Gamecocks Win College World Series, Celebration Wednesday
The city of Columbia will honor the team with a parade Friday
Gamecocks Fans Gather To Watch College World Series (Added: June 28, 2011)
A large crowd of Gamecock fans gathered at Rendezvous in Greenville County to watch the Gamecocks win the College World Series (more) 0 Ratings | 43 Video Views Post a Comment or Rate this Video
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South Carolina captured its second straight NCAA Baseball Championship by defeating Florida in the College World Series.
By Rob Landreth
Published: June 29, 2011
Updated: June 29, 2011 - 11:34 AM
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OMAHA, NE --
Gamecock fans are invited to attend Wednesday afternoon’s celebrate of the repeat championship for USC at the College World Series.
The doors to the Colonial Life Arena will open at 4:00 p.m. with the team expected to arrive at 5:30 p.m.
Parking is free in a first-come, first-served basis at Colonial Life Arena and the Discovery Garage.
The school will sell 2011 CWS merchandise at the rally.
Columbia-area police are asking fans to avoid the airport to welcome the Gamecocks home from Omaha because of TSA regulations in that area.
The Mayor’s office in Columbia says that there will be a parade Friday at noon in Columbia celebrating the win.
It was déjà vu all over again for South Carolina Tuesday night as the Gamecocks captured their second consecutive College World Series championship with a 5-2 win over Florida at TD Ameritrade Park.
The Gamecocks opened the first year at Omaha’s newest stadium the same way as they ended last year’s finale at Rosenblatt Stadium; by celebrating on the field after winning the national championship and securing a place in collegiate baseball lore. The Gamecocks became the first team since Oregon State in 2006-07 to repeat as champions and only the fifth school in history to do so, joining Texas, Southern California, Louisiana State and Oregon State.
The Gamecocks took the lead in the bottom of the third inning and never relinquished it.
Shortstop Peter Mooney led off the inning with a double down the leftfield line. After a sacrifice bunt by Robert Beary moved Mooney to third, rightfielder Evan Marzilli drew a walk from Florida starter Karsten Whitson, setting the stage for former Mauldin standout Scott Wingo to give the Gamecocks the lead.
Wingo, who was named the College World Series Most Valuable Players, delivered yet again. His sacrifice fly to rightfield allowed Mooney to score easily and gave South Carolina a 1-0 lead.
Karsten then proceeded to walk the next batter, Jackie Bradley Jr., to put runners on first and second with two out. Gamecock first baseman Christian Walker, who has been suffering from a wrist injury since last Friday, hit a hard ground ball to Gators shortstop Nolan Fontana, but Fonatana was unable to handle it and it ended up in centerfield. Marzilli scored from second for a 2-0 lead and Bradley advanced to third. One batter later, designated hitter Brady Thomas drove home Bradley with an infield single.
Former Riverside High standout Michael Roth, just three days removed from throwing 93 pitches against Virginia, pitched yet another gem.
Despite allowing a solo homerun by Southeastern Conference Player of the Year Mike Zunino in the top of the fourth inning, Roth had few problems.
Roth escaped a no out, runners on first and second situation in the top of the fifth when he struck out Gators third baseman Cody Dent who was attempting to bunt. He then managed initiate a double play, started by Wingo, to get out of the inning unscathed.
One inning later, the Gators threatened again.
Roth hit Fontana to leadoff the inning and then allowed a single to Zunino. Roth then struck out the next batter and then got Josh Adams to ground out to third base for the second out. With runners lurking on second and third, Roth managed to get Daniel Pigott to groundout to second to end the threat.
Roth pitched 7 2/3 innings and only allowed two runs on five hits. Matt Price, who has won two games and saved another for the Gamecocks during the World Series, came on to get the final four outs and claim his second save of the series.
Mooney added a solo homerun, the first one the Gamecocks have hit in the College World Series, in the bottom of the sixth and the Gamecocks added another run in the bottom of the eighth.
Fans Gather To Watch The Game
As the Gamecocks were busy winning their second straight NCAA College World Series, alot of fans piled into Rendezvous Cafe on Pelham Road in anticipation of watching the Gamecocks hoist the championship plaque.
"I'm ready for it," said Todd Williams, a lifelong Gamecocks fan. "We're going to end it tonight."
As confident as they were, alot of Gamecock fans were queasy at times, while watching in anticipation.
"I'm gonna have no fingernails left by the time this is over," Williams said.
"I've been so nervous, oh my gosh," said Tonya Etris. "It was the best (Monday night's) game I have seen in my whole life. So tonight we've got to take home the win."
For many in attendance, just the chance for a national championship brings with it confidence.
"(Michael) Roth just gave up a leadoff single, are you worried," I asked. "No, they gave up a leadoff single last night and we came back and won, so we don't ever give up," said Ted Connor.
"This is incredible," said Tonya Etris. "I mean, it's really a new era for Gamecocks and baseball as a whole for South Carolina."
"First, I wanted to get back to Omaha and then I just wanted to get to the finals and now we got to the finals," said Ted Meilinger, rendezvous owner. "I want to win."
And in the process, Gamecocks fans managed to take a shot at their arch-rivals, Clemson.
"Ray Tanner knows how to coach and he knows how to do something better than most Carolina coaches and that's how to beat Clemson," said ted Conrad. "He does it regularly. We like that."
Meilinger said that the Gamecocks wins in Omaha helped business. He said that Monday night's and Tuesday night's games have doubled and even tripled his typical early week business.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Northeast American Legion Tournament August 3rd-
8th 2011 At http://www.oldorchardbeachballpark.com/
League History
How to Participate
Awards
Photos
Famous Alumni
Find a Team
Game Schedule
Invitational Tournaments
State Tournaments
Regional Tournaments
World Series
Resources
Contacts
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.
