County Times’ Rich Dubroff says 33,000 saw Yanks top Birds at Camden Yards Sunday

Carroll County Times’ Rich Dubroff says Trembley doesn’t plan to keep 3 catchers when Wieters gets call up

The AP says Rivera put finishing touches on win for 6th save

Frederick News-Post’s Adam Pohl says Bobby Stevens went 5-5 with 2 HR’s for Keys in win

New York Post’s Mike Vaccaro says Cervelli’s infield single set table for Damon’s winning homer

New York Times’ David Waldstein says Cano added homer for Yanks in win

New York Daily News’ Mark Feinsand says Huff-Chamberlain rivalry not slowing down

Newsday’s Anthony Rieber says Teixeira also homered in win for Yankees

Newark Star-Ledger’s Marc Carig says Phil Coke threw 2 shutout innings in relief of Chamberlain

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Phipps makes 9 saves to help Terps win Tournament opener at Notre Dame

Notre Dame Official Site says loss to Terps ends perfect season for Irish

Inside Lacrosse’s Joe Camarda says Terps look Irish leading scorer Ryan Hoff ‘completely out of the game’

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Terps face Syracuse next Saturday at Hofstra

Examiner Steve DeClue thinks Cottle may have ‘saved his job’ by beating Fighting Irish

The Diamondback’s Michael Katz says Irish struggled shooting ball in loss

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says Phipps helped Terps go 20-20 on clears

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Groot scored two goals in win

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says after lackluster season, Terps have chance to advance to Final Four

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps only road team to win first round matchup

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Examiner Steve DeClue says Stephenson likely to choose between Arizona, Memphis

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Cavs only team Petro has losing record against at Hopkins

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina says Dobbs amongst players who showed ‘most improvement’ in Spring

HORSE RACING:

Preakness Official Site says Zayat told Maryland Jockey Club he’d only enter Pioneerof The Nile

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Mark Allen will NOT enter Indy Express, block Rachel Alexandra

Daily Racing Form’s Marty McGee says Rachel Alexandra ‘sharp’ in run at Churchill Downs

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe and Steve Bailey say Mine That Bird owner Allen wanted to block Rachel Alexandra so Borel could ride his horse

Thoroughbred Times’ Mike Curry says Asmussen thought Rachel Alexandra’s workout ‘beautiful’

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Preakness week begins with ‘cloudy’ future due to Magna bankruptcy

The AP’s Will Graves says Lukas will only enter Luv Gov if it doesn’t block Rachel Alexandra

Washington Post’s Andrew Beyer thinks Laurel racing should be eliminated, Pimlico meet should be shortened

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Dave Cottle is safe. If the Terps hadn’t made the Tournament, I’d think it would be a discussion. If the Terps had been blown out by Notre Dame in Round 1, it would be a discussion. But even if they are blasted by the Orange at Hofstra Saturday, Cottle is safe.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

4:43 p.m. — Well, I was feeling good when Felix Pie got on base for the third time today but it wasn’t meant to be. The Orioles got a nice effort from Koji Uehara today but the Jamie Walker-Jim Johnson combo couldn’t hold the lead after the 7th and a pair of homers from Robinson Cano and Johnny Damon beat the Orioles 5-3 at Camden Yards. The Orioles are now 13-19 and are 7-17 since beginning the season 6-2.

They get a rare off day tomorrow and will resume action Tuesday night at Camden Yards with Andy Sonnenstine (1-3, 5.79) and Mark Hendrickson (1-4, 5.13) going to the hill.

Below is my running live blog.

4:32 p.m. — I agree with most of the comparisons of George Sherrill to Don Stanhouse, who gave us thrills in the summer of 1979. The only difference? This 2009 team stinks some 30 years later. Either way, he put a couple on and managed to silence Johnny Damon with the game in the balance. They’re already down two with Rivera en route.

They need a happy ending. But they have the dreaded 7-8-9 hitters coming to the plate. Not a good scenario. I need a “defining moment” right about now.

4:20 p.m. — Well, Phil Coke looked like Jeff Nelson or Mike Stanton there for two innings. Melvin Mora managed a single but Ty Wigginon’s double play ended things in the eighth. Now they’re going to need to go through Mariano Rivera. Not good. Snatching defeate out of the jaws of victory. They’ve been losing a lot of these lately. Not a good sign.

