Bob Lazzari On Sports

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 2/4/12

2012-01-30T22:44:00.001-05:00

The Downfall of "JoePa"

We knew him as "JoePa"--yeah, the ultimate father-figure. Heck, "paterno" in Italian means paternal or fatherly, doesn't it? Most of us knew him as THE protector of integrity in a "break the rules 'til you get caught" college atmosphere gone haywire. He did things the right way, the Paterno way, yes--HIS way. And he did it all in a place called Happy Valley. Should have been a happy ending, right?

Joe Paterno died on January 22nd of complications from lung cancer; Penn State alum Matt Millen categorized it as more of a "broken heart" that took the life of the man who won more major college football games (409) than any other coach. In the end, his reputation as a "protector" was his downfall as he failed to alert authorities regarding the actions of a bum named Sandusky--his former defensive coordinator--now charged with terrible sex crimes against young boys. You see, LOYALTY was always #1 with "JoePa". Think about it: 62 years at one school, a devoted family man, and one who refused the riches of professional football in order to put (and KEEP) State College, PA on the map. His main legacy? He taught his players more about LIFE than about the game of football. In essence, he WAS Penn State--a man who continued to reside in the modest ranch home just blocks away from the stadium where his teams would benefit from his unmatched tutelage. "I wish I had done more" would be one of his last public statements. Yes, he died an embarrassed man--his inner conscience/mental anguish, no doubt, hastening his death at the age of 85.

"He was a simple man," said my Monday Night Sports Talk co-host Tony DeAngelo. "He believed in his program, he believed in his school, he believed in God, and he loved his kids. His innocence was largely rooted in his ignorance of indiscretions, and that's a sad thing. But there's no doubt that he was loyal to his program. Unfortunately, his simple nature--along with an IMMENSE love of his community--provided his undoing." Yes, it seems as if Joe liked to keep things simple--VERY simple. He dressed conservatively and his teams' uniforms were unflattering; yeah, no names on the backs of THIS school's jerseys--solely due to the wishes of a man who stressed the team concept like few others. Again, SIMPLE was Joe's way: play hard but study JUST as hard. And it worked: he coached 47 academic All-Americans, went to an astounding 37 Bowl games, and sent more than 250 (not a misprint, folks) players to the NFL. He was, quite possibly, the greatest football coach to ever walk on a gridiron--at ANY level. Simply put, the Paterno way would be impossible to duplicate.

What brought this legend down? Ah, there is no easy, cut-and-dried answer to that--but I'll say that it starts with trust, gets painted with loyalty, involves disgust, and ends with uncomfortable apathy. Here's the 'quick version' of how yours truly believes the scandalous situation may have unfolded at PSU: Graduate assistant Mike McQueary sees former coach Jerry Sandusky "involved" with a young boy in a shower in 2002--HAS to tell Paterno. Joe can't fathom such a despicable act--especially on the part of "one of his own"; he then tells administrators--fulfilling his legal obligation AND satisfying his conscience at the same time--and assumes they will take care of the rest. For some reason, PSU "suits" do NOTHING--most likely due to negative attention that would be brought to an otherwise honorable, "squeaky clean" program. The cover-up consists of saying nothing to NO ONE; the incident will simply go away on its own--just disappear. As time passes, Paterno--although still bothered and reeling in disgust from McQueary's claims--takes a hint from administrators and decides to remain quiet in order to keep PSU's reputation intact (which would cement his ultimate downfall). Too much time goes by; the situation snowballs as further Sandusky accusations arise. "JoePa" gets caught up (and wrongly so) in the "if not sure what to do, do NOTHING" trap. He proceeds to wrestle often with the fact that things like this just DON'T happen at PSU, but his tunnel vision allows him to carry on and concentrate on current players and the job at hand. The story breaks in early November, 2011; yeah, it's no longer "Happy Valley," football fans.

No excuses for "JoPa" here--NONE. He was at fault in MONSTROUS fashion for not contacting police when the idiotic "higher-ups" were dragging their feet; he went to his grave knowing that--and regretted it. If proactive, he could have possibly prevented further alleged Sandusky-related incidents; we'll find out more in the future. The biggest culprits in this wrongly-worded "Paterno scandal?" Graham Spanier, Tim Curley, and Gary Schultz--Joe's superiors who chose NOT to call police IMMEDIATELY after being notified by Paterno. Think about this for a moment, folks, as irony plays out BIG TIME here. Let's say these three individuals had acted responsibly--alerting cops back in 2002 about Sandusky. What happens THEN? Joe Paterno is LAUDED for his morals-based approach and zero tolerance policy--continuing to show that there's no room in Happy Valley for questionable character. Yes, the "Fatherly One," the protector, goes on teaching life lessons to young athletes and the legal system runs its course. No MAJOR scandal in State College--just one bad apple being weeded out as time assists the healing process. Yeah, a tad crazy, huh?

We'll never really be privy to ALL the facts of this heart-wrenching story as the months/years progress; tragedy just seems to work out that way. One thing IS for sure: There are no winners in the saga--JUST losers. The fact is that Coach Paterno DIDN'T do more; I concur with Mr. Millen that his heart WAS broken long before the cancer claimed him. Sadly, the phrase "Say it AIN'T so, Joe!" now takes on new meaning for many of us--and will continue to do so for a long time. Man, "JoePa" was one of the few left we could trust, right? He seemed to take on the role of a "distant Dad" to MANY of us who respected the Brooklyn kid who became a revered legend. Can one MAJOR mistake diminish/taint a lifetime filled with wondrous deeds--both on AND off the field? Perhaps--but to what degree? We can only hope that peace rules and victims HEAL as we move forward. But can we truly refer to it as "Happy Valley" from this day forward??

You'll be missed, "JoePa"; I just wish it could have ended SO differently.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 1/28/12

2012-01-25T00:13:00.001-05:00

Connecticut Epilepsy Advocate, Inc. will hold its annual "Strike Out Epilepsy 2012" event on Sunday, April 22nd at Milford Lanes--located on the Boston Post Road in Milford, CT. Participants will enjoy hours of bowling; proceeds will be used to assist people living with epilepsy--along with their families/friends. The entry fee is $30 per person with pizza and soda served at each lane. Sponsors can also pay $200 to have a business banner displayed above the lanes. Finally, general donations of any amount are greatly appreciated; they can be mailed to Connecticut Epilepsy Advocate, Inc. 20 Salem Walk, Milford, CT 06460-7132. For additional information on this tremendous event/cause, people can call (203) 874-8731 or send an email to ctepilepsy@optonline.net ...........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1992-'93 L.A. Kings--who finished 39-35-10 under coach Barry Melrose--had FIVE players on the roster who scored 25 or more goals apiece. Name these gentlemen; answer to follow..........ITEM: Mississippi St. WR Chad Bumphis is arrested on disorderly conduct/public drunkenness charges following his team's victory over Wake Forest in the Music City Bowl. His stats during that game? One reception for MINUS-3 YARDS and two rushes for MINUS-4 yards. My question is THIS: Just how much MORE rowdier/inebriated would this guy have become if he played a DECENT game that day--perhaps catching five passes for 100 yards and rushing for an additional 20 yards or so?..........This week in sports history, January 31, 1970: "Pistol" Pete Maravich of LSU becomes college basketball's all-time leading scorer--connecting on a 15-foot jump shot during his team's 109-86 win over Ole Miss. Maravich broke the former record of 2,973 points held by Cincinnati's Oscar Robertson, and accomplished the feat with 13 games still remaining in his remarkable college career. "Pistol" Pete would finish his record-setting evening with a total of 53 points vs. an overmatched Mississippi defense..........He may not be classified as one of the best players in the country, but University of Alabama guard Trevor Releford is CERTAINLY among the most fun to watch in college basketball..........Andy Soltis of the New York Post--commenting on just one of the features of Tom Brady and Gisele Bundchen's new 22,000-square foot pad in Los Angeles: "A six-car garage--so each member of the New England Patriots' offensive line has his own place to park his limo."..........My "Monday Night Sports Talk" co-host Tony DeAngelo--commenting about how some invited "vocalists" butcher the National Anthem prior to various sporting events: "That song was meant to be sung--NOT performed." Amen, Tony..........For those of you who don't think our society is just a tad screwed up, fathom this: Currently, there are at least TWENTY college basketball coaches who earn more than $1.6 million annually. The average salary for an EMT in the United States? Between $30 and 40k per year..........Answer to trivia question: LUC ROBITAILLE (63), TONY GRANATO (37), MIKE DONNELLY (29), JARI KURRI (27), and TOMAS SANDSTROM (25)..........QUESTION: Now that lovely actress Marg Helgenberger has left the popular CBS drama CSI, doesn't that free up more time for her to date east coast-based sports columnists?..........I truly believe that those individuals who say that free-throw shooting isn't important in basketball are the SAME people who often say it's "too cold to snow" during the winter..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league outfielder LaSchelle Tarver--who blows out 53 candles on January 30th. If the name doesn't ring a bell, here's the reason: Tarver played just ONE season in the "bigs"--1986 with the Boston Red Sox. Appearing in 13 games, Tarver went 3-for-25 at the plate (three singles)--thus resulting in a lifetime batting average of .120. However, the California native CAN tell friends/relatives that he DID have an RBI that year (yes, just ONE), walked once, and also scored three times. Hey--they all can't be Jim Rice, right? Best wishes, LaSchelle..........Condolences go out to the family of former college/pro football coach Jim Stanley--who died recently of cancer at the age of 77. Stanley was the head coach at Oklahoma State from 1973-1978--posting four consecutive winning seasons there while coaching eight All-Americans. He later coached in the NFL with the Giants, Falcons, Buccaneers, and Oilers (he also led the Michigan Panthers to a USFL championship in 1983) before becoming Director of Player Personnel for the Arizona Cardinals for 12 years. Jim Stanley is survived by his wife, Sylvia, and four children. Rest in peace, "Coach."..........Finally, the news of Joe Paterno's passing came just hours before this column was submitted (last weekend). For now, I'll just include some words from my colleague Ken Davis of FoxSports.com: "RIP Joe Paterno. The last few months have given us so much to think about, deal with, and struggle to understand. Too bad we can't all go back to a simpler, more innocent age. Unfortunately, it's all part of the story but let's hope there is balance and fairness at this point." Thanks, Ken; more to come on Paterno in a future column.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 1/21/11

2012-01-17T21:51:00.000-05:00

The Connecticut Sports Writers' Alliance is pleased to announce its Gold Key Award recipients for 2012. John Dunham, Kristine Lilly, Dave Shea, and Mike Walsh will be honored at the 71st annual Gold Key Dinner on April 29th at the Aqua Turf in Southington. In 37 years at Trinity College, Dunham won over 400 games as the school's hockey coach while Lilly participated in five World Cups as a soccer player and three Olympics; as an Olympian, Lilly won gold medals in 1996 and 2004. Dave Shea is the only HS coach in CT state history to garner 300 wins as both a boys and girls basketball coach (Bacon Academy, Colchester); he's also won more than 300 games as a baseball coach at that school. Finally, Walsh entered the 2011-2012 season with a career record of 523-242 as basketball coach at Trinity Catholic (including six state titles)--one of the most successful programs in the Connecticut history. For more information about this esteemed event--which begins at 4:30 PM--log on to the Alliance's website at ctsportswriters.org..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1989-'90 Phoenix Suns--who finished 54-28 under coach Cotton Fitzsimmons--had FOUR players who scored more than 1,000 points apiece. How many of these former players can you name? Answer to follow..........I often wonder if--when PGA golfer John Huston hits an errant shot and the ball ends up in a bunker or water--his caddie says to him, "Huston, we have a problem!" (sorry, folks)..........This week in sports history, January 23, 1929: N.Y. Yankees co-owner Jacob Ruppert announces that the team will wear permanent numbers on the back of their uniforms during the upcoming season. Ruppert was concerned that many fans were not attending games regularly because their favorite players were difficult to identify on the playing field--or even during batting practice. He simply felt that large numbers--like those used by football players--would make it easier on the fan and generate greater interest. Some teams had experimented with numbers on backs previously, but none had incorporated them as permanent fixtures on uniforms..........I KNOW I'm getting older, but doesn't it seem like it's been about a MONTH or so--and NOT over five years--since coach Jim Harbaugh led his Univ. of San Diego squad to a 43-17 victory over Yale in New Haven? Wow--where does the time go, folks?..........Anyone out there remember the performance by "Pistol" Pete Maravich back in February of 1977 vs. the Knicks--when he scorched them for 68 points during a 124-107 Jazz victory? FIVE different Knicks took turns trying to defend Maravich that evening--including Walt Frazier (considered by many to be among the best defensive players in the league at the time). It was shown on WOR-TV in the New York area and was played in front of just over 11,000 people at the Superdome in New Orleans. To this day, it remains the greatest single athletic performance I have ever witnessed--in ANY sport and at ANY level..........Answer to trivia question: TOM CHAMBERS (2,201), KEVIN JOHNSON (1,665), JEFF HORNACEK (1,179), and EDDIE JOHNSON (1,080)..........I love baseball as much as the next guy, but the pink, "leggy" dress worn by Charlize Theron at the recent Golden Globe Awards was prettier than ANY Bert Blyleven curveball I can ever remember..........Classic quote by my friend/former MLB pitcher John D'Acquisto--who recently submitted this gem: "Wouldn't it be nice if whenever we messed up our life we could simply press 'Ctrl-Alt-Delete' and start all over?"..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NFL running back Tshimanga "Tim" Biakabutuka (say THAT ten times fast!)--who blows out 38 candles on January 24th. Born in Kinshasa, Zaire, Biakabutuka spent six seasons with the Carolina Panthers between 1996 and 2001--playing 50 games and rushing for 2,530 yards. Often rattled with injuries, Tim's best season came in 1999 when he carried the ball 138 times for 718 yards--an average of 5.2 yards-per-carry. While at Michigan, he rushed for 313 yards in a game vs. Ohio State in 1995--the second highest single-game performance in that school's history. Following his playing days, Biakabutuka became involved in restaurant ownership in Georgia. Best wishes, Tshimanga, and many of us STILL thank you for simply going by the nickname of "Tim" during your NFL days..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former college basketball coach Gene Bartow--who died recently in Birmingham, AL of stomach cancer at the age of 81. Over a 34-season coaching career, Bartow compiled a record of 647-353; he was inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009. Bartow is probably best-known for taking over the UCLA program in 1975 following the retirement of the legendary John Wooden. He went 52-9 in two seasons at the L.A. school--including a trip to the Final Four. After leaving UCLA, Bartow was very instrumental in establishing the athletic program at Alabama-Birmingham and coached there until 1996. Previously, he had coaching stops at Central Missouri St., Valparaiso, Memphis St., and Illinois; while at Memphis, he took the 1973 team to the NCAA national championship game. Gene Bartow is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ruth, a daughter, two sons, a brother, and eight grandchildren. Rest in peace, "Coach."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 1/14/12

2012-01-10T23:14:00.000-05:00

For those who remember: I truly miss watching those old ESPN pocket billiards tournaments played years ago among some of the sport's all-time greats (some of whom were CHARACTERS, too!). Those telecasts included legends like Willie Mosconi, Jimmy Caras, Steve Mizerak, U.J. Puckett, Luther Lassiter, Minnesota Fats, and "Cowboy" Jimmy Moore--all squaring off while being "miked up" at the same time. Even at advanced AGES, these gentlemen played in extraordinary fashion and the competition was, at times, FIERCE. MAN, that was great entertainment--and a lotta fun to watch. Thanks for the memories, guys.........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1999-2000 Orlando Magic squad was led in scoring by a player who spent a total of 14 seasons in the NBA with five different teams. Can you name this former guard? Answer to follow..........Can you imagine if former UC-San Diego track and field star Erica Washington married ex-NBA guard Michael Adams, divorced, married current NBA player Richard Jefferson--divorced again--then walked down the aisle with former NFL cornerback Sam Madison? Fans of America's presidency (and, specifically, our country's first four leaders) would surely take notice of her full married name: Erica Washington Adams Jefferson Madison..........This week in sports history, January 16, 1972: The Dallas Cowboys win their first Super Bowl--defeating the Miami Dolphins 24-3 in a game played at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans. QB Roger Staubach and RB Duane Thomas were the offensive stars for Dallas; Staubach threw TD passes to Lance Alworth and Mike Ditka while Thomas ran for a TD and compiled a total of 95 rushing yards. Dallas had finished second to Green Bay in the '66 and '67 NFL title games and had also come up short the previous year in Super Bowl V vs. Baltimore..........You know--I think back to the days when Bill Laimbeer played in the NBA (1980-1994) and I think of a rugged center who was known to throw his weight around; yeah, he was truly one of the "Bad Boys" of Detroit. But few realize that Bill was a TERRIFIC free throw shooter throughout his career--converting 2,440 of 2,916 attempts for an impressive lifetime FT% of .837..........I used to think that watching Rick Barry shooting free-throws underhanded was the ultimate thing of beauty. That all changed the other day when I saw the black dress that supermodel Elle Macpherson was wearing recently at the NBC Universal 2012 Winter TCA Press Tour Party. My goodness; I'd like to comment a bit more about it, but it's difficult to continue writing when one is HYPERVENTILATING at the same time..........Answer to trivia question: DARRELL ARMSTRONG--who averaged 16.2 ppg in '99-'00 for an Orlando team that would finish fourth in the Atlantic Division under coach Doc Rivers..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA guard Cedric Hunter--who blows out 47 candles on January 16th. Hunter had one of the shortest tenures of any NBA player, for sure--having signed a 10-day contract with the Charlotte Hornets back in 1992 and appearing in just ONE NBA game. He played just ONE minute in that game--registering no statistics. A native of Omaha, NE, Hunter played at Kansas from 1983-1987 and holds the single season assist record at that school---handing out 278 of them during the 1985-'86 season. He also played in the CBA for many years before becoming a behavior interventionist/basketball coach at Boys Town in Nebraska. Yeah, it was a short taste of the "big show," Cedric, but hey--you GOT there. Here's wishing you many more birthdays to come..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of legendary bowler Don Carter--who passed away recently in Miami at the age of 85 from pneumonia/emphysema complications. Known as "Mr. Bowling," Carter played American Legion baseball in St. Louis with Yogi Berra and Joe Garagiola before turning his attention to the sport of bowling. He was very instrumental in the formation of the Professional Bowlers Association in 1958 and became a charter member of that organization's Hall of Fame in 1975. Bowling with an unorthodox style (including a deep knee bend), Carter bowled 13 perfect games and had six scores of 299 during his tremendous career. He was also the first athlete to ink a million-dollar endorsement deal--putting his name on a contract with bowling ball manufacturer Ebonite back in 1964. Carter is survived by his wife, Paula, two sons, a daughter, three grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Rest in peace, "Mr. Bowling."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup"- - - - 1/17/12

2012-01-03T19:48:00.001-05:00

Just a few things one columnist would like to see in 2012......