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Northeast Tournament : 2011
August 4, 2011 - August 8, 2011
The Ballpark - Old Orchard Beach, Maine
View host's Web site
Contact Information
Sharri MacDonald
(207) 590-4201
smacdonald@maine.rr.com
Additional Information
Island View Motel
174 E Grand Ave
Old Orchard Bch, ME 04064-3002
(207) 934-2200
Toll free: 866.934.2202
info@islandview-motel.com
The Beau Rivage Motel
54 East Grand Avenue
Old Orchard Beach, Maine 04064
1-800-939-4668
www.beaurivagemotel.com
info@beaurivage.com
The Normandie Inn
1 York Street
OId Orchard Beach, Maine 04064
207-934-2533
www.normandieinn.com
info@normandieinn.com
8th 2011 At http://www.oldorchardbeachballpark.com/
League History
How to Participate
Awards
Photos
Famous Alumni
Find a Team
Game Schedule
Invitational Tournaments
State Tournaments
Regional Tournaments
World Series
Resources
Contacts
.
.
.
.
.
Northeast Tournament : 2011
August 4, 2011 - August 8, 2011
The Ballpark - Old Orchard Beach, Maine
View host's Web site
Contact Information
Sharri MacDonald
(207) 590-4201
smacdonald@maine.rr.com
Additional Information
Island View Motel
174 E Grand Ave
Old Orchard Bch, ME 04064-3002
(207) 934-2200
Toll free: 866.934.2202
info@islandview-motel.com
The Beau Rivage Motel
54 East Grand Avenue
Old Orchard Beach, Maine 04064
1-800-939-4668
www.beaurivagemotel.com
info@beaurivage.com
The Normandie Inn
1 York Street
OId Orchard Beach, Maine 04064
207-934-2533
www.normandieinn.com
info@normandieinn.com
18U: Trials kick-off at NTC in Cary
June 27, 2011
18U: Trials kick-off at NTC in Cary
Trials team practices, hosts ALS benefit clinic at NTC
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DURHAM, N.C. -- Following the selection of the USA Baseball 18U National Team Trials Roster, Manager Scott Brosius and his coaching staff put the 40-man squad through a light workout at the National Training Complex Monday afternoon.
Weather played a factor during the day as 15 minutes into its work out, the Trials Team had to take cover from scattered thunderstorms in the area, which lasted about an hour. Once the skies cleared it was back to baseball with the team working on positional drills, fielding and taking some swings in the batting cage.
After a light two-and-a-half hour practice the team broke for dinner before participating in the USA Baseball Children's Clinic, which benefits the Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter of the ALS. The local youth went through four stations where they were taught the basic principles of base running and fielding before playing quick ball home run derby and quick ball hit for the cycle. The ALS Clinic ended with a brief autograph session inside the main stadium at the NTC.
The Trials Team will go through its second practice of the week Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m. (EST) before playing its first Red-Blue game later in the evening at 6 p.m. (EST) at NTC.
18U: Trials kick-off at NTC in Cary
Trials team practices, hosts ALS benefit clinic at NTC
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DURHAM, N.C. -- Following the selection of the USA Baseball 18U National Team Trials Roster, Manager Scott Brosius and his coaching staff put the 40-man squad through a light workout at the National Training Complex Monday afternoon.
Weather played a factor during the day as 15 minutes into its work out, the Trials Team had to take cover from scattered thunderstorms in the area, which lasted about an hour. Once the skies cleared it was back to baseball with the team working on positional drills, fielding and taking some swings in the batting cage.
After a light two-and-a-half hour practice the team broke for dinner before participating in the USA Baseball Children's Clinic, which benefits the Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter of the ALS. The local youth went through four stations where they were taught the basic principles of base running and fielding before playing quick ball home run derby and quick ball hit for the cycle. The ALS Clinic ended with a brief autograph session inside the main stadium at the NTC.
The Trials Team will go through its second practice of the week Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m. (EST) before playing its first Red-Blue game later in the evening at 6 p.m. (EST) at NTC.
Collegiate National Team takes 8-4 win
June 28, 2011
Collegiate National Team takes 8-4 win
Michael Wacha strikes out six in first start for Team USA
NEWPORT, R.I. - Deven Marrero (Arizona State) tallied three hits and drove in two as the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team rolled to a 8-4 win over Newport Tuesday night at Cardines Field. Marrero doubled twice and singled once as Team USA improved to 4-1 in its tour of the New England Collegiate Baseball League. Marrero drove home both his runs with a two-run double in Team USA's seventh in which the club scored three times to take an 8-2 lead.
Michael Lorenzen (Cal State Fullerton) also drove in two with a triple to the right-center gap in Team USA's three-run fourth, giving the club the lead for good.
Josh Elander (Texas Christian), Tyler Naquin (Texas A&M) and Ronnie Freeman (Kennesaw State) all had two hits for Team USA in the win as the club finished with 12 overall.
Michael Wacha (Texas A&M) appeared in his first game for Team USA and started, allowing just three hits and two unearned runs in five innings of work. He struck out six to pick up the victory.
Both teams scored runs in the first. Elander put Team USA up first with a single through the left side that scored Marrero from second. However, Newport answered with a single by Matt Foat that allowed Robbie Ort to advance to third and score when Lorenzen had trouble fielding the ball cleanly in center.
Team USA took the lead for good in the fourth when Erich Weiss (Texas) drove in the club's second run on an infield single. Lorenzen's two-run triple eventually followed and Team USA scored the next seven runs before Newport managed two off reliever Matt Boyd (Oregon State) in the seventh.
