My thoughts on the Indians trades last night?

I love them. I've actually seen this written on the Land of Ignorance (Cleveland.com) that some are comparing this trade to Rocky Colavito for Harvey Kuenn, which is currently the dumbest analogy on the boards. Colavito, the most popular player ever for the franchise compared to 4 minor leaguers who have appeared in a combined, what, four games for the club.

This is why I love the Ubaldo Jimenez trade. First of all, this trade is so anti-Shapiro, can we finally put to bed the idea that he is still the GM, instead of Chris Antonetti? Antonetti's got balls the size of church bells with this deal.

He locks up a 27-year old Jimenez (a pitcher ALL of the contenders wanted) through 2013 with a fairly cheap contract. $2.8 million this year, then $4.2 million and $5.75 million for 2013. Years, if you recall, when we were actually supposed to contend. Quite frankly, Antonetti should demand something else from the Rockies for starting Jimenez last night. That is not how it works.

Losing Matt McBride and Joe Gardner...meh. I thought Alex White looked good in his stint here in April. But if he is targeted as a non-closing relief pitcher in the future, this deal's pain only lies with losing the upside of Drew Pomeranz.

If Jimenez plays a part in the Indians making the playoffs, let's say 2 of the next 3 seasons, how is this considered a bad move? And if I see one more person cite Ubaldo's ERA this season, I will take action. The dude was injured and seems to be fully recovered. Toss out the first month-and-a-half, and he's a different pitcher.

Remember the year C.C. Sabathia was traded? Every contender wanted to trade for him. His record that year when the Indians finally did trade him? Age 27, 6 wins, 8 losses, 3.83 ERA. He's been 66-22 since. Not saying Ubaldo can equal that, but he's a damn fine pitcher.

Mid-market teams must take these risks.

As far as Orlando Cabrera being traded, Keith Law said it best. "The Giants, tired of playing a statue (Tejada) or an automatic out (Crawford) at short, acquire Orlando Cabrera, who is both."

How we got a breathing human in return for Cabrera is a mystery.

Jeff Passan breaks down the trade.

Meal of Links

Samuel L. talks about, well, what it's like to be Samuel L. Loves that golf.

Lunch with Angelina Jolie. She had the penne with chicken.

They called it "Football".

Babes of the '80s. Then and now. Daryl Hannah seems to have made a turn, not from the '80s, but from as recent as "Kill Bill". Jennifer Beals needs to be studied, she remains outstanding.

Exercise Yard

One of the best things ESPN has ever done, "30 For 30", returns this fall. Finally, the much-delayed Alex Gibney doc on "Bartman" is first out of the gate.

Other topics include Renee Richards, Chuck Wepner, and Charismatic. Charismatic should be good as Chris Antley's story will intersect.

Visitor

None, on another hot Sunday.

While waiting for the new local sports talk station to arrive...

I was able to see a couple of movies recently. The first was "Captain America". This was even better than I expected and I'm not even sure what I expected, but this one was extremely well done. As far as the Marvel characters go, easily the best one since the original "Iron Man".

When I was in college, we came up with a comedy bit that superheroes had to register with the authorities. After following the likes of Superman and Spiderman, Cappy walks in and starts answering the questions. When it came to superpowers, he had to admit, "Well, all I have is this shield." Of course, everyone starts making fun of him.

And that, my friends, might be why this one is so special. It's because of that lack of a superpower, that the character has to be more human. That's why this is a throwback to the old war movies, where we shoot at Nazis, there's a guy from Brooklyn, we win the girl, and the world is a better place. I didn't think you could pull that off in 2011, but they did.

Kudos to whoever cast this picture. Chris Evans as Captain America, Haley Atwell and Tommy Lee Jones are spot-on. Dominic Cooper was outstanding as Iron-Man's father, Howard Stark. Hugo Weaving was the perfect Nazi villain. Only Stanley Tucci was a bit over-the-top as a good German scientist who developed the super-soldier serum, originally given to Weaving, turned bad, and now Evans, for the good.

Of course, Nick Fury shows up at the end (this time, pre-credits), as we prepare for next year's "The Avengers". Starting to film around here very soon. But I'd put "Captain America: The First Avenger" on the must-see of the summer list.

Next up was "Cowboys and Aliens". Much like "Snakes On A Plane", this is what you get. Sort of a weird combination of an old-timey Western transposed on a "Close Encounters"-type movie. Or maybe even a "Jeepers Creepers"-type as some of the townsfolk got snatched up by the flying aliens.

Not really sure what to make of this. I sort of liked the opening acts where Daniel Craig didn't know who he was or where he was, but he was definitely a badass. So, he has to mosey into town as the stranger. Causes a bit of a row, but then the sheriff, Keith Carradine, recognizes him from a wanted poster, and indeed, Craig is a badass.