* Charlize Theron movies shown on NESN during Red Sox rain delays
* reruns of the "Victoria's Secret Fashion Show" shown on YES during N.Y. Yankees rain delays
* a sign at the entrance of Yankee Stadium that reads the following: "The N.Y. Yankees Baseball Club is not responsible for ANY patron declaring bankruptcy once he/she leaves the premises"
* a fried chicken selection at Fenway Park concession stands--and having it be known as either the "Clubhouse Combo" or the "Pitcher's Platter"
* a new college athletic conference that schools can jump to--known as the "GMC": the Geographically Misplaced Conference
* a personal, one week tour of Colorado with Denver Broncos cheerleaders as tour guides
* a new Rex Ryan doll; you wind it up just once and it keeps its mouth open FOREVER
* Valley Times sports editor Bill Pucci take yoga lessons or--better yet--partake in the popular ZUMBA fad
* NFL coaches Andy Reid and Rex Ryan attempt a "body bump"
* CT high school athletic directors be more accommodating/hospitable to media members (didn't I say that LAST year at this time?)
* the Pittsburgh Pirates put together a decent, FULL season
* Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders bobble-head dolls (yes, ALL of them)
* Christie Brinkley workout videos shown on SNY during N.Y. Mets rain delays
* a "Baseball's Steroid Era" Hall of Fame to open--and be located in Needles, California
* a science/meteorology course offered at UCONN called "The Atmosphere of Compliance"
* actress Eva Longoria publish a personal ad--seeking an aging, east coast-based sports columnist
* a college bowl game called the "Non-Compliance" Bowl--matching up two schools who've accumulated the most recruiting violations over the previous calendar year
* have just ONE college athlete say, "I'm turning pro for the BUCKS" instead of "I'll have to sit down and think about what's best for me and my family"
* the Phillie Phanatic attend a CT Sports Writers' Alliance luncheon
* Roger Federer somehow win ONE more major--then retire immediately
* less writer's block
* one more Division III baseball title for Eastern CT State University and coach Bill Holowaty
* Broncos QB Tim Tebow win just ONE game in "pretty" fashion
* an electric razor that lasts more than three months
* more football players act as if they've seen the end zone before
* have those football players who continue to insist on "celebratory end zone entertainment" be required to watch old films of Barry Sanders, Walter Payton, and Emmitt Smith
* less ads/more PICTORIAL content in the SI Swimsuit Issue
* free golf lessons--courtesy of Natalie Gulbis--for any willing sports columnist
* less graphics on ANY sports telecast
* an NFL pre-game show whose panel of experts doesn't outnumber the Osmond family
* a "Madoff Night" at Citi Field; all patrons wearing prison garb/stripes get in for half-price
* Andrew Luck live up to the hype
* less writer's block (oooops--mentioned that already)
* an NFL rule that makes it IMPOSSIBLE for a .500 team to make the playoffs
* a GOOD, fat-free pizza chain
* Rex Ryan become a manager in the WWE--or simply form a traveling circus with various other Ryan family members
* have the sport of boxing MATTER again
* have the St. Louis Rams MATTER again
* a "body bump" between actresses Pamela Anderson and Salma Hayek
* a "Media Member Massage Tent" set up at the Travelers Championship
* Harvard to advance far in the NCAA men's basketball tournament
* more sunshine in New England (a man can DREAM, right?)
* 2011 to REMAIN in the rear-view mirror
* a thorough search for Jimmy Hoffa conducted throughout the BEARD of Buffalo Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick
* a "concussion-proof" football helmet be invented
* a return of the popular sitcom "Three's Company"--starring Sharon Stone, Diane Lane, and YOURS TRULY
* finally, health and good fortune for the loyal readers of this column.

Happy 2012, everyone........

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - 12/24/11

2011-12-19T00:28:00.000-05:00

O.K., I guess you can say Barry Bonds and the term "MVP" are usually associated with one another; hey, the guy won SEVEN of them, right? In my book, he'll ALWAYS be considered my own personal "MVP": Most Vile Person..........TRIVIA QUESTION: In Don Shula's last year of coaching the Miami Dolphins (1995), what player led the team in rushing yardage? Answer to follow.........Can you imagine if Ohio State tennis player Nicole Flower ever walked down the aisle with former NFL running back Roosevelt Potts? Horticulturists throughout the land would surely take pleasure in her full married name of Nicole Flower Potts..........The other day, I was sitting at Madison Square Garden enjoying a basketball game with lovely actress Jennifer Aniston--with TONS of mistletoe hanging from the rafters of that historic arena in NYC. Yeah--then I woke up..........This week in sports history, December 27, 1953: With 2:08 remaining in the game, QB Bobby Layne throws a 33-yard TD pass to Jim Doran--leading the Detroit Lions to a 17-16 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the NFL championship game. It was the Lions' second straight title, and was played before more than 54,000 fans at Briggs Stadium. Cleveland had built an early lead in the game due to three Lou Groza field goals. However, Cleveland quarterback Otto Graham had a miserable day for the visitors (2-for-15 passing), and his desperation pass in the closing minute was intercepted by rookie Carl Karilivacz--sealing the victory for the hometown Lions..........ITEM: Chicago Bears wide receiver Sam Hurd is busted after allegedly telling an undercover agent that he was interested in purchasing 5-10 kilograms of cocaine and 1,000 pounds of marijuana PER WEEK in order to distribute in the Chicago area. Well, at least we know that ONE thing is certain in this case: With THOSE kind of quantities being thrown out there, Hurd will NOT be able to change his tune down the road and say that his plan all along was to simply purchase the stuff for PERSONAL USE ONLY..........O.K.--one more: Just imagine if former North Carolina swimmer Kristin Oxford married NFL lineman Richard Seymour, divorced, married former tennis player Todd Woodbridge--divorced again--then married NBA Hall of Famer Earl Monroe. Those familiar with Connecticut towns would surely enjoy her full married name of Kristin Oxford Seymour Woodbridge Monroe..........I used to think that watching Ray Guy punting a football was the ultimate thing of beauty. That all changed the other day when I saw a photo of actress Eva Longoria decked out in a long, red dress at the Noble Gift gala in London. My goodness--some things in life are just SO unfair, folks..........Answer to trivia question: BERNIE PARMALEE--whose 878 yard total in '95 was a personal season-high during a nine-year career spent with the Dolphins and Jets..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NFL running back Charles Way--who blows out 39 candles on December 27th. Way was drafted by the New York Giants in the sixth round of the 1995 NFL draft and played for the team for five seasons before a knee injury curtailed his career in 2000. In 75 career games, he gained 1,356 yards rushing and also accumulated 898 yards receiving. His best year was in 1997 when he took over for an injured Rodney Hampton; he carried the ball 151 times that season for 698 yards--an average of 4.6 yards per carry. Currently, Way is employed by the Giants as their director of player development. Best wishes for many more birthdays to come, Charles..........Condolences go out to the family of former Harvard football coach Joe Restic--who passed away recently in Boston at the age of 85. Restic coached the Crimson from 1971-1993--the longest-serving head football coach in Harvard history. While at Harvard, Restic compiled a coaching record of 117-97-6 and won or tied for five Ivy League championships during his 23 years there. He was also an assistant coach at Brown and Colgate and spent nine seasons coaching the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the CFL before coming to Cambridge. A Villanova graduate, Restic played briefly with the Philadelphia Eagles in the early '50's and also played baseball in the Phillies organization. Joe Restic is survived by two sons, two daughters, a sister and eight grandchildren. Rest in peace, "Coach."..........Finally, as this is the last published column of 2011, I'd like to thank my readers for their continued loyalty and for being such a terrific audience year after year. Merry Christmas, everyone, and my hope is that everyone out there has a healthy, prosperous 2012.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 12/17/11

2011-12-13T23:31:00.000-05:00

Yes, the celebratory, childish garbage that goes on after each TD in the NFL has now reached a pitiful point; basically, NONE of these dolts appear as if they've ever SEEN an end zone before. Perhaps my good friend/colleague Phil Mushnick of the New York Post put it best when he wrote the following in his popular column recently: "This game, at its highest level, is in such disgusting, desensitized repair that if it were a building, it would be condemned and knocked down to make room for something far more worthwhile--like a PRISON." Amen, Mr. Mushnick--and extremely well-put...........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1991 Cleveland Browns--who finished 6-10 under coach Bil Belichick--had three players who accumulated more than 500 yards receiving apiece. Can you name any of these gentlemen? Answer to follow..........Just thinkin': If LPGA golfer Candie Kung ever married Illinois attorney Stephen Corn, lovers of Halloween candy would surely enjoy her married name of Candie Corn..........Last weekend, I was invited to dinner at the home of my "Monday Night Sports Talk" co-host Tony DeAngelo. Shortly before arriving, Tony texted me as to what was on the menu that evening: "We're eating flounder--in honor of the 2011 Boston Red Sox."..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a Connecticut high school girls basketball game last week, Watertown dismantled Derby 52-9; the losing Derby squad did NOT score a point in the second or third quarters of this fiasco. If I'm the Derby coach, I'm not sure what I tell my team at the half--as the score was 38-4. Maybe this: "I'd like to STOP this, girls, but it isn't a BOXING match."...........This week in sports history, December 19, 1984: Wayne Gretzky of the Edmonton Oilers becomes the youngest player in NHL history to amass 1,000 points--assisting on a first period goal during his team's victory over the Kings. The 23-year-old Gretzky reached the 1,000-point mark in just his 424th career game--less than six seasons--and shattered the former mark held by Guy Lafleur. In fact, Gretzky reached this milestone playing 300 games/four seasons LESS than Lafleur. During this memorable evening--a 7-3 Edmonton win--Gretzky would add two goals and three more assists in raising his career total to a mind-boggling 1,005 points..........The Connecticut Sports Writers' Alliance will once again host the Bo Kolinsky Scholarship Golf Tournament on June 28, 2012 at Lyman Orchards Golf Club in Middlefield. The tournament is named for the former high school sports editor of the Hartford Courant who died in 2003 at the age of 49. An entry fee of $170 includes a box lunch on the course, buffet dinner, prizes, and silent/live auctions. The Bo Kolinsky Scholarship is given to a CT high school senior planning to attend college in pursuit of a career in sports journalism. More information about this great event can be obtained by contacting Alliance president George Albano at (203) 434-2320 or by visiting www.ctsportswriters.org ..........I used to think that watching former NBA guard Steve Kerr shooting a 3-pointer was the ultimate thing of beauty. That all changed the other day when I saw a picture of lovely actress Charlize Theron decked out in a snug, black and white dress/high heels outside the Ed Sullivan theater in NYC. My goodness..........Answer to trivia question: WEBSTER SLAUGHTER (906), LEROY HOARD (567), and REGGIE LANGHORNE (505)..........Finally, congratulations go out to all the Connecticut high school football championship teams who were crowned at Rentschler Field last weekend. In particular, I want to single out Ansonia High--who trounced Ledyard in the final 38-0 to win the Class M title. It was a magical season for the Chargers--who finished 14-0 while record-breaking, sophomore running back Arkeel Newsome was nothing short of PHENOMENAL. I had AHS coach Tom Brockett on my TV show just a few days before the championship game--a true gentleman and one helluva football coach. I relayed to Brockett that my Dad, who passed away last June, was a HUGE fan of the team; he was a longtime Ansonia Gridiron Club member/booster. He was always so impressed how Brockett took over this legendary program back in '06 and was able maintain the winning tradition--amid the always-present pressure TO win at AHS. Yeah, Dad always loved his Chargers. I simply told Tom on the night of our taping that his team would be playing with a "12th man" last weekend vs. Ledyard; yes, I know Bob Sr. is still smiling somewhere up above after his alma mater won its record 17th state title. Thanks, AHS and Coach Brockett, for your outstanding efforts--and I know Bob Lazzari Sr. (AHS Class of 1945) thanks you, too.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 12/10/11

2011-12-05T23:27:00.000-05:00

Yes, the saga continues--yet another compilation of some the "athletic matches" that have appeared in this column over the past few years......

Can you imagine if author Dara England married former NFL lineman Doug France, divorced, married ex-Eastern CT. State Univ. basketball guard Ed Spain--divorced again--then married former MLB pitcher Mark Portugal? Fans of European geography would surely delight in her full married name of Dara England France Spain Portugal..........Picture the scenario: singer Courtney Love marries contemporary artist Jim Shack. Fans of a popular tune by the B-52's would surely take note of her full married name: Courtney Love Shack..........Can you imagine if actress Eve Marie Saint had once married former Mets outfielder Johnny Lewis, divorced, then walked down the aisle with a MUCH younger man--New Mexico State infielder Joel Cardinal? She would have been sporting the full married name of Eve Marie Saint Lewis Cardinal..........O.K.--just imagine if total wellness coach Melissa Redd married former MLB shortstop Frank White, divorced, then married ex-big league pitcher Vida Blue. Patriotic people would then delight in her full married name of Melissa Redd White Blue..........Just thinking: If Appalachian St. track coach April Smith married former big league catcher Milt May, divorced, then married East Carolina martial arts instructor Charles June, she'd then be known as April May June..........Here goes: Former St. John's basketball player Kia Wright marries ex-NBA-er Phil Ford, divorces, marries University of the Pacific outfielder Kyle Dodge--divorces again--then marries Metro St. tennis player Mattia Ferrari. Auto lovers everywhere would delight in her full married name of Kia Ford Dodge Ferrari..........I'd love to see LPGA golfer Angela Stanford hook up with New Mexico State infielder Joel Cardinal. If they ever tied the knot, fans of a Palo Alto, CA school would surely delight in her full married name of Angela Stanford Cardinal..........New Jersey lawyer Karen Venice marries former NFL defensive back Bo Orlando, divorces, marries martial arts expert Ken Melbourne--divorces again--then walks down the aisle with PGA golfer Keith Clearwater. Fans of "The Sunshine State" would surely delight in her full married name of Karen Venice Orlando Melbourne Clearwater..........If golfer Jennifer Song someday marries professional poker player Steve Sung, divorces, then marries former Iowa defensive end/Arena Football League player Larry Blue, Neil Diamond fans would surely celebrate her full married name of Jennifer Song Sung Blue..........Longwood University Assistant Dean Kathy Charleston marries Cleveland Indians outfielder Shin-Soo Choo. Lovers of flavored nougat covered in chocolate would also savor her new married name of Kathy Charleston Choo.........Former Niagara basketball player Jessica James marries ex-NFL coach Chuck Knox, divorces, then marries Connecticut Tigers (NY-Penn League) outfielder P.J. Polk. Fans of U.S. presidential history would surely take joy in her full married name of Jessica James Knox Polk..........If New Orleans-based artist Jennifer Beach married former NFL defensive lineman Jerry Ball, would she then mind being referred to by her full, "summer-y" name of Jennifer Beach Ball?..........Former Citadel volleyball player Ashley Winter marries music superstar Stevie Wonder, divorces, then marries author Jon Land. Her full married name as the cold weather approaches? Ashley Winter Wonder Land..........I'd like to see former University of Florida golfer Eleanor Tucker hook up with English soccer player Andrew Rigby. If they ever walked down the aisle, fans of the Beatles' Revolver album would surely delight in the bride's new married name of Eleanor Rigby..........I'd love to see ex-professional tennis players Ann White and Andrew Castle hook up. If they ever tied the knot, fans of small, square hamburgers would truly delight in her full married name of Ann White Castle..........University of Maryland faculty researcher Heather Fogg marries former major leaguer Sam Horn, divorces, marries former Brown hockey standout Chris Legg--divorces again--then marries former NFL wide receiver Joe Horn. Fans of the old "Looney Tunes" cartoons would surely delight in her full married name of Heather Fogg Horn Legg Horn..........Finally, I'd love to see Debra Grand--a VP at the Bank of America--hook up with PGA golfer Fred Funk. If they ever tied the knot, fans of a great American band would surely enjoy her full married name of Debra Grand Funk.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 12/3/11

2011-11-29T23:59:00.000-05:00

Did anyone out there see lovely supermodel Elle Macpherson reporting on the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade for the "Today Show" last week? She's 47-years-old, folks. If N.Y. Jets running back LaDainian Tomlinson had aged HALF as well as Ms. Macpherson has, then his team would be atop the AFC East by two or three games at this juncture...........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 2001 Jacksonville Jaguars--who finished 6-10 under coach Tom Coughlin--were led in rushing by a running back who tallied nearly HALF of his total career rushing yardage during that one season. Can you name this former player? Answer to follow..........Picture this: Noted east-coast-based executive chef Debra Queen marries ex-NBA player Kareem Rush, divorces, marries former MLB outfielder Daryl Boston--divorces again--then marries University of Miami assistant athletic director Ben Creed. Fans of rock music would surely enjoy seeing her cooking up a storm with the full married name of Debra Queen Rush Boston Creed..........This week in sports history, December 6, 1984: Tennis star Martina Navratilova's dream of a Grand Slam comes to a halt as she loses in three sets to 19-year-old Helena Sukova at the Australian Open. Martina was seeking the 100th title of her career and had not lost since the previous January; she had been victorious earlier in the year at the French, Wimbledon, and U.S. Open championships. Sukova's 1-6, 6-3, 7-5 victory also ended Navratilova's record winning streak of 74 consecutive matches..........ITEM: Vanderbilt football player Andre Simmons is suspended after being charged with felony counts of burglary and robbery; Simmons and an accomplice allegedly entered a dorm room and held a fellow student at gunpoint while making off with $5,000. Simmons had played in just one game this season--on special teams. Sheesh, I've heard of the term "gunner" before in reference to special teams play on the gridiron, but it's NOT supposed to come to mind when referring to college life/on-campus dorm living..........Did you know that the 1983 Detroit Lions had FIVE players on the team who tallied more than 400 yards receiving apiece? Jeff Chadwick, James Jones, Mark Nichols, Billy Sims, and Leonard Thompson each toppled the 400-yard mark--with Thompson leading the way with a total of 752. The team finished 9-7 that year under coach Monte Clark--winning the NFC Central--but eventually lost in the playoffs to the S.F. 49ers.........Answer to trivia question: STACEY MACK--who ran for 877 yards that year while tallying 1,751 total rushing yards over the course of a five-year career..........How 'bout the women's basketball game between UCONN and Fairleigh Dickenson last week--won by the Huskies 74-28? UCONN led this "laugher" 44-5 at halftime (not a misprint, folks) while FDU shot 9-for-55 (you read that correctly--that's 16%) from the field during this fiasco. I haven't seen anything THAT ugly since a former male roommate of mine at Fordham donned pantyhose before going to see "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" for the very first time..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NFL punter Douglas Riggs "Bucky" Dilts--who blows out 58 candles on December 6th. A left-footed punter who attended Georgia, Dilts played in the league for just three seasons between 1977 and 1979 as a member of the Broncos and Colts. A very small man in stature (5'9" tall), Dilts averaged just 37.5 yards per punt during his short career; his best season was during his rookie year with Denver when he averaged 39.2 yards per punt. He CAN tell his grandchildren that he played in a Super Bowl as he punted four times when Denver lost to Dallas in Super Bowl XII. Here's wishing you many more birthdays to come, "Bucky"..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NBA guard Walt Hazzard--who passed away recently in California from complications of heart surgery; he was 69. Hazzard was co-captain of UCLA's 1964 national championship team under John Wooden; he was also a member of the '64 U.S. Olympic team that won gold. Hazzard went on to play ten seasons in the NBA for five different teams between 1964 and 1974. His best year came in '67-'68 while with Seattle--a year in which he averaged 24 points and 6.2 assists per game. He later coached his alma mater for four seasons during the 1980's--compiling a record of 77-47. He is survived by a wife, Jaleesa, and four sons; may Walt Hazzard rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11/26/11