Newport rallied in the eighth, loaded the bases with two out against reliever Mark Appel (Stanford). Appel, who played for the Gulls last summer, got out of the jam, however, on a 4-6 fielder's choice to hold an 8-4 lead.
The Gulls rallied again in the ninth, putting runners at second and third with two outs against Corey Knebel (Texas) but he was able to close out the win via a strikeout of Newport's Jack Reinheimer.
Newport's Daniel Wright was touched for three runs in the fourth and took the loss. He was the third of eight Newport pitchers on the night.
Team USA plays in its final game in New England Wednesday when the club visits New Bedford in a game that starts at 6:30 p.m. ET. Make sure and visit usabaseball.com for a live stats link prior to the game a full recap and box score after the contests' conclusion.
USA Notes: Virginia's Branden Kline joined the club before the game but did not play ... He last pitched against South Carolina in the College World Series ... Wacha struck out the side in the third inning ... Marrero's three-hit night was his second for Team USA ... His first three-hit game came in the opener against Keene ... Team USA leaves for North Carolina Thursday and will fly into Charlotte before playing at Gastonia that night
Michael Lorenzen (Cal State Fullerton) also drove in two with a triple to the right-center gap in Team USA's three-run fourth, giving the club the lead for good.
Josh Elander (Texas Christian), Tyler Naquin (Texas A&M) and Ronnie Freeman (Kennesaw State) all had two hits for Team USA in the win as the club finished with 12 overall.
Michael Wacha (Texas A&M) appeared in his first game for Team USA and started, allowing just three hits and two unearned runs in five innings of work. He struck out six to pick up the victory.
Both teams scored runs in the first. Elander put Team USA up first with a single through the left side that scored Marrero from second. However, Newport answered with a single by Matt Foat that allowed Robbie Ort to advance to third and score when Lorenzen had trouble fielding the ball cleanly in center.
Team USA took the lead for good in the fourth when Erich Weiss (Texas) drove in the club's second run on an infield single. Lorenzen's two-run triple eventually followed and Team USA scored the next seven runs before Newport managed two off reliever Matt Boyd (Oregon State) in the seventh.
Newport rallied in the eighth, loaded the bases with two out against reliever Mark Appel (Stanford). Appel, who played for the Gulls last summer, got out of the jam, however, on a 4-6 fielder's choice to hold an 8-4 lead.
The Gulls rallied again in the ninth, putting runners at second and third with two outs against Corey Knebel (Texas) but he was able to close out the win via a strikeout of Newport's Jack Reinheimer.
Newport's Daniel Wright was touched for three runs in the fourth and took the loss. He was the third of eight Newport pitchers on the night.
Team USA plays in its final game in New England Wednesday when the club visits New Bedford in a game that starts at 6:30 p.m. ET. Make sure and visit usabaseball.com for a live stats link prior to the game a full recap and box score after the contests' conclusion.
USA Notes: Virginia's Branden Kline joined the club before the game but did not play ... He last pitched against South Carolina in the College World Series ... Wacha struck out the side in the third inning ... Marrero's three-hit night was his second for Team USA ... His first three-hit game came in the opener against Keene ... Team USA leaves for North Carolina Thursday and will fly into Charlotte before playing at Gastonia that night
2011 MLB All-Star Game events at Chase Field: A fan’s guide
2011 MLB All-Star Game events at Chase Field: A fan’s guide
Besides going to the 2011 All-Star game at Chase Field, baseball fans may also enjoy watching other exciting MLB All-Star events and festivities. From watching the home run derby to watching the legends and celebrity softball game, there will be plenty of baseball activities for fans to enjoy in Phoenix.
Before the activities are discussed, click here for pertinent information on the state of the art Chase Field.
MLB All-Star fan fest at the Phoenix Convention Center from July 8-12
When the All-Star game was hosted in Fenway Park in Boston in 1999, one of my favorite activities was meeting a number of Hall-of-Fame baseball players. During this year's fan fest, fans will be able to visit interactive exhibits and attractions along with meeting and receiving complimentary autographs from some of the best Diamondbacks players. At this time, the list of players appearing at the fan fest has not been announced. If you would like additional information, click here.
Taco Bell All-Star Sunday featuring the XM All-Star futures game
Although the futures game does not receive nearly as much attention as the All-Star game, the futures game still is an exciting way to watch prospects and aspiring baseball players. In my opinion, the futures game is great for fans who would like to learn about future professional hitters and pitchers.
Gatorade All-Star workout day,featuring the home run derby
One of the most exciting activities during the All-Star break is watching the best baseball players take batting practice on workout day. Before the home run derby, the All-Stars from both leagues will practice their swing, and this is usually one of the most enjoyable events for fans. As for the home run derby, the competition can be watched on ESPN on July 11 at 8 p.m. Last year's winner was David Ortiz(notes). It is important to note that fans who would like to purchase tickets to any of the events, including the All-Star game, can click on this link for tickets.
Taco Bell All-Star legends and celebrity softball game
When I watched the legends and celebrity softball game last year, I witnessed a high-scoring, competitive game between the American League and National League. Lead by Goose Gossage and John Kruk, both teams did fairly well but the American League eventually won the game with the score of 15-11 at Angel Stadium. For this year's legends and celebrity softball game, Jason Aldean, Nick Jonas, Larry Fitzgerald, Ernie Banks, Rickey Henderson and many others are likely to play during the game. For more information on the legends and celebrities who will most likely perform, click here. The legends and celebrity softball game will be nationally televised on ESPN on July 11 at 10:30 p.m.