Harrison Ford then shows up, because his son, Paul Dano, had a run in with Craig. And because he was the local rich rancher, he had to go to town and try to spring Dano. Olivia Wilde is around, I guess, because she looks hot.

Then the aliens show up and start scooping up some locals. For the most part, these are the red-shirted "Star Trek" types, except for Dano and Kenny Powers Mexican girlfriend. So, a posse is formed to find out where the aliens took them.

Then the story weakens because of that old plot drag, "This is where things need to be explained". I should probably mention I thought the aliens looked and acted kinda lame. We travel from God knows where to steal gold (WTF?) and we get attacked and can be killed by a spear? Huh?

So, the last half of the movie is where we learn:

Daniel Craig is a badass, but just may settle down.

Olivia Wilde is pretty beyond belief, and she's got a secret.

Harrison Ford is a crusty old coot with a tender side, but doesn't know Indian talk. Lemme tell ya, John Wayne always knew "Comanch" in his movies.

God can't save all preachers.

Sam Rockwell learns how to use a gun.

I don't know what it all means, but a decent start was sorta derailed halfway through. Trust me, you'll have more questions than answers after watching this one. Maybe it would be better as "Cowboys and Crusty Old Coots", or "Let's Stare At Olivia Wilde For 118 Minutes".

Meal of Links

Your Top 50 Politicos. Oddly enough, from Politico.

John Boehner actually said this on the floor of the House this evening: "A lot of people in this town can never say yes."

"Hell No, You Can't"



Billy Hunter is the head of the NBA Players Association, currently locked out by the owners. His life story reads like something from "Zelig".

Guess what? Matt Pinfield returns to MTV as host of "120 Minutes", starting tomorrow. And VH-1 salutes MTV's 30th anniversary, also tomorrow.

All about "Zodiac". One of Fincher's finest. Still have not seen the "Dragon Tattoo" trailer in the theater. Did see trailers for "Moneyball", "Contagion", "Battleship" which looked shitty for 5/12, "The Amazing Spider-Man" again for 7/12.

10 Popular Shows from the '90s that were terrible. I successfully avoided them all.

New GDP figures are out. Uh-oh.

Exercise Yard

U.S. Soccer finally did the right thing and hired Jurgen Klinsmann as men's national coach. Klinsmann has played in the World Cup many times, coached a WC semifinalist, and lived in the States for many years. Outstanding credentials. Truly a thinking man's coach who desires an attacking style of play. This is the man most fans have wanted as national coach for years.

Bob Bradley spent his time as U.S. coach rather well. But it is so difficult to have the same man in charge for multiple runs at qualifying and playing for a World Cup that a move had to be made. This year's Gold Cup Final showed it was the end of the line for Bradley.

This move is a no-brainer. But Klinsmann has to find someone, anyone, who can put the ball in the net consistently. It's a problem that has haunted the U.S. in international play forever. Right now, at age 46, Klinsmann might be the team's best striker. If he doesn't find that guy, today's holiday may not be as fondly remembered in 2014.

BTW, we are only 8 days til the Community Shield. The EPL has less of an off-season than NASCAR.

Visitor

26 Across: Rowan Atkinson character (6 letters) Answer: Mr. Bean

Newcastle United at Columbus Crew






















Since I had some time off, I went to Columbus yesterday to see Mr. and Mrs. Mix and the dogs. Because I enlisted Mr. Mix to attend the international soccer friendly between the Columbus Crew and Newcastle Utd. of the EPL.

It was my first entry into Crew Stadium, the first venue built strictly for soccer in the U.S. Although, Journey and Brad Paisley are playing there soon. I think this vision was the one co-opted by the Wolsteins, when that soccer stadium was being considered along Route 8. Of course, that didn't happen and we still do not have a team.

First live soccer match for me in a long time. But the Magpies are a mid-level English team and this was their third of three preseason matches in the U.S. before their kickoff against Arsenal in two weeks. They had played two 0-0 ties, the last against Sporting KC.

I was hoping to get a glimpse of Joey Barton, the notorious Newcastle midfielder and a fave of mine. But, alas, Joey was denied a visa for the U.S. tour because of his criminal record. Damn, he's gotta be trouble-free for two more years. So, he went to the Netherlands for training and will join Newcastle for their upcoming match with Leeds.

We had seats on the east side of the stadium. They have bleachers with backs for most of the seating. Actually the last row of the lowers on the aisle. Quick jaunt to get beer. Two on tap were an RFD Lager and a Hudson Street beer, I guess made for the Crew.





















As you can tell, not a huge crowd showed up for this one. Although it was a fairly comfortable evening, considering what we've had to work with lately, only 11,224 showed up for this one. Lots of Newcastle fans, too. Newcastle went ahead early with a goal in the 9th minute. And controlled much of the action.