4:02 p.m. — Twenty minutes ago, I was thinking “nice series win in progress.” Now I’m thinking this is just a jinxed franchise. Koji’s pitch count was nearing 100. Dave Trembley went to the bullpen to start the 7th inning. Jamie Walker put the lighter fluid on the coals with a solo homer to Robinson Cano, and Jim Johnson lit the match with two-out rally and a three-run homer to Johnny Damon.

They’re losing now. Chamberlain is out. Phil Coke is in.

3:41 p.m. — ORIOLES 3, YANKEES 1 in the 7th…A beautiful afternoon at the Yard. And Koji has silenced the greatest bats in all the land, the Yankees here in Baltimore. Beamed back to a no-doubt enraptured audience in Japan with ARod and Koji, the Birds are threatening to take this series.

Where are all of the Felix Pie “bakers” now? Hey, we’ve been waiting for the “breakout” game. Maybe this is it?

And, Adam Jones is really, really impressive, isn’t he?

He’s no fluke and he’ll be on the mantle of Andy McPhail’s greatest coups if he keeps this up. And Erik Bedard was such a complete jerk. It’s nice to know the Orioles actually “won” a trade. (Been a long time, right? And, factor in the Tejada trade, and McPhail looks like Minnesota Fats!)

Ya gotta admit, when Mark Teixeira hit the homer in the first oh Uehara, you had to have one of those “ugh, oh” moments. But Aubrey Huff answered and has been on a tear lately, another three-run tater again today in the 1st to nullify the Yanks advantage.

But the Orioles have had runners aboard in every inning without getting though to Joba Chamberlain, who’s been crafty since the meltdown in the first inning. Chamberlain is now at 104 pitches, the O’s are about to get into the Yankees bullpen with a lead.

It’s a good sign.

Here comes Jamie Walker in the 7th. A nice outing from Koji. This is what they’re paying him to do.

Tonight is the night A-Rod makes his season debut.  I want all of the Orioles fans reading this to give him a great welcome and barrage him with the sea of boos that he deserves. 

I am not saying to use up all of your boos up on him because I would like to hear an even louder reaction toward Teixeira.  The superstar is batting a robust .198 this season so let him hear it.

Of course the overall message I am trying to send here is that I don’t want to see the Yankee fans take over the Yard like they have done in the past.  I am in no way condoning violence or anything of the sort, let’s get that straight.  All I am trying to say is let your cheers and boos outdo their chants. 

I find it particularly distasteful when the “let’s go Yankees” cheer is easily audible inside our own stadium.  And yes we do own the stadium it was bought and paid for through public funds so try to take ownership of our house. 

I know it is hard to show pride in a team that hasn’t won for over a decade but at least show your pride for Baltimore, or Maryland, or Southern Pennsylvania, or Northern Virginia, or Delaware, or wherever in the area you are from.  If you love the O’s then show it.

If you are taking your kids to the game teach them how to sport the orange and black, let’s try to discourage all the other MLB merchandise that I continually see around the park.  During last night’s telecast the cameraman zoomed in on a group of youngsters in the stands one was wearing an Indians hat, one a Mariners hat, and a third wearing a Brewers hat. 

I can understand if you are originally from an area and you are instilling the love you feel for your team in your kids, but the situation I just described is more than a coincidence and it is happening more often.  Quite frankly it is almost as embarrassing as the play on the field at times.

My closing thought here is something I never thought I would say.  I am actually gaining respect for Derek Jeter.  He has somehow morphed into the least offensive Yankee on the current team (except for maybe Godzilla).  All of the other guys are just plain clowns Damon, A-roid, Tex-liar et al.

Again I will be at the Yard this weekend so I will know if you all followed my advice.

As always, Drew’s list is a bit different than mine. For this exercise, we defined “Birdland” as moments that have happened at Camden Yards….