Sources:
"2011 All-Star Game Tickets," MLB.com.
"2011 All-Star Game Fanfest", MLB.com.
"2011 Taco Bell All-Star Legends & Celebrity Softball Game info," MLB.com.
Tom Harrington, "Chase Field hosting 2011 MLB All-Star Game: A fan's guide," Yahoo! Sports.
Note: This article was written by a Yahoo! contributor. Sign up here to start publishing your own sports content.
Before the activities are discussed, click here for pertinent information on the state of the art Chase Field.
MLB All-Star fan fest at the Phoenix Convention Center from July 8-12
When the All-Star game was hosted in Fenway Park in Boston in 1999, one of my favorite activities was meeting a number of Hall-of-Fame baseball players. During this year's fan fest, fans will be able to visit interactive exhibits and attractions along with meeting and receiving complimentary autographs from some of the best Diamondbacks players. At this time, the list of players appearing at the fan fest has not been announced. If you would like additional information, click here.
Taco Bell All-Star Sunday featuring the XM All-Star futures game
Although the futures game does not receive nearly as much attention as the All-Star game, the futures game still is an exciting way to watch prospects and aspiring baseball players. In my opinion, the futures game is great for fans who would like to learn about future professional hitters and pitchers.
Gatorade All-Star workout day,featuring the home run derby
One of the most exciting activities during the All-Star break is watching the best baseball players take batting practice on workout day. Before the home run derby, the All-Stars from both leagues will practice their swing, and this is usually one of the most enjoyable events for fans. As for the home run derby, the competition can be watched on ESPN on July 11 at 8 p.m. Last year's winner was David Ortiz(notes). It is important to note that fans who would like to purchase tickets to any of the events, including the All-Star game, can click on this link for tickets.
Taco Bell All-Star legends and celebrity softball game
When I watched the legends and celebrity softball game last year, I witnessed a high-scoring, competitive game between the American League and National League. Lead by Goose Gossage and John Kruk, both teams did fairly well but the American League eventually won the game with the score of 15-11 at Angel Stadium. For this year's legends and celebrity softball game, Jason Aldean, Nick Jonas, Larry Fitzgerald, Ernie Banks, Rickey Henderson and many others are likely to play during the game. For more information on the legends and celebrities who will most likely perform, click here. The legends and celebrity softball game will be nationally televised on ESPN on July 11 at 10:30 p.m.
Sources:
"2011 All-Star Game Tickets," MLB.com.
"2011 All-Star Game Fanfest", MLB.com.
"2011 Taco Bell All-Star Legends & Celebrity Softball Game info," MLB.com.
Tom Harrington, "Chase Field hosting 2011 MLB All-Star Game: A fan's guide," Yahoo! Sports.
Note: This article was written by a Yahoo! contributor. Sign up here to start publishing your own sports content.
Battle over Dodgers moves on in bankruptcy court
Battle over Dodgers moves on in bankruptcy court
WILMINGTON, Del. (AP)—Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt may have won the first round in a bankruptcy court fight with Major League Baseball, however the two sides are gearing up for what could be a protracted battle for control of one of the most storied teams in baseball.
A Delaware judge on Tuesday gave interim approval to a $150 million bankruptcy financing arrangement sought by McCourt to keep the cash-strapped ballclub operating, but not before the league squeezed concessions on the loan terms and questioned whether McCourt should retain control during the Chapter 11 case.
While the Dodgers’ blame their liquidity crisis on Commissioner Bud Selig’s refusal to approve a broadcast rights agreement with Fox Sports, the league says the problems meeting payroll stem from McCourt’s financial mismanagement, his use of team assets for his personal benefit, and “the resulting decline in attendance caused by the community’s extraordinary unhappiness with the club’s owner.”
A person familiar with the league’s plans told The Associated Press that MLB probably will file a motion to seize the Dodgers, who have been operating under the oversight of a monitor appointed by Selig in April. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the situation.
Baseball’s constitution allows Selig to take control of a team that seeks Chapter 11 protection, but the league first must file a motion seeking termination of the franchise. The league argued in court papers that the commissioner could terminate the Dodgers’ right to operate the club as a result of the bankruptcy filing upon a vote of 75 percent of league teams.
Attorneys representing Selig’s office said threshold matters in the bankruptcy case include whether it was properly filed, whether McCourt should retain control, and whether a monitor appointed by Selig to oversee the team can continue to perform his duties.
For now, however, the two sides are content to keep the lights on, the players paid and the fans in the seats, pending a July 20 hearing on the financing.
“I recognize that there is a lot ahead of us,” said Judge Kevin Gross, who asked MLB attorney Thomas Lauria for a copy of the league’s constitution, noting that it “has an impact here.”
Lauria disagreed with Dodgers attorney Bruce Bennett that the league and the team were adversaries, saying the league views the Dodgers as one of its“cherished crown jewels.”
Lauria did suggest, however, that the league was at loggerheads with McCourt, whom he blamed for “today’s sorry mess.”
Gross granted the Dodgers’ request for debtor-in-possession financing after attorneys for both sides huddled behind closed doors for more than an hour, emerging with an agreement to make two modifications to the proposed agreement with hedge fund Highbridge Capital.
One of the modifications reduces the exit fee that would be due to Highbridge from $4.5 million to $250,000. The other removes certain milestones in the financing agreement regarding the sale of the team’s broadcast rights, including a July 29 deadline to agree on a sale process calling for bankruptcy court approval of a sale within six months of Monday’s bankruptcy filing, and a closing within 45 days of the court order.