Then, at the stroke of halftime, there was a play where the Crew keeper went way off his line, out of the penalty area, and was tagged with a deliberate handball call. Not sure that really happened. Anyhow, he was sent off with a red card and the Crew had to play with 10 men for the second half.

Their keeper in the second half was the MLS pool goalkeeper. Yes, he's the Eddie Money of Major League Soccer. He just sits by the phone and when a team, any team in the league needs him because of an injury or suspended goalkeeper, well, he answers the call.

And, of course, at halftime, you must get the youth involved.






















The Magpie defense was pretty stout throughout. Newcastle added two goals in the second half. The prettiest one was a nice bender by Haris Vukcic to close it out right near the end.

On second thought, maybe it wasn't Newcastle so much as a pretty nondescript offense by the Crew. They only had one shot on goal for the game and for a team in midseason, looked inept at times with the ball.





















Regardless, a good time had by all.

Indians-Angels Highlights

Last-minute decision to brave the heat and catch the Tribe. I was at last night's Indians-Angels thriller last night. So, I chronicled some action.

Manny Acta

Do ground rules ever change year-to-year?

















"Fuzzy Top"

Yep, he's still here. My Dad couldn't remember his name and came up with that gem.

















Ketchup

Is it the heat or am I dreaming? Why is there a condiment in my section?

















Mustard

As for dreaming...I guess not.

















Fausto

For all of his faults, he did throw six shutout innings last night. Almost gave up a homer to Bobby Abreu that he thought, for sure, was gone.

















Dan Haren

For being such a good pitcher, Dan Haren has bounced around a lot. Last night's performance was the type of game that gets you in the playoffs. 123 pitches, 10 K's, 2 walks, only 3 hits in 8 innings. Not his best stuff, not close to dominating, but the Indians couldn't do anything against him.

















Tori-i-i-i-i-i-i

Torii Hunter is struggling a bit this year. However, in the ninth inning, he almost saved the game for Los Angeles. They brought him in from rightfield as a fifth infielder. He got a grounder and forced a runner at home for out #2.

















The Chiz

Last time I saw The Chiz, he got hit in the face. Didn't do anything last night.

















Carlos Santana

Carlos is struggling again. Wishes he had swung at this pitch. Actually bunted for a hit late.

















Pronk

Here is Travis Hafner, early in the game, hoping for a ball call here. He was a caged animal on deck in the 9th, pacing back and forth. Then he ripped a double for the game-tying RBI. Not a lot of RBIs this year, but many were big at-bats.

















Cabby

Asdrubal Cabrera didn't do too much. Gee, his K rate is high. Really the only blemish on his record this season.


















Michael Brantley

Ready to replace Grady permanently...or not?

















Bobby Abreu

Still around. Still patient at the plate. Almost homered off of Carmona. Did take Pestano deep in the 9th.

















Vinnie Pestano

Pestano was unhittable until that second Reds series. His ERA coming in was up to 2.68. That may be why Alex White is targeted for bullpen duty. Abreu tagged him for a homer in the 9th that gave the Angels a lead.

















Sipp

Tony Sipp was the winner last night, after he cleaned up Pestano's mess.

















Jason Kipnis

Hey, Kipnis has the "Mickey Tettlebach" thing going. Hit a liner to right for the game-winning single last night.

Yeah, it's over.

No more Podium Girls.







































No more Road ID ads with Bobke.



No more El Diablo.






















No more fear of a fan impeding a rider.



























I love the Tour de France, because it fits so nicely within the July sports calendar when there is a not much goin' on, 'cept the rent.







































This year gives us the first Aussie winner, the first winner from the Southern Hemisphere and the second-oldest winner ever. It was Cadel Evans and he gave it quite the ride this year.

Meal of Links

They are correct. Olivia Wilde is jarringly beautiful. She was on Bill Maher's show once and I think she was overwhelmed at that time. They need to bring her back.

I think I've waited a year-and-a-half to find a Thermopen on sale. It finally happened.

This guy's church HAS to be fun. "Boogity, Boggity, Amen!"

Invocation of the Year



"Wedgie, you're doing a heckuva job." The Mariners have lost 15 straight.

NFL seems to be starting again this week. BTW, Jay Cutler dumped his girlfriend and there will be no "Hard Knocks" this season.

The good old days.

About that Borders liquidation sale. You may want to wait.

Campbell's looks at the facts. It's hard to sell low-sodium soup. So, they are adding salt to the Select Harvest line.

Exercise Yard

I don't know if there is anyone out there who can help the Tribe. But, after today's game, I wonder "if the ship be sinking."

I'll be at either Monday's or Wednesday's game and have a better sense of what is going on.

Visitor

None, on a still humid Sunday.

I am officially on...