2011-11-22T23:33:00.001-05:00

The Yale women's ice hockey team is dedicating its upcoming game at Ingalls Rink on Friday, Dec. 2, to former player Mandi Schwartz--a member of the Class of 2010 who passed away earlier this year. The game vs. Princeton will be utilized as a fundraiser for the Mandi Schwartz Foundation. Senior forward Aleca Hughes, Yale's captain, started the charity in memory of her friend, Mandi--who battled cancer for more than two years. The goal is to fill Ingalls Rink; all are encouraged to wear white in a show of support during the "White Out for Mandi." No admission will be charged, but donations for the Foundation will be accepted at the door. Special white t-shirts will be sold, and youth hockey teams are encouraged to come wearing white jerseys. The team is also lining up pledges from donors based on the attendance total. This special event will also help raise awareness of the need for marrow donors/umbilical cord blood donors. More information can be obtained by visiting www.yalebulldogs.com ..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last NFL running back to lead the league in rushing for THREE consecutive seasons? Answer to follow..........*ATTENTION, DEMI MOORE: Now that you've split from Ashton Kutcher, how 'bout someone your own AGE for a change (yours truly waving hands wildly)? Sports columnists may not have that "Hollywood glitzy-thing" going on, but most whom I interact with are very LOYAL..........Did you know that the 1992 Seattle Seahawks scored a paltry season total of just 140 points (8.8 ppg)? During that ugly campaign, the team had a six-game stretch (Weeks 5-11) where they scored a grand total of just 22 points. Yep, I guess that's a valid reason why they finished 2-14 that year, huh?.........This week in sports history, November 29, 1992: N.Y. Jets defensive lineman Dennis Byrd suffers a paralyzing injury when he collides with teammate Scott Mesereau during a game vs. Kansas City played at Giants Stadium. This unfortunate event occurred when the two men were attempting to tackle Chiefs QB Dave Krieg. Byrd would end up suffering a fracture of the C-5 vertebra in his neck before being taken to Lenox Hill Hospital; he'd later undergo surgery in order to stabilize the neck and keep swelling to a minimum..........Scenario: Team Canada kayaker Kia Byers marries former NBA guard Phil Ford, divorces, marries retired English footballer Greg Lincoln--divorces again--then marries former MLB pitcher Jose Mercedes. Certain automobile manufacturers would rejoice as she is then known by the catchy name of Kia Ford Lincoln Mercedes..........Question: Which two-word term have you heard most often over the past year or so: "rising prices" or "recruiting violations?"..........Answer to trivia question: EMMITT SMITH of the Dallas Cowboys--who led the league each year from 1991 to 1993 with totals of 1,563, 1,713, and 1,486 respectively..........Anyone out there catch the photo of the lovely, dazzling Charlize Theron on the cover of this month's Vogue? Sheesh--and I used to think that watching Gayle Sayers carrying the football was the ultimate thing of beauty. My goodness.........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Bob Tewksbury--who blows out 51 candles on November 30th. Drafted by the Yankees back in 1981, Tewksbury played for six teams between 1986 and 1998; he was a member of the Cardinals for six seasons. His best year came in 1992 while with St. Louis--a year in which he went 16-5 (best winning % in NL) and was named to the NL All-Star squad. All told, Tewksbury won 110 games in his career (31 complete games) and pitched to a respectable lifetime ERA of 3.92. Since his career ended, he has done a great deal of charitable work and has also worked as a sports psychology consultant for the Boston Red Sox. Best wishes, Bob..........Oh, another Bob would have celebrated a birthday this coming week, too. My Dad, Bob Sr.--who passed away last June--would have turned 84 on 11/29. Well, Pop, I just want to let you know that I've thought of you constantly over the past six months or so--especially when watching/writing about sports. Man, you were such a sports fan--and I miss your company. On those days when I feel a smidgen of sadness, I think of the good times we spent together; gosh, there were so many of them. In fact, you're probably watching some type of game as I write this--or talking sports with anyone who'll listen--so I'll just say "Happy birthday" for now. You're truly missed, "Big Bob."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11/19/11

2011-11-15T23:53:00.001-05:00

Ode to "Smokin' Joe" (1944-2011)

He was born in Carolina where his parents owned a farm,
The man became a boxer--and his fists could do some harm.
His name was Joseph Frazier--he was known as "Smokin' Joe,"
He bobbed and weaved like crazy--and possessed a knockout blow.
He became a pro in '65 and knocked out Woody Goss,
It wouldn't be for YEARS until this man would notch a loss.
He decisioned Bonavena and would take apart Chuvalo,
He KO'd Ellis, became the champ--but bigger things would follow.
The year was 1971--it was held at MSG,
It was Ali vs. Frazier--"The Fight of the Century."
Sinatra was at ringside and the audience was packed,
The fighters weren't considered pals--a validated fact.
Muhammad was the talking-type, but Joe had 'tunnel vision,'
He dropped Ali in round 15 and won a clear decision.

The champ would go to Kingston at the start of '73,

To fight a man named Foreman--who was larger than a tree.

"Smokin' Joe" was just too small--which pleased the Foreman camp,

"Down goes Frazier!" yelled Cosell, and George became the champ.

But Joe was far from quitting, he would fight Ali again,

One more time in NYC--a clash between these men.

Muhammad was the victor but no title was at stake,

There'd be another showdown--and lots more bucks to make.

Joe defeated Quarry and Jimmy Ellis once again,

Ali was now the champ--beating George in less than ten.

"Smokin' Joe" was truly pumped for Ali/Frazier III,

A rubber match between these two--if both sides could agree.

It would happen in the Philippines--the final time they'd meet,

Staged so far away from home--and in oppressive heat.

Ali continued talking--calling Frazier a "gorilla,"

The fight would be promoted as the "Thrilla in Manila."

Action-filled and brutal--yes, these two went toe-to-toe,

The crowd was cheering zealously with each and every blow.

After fourteen grueling rounds, Mr. Futch would stop the fight,

He knew his fighter--"Smokin' Joe"--absorbed too much that night.

Joe continued fighting--but would never be the same,

Again KO'ed by Foreman; were the Ali fights to blame?

He'd retire a short time later--but came back in '81,

Those who followed boxing KNEW that "Smokin' Joe" was done.

Looking back on Joe's career, he surely gave his all,

His courage was a major strength though he wasn't very tall.

He lived in Ali's shadow--but he came to grips with that,

He'd often joke about it as he wore his cowboy hat.

Truth be known, Ali and Joe, they made the fight game great,

They needed one another--becoming legends was their fate.

The years went by, he bought a gym, and tried his hand at singing,

I still recall the man's left hook--which left opponents stinging.

He'd train a son named Marvis--they had limited success,

Why he took on Larry Holmes is anybody's guess.

We lost this legend recently--he died of liver cancer,

He's remembered as a brawler--and surely NOT a "dancer."

I was saddened by his sickness--we all knew Joe might die,

I can picture Mr. Frazier now--he's high above the sky.

The man is gone, he left his mark--he had a massive heart,

I know I never met you--but I liked you from the start.

A fighter and TRUE warrior---I'm so sad to see you go,

But I'll always smile fondly when I think of "Smokin' Joe."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11/12/11

2011-11-08T22:16:00.000-05:00

*Yes, back by popular demand (seriously, folks!)--still more of the "athletic matches" that have appeared in this column over the past few years.......

Just thinking: If singer/songwriter Neneh Cherry ever married major league pitcher Phil Coke, soft drink lovers everywhere would delight in her full married name of Neneh Cherry Coke..........O.K.--here goes: Actress Tuesday Weld marries legendary North Carolina educator Bill Friday, divorces, marries former MLB outfielder Rick Monday--divorces again--then walks down the aisle with NFL center Jeff Saturday. She then graces film sets with the full married name of Tuesday Friday Monday Saturday..........Fathom this: English actress Jane March marries NFL assistant coach Bobby April, divorces, marries former MLB outfielder Carlos May--divorces again--then marries NFL linebacker Cato June. She then walks onto film sets with the full married name of Jane March April May June..........Picture this: TV personality/"Dancing With The Stars" beauty Brooke Burke marries former major league catcher Steve Lake, divorces, marries pop singer Billy Ocean--divorces again--then marries San Diego Chargers QB Philip Rivers. Her full married name carries an aquatic theme as she is then known as Brooke Lake Ocean Rivers..........Can you imagine if actress Lydia Cornell married former BC/Ohio St. basketball star Scoonie Penn, divorced, married Georgia attorney Bill Harvard--divorced again--then married former NFL QB Dave Brown? Fans of the Ivy League would surely delight in her full married name of Lydia Cornell Penn Harvard Brown..........Just imagine if legendary Canadian skier Nancy Green Raine married Kansas City Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe, divorced, then married former MLB pitcher Steve Trout. Fish lovers everywhere would surely be enjoying her full married name of Nancy Greene Raine Bowe Trout..........Tennis great Virginia Wade marries Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana, divorces, marries former MLB player U L Washington--divorces again--then marries major league pitcher John Maine. Geography lovers everywhere would surely enjoy her full married name of Virginia Montana Washington Maine..........Here's another: Let's say that Georgia-based artist Carol John married NBA guard Chris Paul, divorced, married Coast Guard football coach Bill George--divorced again--then married sprint car racer Nick Ringo. Fans of the "Fab Four" would surely delight in her full married name of Carol John Paul George Ringo..........Can you imagine if former Sacred Heart University scholar-athlete Kathleen Henry married ex-Florida State LB Andre Wadsworth, divorced, then married former Gwynedd-Mercy College pitcher Kyle Longfellow? Poetry lovers would surely take notice of her full married name of Kathleen Henry Wadsworth Longfellow..........Scenario: Famed socialite (I'll stop short of saying "actress") Paris Hilton marries Wake Forest track star Phillip Warsaw, divorces, marries former Miami quarterback Brock Berlin--divorces again--then marries sports talk show host Jim Rome. Fans of European geography would surely get a kick out of her full married name of Paris Warsaw Berlin Rome..........Can you imagine if USC standout rower Robin Hextrum married former NBA player Rory Sparrow, divorced, married NFL linebacker A.J. Hawk--divorced again--then married sportscaster Ian Eagle? Members of the National Audubon Society would surely take pride in her full married name of Robin Sparrow Hawk Eagle..........Scenario: LPGA golfer Catriona Matthew marries former Michigan wrestler Steve Luke, divorces, marries University of Cincinnati chemistry professor Jim Mark--divorces again--then marries former MLB pitcher Tommy John. Gospel followers would truly delight in her full married name of Catriona Matthew Luke Mark John..........Here goes: Shakopee, MN councilwoman Pamela Punt marries former Patriots RB Patrick Pass, divorces, then marries ex-Dolphins RB Jim Kiick. Fans of youth football competitions would surely take notice of her full married name of Pamela Punt Pass Kiick.........Finally, let's throw in a brand new one (courtesy of my good friend/CT high school football coach Frank Marcucio--who chimed in with this gem last weekend): Just imagine if the Big East and the MAAC conference merged at some point in the future. Could it then be called the Big MAAC conference????

More to come, folks.......

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11/5/11

2011-11-01T23:10:00.000-04:00

I recently attended the Chargers/Jets game at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey; not the best of games--ugly passes, too many penalties, etc. However, I was very fortunate to see the Jets' "Flight Crew" cheerleaders perform--about 40 of the loveliest women you'll ever see. Put it this way: I've flown a lot in my life, but NEVER had a flight crew like THAT on any airplane I've ever been aboard..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last NFL quarterback to lead the league in interceptions in back-to-back seasons? Answer to follow..........Great point recently by WDRC-FM's Jerry Kristafer: "How come football players wear baseball hats? You never see baseball players wearing FOOTBALL HELMETS!"..........This week in sports history, November 8, 1970: Tom Dempsey of the New Orleans Saints kicks an NFL record 63-yard field goal with no time remaining on the clock--giving his team a 19-17 victory over the Detroit Lions at Tulane Stadium. The Lions had actually taken a 17-16 lead with only 11 seconds remaining when Errol Mann booted an 18-yard field goal for the visitors. But a 17-yard pass from Saints QB Billy Kilmer to Al Dodd just seconds later would set up Dempsey's memorable kick--seven yards longer than the NFL's previous best..........An open message to A-ROID's ex-girlfriend--actress Cameron Diaz: Sports columnists are simply good "catches." And personally, Cameron, I've never done steroids. Question: Could the fact that I've also never earned over $30 million a year be a slight turn-off?..........The other day, I saw former SI swimsuit model Kathy Ireland doing a TV commercial--plugging furniture for Raymour and Flanigan. Message for R & F: If Ms. Ireland ever needs a partner in a future commercial for loveseats, then I'm your man--and I work CHEAPLY..........Answer to trivia question: VINNY TESTAVERDE--who led the league in 1988 and '89 with totals of 35 and 22 respectively while playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers..........Former NY Giants defensive lineman Leonard Marshall was a recent 'no-show' on my TV program, "Monday Night Sports Talk." A friend of mine asked me if he could have overslept. My response: "That could have been a legitimate reason--except for one thing: the show airs at 9:00 PM." I'll say it once again, folks: loyalty/personal responsibility/dependability are SO underrated these days--and SCARCE..........Speaking of "scarce," anyone out there remember MAC SCARCE--the former crafty MLB reliever who pitched for three teams between 1972 and 1978?..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NFL tight end Jimmie Giles--who blows out 57 candles on November 8th. A product of Alcorn St., Giles played 13 seasons in the league between 1977 and 1989 (mostly with Tampa Bay) and was a four-time Pro Bowler. In his nine seasons with the Bucs, Giles caught 279 passes for 4,300 yards (34 TD's) and was an integral part of the Buccaneers 1979 NFC Championship playoff run. It was announced this past summer that Giles will be the third inductee into the Bucs Ring of Honor--joining Lee Roy Selmon and coach John McKay. That ceremony will take place during halftime of the upcoming December 4th home game vs. the Carolina Panthers. Congratulations, Jimmie, and may you enjoy many more birthday celebrations to come..........Birthday wishes also go out to former major league pitcher Beiker Graterol--who blows out 37 candles on November 9th. I know--his name doesn't ring a bell. That's because the Venezuelan native pitched in just ONE big league game in 1999 while with the Detroit Tigers. Starting the game, Graterol pitched just four innings--allowing three home runs, walking four, and giving up SEVEN earned runs. Yes, folks, Beiker Graterol's career ERA is in the books at a robust 15.75. Hey--they ALL can't be Mickey Lolich, right? Best wishes, Beiker..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former college football player Anthony Germany--who died recently in Oklahoma of complications from a pulmonary embolism; he was just 25. A safety who played at Tulsa from 2004-2007, the hard-hitting Germany was a key member of the Hurricane squad that won the 2005 Conference USA championship. Sadly, Tulsa has lost three members of the 2007 team within the past nine months; former players Wilson Holloway and George Clinkscale have predeceased Anthony this year. Germany is survived by his wife, Chevis, and his parents--Karen and Anthony. Rest in peace, Anthony Germany--you'll surely be missed.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10/29/11

2011-10-23T21:42:00.000-04:00

Just wondering: Do you think Red Sox fans would have been a little less upset if it was uncovered that the team's starting pitchers had been eating Chicken Cordon Bleu in the clubhouse this past season instead of plain old FRIED chicken?..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1992 Cincinnati Bengals were led in rushing by a RB who enjoyed his only 1,000+ yard season that year. Can you name this former player? Answer to follow..........If NY Jets coach Rex Ryan doesn't do or say anything that is totally outrageous before Thanksgiving, then yours truly is dating Charlize Theron by the end of 2011..........Just imagine if retired LPGA player Cathy Mockett married Florida dog trainer John Lockett, divorced, married ex-NFL RB Zack Crockett--divorced again--then married Ansonia High (CT) football coach Tom Brockett. She'd be roaming fairways with the full, catchy name of Cathy Mockett Lockett Crockett Brockett..........Is it me--or has actress Courteney Cox aged WAY better than a pitcher like Jamie Moyer or Tim Wakefield could EVER imagine?..........Did you know that, in 2003, running back Clinton Portis of the Denver Broncos rushed for an impressive total of nearly 1,600 yards--but still only finished FIFTH in the NFL in total rushing yardage? Deuce McAllister, LaDainian Tomlinson, Ahman Green, and Jamal Lewis all finished ahead of Portis--with Lewis leading the league with a robust total of 2,066..........ITEM: University of Alabama running back Brent Calloway is arrested in Tuscaloosa for possessing marijuana; the vehicle in which he was riding was stopped on Paul Bryant Drive. I can only relay to my readers that Calloway is very lucky that he wasn't born years ago and was PLAYING for the "Bear." I'm now imagining how much "self -medicating" Calloway would have done had he been forced to endure the next PRACTICE that Mr. Bryant would have put him through..........ITEM: Former heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis is being awarded an honorary degree by Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada. Yes--this is the same Lennox Lewis who defended Londoner David Haye's disgraceful actions this past summer; Haye had become involved in some awful trash-talking before his fight with champion Wladimir Klitschko and even wore T-shirts depicting him holding the severed heads of both Klitschko and his brother Vitali. Yes--just further evidence of what kind of INSANE world we live in, folks..........Answer to trivia question: HAROLD GREEN--who rushed for 1,170 yards in 1992; he rushed for 4,365 total yards in a career that spanned from 1990-'98 as a member of the Bengals, Rams, and Falcons..........Funny how memories of our youth often pop up and produce a welcomed chuckle. I remember how my friend, Bob, used to tell me years ago why he was CONVINCED his mailman was reading his copy of the Sporting News before it was delivered to him each week. "How could you tell?," I'd ask him. "Well," he'd say, "I knew that he liked to order pizza from the local parlor while on his route--and when my copy was finally delivered late in the day, it was wrinkled and had SAUCE stains all over it."..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NFL running back/current coach Sherman Smith--who blows out 57 candles on November 1st. A product of Miami (OH), Smith played eight years in the league between 1976 and 1983--mostly as a member of the Seahawks. His best year came in 1978 when he gained 805 yards rushing and averaged 4.9 yards per carry. He later became the offensive coordinator for the Washington Redskins under Jim Zorn and is currently the running backs coach for the Seahawks; best wishes, Sherman..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Nebraska football player Lyle Kops--who passed away recently at the age of 84; he had suffered from Parkinson's disease along with some other debilitating ailments. Amazingly, Kops enrolled at Nebraska when he was just 16 and is considered to be one of the youngest college football players ever. He played tackle for the Cornhuskers in 1943 and 1944 (teams that were depleted roster-wise due to the war) before joining the Merchant Marines. Sadly, Kops was never able to return to Nebraska to finish his playing career after his mother became involved in a terrible car accident. Rather, he returned home to help out on the family ranch and continued to do so for over 50 years. Kops is survived by his wife, Jean, five daughters, and a dozen grandchildren. May Lyle Kops rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10/22/11

2011-10-18T23:57:00.001-04:00

Did you know that, in 1990, quarterback Steve DeBerg of the Kansas City Chiefs rushed 21 times for a grand total of MINUS-5 yards? That comes out to about -0.2 yards per carry--which was even difficult to figure out using my calculator..........TRIVIA QUESTION: What player has the most yardage receiving all-time as a member of the New Orleans Saints? Answer to follow..........I used to think that watching Joe Namath throw a football was the ultimate thing of beauty. That all changed last week when I saw a picture of lovely actress Charlize Theron decked out in a black Dior dress at her Africa Outreach Project shindig out in Los Angeles. My goodness..........Tony DeAngelo (my co-host on "Monday Night Sports Talk") and I recently celebrated the 29th anniversary of Jim "Catfish" Hunter's Game 2 victory in the 1972 World Series (vs. Cincy) by having a DINNER of catfish and rice. Does that qualify us as baseball fanatics--or render us as just plain NUTS?..........This week in sports history, October 25, 1990: The short heavyweight reign of James "Buster" Douglas comes to an end in Las Vegas as he is knocked out in the third round by challenger Evander Holyfield. Douglas had shocked the world eight months earlier with a stunning, tenth-round KO of then-champion "Iron" Mike Tyson. However, Holyfield's powerful right to the jaw of Douglas enabled him to become the new heavyweight champion while winning his 25th consecutive fight..........Can you imagine if former U.S. gymnast Shannon Miller married NASCAR driver Kyle Busch, divorced, married Washington Nats special assistant Bob Schaefer--divorced again--then married American ice dancer John Corona? Beer lovers everywhere would surely raise a glass to her full married name of Shannon Miller Busch Schaefer Corona..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played in the Midwest last weekend, Central College (Iowa) defeated Loras 70-7; the winning squad held a 42-7 lead AT THE HALF and out-rushed Loras in this game 279-48. I haven't seen a mismatch like that since Angelina Jolie hooked up with Billy Bob Thornton..........Answer to trivia question: ERIC MARTIN--who caught balls for 7,854 yards while playing for the Saints between 1985 and 1993..........Almost EERILY quiet this past baseball season (even in a city like New York) was the fact that Yankees reliever David Robertson's ERA of 1.08 was the lowest in team history for any NY hurler who threw at least 50 innings. Wow..........ITEM: Cassius Chambers--a high school football coach in Chicago--is arrested after a dozen of his players attacked a disabled teen; Chambers and an assistant coach reportedly watched the beating but did nothing to stop it. I now wish that Chambers had been born in a different era and became a heavyweight boxer in the 60's--and was scheduled to step into the ring with ANOTHER guy named Cassius after exhibiting such disgraceful behavior..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NFL running back Jimmy DuBose--who blows out 57 candles on October 25th. A native of Alabama who attended the University of Florida, DuBose was the SEC Player of the Year in 1975 and rushed for over 2,000 yards while in Gainesville. He was chosen by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 1976 draft and became the first Bucs player ever to gain 100 yards in a game (1978). Unfortunately, DuBose tore knee ligaments shortly thereafter and was limited to playing just three seasons in the pros (all with Tampa Bay)--gaining a total of 704 yards. DuBose was elected to the University of Florida Athletic Hall of Fame in 1987. Here's wishing you many more birthday celebrations to come, Jimmy..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NFL tackle Orlando Brown--who was found dead a few weeks ago in his South Baltimore apartment; he was 40. It was later uncovered that Brown died of diabetic ketoacidosis--caused by high blood sugar and a lack of insulin. A huge man standing 6'7'' tall and weighing 360 pounds, Brown played parts of nine seasons between 1994 and 2005--starting 119 games. He may be best-known for suffering a devastating eye-injury during a 1999 game (while playing for Cleveland) when he was struck by a referee's penalty flag; he later sued the NFL and eventually reached a settlement. Brown is survived by a daughter and three sons; may he rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10/15/11

2011-10-11T23:21:00.000-04:00

Frost is on the pumpkin--which can only mean one thing: It's time to hand out some awards based on MLB's 2011 regular season.