Earlier Tuesday, the league objected to the Highbridge financing proposal and offered its own, accusing McCourt of siphoning off more than $100 million in club revenue and driving the Dodgers into a liquidity crisis. It also cited his lavish lifestyle with his ex-wife, Jamie, who is battling McCourt for half of his ownership assets.
The league argued that its own financing offer was superior because it eliminated the $4.5 million exit fee, reduced the interest rate by 3 percent, did not require the team to encumber assets, and did not impose an artificial timeline for disposing of the broadcast rights.
The Dodgers countered that the league’s objection to the team’s financing proposal revealed Selig’s “overarching desire” to exert a “stranglehold” on the team.
“The commissioner’s financing proposal is nothing other than a thinly veiled effort to take total control over the debtors and these cases,” team attorneys wrote, adding that it is no secret that Selig wants a change of ownership.
“The commissioner’s efforts seem to be driven by a personal animosity towards Mr. McCourt that unbiased observers have recognized as being‘unprecedented,”’ they added, citing media reports. “The debtors have no obligation to accept financing from such a determined adversary.”
While agreeing to the interim financing, both sides reserved their rights to argue all issues surrounding the bankruptcy filing, including the possibility that the league might seek to have the case dismissed, and whether former Texas Rangers President Thomas Schieffer should remain as monitor of the Dodgers. Schieffer was appointed to monitor the team on Selig’s behalf after the commissioner took the extraordinary step in April of assuming control of the troubled franchise, saying he was concerned about the team’s finances and how the Dodgers were being run.
AP Baseball Writer Ben Walker in New York contributed to this report.
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A Delaware judge on Tuesday gave interim approval to a $150 million bankruptcy financing arrangement sought by McCourt to keep the cash-strapped ballclub operating, but not before the league squeezed concessions on the loan terms and questioned whether McCourt should retain control during the Chapter 11 case.
While the Dodgers’ blame their liquidity crisis on Commissioner Bud Selig’s refusal to approve a broadcast rights agreement with Fox Sports, the league says the problems meeting payroll stem from McCourt’s financial mismanagement, his use of team assets for his personal benefit, and “the resulting decline in attendance caused by the community’s extraordinary unhappiness with the club’s owner.”
LOS ANGELES, CA - FILE: Los A…
Getty Images - Jun 27, 10:46 am EDT
Getty Images - Jun 27, 10:46 am EDT
Baseball’s constitution allows Selig to take control of a team that seeks Chapter 11 protection, but the league first must file a motion seeking termination of the franchise. The league argued in court papers that the commissioner could terminate the Dodgers’ right to operate the club as a result of the bankruptcy filing upon a vote of 75 percent of league teams.
Attorneys representing Selig’s office said threshold matters in the bankruptcy case include whether it was properly filed, whether McCourt should retain control, and whether a monitor appointed by Selig to oversee the team can continue to perform his duties.
For now, however, the two sides are content to keep the lights on, the players paid and the fans in the seats, pending a July 20 hearing on the financing.
“I recognize that there is a lot ahead of us,” said Judge Kevin Gross, who asked MLB attorney Thomas Lauria for a copy of the league’s constitution, noting that it “has an impact here.”
Lauria disagreed with Dodgers attorney Bruce Bennett that the league and the team were adversaries, saying the league views the Dodgers as one of its“cherished crown jewels.”
Lauria did suggest, however, that the league was at loggerheads with McCourt, whom he blamed for “today’s sorry mess.”
Gross granted the Dodgers’ request for debtor-in-possession financing after attorneys for both sides huddled behind closed doors for more than an hour, emerging with an agreement to make two modifications to the proposed agreement with hedge fund Highbridge Capital.
One of the modifications reduces the exit fee that would be due to Highbridge from $4.5 million to $250,000. The other removes certain milestones in the financing agreement regarding the sale of the team’s broadcast rights, including a July 29 deadline to agree on a sale process calling for bankruptcy court approval of a sale within six months of Monday’s bankruptcy filing, and a closing within 45 days of the court order.
Earlier Tuesday, the league objected to the Highbridge financing proposal and offered its own, accusing McCourt of siphoning off more than $100 million in club revenue and driving the Dodgers into a liquidity crisis. It also cited his lavish lifestyle with his ex-wife, Jamie, who is battling McCourt for half of his ownership assets.
The league argued that its own financing offer was superior because it eliminated the $4.5 million exit fee, reduced the interest rate by 3 percent, did not require the team to encumber assets, and did not impose an artificial timeline for disposing of the broadcast rights.
The Dodgers countered that the league’s objection to the team’s financing proposal revealed Selig’s “overarching desire” to exert a “stranglehold” on the team.
“The commissioner’s financing proposal is nothing other than a thinly veiled effort to take total control over the debtors and these cases,” team attorneys wrote, adding that it is no secret that Selig wants a change of ownership.
“The commissioner’s efforts seem to be driven by a personal animosity towards Mr. McCourt that unbiased observers have recognized as being‘unprecedented,”’ they added, citing media reports. “The debtors have no obligation to accept financing from such a determined adversary.”
While agreeing to the interim financing, both sides reserved their rights to argue all issues surrounding the bankruptcy filing, including the possibility that the league might seek to have the case dismissed, and whether former Texas Rangers President Thomas Schieffer should remain as monitor of the Dodgers. Schieffer was appointed to monitor the team on Selig’s behalf after the commissioner took the extraordinary step in April of assuming control of the troubled franchise, saying he was concerned about the team’s finances and how the Dodgers were being run.
AP Baseball Writer Ben Walker in New York contributed to this report.