Big day on the Tour day, as the snow cleared in the Alps. My main man, Andy Schleck, decided to attack with, oh, only 60 KM left in the race and got himself back in line for a shot at the yellow jersey with basically only two days left. Tomorrow may be a repeat as it's Alpe d'Huez, followed by the time trial in Grenoble on Saturday. With the ride into Paris on Sunday, a symbolic one, the finish will be bang-bang, as Rick Manning likes to say.





























Schleck's ride today will be epic, especially if he wins the Tour. Probably the best one-day ride since Floyd Landis in the infamous Stage 17 in 2006. You guessed it, shades of Eddy Merckx. But the leader, Thomas Voeckler, didn't crack and hardly anyone can believe he still has the yellow jersey. But the Schleck ride cracked Alberto Contador and Sammy Sanchez.

So, it's probably down to 4 guys. The Schleck Brothers, Cadel Evans and Voeckler. After tomorrow, the leader will be one of the Schlecks, so it all comes down to Saturday's time trial.

But the Tour finally started today.

Allez!

Meal of Links

Going to the movies in Australia is like buying books in Canada. The prices are high.

Debt ceiling talk. Yeah, it's important.

"Dexter" cranks up Season 6 on October 2. New trailer is out.

Did someone mention R.E.M.?

The endorsements are starting for US Women's Soccer. Not a bad idea, as that team competes in the Olympics next year in London. I think the real star is Megan Rapinoe.

Richard Lewis was back on "Curb Your Enthusiasm" last week. He chats about Larry David.

Comeback of the Year? WWE Wrestling!

Exercise Yard

I'm actually on Team Stevie on Steve Williams firing by Tiger Woods. Yeah, that Stevie, the scourge of photogs everywhere. Boy, are there a lot of folks giving Stevie the business over how much money he received for being Tiger's caddie.

But, let's face it, he was not on some mystery retainer and he hadn't worked that much in the last 18 months. Typical caddie pay is a Missed Cut will get you zip, 5% of earnings for a cut finish, 7% for a Top Ten, and 10% for a win.

I'm not sure how much loyalty comes into play, when you are deprived of a job you like to do and you get that itch to get out there and do something. I'm sure Stevie was tired of sitting.

But, man, is he getting blasted for being "The Caddie".

Visitor

44 Across: PETCO Park player (5 letters) Answer: Padre

It's not the heat, it's the stupidity.

Try a secret beach.

Meal of Links

Richard Jewell still had a court case against the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. That case was dismissed last week. Unclear if it will be appealed.

The Weinermobile is now 75 years old. Not on my list for the next car I get.

The 5-album test. I kinda like it.

How about a limburger cheese sammie? I don't think I've ever had one.

The Gang of Six. And their plan.

Modern poverty includes an Xbox No, can't be.

As always, the day to watch the Tour de France is when they get to Alpe d'Huez. BTW, that is this Friday. It's also snowing in the Alps. Huh?

Borders is dead.

Exercise Yard

NFL free agency starts in a few days. And what a whirlwind that will be. 5 months compressed into a fortnight.

Avoid these types of players.

Visitor

67 Across: Buck of country music (5 letters) Answer: Owens

While trying to determine the odds of the deer I saw running through my neighborhood this a.m., actually seeing tomorrow...

I've been watching women's sports for a long time. The US Women's Soccer team is the better team. But, jeezy creezy, if you blow a game like they did today, you gotta take the heat like the men do. Instead we are treated to platitudes like Bob Ley insisting that some "were already calling it a classic". How? Why?

Is it the resiliency of Japan or the fact that the US was up twice and gave up goals late in the second half and also in the second half of added time. Good teams don't let that happen. So, they go to Penalty Kicks and the Japan keeper is getting all the credit, while I see the US having two terrible PKs to start. On the broadcast, it seemed the third US PK was somehow deemed as not good, but that clearly was a good save by the Japan keeper.

Meanwhile, Hope Solo makes one save out of four tries and in the highlights after that save, Brandi Chastain makes this statement after the match, "Hope Solo does what Hope Solo does...makes saves!" WTF? Did you just see her make only one save of four? And did you notice the ref was having none of Solo's PK shenanigans this time around, actually ordering her on to the pitch before the first US PK.

And the US coach needs to come under some scrutiny, as well. Against Brazil, her PK lineup was Boxx, Lloyd, Rapinoe, Wambach, Krieger. Today, for some unknown reason, she pulled Rapinoe in the latter stages of extra time and did not have Alex Morgan in the lineup, who has been consistently on target with her shots and scored the first US goal and assisted on the other.

So, today's lineup was Boxx with a not-so-good first attempt that was saved. Lloyd, who air-mailed the goal. Heath, who had only subbed for Rapinoe in the 114th minute, had a good attempt blocked, but I think Morgan deserved that spot. Wambach nailed her attempt and I'm not sure who Number 5 would have been.