My list:

5. “Boo Teixeira Day” (4/6/09)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zP7EDjekvCY[/youtube]

4. Cal Ripken’s Final Game (10/6/01)

3. Eddie Murray’s 500th Home Run (9/6/96)

2. ALDS Game 4-Orioles 3, Mariners 1 (10/5/97)

1. 2131 (9/6/95)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LPlLeKU-CI[/youtube]

Drew’s list:

5. Getting Kicked Off the Grass by an OPACY security guard during Batting Practice (April 2009)

4. Letting Nick Markakis know “It’ll All Be Over in a Few Days” (September 2008)

3. Jay Payton telling Drew & Ray Bachman about “Marking the days off on the calendar” (August 2007)

2. Free The Birds (September 2006)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYUC69W8RG0[/youtube]

1. Greg Bader tells Drew “he only has one listener” (April 2008)

-G

Peter Schmuck wrote something funny today. He wrote about how Orioles fans would have a chance to boo A-Rod when he returns to the Yankees this weekend.

My best guess is that no one cares enough about the Orioles at this point to brave the tens of thousands of Yankees fans to try to boo someone for using steroids.

But maybe I’m wrong. We all rallied around the chance to boo Mark Teixeira; but that was Opening Day. Is the return of the man Ray Bachman affectionately calls “man boobs” enough to motivate you as an Orioles fan to get out to Camden Yards this weekend?

I’m guessing it probably isn’t.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say……

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester says Orioles, Ravens both ‘self-promote’

Drew Forrester says Rays had ‘too much Longoria’ as they beat Birds

Glenn Clark says Markakis amongst best hitters in baseball

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Uehara solid, but three errors cost Birds in lost to Rays

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Hendrickson, Birds return home to face Slowey, Twins tonight

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Roberts past hitting slump

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Pie has ‘reduced role’ with O’s

Rays Official Site’s Bill Chastain says 13,000 saw Rays, Birds split at Tropicana Field

Twins Official Site’s Kelly Thesier says Slowey getting plenty of run support thus far this season

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Kranitz thought Uehara “Maddux-like” despite loss

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Markakis’ games-on-base streak ends in loss

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Baysox pitcher Erbe placed on DL with shoulder fatigue

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says fans will have chance to boo A-Rod at Camden Yards this weekend (Nice try Pete…..the 30,000 Yankees fans in town will make him plenty welcome)

The Sun says Posada headed to DL, will miss series with Orioles

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Trembley left starter in too long instead of taking starter out too early

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Rich Hill threw four scoreless innings for Norfolk in win

The AP says Alomar, ex girlfriend reach settlement out of court

Examiner Steve DeClue agrees with Trembley on Sherrill decision

The AP says Upton broke slump to lift Rays past Orioles

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Britton very good for Keys in loss

Virginian-Pilot’s Rainer Sabin says MacPhail thought Hill had ‘ups and downs’ in 2nd start with Tides

St. Petersburg Times’ Joe Smith says Garza went 8 innings to beat Birds

Tampa Tribune’s Tony Fabrizio says Navarro also broke out of slump to help Rays finish off O’s

Sporting News’ Michael Huang mocks Missouri pitcher Kyle Gibson to Birds

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Geoff Peckham says Ravens won’t confirm Washington’s visit

The Official Site’s Geoff Peckham has another picture of a girl in a bikini

Examiner Tony Wisniewski says Washington may be ‘best available’ free agent WR

Examiner Phil Macek says Mason’s ‘attitude’ even better than ‘ability’

Fox Sports’ John Czarnecki says Oher already has experience learning multiple offenses

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Flacco needs to have more than 1 good year to be ‘great’ starting QB

ESPN.com’s James Walker says former Raven Bouman signed with Jaguars

ESPN.com’s James Walker wonders whether Flacco, Palmer 2nd best QB in AFC North

NFL.com’s Michael Fabiano says Le’Ron McClain could ‘disappoint’ fantasy owners

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Cottle not letting Yeatman speak to media before showdown with Fighting Irish

The Sun’s John Weaver says Terps have most Maryland prospects of any team in Tournament

The Diamondback’s Michael Katz says seniors bringing ‘leadership’ to Terps

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Yeatman ‘respects’ former Irish teammates, just not talking about them

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Tyler Smith picked Terps over UConn, Rutgers, Syracuse, Pitt, Akron

Examiner Matthew Bouchard says Muhtadi, Dane Randolph sign with Packers after rookie tryout

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says E. Williams ‘overcame odds’ to earn spot with Skins