*The STAY AT FIRST Award: Goes to Martin Prado of the Atlanta Braves. Attempting to steal on 12 occasions this season, Prado was thrown out EIGHT times--a SB success rate of just 33%. Rumor has it that the Atlanta first base coach will have a lasso in his back pocket next year should Prado decide to run--but that couldn't be confirmed as of press time.
*The PETE ROSE/GEORGE BRETT HONORARY THROWBACK PLAYER Award: Dustin Pedroia of the Red Sox. The man played the entire year with a SCREW in his left foot and stole 26 bases while garnering 195 hits. In addition, does this guy EVER go home with a clean uniform? Pedroia should be the #1 spokesperson for OxiClean, Shout, or Spray 'n' Wash--or ALL THREE.
*The TONY BENNETT/BEST YEARS BEHIND HIM Award: Matt Stairs of the Washington Nationals. At age 43, Stairs went 10-for-65 this year and drove in TWO runs. Yes, Matt, after 19 seasons, it's TIME; PLEASE don't try for a 20th. Jason Giambi of the Rockies finished high in this category--appearing in 64 games and hitting just .260 in the thin air of Coors Field.
*The LITTLE BUCKS/BIG NUMBERS Award: A "no-brainer"--Ian Kennedy of the D'Backs. Kennedy went 21-4 and pitched to an ERA of 2.88. His 2011 salary? $423,000. Yes--that's almost a better bargain than any Christmas Tree Shops store can offer. NY's David Robertson (1.08 ERA, 460 grand) finished high in this category--as well as Alex Avila of the Tigers.
*The BONNIE AND CLYDE/HIGHWAY ROBBERY Award (for stealing large sums of money): No doubt--goes to Alex Rodriguez of the Yankees. Injuries aside, A-ROID appeared in just 99 games and hit 16 home runs. His salary? $32,000,000--or $2 million for each four-bagger he hit. Let's put that into perspective: If you COMBINED the ridiculous contracts of under-achieving Crawford and Lackey of Boston, that duo STILL earned less than Rodriguez in 2011. Jayson Worth of the Nats received many votes here--compiling a .232 average after signing a $126 million deal last December.
*The BLACKSTONE/HOUDINI DISAPPEARING ACT Award: Goes to Alex Rios of the Chicago White Sox. One of the more highly-prized players just a few years back, he's done VERY little since earning REAL money. In fact, his pitiful total of 44 RBI's this season was HALF of his 2010 total. Oh, yeah--he hit .227 in 2011. OUCH. And you wonder WHY Ozzie's in Florida?
*The PITIFULLY PUNCHLESS Award (for lack of offense): For the second year in a row, this goes to the Seattle Mariners--who hit an anemic .233 as a team in 2011. Of the 30 MLB teams, Seattle finished last in BA, runs, hits, total bases, slugging %, on-base %--yeah, you get the picture.
*The ARSONIST OF THE YEAR Award: We'll give this to reliever Jason Berken of the Orioles. In 47 innings out of the 'pen, he gave up 63 hits (including 10 HR's) and pitched to an ERA of 5.36. "Wild Bill" Hagy just groaned from his grave.
*The BUM OF THE YEAR Award: A "no-brainer"--Carlos Zambrano of the Cubs. After giving up a bunch of HR's to the Braves during an August game, the guy then throws at Chipper Jones (a future Hall of Famer) and proceeds to clean out his locker; he said he was "retiring" at age 30--then changed his mind. Many words come to mind: quitter, coward, punk, idiot; let's just call him an outright BUM for such ridiculous antics.
*The third annual EARL WEAVER/FULL PACK Award (causing managers to smoke too much and/or develop ulcers): Matt Maloney of the Cincinnati Reds. He pitched only 18 2/3 innings this year, but drove manager Dusty Baker CRAZY. He allowed 36 hits and 19 earned runs (ERA of 9.16); opponents hit .409 against him. If Dusty hasn't swallowed a toothpick yet while watching THIS guy pitch, it's a safe bet that he NEVER will.
*The HIT OR MISS Award: Mark Reynolds of the Orioles wins this for the FOURTH year in a row; yes, next year, it will formerly become known as the "Mark Reynolds/Hit Or Miss Award." The man hit 37 homers but also struck out 196 times--hitting .221. Almost 1/3 of his hits were homers.
*The MAYTAG/DEPENDABILITY Award: As I've stated in the past, Seattle's Ichiro Suzuki receives this award YEARLY as long as he's breathing. No--he didn't win a batting title this year and surely isn't the "old" Ichiro. But he DID play in 161 games--garnering 184 hits and stealing 40 bases at the age of 37. Yes, a down year for this legend--but he remains the ARCHITECT of this award. The man shows up DAILY, folks.
*The AVERSION TO WALKING Award: Vernon Wells of the L.A. Angels. In 505 at-bats, Wells walked just 20 times--about once-per-every 26 at-bats. I swear--this guy walks only when solar eclipses are about to take place.
*The GERITOL/AGE DOESN'T MATTER Award: Mariano Rivera of the Yanks wins for the THIRD year in a row. At the age of 41, he saved 44 games and pitched to an ERA of 1.91. In addition, he walked eight batters all season long and allowed just three home runs. "Cabernet Sauvignon" would be a better nickname for this guy due to his ability to age so well; I just think they call him "Mo" because it's easier to pronounce.
*The RODNEY DANGERFIELD/LACK OF RESPECT Award: This year, it goes to Blue Jays pitcher Ricky Romero. I'm not sure if it was due to his club's disappointing year or the fact that he was overshadowed by teammate Jose Bautista--but did anyone notice his #'s in 2011? Quietly, Romero won 15 games and gave up just 176 hits in 225 innings; his ERA--pitching for an AL East team--was a sparkling 2.92. If you ask the average fan about the top pitchers in the league, his name is probably NOT in the conversation--but perhaps it SHOULD be at this juncture.
*Finally, the DOLLY THE SHEEP/REASON TO CLONE Award: Roy Halladay of the Phillies. For the sixth year in a row, he pitched more than 220 innings. And fathom THIS: In each season from 2008-2011, his ERA has been under 2.80, he's walked less than 40 batters, and he's struck out more than 200 hitters. It's almost BORING watching Halladay take the mound at this juncture--he's THAT consistent.

Enjoy the rest of the postseason, everyone.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10/8/11

2011-10-05T00:32:00.000-04:00

Yes--LOTS of blame to go around regarding the Red Sox' 2011 collapse. But let's zone in on two particular individuals at this juncture: Carl Crawford (.255, 18 stolen bases) and John Lackey (12-12, 6.41 ERA)--who combined to earn over $30 million this past season. This duo certainly under-achieved in GARGANTUAN fashion. But, for discussion sake, let's just pretend that this pair hadn't under-achieved AS MUCH; Crawford hits, say, .270 and steals a modest 35 bases while Lackey pitches to an ERA of "only" 5.00. Result? Boston easily makes the playoffs. Now THAT is disturbing--and something that Sox fans will have a tough time swallowing for a VERY long time..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1988 Philadelphia Eagles--who finished first in the NFC East under coach Buddy Ryan--had three players who rushed for more than 500 yards apiece. Can you name this trio? Answer to follow..........Speaking of the aforementioned Lackey, WXLM-AM (CT) morning show host Lee Elci--whose show I'm honored to appear on each week--recently described the hurler's quality of pitches in 2011: "He was throwing nothing but SLOP up to the plate for the entire season."..........This week in sports history, October 11, 1991: At the Las Vegas Invitational, pro golfer Chip Beck shoots a sizzling 59 during third round play--tying Al Geiberger as the only golfers ever to shoot under 60 in a PGA event. Beck--playing at the Sunrise Golf Club--recorded 13 birdies and five pars on his way to sharing the tournament lead with Bruce Leitzke. Geiberger had shot a 59 at the Memphis Classic back in 1977--which included an eagle, 11 birdies, and six pars..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played down south last weekend, Washington & Lee annihilated Guilford 63-0. My first reaction was that famed GENERALS Washington and Lee (yes, how the school got its name) were never involved in military battles that were THIS one-sided..........Can you imagine if University of Michigan law professor Debra Chopp married former NFL fullback Matt Suhey? Lovers of Chinese cuisine would surely delight in her full married name of Debra Chopp Suhey..........Answer to trivia question: RANDALL CUNNINGHAM (624), KEITH BYARS (517), and ANTHONY TONEY (502)..........Cowardice personified: Thumbs down to Mets SS Jose Reyes for going 1-for-1 in the early stages of his final game this year--then sitting down solely to protect his league-leading batting average. In fact, the Mets organization should now be selling #7 jerseys with a yellow streak going down the back. My friend/colleague Phil Mushnick of the New York Post said it best last weekend--writing the following in his Sunday column: "He would have been more admired--and nobly recalled--had he finished in second place while PLAYING than finishing first while SITTING"..........I came across a photo the other day of actresses-turned-directors Jennifer Aniston and Demi Moore at the premiere of their Lifetime movie anthology "Five." Let's just say that these two lovely ladies aged a HECKUVA lot better in 2011 than major leaguers like Jason Giambi and Matt Stairs..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NFL linebacker Chris Spielman--who blows out 46 candles on October 11th. A two-time All-American at Ohio State, Spielman went on to play ten seasons as a member of the Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills between 1988 and 1997. While in Detroit, he went to four Pro-Bowls and was First Team/All-Pro in 1991. In his post-playing days, Spielman has done a variety of broadcasting work; he also coached the Columbus Destroyers--an Arena Football League team--back in 2005. Best wishes, Chris..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NFL offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger--who passed away last week in Mexico after a nearly year-long battle with cancer; he was 58. Heimerdinger coached for the Broncos, Titans, and Jets; he helped Denver win back-to-back Super Bowl titles in 1997 and 1998. He was also part of three playoff teams while in Tennessee and was very instrumental in helping the late QB Steve McNair win NFL co-MVP honors (with Peyton Manning) back in 2003. Mike was first diagnosed in November of 2010 and had been undergoing experimental treatments for a rare form of the disease while in Mexico. He is survived by his wife, Kathie, a son, and a daughter; may Mike Heimerdinger rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10/1/11

2011-09-27T22:50:00.000-04:00

Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played last weekend down south, South Carolina St. obliterated Delaware State 69-0; the winning squad racked up 687 total yards on offense while limiting their hapless opponent to just 84. I haven't seen a 'mismatch' like that since 89-year-old J. Howard Marshall married Anna Nicole Smith back in 1994..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1989 Chicago Cubs--who won the NL East under manager Don Zimmer--had three pitchers who won 16 or more games apiece that season. How many of these hurlers can you name? Answer to follow..........ITEM: NBA veteran Marcus Camby is arrested in Houston on a charge of marijuana possession; it happened not far from a school. Someone needs to explain to Marcus that the term "penetrating a zone" applies to basketball only--and does NOT include a "drug-free" zone..........This week in sports history, October 4, 1955: The Brooklyn Dodgers win their first World Series championship--beating the Yankees 2-0 in Game 7 as Johnny Podres pitches an eight-hit shutout. The Dodgers had won seven National League pennants in team history (the last one in 1953) without ever capturing the World Series. Podres was helped in this game by a fabulous catch by outfielder Sandy Amoros in the sixth inning; Amoros then relayed a throw to the infield to complete a game-changing double play while Podres would cruise the rest of the way.........."Raven" Update: Yes, a close call last week. My good friend Robert "Raven" Kraft of Miami Beach had his consecutive daily running streak of more than 37 years (8 miles daily) in jeopardy after experiencing chest pains/shortness of breath. He proceeded to see some doctors who surmised that he might need some type of surgery due to a possible blockage--which would obviously halt the incredible streak. However, after ten hours of multiple tests came up negative, "Raven"--armed with an inhaler and instructions to take an aspirin daily-- went back to the beach and completed yet another eight-mile jaunt. The streak continues--as well as the legend simply known as "Raven"..........Yes, Yankees closer Mariano Rivera has aged very well. But has anyone out there seen any recent photos of lovely actress Sofia Vergara modeling her new line of clothing for K-Mart? Sorry, sports fans--Ms. Vergara takes the art of "aging gracefully" to an ENTIRELY different level..........Did you know that, in 2001, RB Garrison Hearst of the San Francisco 49ers carried the ball 252 times and caught 41 passes--but only fumbled ONE time? Amazingly, Hearst fumbled a DOZEN times as a member of the Arizona Cardinals four years earlier--while having approximately the same number of touches..........Answer to trivia question: GREG MADDUX (19), MIKE BIELECKI (18), and RICK SUTCLIFFE (16)..........Morning personality Mike Stevens on WDRC-FM last week--after the struggling Red Sox had lost yet again to lowly Baltimore (and were still stuck on five wins for the entire month of September): "Do they WANT to make the playoffs?"..........Can you imagine if LPGA golfer Lori West married former MLB outfielder Bill North, divorced, married singer/songwriter Joe South--divorced again--then married DC-area environmental health specialist John East? She'd be strolling golf courses with the full married name of Lori West North South East..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NFL running back-turned-broadcaster Mike Adamle--who blows out 62 candles on October 4th. An All-American fullback at Northwestern, Adamle went on to play seven seasons in the NFL with the Chiefs, Jets, and Bears--rushing for 1,149 yards in his career. He later joined NBC Sports (hosting Sports World) and was also the co-host of American Gladiators from 1989-1996. Currently, Adamle is still involved with broadcasting in the Chicago area; best wishes, Mike..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league outfielder/college baseball coach Danny Litwhiler--who passed away recently in Florida at the age of 95. A native of Pennsylvania, Litwhiler spent 11 seasons in the majors between 1940 and 1951 as a member of the Phillies, Cardinals, Braves, and Reds--hitting .281 lifetime. He was an All-Star with the Phillies in 1942 and played in a total of 1,057 games. He later went on to coach baseball at Florida State and Michigan State--winning 678 games over 28 seasons; altogether, he led teams to nine NCAA tournament appearances. Litwhiler was also very instrumental in developing the radar gun to measure pitching speed. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, and eight children. May Danny Litwhiler rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9/24/11

2011-09-21T00:22:00.000-04:00

*A sign that the average male is getting WAY too old: When he'd rather look at photos of former major league pitchers Sam McDowell and Steve Stone instead of actresses Andie MacDowell and Sharon Stone.........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last Washington Redskins quarterback to lead the NFL in touchdown passes? Answer to follow..........Yet ANOTHER reason why I follow Ivy League football: Yale senior DE Austin Pulsipher spent a two-year stretch (2007-'08) in Taiwan on a Mormon mission. While there, he became fluent in Mandarin Chinese, ran a drug rehabilitation program, and managed the finances of over 150 missionaries. Yeah--don't hold your breath looking for Pulsipher's name in the "police briefs" section of your newspaper anytime soon..........Can you imagine if former Louisville basketball star Jazz Covington married comedian Chris Rock, divorced, married NY Jets kicker Nick Folk--divorced again--then walked down the aisle with PGA golfer Fred Funk? Lovers of various musical genres would surely enjoy her full name of Jazz Rock Folk Funk..........This week in sports history, September 26, 1971: Jim Palmer of the Baltimore Orioles fires a three-hit shutout vs. Cleveland--joining fellow starters Mike Cuellar, Pat Dobson, and Dave McNally as 20-game winners for the season. In a game played at Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Palmer also hit a run-scoring double while improving his record to 20-9 following the Orioles' 3-0 victory. Cuellar's 20th win a few days earlier had clinched Baltimore's third straight AL East title. No team in baseball had produced four 20-game winners since 1920--when the infamous Chicago "Black Sox" quartet of Cicotte, Faber, Kerr, and Williams combined for 87 wins..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played in the Midwest last weekend, North Central (IL) dismantled Olivet 86-14; the winning team led 45-0 at HALFTIME and ended up outrushing Olivet 329-45. If this was a heavyweight fight, it would have been stopped before both fighters had their HANDS taped..........I'll go out on a limb and say that the Yale Precision Marching Band was the only group of its kind to play "Hey Jude" and "Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting" during a college football game last weekend..........Did you know that outfielder Alex Cole led the 1990 Cleveland Indians in stolen bases with an impressive total of 40--but appeared in only 63 games that season? Mitch Webster was second on the team in steals that year with 22--while playing in more than TWICE as many games as Cole (128)..........Answer to trivia question: BILLY KILMER--who threw 19 TD passes in 1972 to tie Joe Namath for most in the league..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Jason Young--who blows out 32 candles on September 28th. A native of Oakland, CA who attended Stanford, Young spent only two seasons in the "bigs"--pitching for the Colorado Rockies in 2003 and 2004. Let's just say that the thin air of Coors Field did NOT help Young during his short MLB tenure. In 29 2/3 career innings, Young allowed 49 hits (including 11 HR's) and 32 earned runs. Yes, folks, Jason Young's career numbers: 0 wins, 3 losses, ERA of 9.71. Hey, they all can't be CY Young, right? Best wishes, Jason..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NFL guard/broadcaster Sam DeLuca--who died recently of cancer in New York at the age of 75. A Brooklyn native, DeLuca attended Lafayette High School--where he was a friend of notables such as Sandy Koufax and Fred Wilpon. He played college football at South Carolina and started his pro career in the Canadian Football League in the late 50's. When the AFL was formed in 1960, DeLuca joined the L.A. Chargers (later San Diego) and was a starter on the team's 1963 championship squad. He was later traded to the N.Y. Jets and started for them from 1964-'66; yes, he was one of the first protectors of a young QB named Joe Willie Namath. Sadly, DeLuca suffered a severe knee injury during a 1967 preseason game--which ultimately ended his playing career. Sam proceeded to do some excellent broadcasting work for the Jets, NBC, and even did some pre-game/post-game work for the Mets back in the late 60's; he retired as a sportscaster in 1988. He is survived by his wife, Diane, two sons, and two daughters. May Sam DeLuca rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9/17/11