But we don't get any of that breakdown. No, we're allegedly teaching the world to sing tonight and we'd like to buy it a Coke. Bah!

"It's The World Cup, Bro!"



Meal of Links

This was one thing that was hard to figure about the Murdoch controversy. He put Rebekah Brooks in charge of the internal investigation when she was in charge at NOTW. She resigned last week and has now been arrested.

Terrence Malick had been thinking of "The Tree Of Life" for some time. Like since 1979. You actually see some of these early thoughts in the current movie.

This is rather odd. In Taiwan, they have stripping at funerals.

Ron Howard has finally stopped wearing a hat. It was getting ridiculous.

A pretty fair look at John Kerry. And the role he plays in our foreign policy.

Exercise Yard

Indians lost their second in a row to Baltimore. Now they head to the Twin Cities for 4 games. Have you noticed the Twins lately? They are only 5 games back.

Even Tiger refers to this series with his favorite word: "Huge."

Visitor

None, on a warm Sunday.

They had polkas at the Market today with DJ Kishka. So what better way to spend an afternoon than guzzling beer at Great Lakes Brewing. Had only been there once since the Great Smoking Controversy. That was for the Bourbon Beer Debacle as the annals report.

They are still on high alert when someone's about to smoke. No smokes inside the railing, Mister.

Anyhow, it truly is a Cleveland success story. Outside was packed. Beer garden was packed. Bar was packed. Downstairs was packed. At 2:00 on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon. I know they are closed on Sundays, but man, that's pretty good business.

Meal of Links

Bachmann left her church when she decided to run for President. Sort of a reverse Jeremiah Wright going on.

Fox News has a segment on hacking. Jocularity ensues.

Hope Solo: Blonde. Against Hope Solo: Brunette. Either way, she has to stop the type of goal she gave up against France.

Exercise Yard

Minnesota is in the throes of a government shutdown. Vikings owner decides this is the right time to continue lobbying for a new stadium.

Visitor

2 Down: Frontman on the 1987 debut album "Appetite For Destruction" (7 letters) Answer: Axl Rose

I saw two movies this week. The first was "Horrible Bosses", and tonight "The Tree Of Life" made its initial appearance on the West Side. Let's talk about that one first.

"The Tree of Life", of course, is the latest from Terrence Malick. Malick and David Lynch are probably the two most unique American directors left. Lynch always jolts you with color. And Malick does, as well, but his films always shoot from different angles. Angles that most people hardly see in a movie. Close ups, framing a subject from behind, trees from the ground up, etc.

So, yeah, I've been waiting for this one for a while. And I could tell right away that we were gonna have people hit the eject button, it was only a matter of when. Old couple sits directly behind me and I hear the woman say, "I thought it would be more crowded. You know with Brad Pitt and Sean Penn in the movie." OK, my Spider-sense is tingling. Also had to hear "This is weird." and "Do you want any gum?". I give 'em credit, though. They actually made it to the end. We had 15 at the start and this is your Up-To-The-Minute "The Tree Of Life" Walkout Scoreboard:

We had 2 leave before the dinosaurs.
We had 1 leave during the dinosaurs.
We had 4 leave after the dinosaurs (one guy letting us know he was asking for his money back).

That means 7 of 15 left in the first 35 minutes or so. You may be wondering why I mentioned dinosaurs. After Pitt's family suffers a loss, Malick decides to show us (sorta like 2001) his vision, at length, of how the earth was created and took us through some various early life forms. This tends to honk off the Car Chase crowd. It also points out the ignorance of today's movie crowd. Do you just open the Friday Magazine and see the picture of Pitt and Penn and say, hey, looks like a good one. Seriously, how do you not know this is a Malick film? Trust me, for its alleged offensiveness, I didn't see one person walk out of "Borat". Yet, 7 of 15 walk out on this one? Baffling.

Too bad, because the scenes that immediately follow the dinosaurs is awesome. It shows a kid growing up and makes you wonder how that happens exactly. First steps, starting to talk, etc. Amazing sequence.

Now, I'm not gonna pull a Jack Buck and say, "I don't believe what I just saw!". I understand Malick is not everyone's cup of tea. But, as a moviegoer, I think you owe it a look. But it's not exactly "Happy Days" here.

Pitt is not exactly a great father and he and his wife are constantly battling for the kids affection. And the whole house knows who wins on that front. And, for almost three hours, the characters rarely smile, although I think near the end, when Penn (Mostly a dour figure) believes he's come to grips with his life, there is a faint smile. As for the acting, Pitt and the kids have most of the dialogue. Jessica Chastain and Penn have more narration of their parts, as does the oldest son.

So, again, it's a different type of movie experience. But one you have to see.