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Dion Armstrong, Bruce Campbell need to get out of ‘Friedgen Academic Probation’

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps amongst teams making scheme changes in ACC

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says LB Moten mixing things up in Spring (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says James Franklin gets another stud QB prospect in Tyler Smith (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter chats with Toms River (NJ) athlete prospect (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Matt Alkire says QB prospect Anthony Gonzalez unfazed by Tyler Smith commitment (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter breaks down more prospects from I-95 Challenge (must subscribe)

Inside MD Sports’ Jeff Ermann says Terps battling Oregon, Oregon State, Cal, Washington, Arizona for 2010 prospect Terrence Jones

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Minnesota to visit Comcast Center for ACC/Big Ten Challenge

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Frese facing former team when Terps host Golden Gophers

LOYOLA LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Ricci named ECAC Defensive Player of the Year, Mike Sawyer Rookie of the Year

Inside Lacrosse’s Christian Swezey says Hounds highest ranking team to miss NCAA Tournament

UMBC LACROSSE:

The Sun’s Edward Lee says ESPN’s Mark Dixon thinks Retrievers have ‘biggest potential’ to pull first round upset

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse says Jays 7th in final Nike media poll

Inside Lacrosse says Jays 8th in final USILA Coaches’ poll

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Slotback Bobby Doyle looking forward to game with Buckeyes

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina says DC Buddy Green concerned about secondary

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site’s John Wolfe previews Sunday’s visit to Erie to face RiverRats

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s Marty McGee says Borel just 23rd jockey to win more than one Derby

Thoroughbred Times says D. Wayne Lukas confirms Flying Private for Preakness

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says injury to I Want Revenge may be ‘career threatening’

Preakness Official Site says Lukas coming to Pimlico looking for 6th Preakness crown

The Sun’s Ken Murray says trainer Derek Ryan ruled Musket Man out of longer Belmont, but leaning towards entering Preakness

The Sun’s Ken Murray says ESPN’s Jeanine Edwards doesn’t think Mine That Bird will ‘disgrace’ himself at Preakness

The AP’s Jeffrey McMurray says injury to I Want Revenge on opposite ankle from what trainer Jeff Mullins originally thought

SI’s Tim Layden says Mine That Bird first horse to make SI cover since Smarty Jones in ‘04

ESPN.com’s Jeremy Plonk says Woolley knows just how difficult it is to even run Derby, let alone win it

SWIMMING:

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says life tougher for Hoff under Bob Bowman’s tutelage

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Phelps happy to return with suspension over

The AP’s Paul Newberry says Charlotte event next week marks Phelps’ return to pool from suspension

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Uehara was “Maddux-like”? Come on, Rick Kranitz.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

This winter I, like many, had visions of Mark Teixeira bringing the magic back to Camden Yards. Before he sold out and declared himself a life long Yankee fan I thought that he, coupled with the arrival of Wieters, gave the Orioles a chance to reclaim some form of the magic this organization was once known for. I remember the days leading up to the signing when the town thought Teixeira was coming to Baltimore and Oriole magic was buzzing. It was the first time I remember that folks here in Baltimore were paying any attention to the Orioles while the Ravens were competing for a playoff spot. It was great.

Now, as we fast forward to the beginning of the season, Wieters is in the minors and Teixeira was in the stadium but wearing that dreaded Yankee blue and grey uniform. But the magic was still in the yard-and it was all thanks to Teixeira.

Thanks to Teixeira running up to New York and broadcasting the fact that he wore his Yankee hat as a kid to our stadium-the buzz came back to the yard. It may have only been for a couple days, that remains to be seen. But for at least the first three games of the year Baltimore fans cared and they cared passionately.

I love the fact that the fans booed as loud as ever when Teixeira came up to the plate or was near a play in the field. I love this because it shows that even after over a decade of loosing,   Baltimore fans still care. I feel that there is hope in our future as we have some budding stars on our major league team, such as Markakis and Jones, and help in the minors with the likes of Wieters and a youthful stock of talented arms.  It is my goal to be back at the yard next year for opening day and enjoying the passion of Oriole magic-the kind of magic that comes with the hope that lies in those wearing the Black and Orange rather then the hatred and betrayal felt toward one wearing that vaunted Yankee Blue.