2011-09-13T23:23:00.000-04:00

Mind-boggling numbers: Going into last weekend's play (with only a few weeks remaining), Adam Dunn of the Chicago White Sox had mustered just 60 hits this season. If he finishes the year with approximately 80 hits or so, he will have earned $150,000 PER HIT this year--based on his $12 million salary. Wow.........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last member of the Los Angeles Dodgers to lead the National League in runs scored? Answer to follow..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played last weekend, Campbell dismantled Apprentice 76-0. My first reaction? When you lose by more than TWELVE TD's, you truly ARE an "apprentice"--and have a LONG way to go in order to become a skilled tradesman..........Did you know that Paul O'Neill led the 1992 Cincinnati Reds in home runs with a total of just 14? Teammates Reggie Sanders, Chris Sabo, and Barry Larkin tied for second on the club with a dozen apiece--while Larkin led the team in RBI's with a rather modest total of 78..........This week in sports history, September 21, 1934: At Ebbets Field in Brooklyn, the Dean brothers--Dizzy and Paul--win both games of a doubleheader as the Cardinals sweep past the hometown Dodgers. Dizzy threw a three-hit shutout in the opener--winning his 27th game of the year during a 13-0 rout. Paul Dean went a step further in the nightcap--throwing his first career no-hitter during a 3-0 Redbirds victory. Paul, a rookie right-hander, allowed only one base runner during his masterful performance--walking a batter in the very first inning..........If more MLB players were as articulate as the Yankees' Curtis Granderson, there would be a LOT LESS need to reach for the remote during baseball rain delays.........ITEM: Former NFL running back Chris Jennings is arrested in Ohio for driving 147 miles-per-hour (you read that correctly) in a 65 mph zone; yes, folks, that is more than 80 mph OVER the limit. My question is this: Where did this guy complete his drivers education training--at the BONNEVILLE SALT FLATS?..........Answer to trivia question: BRETT BUTLER--who scored 112 runs for Tom Lasorda's second-place ball club in 1991..........If I'm starting a female/over-40 celebrity softball team, how's THIS for a starting nine: Elle Macpherson, Sharon Stone, Diane Lane, Kathy Ireland, Christie Brinkley, Jennifer Aniston, Brooke Shields, Denise Richards, and Elizabeth Hurley? Yes, I may be aging, folks, but there is NOTHING wrong with my EYESIGHT..........When my Dad was alive, we'd often watch badly-pitched ballgames where he'd often say to me the proverbial, "Geez, Bob, that guy needs a TOUCHDOWN to win." Well, Dad, this one's for you: With an ERA of 6.30 going into this past week, Red Sox pitcher John Lackey not only needs a touchdown, but the EXTRA POINT, too! (I know you're chuckling, 'Big' Bob)..........Can you imagine if former All-American volleyball player April Chapple married ex-big leaguer Carlos May--divorced--then married former All-Pro linebacker Cato June? She'd make lovers of springtime very happy with the full name of April May June.........Happy birthday wishes go out to former MLB pitcher Jim Siwy--who blows out 53 candles on September 20th. His name may not immediately ring a bell and that's totally understandable. A native of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Siwy played in just two big league seasons as a member of the White Sox (1982 and 1984)--appearing in just THREE games. In 11 1/3 career innings, Siwy allowed 13 hits and nine earned runs--thus going into the major league record books with a lifetime ERA of 7.15. Hey--they all can't be Ted Lyons, right? Best wishes, Jim..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former college football player/coach Brent Wooten--who died recently after a lengthy illness at the age of 72. Wooten played halfback/defensive back for the University of Washington for three seasons. He was a member of the Washington squads that combined for a record of 20-2 in 1959 and 1960 and went to consecutive Rose Bowls. He later coached various sports, taught physical education, and served as athletic director at Eastern Washington. May Brent Wooten rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9/10/11

2011-09-06T22:40:00.000-04:00

Question: Now that actress Minka Kelly has split from Derek Jeter, do you think she'd be interested in an older man who occasionally writes about sports? I know--I have a better chance of paying $1.50 for a gallon of gas this coming week..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last member of the New York Mets to lead the National League in singles? Answer to follow..........Scenario: LPGA golfer Karen Stupples marries fellow golf pro Fred Couples, divorces, then marries San Diego realtor Jim Supples. She then walks around golf courses with the full name of Karen Stupples Couples Supples..........ITEM: Two Drake basketball players--Rayvonte Rice and Kurt Alexander--are arrested for stealing $50 worth of socks from a sporting goods store; both men later stated that they were "young and dumb" and sorry for their actions. Translation? "WE GOT CAUGHT"..........This week in sports history, September 13, 1970: Australian tennis star Margaret Court completes the second women's grand slam in history--beating Rosemary Casals 6-2, 2-6, 6-1 at the U.S. Open in Forest Hills, NY. Court matched the feat of Maureen Connolly 17 years before and became the fourth player overall to join the grand slam club (Don Budge-1938, Rod Laver-1962, '69). In this match, Casals actually became the first U.S. Open player to win a set from Court in two years. But the talented Australian ultimately broke Casals twice in the final set--attacking her opponent's backhand on her way to the historic victory..........Sad news regarding the death of NFL Hall of Famer Lee Roy Selmon--who died last week following a stroke at the age of 57. His on-the-field excellence while with Tampa Bay as a defensive end was obvious--as he was enshrined in Canton in 1995. But the statement released shortly after his death by the Glazer family (Buccaneers owners) showed the TRUE greatness of this man--as it read that "his stature off the field as the consummate gentleman put him in another stratosphere." All I can say is thanks for being YOU, Lee Roy Selmon..........My best description of Red Sox pitcher John Lackey? He's a "non-money pitcher" who happens to be earning "money pitcher" money..........Here's a stat for you: Former major league infielder Angel Salazar--who played for three different teams between 1983 and 1988--had 933 career plate appearances and walked just 19 times. Depending on where he was playing, this guy must have swung at anything in the same ZIP CODE..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game last weekend, Cincinnati annihilated Austin Peay 72-10; the Bearcats had a 41-0 lead at HALFTIME. My first thought: Was this a lone individual NAMED Austin playing that day vs. Cincy--one who could have used some MAJOR help from ten other guys on defense?..........Answer to trivia question: LANCE JOHNSON--who notched 166 singles for the Mets back in 1996..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former MLB player Pat Listach--who blows out 44 candles on September 12th. Listach, who played college ball at Arizona State, was the AL Rookie of the Year in 1992 as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers--a year in which he garnered 168 hits and stole 54 bases. Sadly, Listach never duplicated those type of numbers again--playing only six seasons and being done with major league baseball by the age of 30 (ending his career with the Astros). He later became a minor league manager in the Cubs system and was named Chicago's bench coach last year. Best wishes, Pat..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NBA coach Scotty Robertson--who passed away recently in Louisiana at the age of 81. Robertson was best known for being the first coach of the New Orleans Jazz (1974); he was fired after just 15 games that season after compiling a record of 1-14. He also coached the Bulls and Pistons between 1978 and 1983; as a head coach, his career record was 109-178. Robertson was later an assistant with the Spurs and Suns. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Betty Lou, three daughters, and ten grandchildren. May Scotty Robertson rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9/3/11

2011-08-27T21:08:00.000-04:00

Just as impressive as the Red Sox being at the top of several AL team offensive categories in 2011 is the fact that they've done it in spite of one HUGE distraction: the lovely Heidi Watney from NESN being stationed close to the dugout during each game they play..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1993 Houston Astros--who finished 85-77 under manager Art Howe--were led in victories by a pitcher who also led the NL in W-L%. Can you name this former right-handed hurler? Answer to follow..........Great stuff from Bobby Valentine on a recent ESPN Sunday night game--when Cubs pitcher Rodrigo Lopez demonstrated NO CLUE about how to lay down a bunt vs. St. Louis: "You'd think that at 35-years-old, he'd know how to handle the bat just a LITTLE better."..........This week in sports history, September 6, 1960: American Rafer Johnson finishes with an Olympic record of 8,392 points--winning the decathlon at the Summer Games in Rome. Though being defeated in seven of ten events by Taiwan's C.K. Yang, Johnson was able to dominate in the field events: discus, javelin, and shot put. Entering the final event--the 1,500 meters--Yang truly had a shot at winning. However, Johnson stayed close enough to the speedier Yang for the entire race and held on for a 58-point victory..........Inspired by junior goalie Ona McConnell, the Yale field hockey team is running its second annual campaign to raise awareness/funds for the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation. As a freshman, Ona was diagnosed with myotonic dystrophy--the most common form of muscular dystrophy. The "Get A Grip" campaign raised more than $50,000 last year. Throughout the 2011 season, the team will also be accepting donations for a "Goal-a-thon" in which donations are based on the number of goals the team scores this season. Pledge forms and other info is available by visiting www.yalebulldogs.com/getagrip ..........CLASSIC quote--once attributed to former tennis star Ilie Nastase: "I haven't reported my missing credit card to the police because whoever stole it is spending less than my wife."..........I don't know what's more exciting: listening to an interview with St. Louis Cardinals manager Tony LaRussa or watching the rust grow on the rotors of my 2002 Ford..........Answer to trivia question: MARK PORTUGAL--who finished 18-4 that season with a league-leading winning percentage of .818..........I used to think that a Steve Carlton slider was a pure thing of beauty. That all changed the other day when I saw a picture of sultry actress Sharon Stone shaving her legs on the NYC set of her upcoming movie "Gods Behaving Badly." My goodness..........Scenario: Singer Fiona Apple marries former NFL player Deron Cherry, divorces, then marries a much older man--ex-NFL quarterback Milt Plum. Seeing that the age difference is a hindrance, she divorces Milt and marries ex-slugger Darryl Strawberry. Could we then refer to her by the "fruity" name of Fiona Apple Cherry Plum Strawberry?..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former MLB pitcher Micheal Nakamura--who blows out 35 candles on September 6th. Born in Japan and later moving to Australia as a youngster (he played on the Australian Olympic team in 1996 and 2000), Nakamura pitched only two seasons in the majors--2003 with the Twins and 2004 with the Blue Jays. In short, his major league tenure WASN'T pretty, folks. Appearing in a total of 31 big league games, Nakamura went 0-3, pitched 38 innings, and allowed 32 earned runs (including 11 home runs). Yes, his career ERA was a robust 7.51. Hey, they all can't be Bert Blyleven or Dave Stieb, right? Nakamura later went on to play in Japan--where he actually set a Pacific League saves record in 2006. Best wishes, Micheal..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former MLB pitcher Mike Flanagan--who died of a self-inflicted gun wound last week in Maryland at the age of 59. Flanagan pitched 18 seasons in the "bigs" between 1975 and 1992--mostly with Baltimore--finishing with a lifetime record of 167-143. His best year came in 1979 when he won 23 games for the Orioles while leading them to a World Series appearance vs. Pittsburgh. I remember seeing Flanagan pitch in person that year vs. the Yankees while I was a college student; he didn't have his best "stuff" that day, but was able to pitch into the eighth inning during a 5-1 New York victory. He later went on to become a coach, front-office executive, and broadcaster for the Orioles. He is survived by his wife, Alex, and three daughters: Kathryn, Kendall, and Kerry. May Mike Flanagan rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8/27/11

2011-08-23T22:16:00.000-04:00

N.Y. Yankees announcer Ken Singleton made an eye-opening statement on a recent telecast: He pointed out that the Tampa Bay Rays have gone more than 700 consecutive games using a starting pitcher under the age of 30. Wow...........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1993 Boston Red Sox were led in stolen bases by an individual who played for SIX different teams during his career. Can you name this former infielder? Answer to follow..........Question: With a name like Everett Teaford, shouldn't this guy be running a law firm somewhere in the midwest instead of pitching for the Kansas City Royals?..........With an assist from my good buddy Dick Graham of West Haven: Can you imagine if the great Lucille Ball had once married NASCAR driver Steve Park--divorced--then married former MLB manager Herman Franks? She would have been known by the full name of Lucille Ball Park Franks..........This week in sports history, August 30, 1987: Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson establishes himself as the "world's fastest human"--running the 100-meters in a blazing time of 9.83 seconds at the world championships in Rome. Johnson broke the previous record by a full tenth of a second--formerly held by Calvin Smith (9.93). Ironically, second-place finisher Carl Lewis tied Smith's record of 9.93 in this race, but still finished a full meter behind Johnson. Entering the world championships, Johnson had beaten Lewis--the Olympic gold medalist in L.A. back in 1984--five consecutive times........."Raven" Update: My dear friend Robert "Raven" Kraft of Miami Beach continues to, well, keep on goin'. One of the top "streak runners" in America, he has now run his daily, 8-mile route for approximately 13,400 CONSECUTIVE days (since 1/1/75); that's a total of over 107,000 total miles, folks. Anyone out there getting tired just READING this? "Raven"--you're one amazing individual..........Without question, Red Sox reliever Daniel Bard throws the "easiest" 98 mile-per-hour fastball that I have ever seen..........Answer to trivia question: SCOTT FLETCHER--who stole 16 bases for Butch Hobson's fifth-place ball club..........ITEM: South Carolina quarterbacks coach G.A. Mangus is arrested in Greenville on a "nuisance" charge; police found Mangus urinating on a street curb at 1:30 AM and issued him a ticket for $470. Sheesh, in terms of finances, I suggest it now may be advantageous for Mangus to purchase his own trailer-mounted "Porta-Potty" for his car--just in case this situation arises again..........Question for Red Sox fans: Carl Crawford, John Lackey, or J.D. Drew (not to mention Dice-K, his absence, and the $$ spent on him): Which one has caused the most stomach ulcers this year among "Red Sox Nation" members? Boston-area pharmacies must have doubled their sales of Pepcid AC this baseball season compared to last year..........Happy birthday wishes go out to another good friend--former MLB infielder Carmen Fanzone--who blows out 68 candles on August 30th. A native of Detroit, Carm played five seasons in the "bigs" between 1970 and 1974--appearing in 237 games (mostly with the Cubs). One of Fanzone's greatest memories as a ballplayer was catching the last out of Milt Pappas' no-hitter in 1972 (a Gary Jestadt pop-up) vs. San Diego. Carm, an accomplished horn player, was also known to play the "Star-Spangled Banner" before Cubs games. He's been kind enough to join me on my weekly TV show a couple times and remains a true "class act." Carm is married to jazz singer Sue Raney--a four-time Grammy nominee. Best wishes, Mr. Fanzone..........Finally, condolences go out to famed CT sportscaster Arnold Dean and his family; Arnold recently lost his wife, Helen, after a valiant battle with cancer. In the sports media biz, one often comes across many "not-so-nice", non-personable individuals (Arnie would be the first to tell you that--and what an "art-form" it is to side-step them). But I can honestly say that, in my years of covering sports, I have NEVER met a more genuine, nicer man than Mr. Arnold Dean--which adds even more sadness to this unfortunate passing. Helen and Arnold were married for more than 50 years and were practically inseparable. Having never formally met Helen, I can only imagine how pleasant SHE was, too. Arnold basically stopped working altogether these past couple of years while she fought the illness that would ultimately take her life. I've heard various stories how Helen dedicated her life to helping/counseling others. Wow, what a terrific legacy to leave--and the Connecticut landscape is minus one TREMENDOUS lady at this juncture. But her selfless deeds will always be remembered by both those she assisted directly and by the countless others who simply RESPECTED her humanitarian efforts. May Helen rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8/20/11

2011-08-17T02:12:00.003-04:00

Some good conversation starters for those, shall we say, "aging" baseball fans out there. Do you remember.............

--when $9.50 at a major league game bought you two decent tickets rather than ONE BOTTLE of beer?
--the way John Boccabella was introduced over the P.A. system while playing for the Expos?
--how great it felt when you threw your first curveball with a wiffle ball?
--how uncomfortable your first set of baseball spikes felt?
--the feeling of exhilaration when you were FINALLY able to judge a fly ball?
--Jimmy Qualls?
--your first time having a catch with someone who threw VERY hard--and the stinging sensation involved?
--when Steve Blass mysteriously LOST it?
--Albert "Sparky" Lyle and the huge chaw of tobacco inside his cheek?
--TRYING chewing tobacco for the first time--and becoming incredibly ill?
--Morganna--the "Kissing Bandit?"
--"Fernando-mania?"
--when the Sporting News published EVERY box score from the previous week?
--Herb Washington?
--"Wild Bill" Hagy?
--giving "doubles" of your favorite baseball cards to your best friend?
--when $5.00 could buy you five gallons of gas AND a N.Y. Yankees yearbook?
--your first pouch of "Big League Chew?"
--owning a pair of "flip-up" sunglasses--just because your favorite player did?
--how cool it was owning your own resin bag or batting 'doughnut'?
--when most people stood AND sang the National Anthem at ballparks?
--how much of a "hot dog" Willie Montanez was?
--oiling your first baseball glove--and wondering if it would EVER dry?
--wiping the bubble gum powder off a new pack of baseball cards?
--"Kiner's Korner" after N.Y. Mets telecasts?
--"Reggie" bars?
--reading Ball Four for the first of MANY times?
--Karl Ehrhardt--the "Sign Man of Shea?"
--Jarry Park?
--when Al Kaline REFUSED a raise--saying he didn't perform well-enough the previous year?
--the way Paul Blair glided under a fly ball?
--when you couldn't get a ticket at Camden Yards?
--umpire Dutch Rennert and his LOUD, drawn-out 'strike' call?
--the mustachioed Oakland A's teams of the 70's?
--Boog Powell and Numazawa doing the Miller Lite commercial?
--Burt Hooton's knuckle-curve?
--"Disco Dan" Ford?
--Lindsay Nelson's sports jackets?
--how much Felix Millan used to choke up on the bat?
--John "Blue Moon" Odom?
--the hilarious antics of umpire Ron Luciano?
--how fun it was to watch Jesus Alou pinch-hit?
--"10-Cent Beer Night" in Cleveland?
--putting baseball cards on the spokes of your bike tires in order to make a "motor" sound?
--your first "raspberry" after sliding into a base? (ouch)
--Chief Noc-A-Homa?
--the day Roberto Clemente died?
--the "Mad Hungarian" psyching himself up behind the mound?
--when Clint Hurdle was a "can't miss" prospect?
--just HOW good Steve Carlton was in 1972?
--the Yankees Datsun bullpen car--circa 1972?
--people actually KEEPING SCORE at a major league game?
--just how large a high school baseball diamond appeared compared to your old Little League one?
--Ron Bryant and his teddy bear in San Francisco?
--Tito Fuentes flipping the bat after arriving in the batter's box?
--the smell of jumbo hot pretzels and chestnuts outside the old Yankee Stadium?
--Walt "No Neck" Williams?
--Jane Jarvis playing the "Mexican Hat Dance" during the 7th inning stretch at N.Y. Mets games?
--receiving a bat on "Bat Day" at Yankee Stadium--then cracking it a few days later while trying to use it?
--Mike Marshall's screwball?
--Tug McGraw BEING a "screwball?"
--Dick "Don't Call Me Richie" Allen swinging a 42-ounce bat like it was a toothpick?
--buying the Bridgeport Post and New Haven Register solely for the late box scores?
--the youthful exuberance of one Mark Fidrych?
--wearing baseball pants with a stretch waist for the very first time?
--how EASY Johnny Bench made it look behind the plate?
--how DIFFICULT Dave Kingman made it look playing the outfield?
--Joe Pignatano growing tomatoes in the Mets bullpen at Shea Stadium?
--manager Ralph Houk and his nervous habit of scooping pebbles near his team's dugout?
Finally--how your Mom SOMEHOW managed to get those grass stains out of your dirty baseball uniform?