For a movie where your brain doesn't suffer from overload, I give you "Horrible Bosses". This isn't by any means "Hangover"-funny, but there are enough laughs to keep it going.

Charlie Day and Jason Bateman basically play themselves. Jason Sudeikis plays a horndog. And their bosses are, respectively, Jennifer Aniston, Kevin Spacey and Colin Farrell. The latter two are especially funny, while Aniston is a sex harasser. Hilarious cameo by Jamie Foxx.

The plot is the three guys want to off their bosses. Hilarity ensues. That's really about all you get here.

Meal of Links

Playhouse Square finally released their summer movie schedule. They need me to program this. I hardly see anything of note. Although, "The Good, The Bad And The Ugly" and "Jaws" are the standouts. I say this every year. You want asses in the seats? Gotta be an early Tarantino selection. How 'bout a Richard Pryor comedy? "Silver Streak" would do. Have a Bond movie. "Ghostbusters", "Caddyshack". It ain't difficult.

Nick Gilbert has a Fathead. Seriously. For charity.

Alan Sepinwall talks Emmy nominations. Still baffled by "Community" being ignored.

Wal-Mart starts selling "Cheesy Poofs"next month. Yes, it is South Park-related.

Lots of Soda Pop



If the debt ceiling is not raised, which side wins? Maybe neither.

Dads on Vacation.

Exercise Yard

What is Sunday's biggest sporting event? Last round of the British Open? USA-Japan at the Women's World Cup? How about the WWE PPV?

Visitor

48 Across: "12 Angry Men" director (5 letters) Answer: Lumet

You can tell CSU has a new Athletic Director, I had been getting calls from my ticket rep a couple months ago about renewal. I was thinking, pump your brakes, dude, as I had been able to renew virtually up to tipoff of the new season. So, I get a letter today and their new renewal date is August 1.

I guess, like most schools, this allows them to sell the non-renewals as season tickets. It seems they also have lopped some heads in the athletic department. The new Senior Associate AD is a woman, so I assume she is being groomed to take over the whole thing eventually. They also have a new SID and The Ticket Guy is also gone.

Meal of Links

Are we witnessing the death of the DVD? Netflix adjusts pricing and divides streaming and DVD rentals.

Are you still reading the newspaper? There are the same number of newspapers in 2011, as there were in 1890.

"Mad Men" reruns on Sunday mornings, from the beginning. Time to catch up.

The most popular e-reader is? The Nook Color? Not Kindle? Mmmm.

I Will Not Be Riding "The Takabisha"



Can you think of a street sign that is constantly stolen? How about Stoner Avenue?

Joe Jackson. I think, at one time, I had memorized the entire "Look Sharp" album. So, "Got the Time" seems appropriate. This is my favorite song of his...

"Right And Wrong"/Joe Jackson



PolitiFact takes on Sarah Palin. And Slim Jims.

Exercise Yard

Michael Irvin champions gay marriage. Another twist in his story.

Visitor

25 Across: "Two Tickets To Paradise" singer (10 letters) Answer: Eddie Money (At the Pickerington Violet Festival in Pickerington on July 30)

Eddie Money Commercial

The Seattle Mariners had another 3-ball walk against them yesterday. Wedgie apologized to the team after missing the first one.

Here's what he said after missing the second one in a week.

"I was OK with that," Wedge said. "I figured it worked against us last time, let it work for us this time. ... I was fine with Abreu not being up there 3-1 with the next two guys coming. I felt good about Felix facing those next two guys. I was hoping for a double play, but we got a strikeout and a popup."

He is still The Mentalist.

Meal of Links

OK. I have no idea if "Senna" is here soon. But, come on. I'm there. Wait a minute. Ron Howard is doing a film about the rivalry of James Hunt and Niki Lauda? That is a huge WTF.

"Curb Your Enthusiasm" returned last night. I laughed.

Italy. The new Greece. Only larger.

24 Dance Songs you can't dance to. Including the great Roxy Music tune "Do The Strand" with a much younger Bryan Ferry and a glam Brian Eno. I actually heard "Sally Can't Dance" just last Friday.

Exercise Yard

Rest day in the Tour today. But what was with the French TV car wiping out a couple of riders to avoid hitting a tree. There have been lots of wrecks, thus far.

Poor Johnny Hoogerland went right through the barbed wire fence. He was cut up real good. Finished the stage, but in not-so-good shape.

Tour de France Wreck



Visitor

43 Across: "Sexual Healing" singer Marvin (4 letters) Answer: Gaye

"Inner City Blues"/Marvin Gaye

I happened to be going through the dial when I saw the Penalty Kick portion of the US Women-Brazil Women's World Cup quarterfinal. Unbeknown to me, the US scored during Stoppage Time of Extra Time. In the 122nd minute, if you will.