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WALKER PRICE OVERCAME INJURY,FATIGUE
June 28, 2011
OMAHA, Neb. -- Monday morning, the chances of either Christian Walker or Matt Price appearing in Game 1 of the National Championship Series appeared slim.
Walker had just been diagnosed with a broken hamate bone in his left wrist, while Price had to battle through a tired arm after one of the longest stints of his career, a 5.2 inning, 95-pitch outing against Virginia that helped lead the Gamecocks into the finals for the second straight years.
It's safe to say neither was 100 percent healthy when the Gamecocks took the field to face Florida in a showdown between SEC East rivals for ultimate bragging rights.
But not only did both players play, they sparkled in making significant contributions towards USC's thrilling 2-1 victory in 11 innings.
Walker had two hits and, of course, scored the eventual game-winning run in the top of the 11th inning when his steal of second turned into multiple throwing errors by the Florida defense.
But, before reaching that magical moment, playing through the pain wasn't easy. Team doctors and athletic trainers constantly evaluated his situation throughout the game.
"He scuffled some in the middle of the game and had to get some treatment to get him going again a little bit," USC head coach Ray Tanner said. "They tried to get him through the thing. But a hamate is very painful. You have to ice it and do a lot of things to keep him from feeling it. When you do those things, it's numb a lot. It was great to see him out there. It was fantastic."
Price, meanwhile, was summoned after Walker's run to close it out and that's what he did despite surrendering a leadoff walk in the bottom half of the inning. After a sacrifice bunt moved the runner into scoring position, Price reared back and fanned the next batter before a groundout to short ended it.
Between the two, Walker was the more unlikely to step onto the field considering the severity of his injury. But a pair of Columbia, SC-based doctors that work with the baseball team flew to Omaha on Monday morning and examined Walker's hand. Hours of treatment allowed him to first take batting practice and then play.
"It just came down to dealing with the pain," Walker said. "I can't say enough about the whole staff."
Tanner added: "The doctors got a chance to get with him this (Monday) afternoon. They told him that he could play because he wasn't going to hurt himself any more. But they told him that he was going to be in tremendous pain and they had to figure out how to alleviate the pain."
Walker will likely have to undergo surgery when USC returns to Columbia, Tanner said, unfortunately halting his chances of playing this summer for the USA Baseball National Collegiate Team.
Even Tanner wasn't optimistic Walker would be able to play, but became convinced after watching him belt several homers during BP, including his very first swing in the cage.
"I didn't think he was going to be able to play. He ran out there and said 'I think I can do it,'" Tanner said. "He jumped in there with the last group and hits a ball into the bullpen. I was just amazed. When he jumped in there, I just figured he was trying to fight through it and that it would be tough. Then he uncorked a couple of balls and I said, 'Really,'? He told me that 'I'm not all there but I can get it through the zone.'
"I've had many players over the years that have had hamate injuries. It's extremely painful. I'm sure it's going to be another struggle (Tuesday night). It's not going to go away. We'll try to repeat the procedure and hopefully get him back out there tomorrow (Tuesday)."
Following last Friday's marathon win that eliminated Virginia, Tanner also questioned if Price would be available for Game 1. But there he was, pitching the 11th inning to register his 19th save of the season, tying him for the national lead.
"I was surprised that he was able to be out there, quite honestly," Tanner said. "I talked to him a little bit and I just really didn't anticipate him pitching. But I have a number of guys on the team that lay it out there for me all the time. Sometimes I get concerned if they're ready to go.
"I tell them to be honest with their bodies and don't try to do much. Matt Price has done that. He's been very honest. I told him we would rest him on Monday and gear him up for Tuesday, but he said OK but let's talk about it later. He wanted to see how he felt and go through the day."
Tonight, No. 1 starter Michael Roth will have to duplicate Price's tenacity and toughness when he takes the mound on just three days rest to face the potent Florida lineup.
Tanner left the decision to Roth by trusting the junior's keen ability to interpret what his left arm was telling him. Clearly, he believes he's ready to pitch.
Against Virginia, Roth hurled 7.0 innings and threw 90 pitches, exiting the contest with a 0.98 ERA in 137.1 IP. USC announced Tuesday morning Roth would make his 20th start of the season against the Gators with USC needing just one more win for back-to-back national championships.
Overall, the USC pitching staff has compiled an impressive 0.64 ERA in four CWS games, allowing just eight total runs, three earned, on 28 hits. Roth has a 0.63 ERA in his first two CWS starts covering 14.1 innings. He has yielded five runs (one earned) and eight hits with 11 strikeouts.
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Walker had just been diagnosed with a broken hamate bone in his left wrist, while Price had to battle through a tired arm after one of the longest stints of his career, a 5.2 inning, 95-pitch outing against Virginia that helped lead the Gamecocks into the finals for the second straight years.
It's safe to say neither was 100 percent healthy when the Gamecocks took the field to face Florida in a showdown between SEC East rivals for ultimate bragging rights.
But not only did both players play, they sparkled in making significant contributions towards USC's thrilling 2-1 victory in 11 innings.
Walker had two hits and, of course, scored the eventual game-winning run in the top of the 11th inning when his steal of second turned into multiple throwing errors by the Florida defense.
But, before reaching that magical moment, playing through the pain wasn't easy. Team doctors and athletic trainers constantly evaluated his situation throughout the game.
"He scuffled some in the middle of the game and had to get some treatment to get him going again a little bit," USC head coach Ray Tanner said. "They tried to get him through the thing. But a hamate is very painful. You have to ice it and do a lot of things to keep him from feeling it. When you do those things, it's numb a lot. It was great to see him out there. It was fantastic."