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8/13/11

2011-08-07T19:26:00.000-04:00

Devastating news came down last weekend as New Haven Register sports columnist Dave Solomon died in a one-car accident on his way home from UCONN's first football practice; he was 59. He was a friend/colleague and truly at the top of his craft. Whether we were sharing lunches at CSWA meetings, swapping stories at the Traveler's Championship, or occasionally catching up with each other at Yale football games, Dave was always willing to discuss the latest sports news in his usual, passionate manner. He was kind enough to appear on my cable TV show in the past where he exhibited the frankness that truly became his trademark. I missed seeing him at the golf tournament this summer--due to some surgery I had undergone that week--but last spoke with him in the Yale press box last fall. Yep--he was the same, passionate Dave on that cool, autumn afternoon. And he'd always kindly end our conversations with the same line: "Love reading your stuff, Bob--see you soon." The truth is that I learned so much from HIM over the years, folks--and Dave Solomon's memory will live on due to the countless, archived stories and words that he leaves to all of us who were privileged to enjoy his journalistic talents. You'll be missed, Mr. Solomon..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last member of the Cincinnati Reds to lead the National League in doubles? Answer to follow..........Courtesy of my good friend Dick Graham of West Haven: "Now that the Atlanta Braves have acquired speedster Michael Bourn from Houston, can we say that the team's pennant chases have been 'Bourn-again?' " (sorry, folks)..........This week in sports history, August 16, 1920: Cleveland Indians shortstop Ray Chapman becomes the first major league player to die as a result of injuries sustained during a game after being hit in the head by a pitch from Carl Mays of the Yankees. The 29-year-old Chapman was beaned during the fifth inning while Cleveland was leading the game 3-0; the ball rolled back to the mound where Mays retrieved it and threw to first--thinking it had hit Chapman's bat. After being rushed to the hospital, two operations were performed in order to address the player's massive head trauma. Sadly, Chapman passed away the following day..........Did you know that the 1980 Chicago Cubs--who finished 64-98 under managers Preston Gomez and Joey Amalfitano--were led in RBI's by Jerry Martin with a paltry total of just 73? Bill Buckner finished second on the team with 68 that year. However, an interesting fact is that Buckner led the NL in batting that season (.324) while hitting almost 100 points HIGHER than Martin (.227)..........Compliments of my "View From The Lone Red Seat" co-host Chris Mascaro: "Baseball is a funny game. Last Friday, Jon Lester--8-1 lifetime against the Yankees--faces off against an older, overweight, out-of-shape Bartolo Colon and was out-pitched. The following day, John Lackey, who can barely get out of his own way, faces CC Sabathia--who's a leading candidate for the Cy Young Award. CC gets rocked--giving up seven earned runs in 6 innings--the same number of total ERs he had given up in his last 60+ innings. CC is now 0-4 versus the Red Sox this season with a 7.20 ERA and 16-2 versus everyone else. Yes--it's a VERY funny game.".........Answer to trivia question: DAVE PARKER--who hit 42 "two-baggers" to lead the NL in 1985..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league infielder Greg Jelks--who blows out 50 candles on August 16th. Is the name as unfamiliar to you as it is to ME? That may be because Jelks spent just ONE season in the majors--1987 with the Philadelphia Phillies. Coming to bat 11 times that year, Jelks could muster just ONE hit--resulting in a lifetime batting average of .091. But the optimist would be quick to point out that Jelks' lone hit WAS a double--and that he also walked three times during his short major league stint. Jelks later played professionally in Italy and Australia--and was a member of the Australian national team from 1997-2000. Best wishes, Greg..........I was also very saddened to hear of the death of former NFL player-turned-actor Charles Aaron "Bubba" Smith--who passed away recently in Los Angeles at the age of 66. Many people remember "Bubba" mainly due to his portrayal of Moses Hightower in the Police Academy movie series. However, schooled football aficionados will never forget what a fine defensive end he was during his career with the Colts, Raiders, and Oilers--one whose speed and quickness often resulted in "Bubba" being constantly double-teamed. Smith--a Michigan State product--was the #1 overall pick by Baltimore in the 1967 draft; he was a two-time All-American for the Spartans who'd go on to play nine NFL seasons (1967-1976). Yeah, Mr. Smith's Miller Lite commercials were great and he played some funny parts in various acting gigs following his playing days. But I'm one who will choose to remember the feared, talented defensive end who always put immense fear into opposing quarterbacks. Fans used to chant, "Kill, Bubba, Kill" when the 6-foot-7 inch Smith played at MSU; to me, he always seemed like a "gentle giant" when he was away from the gridiron. Thanks for the memories, "Bubba"--and may you rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8/6/11

2011-08-03T01:29:00.002-04:00

Great deal, fun times: The Class A Connecticut Tigers are continuing to make minor league baseball entertaining and affordable. For three upcoming Wednesday night home games in August (8/10, 8/17, and 8/31), the team is offering fans its "Grand Slam Family Pack." For just $40 (a $55 value), buyers can receive 4 reserved seats, 4 hot dogs, 4 sodas, and a box of popcorn. For more information on this deal--or on any upcoming promotions at Dodd Stadium--call the Tigers front office at (860) 887-7962..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1992 Chicago White Sox--who finished 86-76 under manager Gene Lamont--had THREE players on the squad who stole 30 or more bases apiece. How many of these gentlemen can you name? Answer to follow..........When the New England Patriots acquired Chad Ochocinco recently, I immediately received an email from my friend John Swingler--who chimed in with this classic line: "The EGO has landed in Foxboro."..........On MLB Network telecasts, WHY--when pitching graphics are displayed on the TV screen--are strikeouts listed FIRST before walks (in this manner: K/BB)? Is it me--or haven't baseball fans been privy to box scores, pitching lines, etc. for years that have ALWAYS listed walks BEFORE strikeouts? Totally ridiculous...........This week in sports history, August 8, 1988: With over 36,000 fans in attendance, the lights are turned on at Wrigley Field in Chicago--finally ending a long-standing tradition of day-only baseball. A 91-year-old Chicago fan flipped the switch--illuminating the historic ballpark with 540 lights that were resting on the building's roof. However, the game between the Phillies and Cubs would end after 3 1/2 innings as thunder, lightning, and rain put a damper on an event attended by over 500 media representatives..........Question: Do you think that lovely actress Denise Richards--when she's finally done promoting her new book The Real Girl Next Door--would be interested in a tennis date with an aging sports columnist?..........Nice touch: On our Internet radio show "View From The Lone Red Seat," my co-host Chris Mascaro decided it would be appropriate to end each broadcast by saying, "Good night, 'Big Bob', we miss ya"--in honor of my late father who passed away in June. Yeah, he's missed, Chris--but I get the feeling he's listening each week and honored to be thought of so highly. It's truly very touching--and is a terrific way of remembering one of the biggest baseball fans I'll ever come across. Thanks again, Mr. Mascaro..........Speaking of the MLB Network, I was watching the SF/Philadelphia game last week and was treated to Jim Kaat doing color commentary. Yes, even at 72 years-old, he's STILL the best in the biz--and has been one of the handful of 'ex-jocks' who have deservedly (and LEGITIMATELY) landed broadcasting gigs...........Question: If Virginia-based financial advisor Deborah Garter walked down the aisle with MLB outfielder Brandon Belt, do you think she'd mind being referred to as Deborah Garter Belt?..........Answer to trivia question: TIM RAINES (45), LANCE JOHNSON (41), and STEVE SAX (30)..........Did you know that the 1965 Detroit Tigers were led in stolen bases by Jerry Lumpe with a total of just SEVEN? Four other players had six apiece, but the team ended the year with a paltry total of 57 while being thrown out 47 times..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league catcher Steve Swisher--who blows out 60 candles on August 9th. The father of current Yankees outfielder Nick Swisher, Steve played nine seasons in the National League (as a member of the Cubs, Cardinals, and Padres) between 1974 and 1982. Known as a decent receiver, Swisher barely hit his WEIGHT during his career--putting together a lifetime batting average of just .216. Yes, folks, during four of his nine big league seasons, Swisher hit below the famed "Mendoza Line" (.200). Amazingly, Swisher was named to the 1976 NL All-Star team--a year in which he appeared in just 109 games and hit .236 (I'm shaking my head TOO, folks). Hey, they all can't be Johnny Bench, right? And the good news is that his son, Nick, has made millions playing baseball--making up for any small contracts that Dad may have played under years ago. Best wishes, Steve..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league pitcher Howard Hilton--who died recently in California at the age of 47. A native of Oxnard, Hilton helped pitch the Arkansas Razorbacks to the 1985 College World Series; he was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals the same year. Hilton appeared in just two MLB games for the Cards during the 1990 season--allowing no runs in a total of three innings of relief. Strangely, he was released by the team during spring training in 1991; he later hooked on with the Padres--staying with that organization until 1992. Yes, after a seemingly wonderful start as a major league hurler, Hilton was never able to make a career out of it. May Howard James Hilton rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 7/30/11

2011-07-27T00:21:00.000-04:00

Imagine this: New Haven Open tournament director Anne Worcester walks down the aisle with former MLB player Fred Lynn, divorces, marries former MLB third baseman Mike Lowell, divorces again, weds ex-outfielder Willie Norwood--divorces yet AGAIN--then marries ex-MLB outfielder Daryl Boston. Lovers of Massachusetts geography would delight in her full married name of Anne Worcester Lynn Lowell Norwood Boston..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Al Kaline of the Detroit Tigers led the American League in doubles in 1961 with 41. Since then, only ONE member of the Tigers has led the AL in two-baggers over the course of a season. Can you name this individual? Answer to follow..........If A's DH Hideki Matsui had aged HALF as well as Eileen Davidson of "The Young and the Restless," then Oakland may very well be contending in the AL West at this juncture..........I talked to former MLB pitcher Frank Sullivan recently--a member of the Red Sox Hall of Fame--and asked him about the modern day pitch count. Sullivan: "All starting pitchers in my day stayed on the mound until the manager couldn't stand it anymore. It had nothing to do with how many balls were thrown. And, I might add, we pitched every fourth day and rarely got a five day reprieve."..........This week in sports history, August 2, 1992: Jackie Joyner-Kersee captures her second straight Olympic heptathlon--accumulating a total of 7,044 points at the Summer Games in Barcelona, Spain. Joyner-Kersee virtually wrapped up the championship at the start of the second day of competition with a long jump of 23 feet, 3 1/2 inches; she later ended the event with a time of 2:11.78 in the 800 meters. Irina Belova of the United Team finished second to Joyner-Kersee--199 points behind. Jackie quite possibly could have made this her THIRD straight Olympic victory in the event; however, a hamstring injury during the '84 Games in Los Angeles ultimately led to a five-point loss for one of the great female athletes in history..........ITEM: Former University of New Hampshire defensive back JeRome Wilkins is arrested for attacking a convenience store clerk who refused to sell the under-aged Wilkins alcohol; Wilkins was also arrested LAST year on felonious assault charges. Just wonderin': Due to his obvious inability to be a law-abiding citizen, do you think he had a poster of troubled Bengals DB Adam "Pacman" Jones on his dorm room wall when he WAS on the UNH team?..........Answer to trivia question: MAGGLIO ORDONEZ--who led the American League in doubles in 2007 with an impressive total of 54..........Did you know that the 1983 Milwaukee Brewers--who finished 5th in the AL East--were led in victories by Jim Slaton with 14? The topper? Slaton pitched all of his 46 games that year in RELIEF--finishing with a record of 14-6. Starter Moose Haas was second on the staff in victories with a total of 13..........Congrats to the great Bert Blyleven--who was FINALLY enshrined into baseball's Hall of Fame last weekend. Along with many others, I've been lobbying for this honor for MUCH too LONG; it was WAY overdue. The man is a "class act," too. After sending him a column I recently wrote about my Dad after he passed away, Blyleven immediately emailed me back with these kind words: "Bob--Again, sorry for the loss of your Dad but his life will live on forever through you, his family and friends. A very nice tribute to a great man. Stay strong." Thanks, Mr. Blyleven..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Frank Cimorelli--who blows out 43 candles on August 2nd. If the name doesn't ring a bell, you're not alone. A native of Poughkeepsie, NY, Frank pitched just ONE season in the "bigs"--1994 with the Cardinals--appearing in just 11 games in relief. In 13 1/3 innings that year, Cimorelli gave up 20 hits, walked 10, and allowed 13 earned runs. Yes, folks, Frank Cimorelli--though he never won OR lost a major league game--is listed in the record books as having a career ERA of 8.78. Hey--they all can't be Bob Gibson, right? Best wishes, Frank...........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former college basketball coach Neil Dougherty--who died recently after collapsing while jogging in Indianapolis; he was 50. Dougherty coached TCU from 2002-2008--winning 75 games. Prior to that, Neil worked at Kansas under Roy Williams from 1995-2002; he also served as an assistant at Drake, Vanderbilt and South Carolina. Most recently, he promoted youth basketball while working for ihoops--a joint venture between the NCAA and NBA. Neil Dougherty leaves behind a wife and three children; rest in peace, "Coach."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 7/23/11

2011-07-19T22:29:00.000-04:00

Recently, I talked with Dave Sims--voice of the Seattle Mariners--and asked him for his thoughts about Ichiro Suzuki's "down year" so far in 2011; a .327 lifetime hitter, he was hitting just .264 going into last weekend's action. Sims simply told me, "Ichiro? Heck, he's not Superman. He's getting older like everyone does. It happens."..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The lowly 1979 Oakland A's--who finished 54-108 under manager Jim Marshall--were led in home runs by a player who hit only 63 during his entire CAREER. Can you name this individual? Answer to follow..........Still MORE evidence how much the 'bar' is being lowered regarding big league baseball pitching performances: Last weekend, Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe said that John Lackey had "pitched well again" during a 9-5 Red Sox victory over the Rays. Lackey's line that day? 5 2/3 innings pitched, 10 hits, 4 runs. Question: Just HOW low will the bar be lowered, say, ten years from now, folks--or will it already have touched GROUND by then?..........If Red Sox OF J.D. Drew had aged HALF as well as actress Diane Lane, Boston would be leading the AL East by 8 games at this juncture..........This week in sports history, July 26, 1964: Two players from the Chicago Bears--Willie Galimore and John Farrington--die tragically in a car crash not far from the team's training facility at St. Joseph's College. The accident occurred around 10:30 PM as the duo apparently tried to avoid breaking the team's curfew. Galimore had gained close to 3,000 yards rushing over seven seasons while Farrington had owned the record for catching the longest TD pass in club history (98 yards back in 1961)..........ATTENTION BOXING FANS: In the mood for an excellent, interesting, short read this summer? Check out Mark Allen Baker's Title Town USA: Boxing in Upstate New York--published in 2010. Baker skillfully writes about the geographical area near Canastota, NY--home of the International Boxing Hall of Fame--and how it has produced some of boxing's most prominent pugilists. Fighters like Carmen Basilio and Billy Backus are mentioned; it also goes into detail how some of the greatest fighters of all-time (i.e. Sugar Ray Robinson, Jack Dempsey, Henry Armstrong) were drawn to fight in that region. More information about this terrific publication can be obtained by visiting http://www.historypress.net ..........Answer to trivia question: JEFF NEWMAN---who hit 22 round-trippers in '79; his career was spent with Oakland and Boston and lasted from 1976-1984..........Former Trinity College (CT) football star Mickey Kobrosky was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame last weekend in South Bend, Indiana; Kobrosky led the Bantams to a combined 19-2 record from 1934-1936 and later played professionally with the New York Giants. Inducted this year was a VERY impressive quartet: Kobrosky, American hero Pat Tillman, former Super Bowl MVP Desmond Howard, and five-team Super Bowl champion Charles Haley. While at Trinity, Kobrosky played both offense and defense--truly one of the most versatile athletes of his day. He also played baseball, too, and once signed a MLB contract with the Cleveland Indians. Mickey died in Longmeadow, MA, back in 2003 at the age of 88. His son Neil Kobrosky--who played soccer for Trinity back in the 1970's--represented his Dad at the induction ceremonies. Yes--a well-deserved honor for a tremendous athlete of the past--and a long time coming..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major leaguer Greg Colbrunn--who blows out 42 candles on July 26th. In a 13-year career from 1992-2004, Colbrunn surely kept his bags packed--playing for a total of SEVEN different teams over that time frame. Used mostly as a part-time first baseman and pinch-hitter, Colbrunn DID play regularly for the Florida Marlins during the '95 and '96 seasons--hitting a combined 39 home runs while collecting a total of 146 hits in each season. Greg was also a member of the world champion Arizona Diamondbacks in 2001. A native of Fontana, CA, Colbrunn ended his career with a very respectable .289 lifetime batting average. He is currently the batting coach for the Charleston RiverDogs of the Class A South Atlantic League; best wishes, Greg..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NBA player Armen Gilliam--who died recently while working out at a gym in Pennsylvania; he was 47. A first-round pick of the Phoenix Suns in the 1987 draft, Gilliam played for six different teams (including the New Jersey Nets) before retiring in 2000; he averaged 13.7 ppg/6.9 rpg while appearing in 929 games. Gilliam also coached and played for the Pittsburgh Xplosion in the American Basketball Association in 2005 and 2006. During his college days, Gilliam was a key member of Jerry Tarkanian's 1987 UNLV team that made it to the Final Four. Nicknamed "The Hammer," Gilliam's #35 jersey was retired by the school during a halftime ceremony at the Thomas & Mack Center back in 2007. May Armen Gilliam rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 7/16/11

2011-07-13T01:23:00.000-04:00

Matt Hurlock recently succumbed to a year-long battle with colon/liver cancer; he was just 39. His name may not be familiar to all who read this column, but those who were fortunate to have crossed paths with the man will always treasure fond memories of a special person--and a true educator. Yes, I was one of the lucky ones.

I met Matt a few years ago; he was the head basketball (boys) and volleyball coach at Coventry High School and also taught physical education. At the time, he had just won another Class S state championship in volleyball. In addition, his basketball team was still undefeated and his wife was expecting their second child. Yes, all was well in the world of Matthew J. Hurlock. Before the start of one particular basketball game, I approached Matt, shook his hand, and introduced myself. After congratulating him on his continued volleyball success, our conversation immediately turned to basketball. I relayed to him that I had coached his star player, Jamie Kohn, at the middle school level. He then shared some thoughts with me about Jamie and his team in general. What immediately struck me about Matt Hurlock was his modest, easy-going nature. For a guy who was collecting state volleyball championships like they were stamps (he'd win a total of seven after taking over the program in 2001), I found him to be remarkably approachable, non-egotistical, and friendly. In an instant, it felt like I had known the guy for a couple of decades. I then asked him if he'd like to appear on my cable TV sports show--and if he could bring a couple of athletes from the high school with him. He smiled, his face lit up, and without hesitation said something similar to, "Absolutely--that would be SO cool." We then parted ways as I would go on to watch his basketball team keep their unblemished record intact that night. Man, I said to myself--if only ALL coaches were as easy to deal with as Matt Hurlock!

A live edition of "Monday Night Sports Talk" was produced in February of '08 as Matt brought along one of his top volleyball players, Ashley Curtis, and the aforementioned Jamie Kohn--an All-State player. He immediately thanked me for inviting him and happily chatted with my co-host, Tony DeAngelo, prior to the airing. As the show progressed, Hurlock continually lauded the personal efforts of the duo that had accompanied him to the studio that night. Even more noticeable was the fact that he constantly used the words "we" and "us" when referring to EITHER team he coached. Yeah, it soon became extremely clear to me that Matt Hurlock's philosophy of coaching could be summed up in ONE word--"selfless"--and he was able to communicate this approach very easily to his players. And it was more than just athletics to Coach H. as he was quick to point out that he was most proud of Ashley due to her being "very well-rounded." At one point, we specifically asked Matt about combining academics and sports. It was then revealed that both Ashley AND Jamie were ranked in the TOP FIVE of their graduating class academically. "I have high expectations," he said that evening, "but I want my players to reap the awards of working hard." It worked, folks.