"Major Onions" US Goal by Gus Johnson and Bill Raftery



The Real Call by Ian Darke and Julie Foudy



But when it came time for PKs, what the hell was with the Brazilian goalkeeper? Every shot she is way off her line. Wa-a-a-ay off her line. The ref nailed her on the first US attempt and gave a rekick. The US made that goal and the next four for the win, but I was curious to see if any other US miss was going to be given a rekick.

As for the US during PKs, Hope Solo has to be a bit more careful with her psych jobs. She sits off on the side, unlike most keepers, well out of the way, but on the field of play. She then makes a slow torturous walk towards goal, while the opponent is already lining up their kick. Again, unusual because the goalkeeper is almost always ready before the shooter. She will then do a lot of stretching and gyrations in front of the shooter before she gets on the line. To be fair, once on the line, she is not moving before the kick or still waving her arms, which is really getting out of hand by most goalies. But with one yellow card already in the match, that was too dangerous a time to be messing with the rules.

I am not going to call this the greatest comeback win in any sport, as ESPN already did. It seemed like a great finish but wake me up next Sunday and tell me who wins.

USA wins on PKs, 2-2 (5-3).

Meal of Links

Rutger Hauer is in a new movie. Best title since "Snakes On A Plane". It's "Hobo With A Shotgun".

The power of Rupert Murdoch. Clearly, he sacrificed News of the World for BSkyB.

Chris Hansen's affair probably cost him a job as "Dateline" anchor. Well, when he asks, probably more people know who he is now.

The world of obit writers. Not as humorless as one would think.

8 Secrets About Disney. I was actually in that Club 33 once. I didn't see Depp there, but I had an adult beverage.

Exercise Yard

I guess Travis Hafner's grand slam on Thursday did not propel the Tribe to gerater heights, as originally thought. Don't look now, but the White Sox and Twins are now the closest to the division lead than they have been all year.

I heard Manny Acta pregame and for the first time, I thought, yeah, the Indians may deal to find a bat. Then I read Chris Antonetti's comments and I'm not so sure again.

Visitor

None, on a sunny Sunday.

I was actually at the Tribe game on Thursday. The Indians had some insane deal (meaning advance ticket sales were dreadful) for the Toronto series where you can still get $44 tickets for $13 plus fees. Take that, StubHub!

But I wasn't there for this:



Somewhere, Bill Selby nods approval.

Anyhow, I'm not a master of the ALE (Always Leave Early) theory, but if you witnessed the first 7 innings of that game, no one would begrudge you leaving. Indians starter Zach McAllister threw 94 pitches in only 4 innings, while Carlos Villanueva for Toronto threw 110 in 6 innings.

I may have had a sense of kismet on the way home because I mentioned to my Dad that we had missed comebacks from large deficits in the past (ahem...the largest), so no big deal if we missed something that night. With that Joey Bats homer in the 9th to put Toronto up by 4, I thought that was the clincher.

But then Hafner came up and he smoked one. Good for them. Victories like that can really mean something come September.

Hey, at least the hot dogs were good.

Meal of Links

I don't know this guy from Adam. But he did co-invent Rotisserie Baseball. Deserves a parade.

What is with the fake fireworks? Child, please.

Another series jumps ahead in time. This time, it's "Dexter"!

There was a time if you had anything to do with baseball memorabilia, you knew the name, Barry Halper. Turns out most of his artifacts were stolen or forgeries. it's a long read, but fascinating.

Getting your kicks. On Route 66. Don't forget Winona!

Philly saves $2 million a year. How? By essentially decriminalizing marijuana.

Marc Maron does have a fine podcast. Listen here.

F-A-T. That spells fat.

Monkey self-portraits. Funny. Put a hat on hiim. Really funny.

Exercise Yard

We have two lockouts. One has been rumored as "close to ending" for weeks now (NFL), the other (NBA) has two factions divided like Korea.

Bill Simmons tries to solve the latter.

Visitor

10 Down: Pink Floyd's "The Wall:, e.g. (9 letters) Answer: Rock Opera

Casey Anthony is off to find the real killers.














Meal of Links

It's the American way. Making fun of Hitler.

Have you seen the light? The world's greatest light bulb.






















One of the most hilarious things I read today was Hollywood's reaction to the Tot Mom verdict via Twitter. Kim Kardashian, of all people, was shocked at the verdict. Prompting this response. Dexter Morgan was also trending high on Twitter, as if he were a real person who could take care of Tot Mom.

David Simon has a real knack for season-ending montages. He did it again with Sunday's season-ender on "Treme":



Simon talks about "Treme" here.

What's lurking in a navel? Strange stuff.

E-Harmony guy says don't get married. Wait a minute. What?

Exercise Yard

Nate Silver writes about the NBA lockout. The financial distress of the owners is a canard.

Visitor

9 Across: Jake LaMotta, e.g. (5 letters) Answer: Boxer

Happy Independence Day!