Price, meanwhile, was summoned after Walker's run to close it out and that's what he did despite surrendering a leadoff walk in the bottom half of the inning. After a sacrifice bunt moved the runner into scoring position, Price reared back and fanned the next batter before a groundout to short ended it.
Between the two, Walker was the more unlikely to step onto the field considering the severity of his injury. But a pair of Columbia, SC-based doctors that work with the baseball team flew to Omaha on Monday morning and examined Walker's hand. Hours of treatment allowed him to first take batting practice and then play.
"It just came down to dealing with the pain," Walker said. "I can't say enough about the whole staff."
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| Chris Gillespie | |
| |
| Matt Price closed out Monday night's win over Florida. Will he do the same thing on Tuesday? |
Walker will likely have to undergo surgery when USC returns to Columbia, Tanner said, unfortunately halting his chances of playing this summer for the USA Baseball National Collegiate Team.
Even Tanner wasn't optimistic Walker would be able to play, but became convinced after watching him belt several homers during BP, including his very first swing in the cage.
"I didn't think he was going to be able to play. He ran out there and said 'I think I can do it,'" Tanner said. "He jumped in there with the last group and hits a ball into the bullpen. I was just amazed. When he jumped in there, I just figured he was trying to fight through it and that it would be tough. Then he uncorked a couple of balls and I said, 'Really,'? He told me that 'I'm not all there but I can get it through the zone.'
"I've had many players over the years that have had hamate injuries. It's extremely painful. I'm sure it's going to be another struggle (Tuesday night). It's not going to go away. We'll try to repeat the procedure and hopefully get him back out there tomorrow (Tuesday)."
Following last Friday's marathon win that eliminated Virginia, Tanner also questioned if Price would be available for Game 1. But there he was, pitching the 11th inning to register his 19th save of the season, tying him for the national lead.
"I was surprised that he was able to be out there, quite honestly," Tanner said. "I talked to him a little bit and I just really didn't anticipate him pitching. But I have a number of guys on the team that lay it out there for me all the time. Sometimes I get concerned if they're ready to go.
"I tell them to be honest with their bodies and don't try to do much. Matt Price has done that. He's been very honest. I told him we would rest him on Monday and gear him up for Tuesday, but he said OK but let's talk about it later. He wanted to see how he felt and go through the day."
Tonight, No. 1 starter Michael Roth will have to duplicate Price's tenacity and toughness when he takes the mound on just three days rest to face the potent Florida lineup.
Tanner left the decision to Roth by trusting the junior's keen ability to interpret what his left arm was telling him. Clearly, he believes he's ready to pitch.
Against Virginia, Roth hurled 7.0 innings and threw 90 pitches, exiting the contest with a 0.98 ERA in 137.1 IP. USC announced Tuesday morning Roth would make his 20th start of the season against the Gators with USC needing just one more win for back-to-back national championships.
Overall, the USC pitching staff has compiled an impressive 0.64 ERA in four CWS games, allowing just eight total runs, three earned, on 28 hits. Roth has a 0.63 ERA in his first two CWS starts covering 14.1 innings. He has yielded five runs (one earned) and eight hits with 11 strikeouts.
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June 28, 2011
OMAHA, Neb. -- New park, new year.
Same result.
South Carolina -- again -- is a national champion, after beating No. 1 Florida 5-2 on Tuesday to complete a wire-to-wire thrill ride through the season. Expected to at least get back to the College World Series after last year's national championship triumph, USC overcame near-crippling injuries and adversity to do it -- and then pulled off the same feat through the eight-team tournament.
The No. 4 Gamecocks (55-14) won their NCAA record 16th straight NCAA tournament game and 11th straight in Omaha, bringing home gold for the second straight season. College World Series Most Outstanding Player Scott Wingo finished his career with two RBIs in his 254th and final game, Michael Roth (14-3) gutted through 7 2-3 tough innings on three days rest and Peter Mooney belted USC's only home run of the CWS, a solo shot, for a three-run lead in the sixth inning.
All that was left for the 1-2 punch of John Taylor and Matt Price to finish the final innings, which they did. Price finished with two wins and two saves in the CWS, in what may be the last collegiate appearance of his career.
The Gamecocks, again, are No. 1.
Same result.
South Carolina -- again -- is a national champion, after beating No. 1 Florida 5-2 on Tuesday to complete a wire-to-wire thrill ride through the season. Expected to at least get back to the College World Series after last year's national championship triumph, USC overcame near-crippling injuries and adversity to do it -- and then pulled off the same feat through the eight-team tournament.
The No. 4 Gamecocks (55-14) won their NCAA record 16th straight NCAA tournament game and 11th straight in Omaha, bringing home gold for the second straight season. College World Series Most Outstanding Player Scott Wingo finished his career with two RBIs in his 254th and final game, Michael Roth (14-3) gutted through 7 2-3 tough innings on three days rest and Peter Mooney belted USC's only home run of the CWS, a solo shot, for a three-run lead in the sixth inning.
All that was left for the 1-2 punch of John Taylor and Matt Price to finish the final innings, which they did. Price finished with two wins and two saves in the CWS, in what may be the last collegiate appearance of his career.
The Gamecocks, again, are No. 1.
Gamecocks repeat as national champs with 5-2 win
Gamecocks repeat as national champs with 5-2 win
OMAHA, Neb. (AP)—Michael Roth pitched 7 2-3 innings on three days’ rest, and South Carolina won its second straight national championship with a 5-2 victory Tuesday night that completed a two-game sweep over Florida in the College World Series finals.
South Carolina (55-14) became the first team to ever go 10-0 in an NCAA tournament and the first since Oregon State in 2007 to go unbeaten in a CWS.