Matt Hurlock compiled a 208-19 record as Coventry's volleyball coach; last fall, as he coached through chemotherapy, his squad became the first small school to ever be voted the #1-ranked team in Connecticut. He headed the basketball team from 1997-2009--winning four conference championships. He ran summer programs for youngsters--all aimed at developing a sense of TEAMWORK. It's really no surprise that this man won all those volleyball titles; you see, the ultimate "team game" was headed by an extremely erudite "TEAM GUY."

Finally, it was obvious that he cared so much about his family--which he was quick to point out on the night of our telecast. "Family comes FIRST," Hurlock said--and it DID. I remember the unmistakable glow on his face when he'd see his wife and children just before game time--or when he'd spend a few quality minutes prior to tip-off getting some last minute pointers from his twin brother Mike. But one can only ponder if Hurlock's "family" was an extended one--including the many young athletes he came in contact with over his brilliant coaching career; he surely treated them that way. If you knew Matt Hurlock--even casually--you FELT like family. What better legacy can a man leave?

I hadn't heard much from Matt over the past year or so; sadly, a fellow media colleague ultimately alerted me to Hurlock's battle with the aggressive disease that would soon take his life. From this day forward, I'm sure his wife Julie will be fueled by memories of special times spent with a wonderful man/husband. His children, Colby and Katelyn, will someday take comfort in knowing that their father--though taken from this world at such a young age--was a 'high-quality' human being. I'll always remain grateful that our paths crossed and that I could consider him a friend--even if only for a few years. His abbreviated time here on earth was surely QUALITY time. Most important, he made a huge impact--and isn't that the ultimate goal? Yes, though short in duration, it was a life well-lived.

Rest in peace, Matt Hurlock--you'll surely be missed.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 7/9/11

2011-07-06T03:54:00.000-04:00

Just wonderin': If tennis star Venus Williams married Tennessee surgeon Dr. William Fly--divorced--then married former NBA forward John Q. Trapp, would she then go by the full name of Venus Fly Trapp?..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1989 Boston Red Sox--who finished 83-79 under manager Joe Morgan--had two players who drove in 100 or more runs. Can you name them? Answer to follow..........Lately, I can't tell which is thinner--Red Sox pitcher Andrew Miller or my WALLET..........Not too long ago in this column, I extended an open invitation to the lovely Christie Brinkley to play tennis some time--and have heard NOTHING so far. What do you think, guys--she prefers golf instead?..........This week in sports history, July 12, 1967: In the longest game in All-Star history, Cincinnati's Tony Perez homers off Jim "Catfish" Hunter in the 15th inning--giving the National League a 2-1 victory over the AL. The NL took an early lead in the second inning when Richie Allen of the Phillies homered; Brooks Robinson of the Orioles later tied it with a home run in the sixth. The two teams combined for just 17 hits over 15 innings, while a dozen different pitchers recorded 30 strikeouts in a game played at Anaheim Stadium..........Did you know that the 1992 San Diego Padres had a team total of just 69 stolen bases? In contrast, Marquis Grissom of the Montreal Expos stole 78 bases HIMSELF that year--leading both leagues..........A sign that one's best days are in the past: During last Sunday's game vs. Houston, Red Sox manager Terry Francona sent Darnell McDonald to the plate to pinch hit for J.D. Drew. McDonald's batting average at the time? .125. NOT a good sign, J.D..........Looking back at his first four years (2007-2010) since signing a 7-year, $126 million contract with the Giants, Barry Zito had won a total of 40 games for the club--or an average of 10 wins per season. With an annual salary of about $18 million (with three more years to go), that comes out to about $1.8 million PER WIN, folks. My only question is this: When San Francisco GM Brian Sabean is reminded of this on a regular basis, does he reach for Tums, Pepcid AC, or plain ginger ale?..........ITEM: Former NBA player Jose Ortiz is arrested in Puerto Rico after federal agents found 218 marijuana plants at his home. An interesting stat is that the number of plants (218) surpasses the number of points (183) that Ortiz scored in his NBA career. Don't expect to find that kind of info at basketball-reference.com anytime soon..........Answer to trivia question: NICK ESASKY (108) and DWIGHT EVANS (100)..........Further proof that professional tennis is truly a game for the younger crowd: All four men's semi-finalists this year at Wimbledon (Nadal, Murray, Djokovic, and Tsonga) were 26 years old or younger. All-time legends such as Roger Federer, Serena Williams, and the aforementioned Venus Williams--ages 29, 29, and 31, respectively) all failed to make it past the quarter-finals.........If yours truly was writing about Novak Djokovic's Wimbledon victory over Rafael Nadal last weekend, the headline would read something like this: It's No 'Djoke'--Novak Beats Rafael..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former MLB catcher Robbie Wine--who blows out 49 candles on July 13th. The son of former MLB infielder Bobby Wine, Robbie played parts of just two seasons in the majors--1986 and 1987 with the Houston Astros. Perhaps the reason why he didn't stay around longer is THIS: In 41 career at-bats, Wine could muster just six hits (with no HR's or RBI's)--thus rendering him with a lifetime batting average of .146. Hey, at least he can tell his grandchildren that he was a former teammate of the great Nolan Ryan, right? Wine is currently the head baseball coach at Penn State; best wishes, Robbie..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former boxing champion Billy Costello--who died last week of lung cancer at the age of 55. A native of Kingston, NY, Costello overcame a troubled youth (including doing jail time for robbery) to become the WBC light-welterweight champion in 1984--knocking out Bruce Curry in the tenth round. He later lost his title when he was TKO'd by Lonnie Smith in 1985. After quitting boxing for several years, Costello did make a comeback (winning nine consecutive fights) but never received another shot at a title. All told, Costello compiled a ring record of 40-2 in a career that began in 1979. In his later years, Costello did some refereeing, worked in construction, and also helped young people back in his hometown. The Billy Costello Gym now stands in Kingston--a tribute to a former champion who had truly turned his life around. Rest in peace, "Champ."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 7/2/11

2011-06-28T22:25:00.000-04:00

As the summer of 2011 officially kicks off (and writer's block takes hold), why not re-visit even MORE of the "athletic matches" that have appeared in this column over the years?

Question: If former RIT volleyball player Tracy Wilt were to wed N.Y. Yankees pitcher Joba Chamberlain, would she automatically grow taller while possessing the full, married name of Tracy Wilt Chamberlain?..........I'd like to see a romance bloom between former Georgia equestrian team member Allie Hush and ex-Yale DB Adam Money. If they ever tied the knot, she'd be sure to keep quiet at certain times while walking around with the full, married name of Allie Hush Money..........Can you imagine if professional kickboxer Elaina Maxwell married former major league pitcher Tom House, divorced, then married ex-Alabama running back Glen Coffee? Java lovers everywhere would surely delight in her full married name of Elaina Maxwell House Coffee..........Can you imagine if former Savannah College golfer Ashley Warsaw married ex-NFL lineman Bubba Paris, divorced, married sports talk show host Jim Rome--divorced again--then married former NFL receiver Eddie Berlin? Fans of European geography would surely get a kick out of her full married name of Ashley Warsaw Paris Rome Berlin..........I'd love to see former LPGA player Donna White hook up with former major league catcher Steve Christmas. If they ever walked down the aisle, Irving Berlin/Bing Crosby fans everywhere would surely delight in her full married name of Donna White Christmas. And if former LPGA player Mary Bryan married ex-NFL RB Floyd Little, divorced, then married the aforementioned Christmas, carolers could then call her Mary Little Christmas.........Just wondering: If former top-ranked tennis player Lindsay Davenport ever married ex-Catholic University wide receiver Matt Lohan, would she even WANT to be known by her married name of Lindsay Lohan?..........Can you imagine if former pro boxer Erica Sugar married ex-big league pitcher Jim Ray--divorced--then married PGA golfer Justin Leonard? Fans of the "sweet science" would surely delight in her full, married name of Erica Sugar Ray Leonard..........Just imagine if William Paterson University basketball player April Smith married former NBA player Scott May, divorced, then married Methodist University football player Thomas June. Lovers of springtime would surely delight in her full married name of April May June..........Can you imagine if former Jensen Beach High (FL) softball star Christen Moon ever hooked up with former major league pitcher Bob Walk? If they ever tied the knot, fans of Michael Jackson would surely enjoy her full married name of Christen Moon Walk..........Question: If sportscaster Hannah Storm ever married Hall of Fame QB Joe Montana, would she REALLY want to be known by her new married name of Hannah Montana?..........Just imagine if LPGA player Michelle Wie married New Britain Rock Cats VP/GM John Willi--divorced--then married former Clemson tennis player Ian Keeler. Fans of old-time baseball would surely be smiling as she'd be strolling the golf course with the full married name of Michelle Wie Willi Keeler..........Just thinking: If LPGA golfer Meena Lee married former big league pitcher Bryan Harvey--divorced--then married former BYU lineman David Oswald, would she REALLY want to be known by her full married name of Meena Lee Harvey Oswald?..........If former Texas Tech golfer Tracy Stanford married ex-UCONN RB Donald Brown, divorced, married PGA golfer Ken Duke--divorced again--then married ex-Trail Blazers VP Tom Penn, various college fans would truly delight in her full married name of Tracy Stanford Brown Duke Penn..........Submitted by column reader Abe Knaster of New York: If famed socialite Ivana Trump married pop singer Neil Diamond, divorced, then married legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus, she'd be attending cocktail parties worldwide reeking of "high maintenance" with the name of Ivana Diamond Nicklaus..........Can you imagine if former MIT basketball player Kimberly Soo Hoo married former British boxer Jim Watt--divorced--then married PGA golfer Mike Weir? Inquisitive minds would surely delight in her full married name of Kimberly Soo Hoo Watt Weir..........Finally, with a slight assist from my colleague Norm Bender: Former Olympian Carol Lewis (sister of Carl) marries former Steelers WR Louis Lipps, divorces, marries PGA golfer Stewart Cink--divorces again--then marries Florida builder/developer Peter Shipps. Her full married name winds up being Carol Lewis Lipps Cink Shipps.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 6/25/11

2011-06-21T15:15:00.000-04:00

Here's some info/#'s that will raise an eyebrow: Randy Jones won the NL Cy Young Award in 1976--winning 22 games and pitching a mind-boggling 315 innings. His entire strikeout total that season? Just 93--which came out to only 2.7 K's per every nine innings pitched. Simply amazing; it's all about making the baseball MISS the bat, folks.........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1991 Detroit Tigers were led in victories by a pitcher who had the only 20-win season of his career that year. Can you name this former right-handed hurler? Answer to follow..........ITEM: University of New Mexico football player Deshon Marman is arrested at an airport in San Francisco after wearing saggy pants onto a plane; he was busted on trespassing, battery, and obstruction charges. Question: If this guy was playing for a school like Hawaii--in a state where the expression/lifestyle slogan "Hang Loose" is so popular--could he then have at least a semi-legitimate reason for the low-riding trousers?..........During last Saturday's game vs. the Cubs, Yankees broadcaster John Sterling called A.J. Burnett's pitching performance that day "GREAT" (not "good"--but "GREAT"); the guy basically struggled through 5.1 innings--giving up a couple of runs while walking three--and threw 104 pitches before being removed. If guys like Sterling and others involved in the game are going to continue "lowering the bar" in regard to player performances, then why not change the name of the game to "limbo" instead of BASEBALL?.........This week in sports history, June 28, 1976: Before a crowd of close to 48,000 at Tiger Stadium, Detroit Tigers rookie pitcher Mark "The Bird" Fidrych allows seven hits while beating the New York Yankees 5-1. The victory raised the young phenom's record to 8-1; "The Bird" made two curtain calls for rabid fans following the game. The colorful Fidrych--who talked to the ball and groomed the mound between innings--was backed by home runs from teammates Rusty Staub and Aurelio Rodriguez while the lone Yankee run came on a solo homer by Elrod Hendricks..........Did you know that former MLB catcher Steve Swisher was named to the NL All-Star squad in 1976--a year in which he would ultimately finish with a .236 batting average with just five homers? When you look back on it, those HAVE to be some of the worst final yearly #'s ever for any player who appeared on an All-Star roster earlier in a season............Answer to trivia question: BILL GULLICKSON--who went 20-9 for the Sparky Anderson-managed Detroit club that finished 2nd in the AL East that year..........Maybe it's all the rain we've had this spring: I had a dream the other night that I was sitting at Yankee Stadium with the lovely Jennifer Aniston during a LONG rain delay--staring into her lovely eyes. I recall her asking me at one point, "Hey Bob--do you think this game will ever resume?" My response: "WHAT game?"..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league first baseman Ron Witmeyer--who blows out 44 candles on June 28th. Can't remember this West Islip, NY native who attended Stanford? Me either. Perhaps it was due to the fact that Witmeyer played in just 11 games during his career--all in 1991 with the Oakland A's. In 19 at-bats that season, Witmeyer garnered just ONE hit (a single)--thus going into the MLB record books with a lifetime batting average of just .053. However, he CAN tell his grandchildren that he handled 35 chances in the field during his short MLB tenure WITHOUT making an error. Best wishes for many more celebrations to follow, Ron..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Duke basketball player Tom Emma--who died recently in New York City in an apparent suicide near Central Park. Emma was the captain of the 1982-'83 Duke team that featured talented players such as Mark Alarie, Jay Bilas, and Johnny Dawkins. Overall, Emma averaged 7.1 ppg for the Blue Devils while appearing in 110 career games; he was taken in the 10th round of the 1983 NBA draft by the Chicago Bulls but never played in the NBA. He later became president of Power Performance, Inc.--a company devoted to training young athletes--and also wrote a book entitled Basketball Player's Comprehensive Guide to Strength Training. May Tom Emma rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 6/18/11

2011-06-14T21:07:00.000-04:00

I used to think that the most outrageous "weiner" I've ever come across was the ridiculous $7/$8 hot dog that I purchased at Yankee Stadium last summer. That all changed recently when I became aware of the disgraceful behavior exhibited by the embattled lawmaker of New York..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1992 Baltimore Orioles--who finished 89-73 under manager Johnny Oates--were led in RBI's by a player who drove in less than 500 runs during his 12-year career. Can you name this former outfielder? Answer to follow..........Did you know that the lowly 1985 Cleveland Indians had NO pitcher on the squad with more than NINE wins that season? Starters Neal Heaton and Bert Blyleven won nine apiece while Tom Waddell--used mostly in relief--won eight. The team finished with a record of 60-102 under manager Pat Corrales--dead last in the American League East..........Red Sox announcer Joe Castiglione--commenting last weekend after Toronto's Jason Frasor was removed from the game after allowing three earned runs in 0.2 innings of work (a phrase many sports fans have heard before): "Down goes Frasor"..........ITEM: Oklahoma City Thunder guard Nate Robinson is cited for urinating in public in White Plains, NY; police spotted him relieving himself on a sidewalk near a bookstore around 2 AM. Question: If I'm a resident of that NYC suburb, do I want my future tax dollars to go to providing more Porta-Potties in town or do I want the public works department to clean the sidewalks more often?..........Question to Red Sox fans: Yes, dealing with/waiting out rain delays this year hasn't been fun. But if you're watching on NESN, doesn't a LOT of the frustration totally disappear when the lovely Heidi Watney gets more air time?..........My Monday Night Sports Talk co-host Tony DeAngelo made a good point recently--saying that when 59-year-old (his given age) pitcher Satchel Paige faced 20-year old Tony Conigliaro back in 1965, it had to be the greatest pitcher/batter age disparity in the history of major league baseball. Can't disagree, Tony; unless staged as a promotional event, this probably won't happen again. But the MOST interesting thing about that memorable day so long ago? Paige could still get batters OUT at the time--pitching three scoreless innings that day.........."Raven" Update: My good friend Robert "Raven" Kraft of Miami Beach, well, he just keeps on going. One of the top "streak runners" in the country, the man has now run his daily, 8-mile route in South Beach for approximately 13,300 CONSECUTIVE days--which translates to a total of over 106,000 miles. To put that in perspective, folks, that's approximately FIVE TIMES the distance around the WORLD. Keep runnin', Raven--you're one amazing individual..........Following last weekend's series vs. Toronto, Red Sox outfielder Mike Cameron was hitting around .160. Well, if a big league batter is considered awful if he can't hit his weight--and Cameron weighs about 210--then Cameron has a long way to go just to be considered a BAD hitter at this juncture..........Answer to trivia question: MIKE DEVEREAUX--who drove in 107 runs that year and finished his career with a total of 480 RBI's..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league catcher Doug Gwosdz--who blows out 51 candles on June 20th. Drafted by the Padres in the 2nd round of the 1978 amateur draft, Gwosdz appeared in just 69 games for San Diego between 1981 and 1984. His lifetime batting average? .144--which translates to a staggering total of 56 points BELOW the famed "Mendoza Line" that baseball fans are so familiar with. In 104 lifetime at-bats, Gwosdz could muster just 15 hits; hey, at least he can tell his grandchildren that one of those base knocks was a home run, right? I'm not sure what was more difficult during the man's playing days: Gwosdz getting a hit or fellow players trying to pronounce his NAME. In any case, best wishes for many more birthdays to come, Doug..........Finally, I'd like to thank everyone for the many expressions of condolences following the recent death of my father; the response has been incredibly overwhelming. I only wish that more of my readers could have experienced the opportunity of meeting such a HUGE sports fan--one whose true passion was baseball. Yes, he's now buried along with a ball and glove; to Bob Lazzari Sr., those items would provide more comfort than the world's most cushioned feather pillow or memory foam mattress. There's a lot wrong with baseball now (and sports in general), but each time a game comes on the tube from now on, I'll always think of "Big Bob"--and that's a GOOD thing. Miss you dearly, Dad.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 6/11/11

2011-06-08T09:13:00.003-04:00

Farewell, Dad

Robert A. Lazzari passed away on June 3rd at the age of 83--his body finally giving out after decades-worth of health problems. He instilled in me a HUGE love for sports; he remains solely responsible for yours truly writing this weekly column and currently being involved in so many other media endeavors. But it all started a long time ago.

I think it goes all the way back to those catches we used to have together in the backyard so many years ago—him using his Red Schoendienst glove (that was barely bigger than his hand) and me trying to maneuver with the Vada Pinson model that he had purchased for me at Mark Hardware. He taught me how to catch and throw--maybe the greatest gift a father can give to a son--and boy was I hooked. He bought me my first football and, when he could find the time, would actually throw passes to ALL the neighborhood kids. They were always amazed at how the man could lead them just perfectly--having the ball fall directly into their waiting hands. He bought me my first basketball--an ABA ball--making me the first kid on the block to own the fancy red, white, and blue one that we’d see the pros play with on TV. “Bob Sr.” later coached me at the Babe Ruth League level where I witnessed how much he valued discipline and the 'no-nonsense' approach. He watched me play sports at the high school level and was so proud when I enrolled at Fordham University. The day I graduated college, he said, "I'm proud of you—nice job, kid." That was my Dad. He didn't say much when it came to reaching so-called ‘milestones’; he simply believed that life should be a constant journey of trying to become even BETTER.

He took me to my first baseball game when I was 8-years-old--Yankees/White Sox. I clearly remember as the bus pulled up to this monstrous building as the young, bright-eyed kid inquired, "Hey Dad--I thought they played baseball OUTDOORS!" He just smiled at me, delighting in my naivete, and simply said, "Just wait, Bobby--you’ll see." And he'd always take me to the old "Sports Nights" at St. Jude’s Church in Derby where I was able to actually get autographs from pro athletes; there was no event bigger than that when I was growing up, and it was my Dad who made sure that we always had tickets prior to that awesome gathering.

We both grew older but I chose never to be far from the man geographically (we lived in adjacent apartment rooms). O.K., call me a "Daddy's Boy," but how could I stray from a guy who was not only my father but my BEST FRIEND? I’ll particularly remember the amount of baseball games I watched with my Dad over the years; friends were always welcomed, too. I received a call from my buddy Al down in Florida shortly after my Dad's death. In tears, Al said to me, "Man, I'll never forget coming over your house every night during the summer back in the 70's--and then having your father chastise me the next day for falling asleep by the 7th inning!" Yeah, I remember it well, Al, and maybe someday the three of us will do it all over again.