"National Holiday"/Timbuk 3

Not much goin' on except the grillin'.

Friday-Burgers

Saturday-Drumsticks and Roasted Corn

Today-Pork Chops, then Burgundy Mushroom Burgers.

Tomorrow-Looks like Ribs.

Meal of Links

I didn't know Celeste Holm was still around. She's embroiled in a family feud.

The Ten Greatest Liars. We know a few of these.

Worst Non-Handball Call Ever



Jim Morrison's been dead for 40 years. They are reissuing "LA Woman".

Exercise Yard

Hey, Wimbledon's over. Did you know Cinemark had both the men's and women's finals in 3D? That's why you pray for rain in these situations. Instead, it's grilling and yardwork for me.

Anyhow, Jon Wertheim breaks it down. Always the best recap if you watched nary a deuce.

Visitor

None, on a terrific Sunday.

I must confess, today's Klitschko-Haye fight was an abomination. This was wrong on so many levels from one of the strangest ring entrances by both fighters (featuring cameos by Lennox Lewis and George Foreman) to an apparent lack of security ringside. Plus, this was held at an outdoor stadium in Hamburg where patrons only 10 rows back were getting rained on. All sides should be glad there was no controversy or this could have ended badly for lots of people.

One more thing, the ring entrances were so tardy, HBO comes on at 4:45 local time and the opening bell sounds at about 5:27. Lamps kept blaming German TV. Anyhow, once the fight started, Roy Jones insanely insisted Haye's strategy was to beat Klitschko with one punch and it didn't matter when it came. Larry Merchant, around Round 5, said that may be true, but Haye was wasting his time. God bless Larry Merchant! Harold Lederman with, "Haye bobs, he weaves, he ducks, he moves. But he doesn't throw any punches." It was that bad.

For Haye didn't do anything. He had a habit of ducking around Klitschko's knees and Klitschko would oblige him by helping him to the mat. This happened about 5 times, like bad wrestling, before Klitschko had a point deducted for pushing. It continued later a few more times, and Haye even made a feeble attempt to steal another point. Finally, late in the fight, the ref, fed up like everyone else, gave Haye a standing-8 to stop him from doing it.

I wish I could describe any action. But it was like that movie title, give me "Something, Anything", and until a bit of a flurry in Round 12, there was nothing.

The disappointment of this fight is endless. I have to believe HBO will go back to avoiding the heavyweights. After the fight, Haye blamed a broken toe, suffered three weeks ago, as an excuse, and didn't want to drop out. You know, for the fans. Last time I looked, you don't throw punches with your feet.

Each guy got paid between $15 and $20 million for the bout. Haye should get down on his knees and thank his favorite deity for that check. For the "Hayemaker" should retire before he's known as the "Paytaker".

This one will leave a bad taste in everyone's mouth for quite a while. Or, maybe not, as the heavyweights will continue to be ignored.

Meal of Links

Kutcher vs. Village Voice seems to have more fight than the boxing match. Advertisers are leaving.

The Top 100 Products on Amazon. I actually have that OXO Can Opener and the OXO Tongs. Those tongs are great for the grill. Also have the "iPad Blender", but it's not an iPad. It's a Blendtec. Love that thing. Got an insane deal on it earlier this year.

NYPD blows up 5,000 lbs. of illegal fireworks...

Happy Birthday, America!



It was sort of tragic to see Spike Lee in attendance at the NBA Draft. He hasn't made a feature film in thre years, because he can't get funding.

Exercise Yard

The Tour started today. Two major pileups. The booed Alberto Contador is way back already. He'll be the story, if he catches up.

Visitor

15 Across: "The Defense Never Rests' co-author (10 letters) Answer: F. Lee Bailey

So, what are you going to watch this weekend? Hopefully, not much, so you can enjoy the weekend outdoors. But, if you are inside, here are some hints.

Here are this weekend's TV Marathons. My Dad will be psyched for that "Martin" marathon. And a very theme-worthy "How The States Got Their Shapes".

Klitschko vs. Haye is tomorrow. Like the old days, HBO has this one live at 4:45. Has potential to revive the heavyweights.

The Tour returns. I confess, I'm an Andy Schleck guy.

The closing arguments in the Tot Mom Trial are on Sunday. A quiz is included.

Alan Sepinwall makes a case for "Treme". That's a 90-minute closer on Sunday.

Close it out with a sold-out Indians-Yankees game on the 4th.

Meal of Links

A rerun of Fireworks suck.

Really loud movies. "Shoot the glass."

Work hard, feel poor. Explained here.

What's this? I may have missed Bash "Treme" Week.

Exercise Yard

First USC. Then Ohio State. Now Oregon.

Visitor

56 Across: Super bowl party array (6 letters) Answer: Salsas