The Gamecocks’ streaks of 16 NCAA tournament wins and 11 straight in the CWS are both the longest all-time.
South Carolina has the distinction of winning the last CWS played at Rosenblatt Stadium and the first at TD Ameritrade Park.
Peter Mooney doubled to start a three-run third inning in the matchup of Southeastern Conference rivals and hit the Gamecocks’ first home run of the CWS in the sixth.
After giving up four runs in the first inning of their opener against Texas A&M, the Gamecocks allowed just six in their other 50 innings here.
They became the sixth team to win consecutive national titles and first since Oregon State in 2006 and 2007.
Roth (14-3), who pitched seven innings against Virginia on Friday, gave up five hits and two runs before leaving in the eighth. He started last year’s national championship game but didn’t get a decision.
Among pitchers who have worked 30 innings at the CWS, Roth’s 1.17 ERA over 38 1-3 innings the past two years ranks second all-time behind Ohio State’s Steve Arlin, who had a 0.96 ERA over 47 innings in 1965-66.
Roth came in with a 0.98 ERA for the season and held Florida without a run after it got leadoff men on base in the fifth, sixth and seventh innings. Roth left with two outs in the eighth after giving up a double to Mike Zunino, who later scored on Josh Adams’ single off John Taylor.
Matt Price worked 1 1-3 innings for his 20th save.
Florida starter Karsten Whitson (8-1) came out strong, mixing in his mid-90s fastball to strike out three of the first six batters.
But South Carolina scored three runs in the third after Mooney’s leadoff double into the left-field corner. Mooney scored on a sacrifice fly by Scott Wingo—the CWS’ Most Outstanding Player—Evan Marzilli came home when shortstop Nolan Fontana swiped at and missed Christian Walker’s grounder. Brady Thomas brought in another run with his infield single.
Whitson, a freshman who was the No. 9 overall draft pick by the San Diego Padres in 2010, left with the bases loaded and two outs in the fifth. Tommy Toledo came on to strike out Jake Williams.
The Gators made it a two-run game when Zunino hit Roth’s 84 mph slider into the seats in left for his 19th homer of the season—and first off Roth since April 22.
For all the great memories left behind at Rosenblatt, the Gamecocks already have created a bunch at the new stadium.
There was Wingo’s bases-loaded single to beat Texas A&M in the bottom of the ninth in their opener.
There was Price getting out of bases-loaded situations three times against Virginia on Friday before two errant throws on bunts produced the winning run.
And then there was Wingo throwing out runners at home from second base with the bases loaded in the ninth and 10th innings and left fielder Williams nailing Cody Dent at the plate in the 11th before Walker, playing with a broken wrist, scored the winning run in the 11th on two Florida throwing errors
South Carolina (55-14) became the first team to ever go 10-0 in an NCAA tournament and the first since Oregon State in 2007 to go unbeaten in a CWS.
The Gamecocks’ streaks of 16 NCAA tournament wins and 11 straight in the CWS are both the longest all-time.
South Carolina has the distinction of winning the last CWS played at Rosenblatt Stadium and the first at TD Ameritrade Park.
Peter Mooney doubled to start a three-run third inning in the matchup of Southeastern Conference rivals and hit the Gamecocks’ first home run of the CWS in the sixth.
After giving up four runs in the first inning of their opener against Texas A&M, the Gamecocks allowed just six in their other 50 innings here.
They became the sixth team to win consecutive national titles and first since Oregon State in 2006 and 2007.
Roth (14-3), who pitched seven innings against Virginia on Friday, gave up five hits and two runs before leaving in the eighth. He started last year’s national championship game but didn’t get a decision.
Among pitchers who have worked 30 innings at the CWS, Roth’s 1.17 ERA over 38 1-3 innings the past two years ranks second all-time behind Ohio State’s Steve Arlin, who had a 0.96 ERA over 47 innings in 1965-66.
Roth came in with a 0.98 ERA for the season and held Florida without a run after it got leadoff men on base in the fifth, sixth and seventh innings. Roth left with two outs in the eighth after giving up a double to Mike Zunino, who later scored on Josh Adams’ single off John Taylor.
Matt Price worked 1 1-3 innings for his 20th save.
Florida starter Karsten Whitson (8-1) came out strong, mixing in his mid-90s fastball to strike out three of the first six batters.
But South Carolina scored three runs in the third after Mooney’s leadoff double into the left-field corner. Mooney scored on a sacrifice fly by Scott Wingo—the CWS’ Most Outstanding Player—Evan Marzilli came home when shortstop Nolan Fontana swiped at and missed Christian Walker’s grounder. Brady Thomas brought in another run with his infield single.
Whitson, a freshman who was the No. 9 overall draft pick by the San Diego Padres in 2010, left with the bases loaded and two outs in the fifth. Tommy Toledo came on to strike out Jake Williams.
The Gators made it a two-run game when Zunino hit Roth’s 84 mph slider into the seats in left for his 19th homer of the season—and first off Roth since April 22.
For all the great memories left behind at Rosenblatt, the Gamecocks already have created a bunch at the new stadium.
There was Wingo’s bases-loaded single to beat Texas A&M in the bottom of the ninth in their opener.
There was Price getting out of bases-loaded situations three times against Virginia on Friday before two errant throws on bunts produced the winning run.
And then there was Wingo throwing out runners at home from second base with the bases loaded in the ninth and 10th innings and left fielder Williams nailing Cody Dent at the plate in the 11th before Walker, playing with a broken wrist, scored the winning run in the 11th on two Florida throwing errors
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