He enjoyed all sports (loved the Triple Crown races), but it was ALWAYS about baseball to my Dad; he even LOOKED better and SOUNDED better every time April 1st appeared on the calendar yearly. When baseball's regular season began, the man was truly reborn--SO excited at the prospect of having eight full months to soak it all in. Prior to his death, he'd tune in a game on his TV EVERY night in his small room--while at the same time reading the latest NY Times bestseller that he had loaned from the local library. Yeah, my Dad could multi-task that way--even at the age of 83. Geez, I only hope I'm able to do that at 53, Dad.

For the past couple of years during baseball season, my Dad had the same routine nightly: TV turned on at 7PM while always asking me beforehand, "Hey Kid--what's the best game to watch tonight?" I'd give him my opinion--he'd balk a bit--then say, "Well, I can always turn the channel, right?" My Dad truly was like a child when watching baseball; in fact, his routine ALWAYS included having an ice cream cone around the 4th or 5th inning of each game. He knew I always kept an ample supply handy for him in the freezer that we shared, but he'd still play dumb each evening: "Hey, Kid--any of those ice cream cones left?" I’d chuckle, he'd smile, and I'd grab one for him along with a napkin. I'll miss that, Dad.

He knew that I worked extremely hard on my sports writing; he’d sometimes walk over and peek through my door only to witness me banging away on the PC--working on an upcoming column or researching stats. He'd say to me, "Hey, Kid, why don't you walk away from that thing for awhile and watch the game with me." Sometimes I’d do just that--desperately in need of a welcomed break. Looking back, I wish I did it EVERY time, Dad, in order to have spent just a bit more time with you. But I'm sure we'll have many more games to watch together down the road in a better place; the thought of that will fuel me for my remaining days on this earth.

Since his passing, I’ve received kind condolences from various former athletes—including former Red Sox players Rico Petrocelli and Roger LaFrancois. Ex-big leaguers such as Ron Kittle, Ron Swoboda, Carmen Fanzone, and newly-elected Hall of Famer Bert Blyleven also chimed in after hearing the news. Even former Olympic figure skater Tai Babilonia emailed me in order to express her sorrow. No, not one of these people ever knew my Dad personally, but they did know me from past interviews, etc. I can only surmise that they probably recognized my passion for sports and realized that I must have come from "good stock". Yes, folks, it was from stock that was truly worth a fortune.

As fate would have it, the last exchange between my Dad and I came in the emergency room almost two weeks ago. "That 'King Felix' is one helluva pitcher," he said--referring to the Mariners hurler who would be facing the Yanks that evening. Yes, while in excruciating pain, THOSE were the last words of a passionate baseball guy. I know my Dad went out the way he would have wanted--with baseball talk being part of his final conversation.

Thanks, Dad, for being a great father, friend to others, and showing me how important discipline is. I can never repay you now; maybe I'll just share this column with others for the next few months--hoping they realize how lucky I was to have such an amazing presence guiding me all these years. And hopefully, we’ll be watching many more games down the road, my friend—ice cream cones and all.

Rest in peace, "Big Bob". No one knew you, understood you, and respected you more than your best friend and only son. May you rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 6/4/11

2011-06-01T00:16:00.000-04:00

*More "athletic matches" that have appeared in this column over the years.....

Can you imagine if LPGA golfer Ji Young Oh married former major league pitcher Joey Jay, divorced, then married Champions Tour golfer Tim Simpson? Perhaps she could someday help a former running back search for the REAL killer of his former spouse and an acquaintance while bearing the full, married name of Ji Young Oh Jay Simpson..........Wouldn't it be great if LPGA golfer Morgan Pressel married former University of Cincinnati soccer player Mike Hessel, divorced, married former Hannibal High (NY) tennis player Reece Bessel--divorced again--then married Ohio St. football coach Jim Tressel? She'd be roaming fairways with the catchy, full married name of Morgan Pressel Hessel Bessel Tressel..........If LPGA golfer Karen Stupples had once married L.A. Angels pitcher Danny Haren, divorced, married Rhode Island basketball coach Jim Baron--divorced again--then married former big league player Dick Sharon, she'd be teeing off with the full, married name of Karen Haren Baron Sharon..........Picture this: LPGA golfer Trish Johnson marries tennis player Mardy Fish, divorces, marries former Western Kentucky basketball player "Rip" Gish--divorces again--then marries NY Giants chairman/exec. VP Steve Tisch. She'd be roaming the links with the full, married name of Trish Fish Gish Tisch..........Can you imagine if LPGA golfer Leanna Wicks married former Texas Rangers owner Tom Hicks, divorced, married former Michigan running back Lawrence Ricks--divorced again--then married former NBA player Steve Mix? She'd be roaming the golf course with the catchy, full married name of Leanna Wicks Hicks Ricks Mix..........If LPGA golfer Meena Lee ever married former NFL lineman John Fina, I'd have WAY too much fun pronouncing her married name of Meena Fina. Also, if golfer Paige Mackenzie ever walked down the aisle with S.D. Chargers head coach Norv Turner, fans of interesting/hard-to-put-down books would surely delight in her full, married name of Paige Turner..........Just imagine if Japanese golfer Yuri Fudoh married the NBA's Eddy Curry, divorced, married baseball Hall of Famer Eddie Murray--divorced again--then married winger Chris Drury of the N.Y. Rangers. She'd be roaming golf courses internationally with the catchy, full married name of Yuri Curry Murray Drury..........Regarding the lovely Natalie Gulbis: If she married fellow pro golfer Aaron Baddeley, divorced, married former Colgate swimmer James Hadley--divorced again--then married ex-Canisius College hoopster Chris Gadley, she'd be sporting the full married name of Natalie Baddeley Hadley Gadley..........Scenario: Ex-UCONN women's basketball player Tina Charles marries NBA guard Jameer Nelson, divorces, then decides she likes older men; she proceeds to marry former NBA coach Pat Riley. Fans of the old "Match Game" show would surely delight in her full married name of Tina Charles Nelson Riley..........I'd like to see former Georgia Tech softball player Daisy Paez hook up with big-league outfielder Elijah Dukes. If they ever walked down the aisle, admirers of form-fitting, denim cut-off shorts throughout the land would surely delight in her married name of Daisy Dukes..........If actress Brooke Shields marries former NFL player John Zook, divorces, marries former pitcher Jay Hook--divorces again--then marries former pitcher Dennis Cook, yours truly would have WAY too much fun pronouncing her full married name of Brooke Zook Hook Cook..........If LPGA golfer Hee Young Park ever married Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench, would she mind being known by the name of Hee Young Park Bench?..........Can you imagine if LPGA golfer Young Kim married political commentator Al Franken, divorced, then married former MLB infielder Bill Stein? Fans of old Mel Brooks movies would surely delight in her full married name of Young Franken Stein..........I'd love to see LPGA golfer Ji Young Oh hook up with N.Y. Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum. If they ever tied the knot, Christmas carol lovers everywhere would surely enjoy seeing her strolling around various golf courses with the married name of Ji Young Oh Tannenbaum..........Finally, can you imagine if motivational speaker Cheryl Cran married former NBA player Walter Berry, divorced him, then married baseball Hall of Famer Wade Boggs? Certain juice manufacturers--especially the people at Ocean Spray--would surely be happy as she'd be walking around with the full married name of Cheryl Cran Berry Boggs.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 5/28/11

2011-05-25T01:32:00.000-04:00

I was saddened when I heard about the passing of Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew--who died recently of esophageal cancer at the age of 74. Most important? He was a better person off the field than he was a player ON the field. Column reader Dan Santoro, a former Valley resident, recently weighed in on Killebrew--who was his favorite player growing up. "I was a 4th-grader browsing at the Lincoln School library in Derby--in 1968. Stuck between the Hardy Boys books and Nancy Drew Mysteries on the shelves was The Harmon Killebrew Story; it was my first baseball book. I went home and read it TWICE--and then Killebrew became my favorite player. I remember being so excited at the time while reading it--because I finally KNEW something about a big-league ball player. I'll never forget him."..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1993 Cleveland Indians--who finished 76-86 under manager Mike Hargrove--were led in victories by a pitcher with a modest total of just 10. Can you name this former starter who later found success as a reliever? Answer to follow..........I've read that some people have been critical of lovely actress Jennifer Aniston's new fragrance. I'll STILL go out on a limb and say that it smells MUCH better than the Dolphins locker room following a game played on a warm September Sunday down in Miami..........This week in sports history, May 31, 1986: In the closest three-car finish in the history of the Indy 500, Bobby Rahal holds off Kevin Cogan and Rick Mears to claim victory. Rahal slipped past Cogan with two laps remaining after a green flag was restored and would end up winning the race by 1.4 seconds. Rahal's average of 170.22 mph was a new race record--ironically beating third-place finisher Mears' old record of 163.712 set back in 1984..........Did you know that the 2000 Houston Astros had three players who drove in more than 113 runs apiece--but the team finished FOURTH that year in the NL Central? Pitching seemed to be the Astros main problem as Scott Elarton was the only starter who finished with a record over .500. The team's cumulative ERA that season? A robust 5.42--dead last in the National League..........ITEM: Former New Mexico guard Dairese Gary is arrested in Albuquerque on suspicion of driving drunk after he allegedly smashed into mailboxes at an apartment complex. I'm gonna go out on a limb and say that basketball great Karl Malone DID NOT get his nickname "The Mailman" due to being involved in a similar predicament..........Answer to trivia question: JOSE MESA--who led the team in wins that season (10) and later saved 321 games over a 19-year career..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league catcher Larry Owen--who blows out 56 candles on May 31st. Drafted by the Braves in the 17th round of the 1977 amateur draft, Owen went on to play parts of six seasons with the Braves and Royals between 1981 and 1988--appearing in 171 games. Perhaps the reason why the name 'Larry Owen' may escape you is this: In 352 career at-bats, Owen could muster only 68 hits--resulting in a lifetime batting average of just .193. Yes, he was another one of those players who fell just short of the famed "Mendoza Line." An optimist would point out that Owen DID hit eight home runs during his playing days--and was intentionally-walked three times. Here's hoping that you have many more birthdays to celebrate, Larry--best wishes..........Finally, sincere condolences go out to my "Monday Night Sports Talk" co-host Tony DeAngelo; his wife of 20 years, Jeanne, passed away last week from an aggressive form of breast cancer at the age of 51. Jeanne, Tony, and I spent many good times together over the past decade or so; I'll surely miss her radiant smile and unassuming nature. I'll always remember Jeanne as being so loyal to her husband, and Tony would be the first to tell anyone that he was the luckiest man in the world to be able to call Jeanne his "better half." She was a soft-spoken, highly-intelligent woman--having been educated at Marymount College. I wouldn't call Jeanne a "huge" sports fan, but this conscientious woman always kept up on the latest sports news in order to be an active participant when our dinner conversations would ultimately turn to athletics. You see, it was all about OTHERS to Jeanne DeAngelo. Each time I was in her presence, I could never get my first 'hello' out before she'd chime in with, "Hi, Bob--how's the family?" Without doubt, she was one of the most kind, selfless individuals I've ever had the pleasure of being around. The way she lived her life should be a lesson to all of us: it's not the AMOUNT of time you have on this earth but the IMPACT you have on it while you're here. Yeah, I surely learned a lot from this remarkable lady. To use a baseball term, a team of "angels"--in some better place--just bolstered their line-up BIG TIME with the addition of Jeanne DeAngelo. Also, those lucky individuals like my late Mom just acquired one TERRIFIC teammate. Rest in peace, Jeanne; you'll surely be missed but never forgotten.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 5/21/11

2011-05-18T02:51:00.000-04:00

While at the Little East Championship (Division III) baseball game last weekend between Rhode Island College and Eastern CT, I told my friend Bryan via phone that the score was 5-4 (RIC leading) in the 5th inning. His response? "These teams are scoring faster than George Clooney at a singles bar!"..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1997 Colorado Rockies--who finished 83-79 under manager Don Baylor--had FOUR players on the squad who drove in more than 100 runs apiece. How many of these players can you name? Answer to follow..........Joe Garagiola once said that baseball is a funny game. It's also not FAIR, either. Need proof? Going into last weekend's action, San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Madison Bumgarner's record stood at 0-6 with a very respectable ERA of 4.25. In contrast, Rockies pitcher Esmil Rogers had won 3 of his first 4 decisions with an inflated ERA of 7.66. Go figure..........This week in sports history, May 24, 1990: Silencing critics who predicted the team could never win without Wayne Gretzky, the Edmonton Oilers claim the Stanley Cup championship with a 4-1 victory over the Bruins in Game 5 at the Boston Garden. The Oilers tallied all the goals they would need in the second period as Glen Anderson and Craig Simpson found the net. Meanwhile, Edmonton goalie Bill Ranford stopped 29 of 30 shots and later was named the winner of the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs. The Oilers were playing just their second season after trading "The Great One"--who had led Edmonton to four Cup victories from 1984-1988..........Congratulations go out to Eastern CT State University softball pitcher Molly Rathbun from Hebron--who has repeated as the Little East Conference Pitcher of the Year; she was named first team all-conference for the third straight season. A junior, Rathbun improved her record this year to 22-0 following last weekend's 5-1 victory over Saint Joseph's College (ME) in the Division III Regional in Providence. Her ERA after that performance stood at 0.66--having struck out 238 batters in 160 innings. Oh, and she was the team's top hitter, too--compiling a blistering .423 average (.711 slugging percentage) while also leading the squad in home runs with eight. Congratulations, Molly--and continued good luck..........Answer to trivia question: ANDRES GALARRAGA (140), LARRY WALKER (130), DANTE BICHETTE (118), and VINNY CASTILLA (113)..........Can you imagine if LPGA golfer Penny Hammel ever married Boston-area accounting professional Stephen Pincher? Those "cheapskates" out there would truly enjoy her married name of Penny Pincher..........I used to think that a Ron Guidry slider was a pure thing of beauty. That all changed the other day when I saw a picture of the red, semi-sheer gown that actress Rachel McAdams was wearing at the Cannes Film Festival. My goodness..........Question: Now that the lovely Bar Refaeli has split with actor Leonardo DiCaprio, do you think she'd have any interest in an aging sports columnist who's had a long-time desire to date SI Swimsuit Issue cover models?..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Todd Rizzo--who blows out 40 candles on May 24th. A native of Pennsylvania who was originally signed by the Dodgers, Rizzo played just TWO seasons in the majors--1998 and 1999 with the Chicago White Sox. Perhaps the reason why Rizzo never became a household name is THIS: In 12 major league games (all in relief), Rizzo pitched a total of just eight innings--giving up 16 hits, walking nine, and allowing a total of 11 earned runs. Yes, folks, Todd Rizzo is listed in the baseball record books as having a staggering lifetime ERA of 12.38. However, he CAN take pride in the fact that he never allowed a home run to a big league batter (the optimistic approach). Best wishes for many more celebrations to come, Todd..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NBA forward Robert "Tractor" Traylor--who was found dead recently in his apartment in Puerto Rico; he died of an apparent heart attack at the age of 34 and had been playing professionally with a Puerto Rican team. Nicknamed "Tractor" due to his large frame (over 300 pounds), Traylor attended Michigan where he was once implicated in a loan scandal involving university booster Ed Martin. He later went on to play for the Bucks, Hornets, and Cavaliers between 1998 and 2005--appearing in 438 games. Despite Traylor making news both on AND off the court, he may be best known for a trade in which he was involved. After being drafted by Dallas in '98, he was traded for Pat Garrity and Dirk Nowitzki; Nowitzki has proceeded to become a league MVP ('06-'07) and play in 10 NBA All-Star games. Traylor had undergone heart surgery following the 2005 season. May the "Tractor" rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 5/14/11

2011-05-11T00:33:00.000-04:00

O.K., you asked for it (well--at least SOME of you)--more of the "athletic matches" that have appeared in this column over the years.........

Can you imagine if former Central CT State University basketball player Denee Burgess had once married former NFL quarterback/TV commentator "Dandy" Don Meredith? Fans of the "Penguin" character on the old "Batman" television show would have delighted in her full married name of Denee Burgess Meredith..........If former women's tennis player Ai Sugiyama ever married ex-big league outfielder Jermaine Dye, divorced, married former outfielder Steve Brye--divorced again--then married ex-NBA player Johnny High, she'd be known as Ai Dye Brye High..........Former collegiate golfer Ashley Warsaw marries ex-NFL lineman Bubba Paris, divorces, marries sports talk show host Jim Rome--divorces again--then marries former University of Miami QB Brock Berlin. She'd be roaming the links with the European-themed name of Ashley Warsaw Paris Rome Berlin..........If ex-Trinity College women's hockey player Emma Handy ever tied the knot with former NFL lineman Charles Mann, fans of old James Taylor tunes would enjoy seeing the bride sporting the new married name of Emma Handy Mann..........Can you imagine if former Villanova women's basketball player Maria Getty married ex-big league pitcher Chris Eddy, divorced, married ex-Southern CT State University SID Rick Leddy--divorced again--then married NASCAR driver Kyle Petty? She'd be known as Maria Getty Eddy Leddy Petty..........Ex-Louisville women's basketball player Jazz Covington marries comedian Chris Rock, divorces, marries former big league pitcher Pat Rapp--divorces again--then marries PGA golfer Fred Funk. Music lovers of all genres everywhere would surely delight in her full married name of Jazz Rock Rapp Funk..........Former UCONN women's basketball player Kalana Greene marries Michael Redd of the Milwaukee Bucks, divorces, marries former USC running back Charles White--divorces again--then marries NBA player Kwame Brown. She'd then be known by the colorful, full married name of Kalana Greene Redd White Brown..........If LPGA golfer Sarah Lynn Sargent ever tied the knot with former NFL wide receiver Webster Slaughter, wrestling aficionados throughout the land would surely enjoy her full married name of Sarah Lynn Sargent Slaughter..........If LPGA golfer Ji Young Oh ever tied the knot with PGA golfer/CT's own J.J. Henry, candy lovers would enjoy her strolling the fairways with the full name of Ji Young Oh Henry.........Picture this: If former LPGA golfer Carol Mann had once married ex-baseball manager Stump Merrill, divorced, married former college football coach Jackie Sherrill--divorced again--then married current MLB manager John Farrell, she would have been walking golf courses with the catchy name of Carol Merrill Sherrill Farrell..........I'd like to see former Penn St. basketball coach Renee Portland hook up with MLB pitcher John Maine. If they ever tied the knot, residents of the Pine Tree State would surely delight in her married name of Renee Portland Maine..........If LPGA golfer Young Jo married former NFL offensive lineman Duval Love, fans of country singer Sonny James would surely enjoy her strolling the links with the married name of Young Love..........If LPGA golfer Candie Kung married former NFL defensive lineman Charles Mann, fans of former MLB pitcher John Candelaria would surely delight in her married name of Candie Mann..........Scenario: The LPGA's Sally Little marries fellow pro golfer Rod Spittle, divorces, marries former big league OF/DH Ron Kittle--divorces again--then marries former MLB pitcher Rocky Biddle. She'd then be gracing the fairways with the catchy, married name of Sally Little Spittle Kittle Biddle..........I'd like to see LPGA golfer Nancy Scranton hook up with Champions Tour golfer Jim Chancey--for no other reason than if the two were to marry, she'd be teeing off with the catchy, married name of Nancy Chancey...........Finally, can you imagine if WNBA'er K.B. Sharp married PGA golfer D.A. Points, divorced, married columnist George Will--divorced again--then married former Lafayette College running back Jonathan Hurt? Those afraid of needles would surely have no problem warning others while saying her full, married name of K.B. Sharp Points Will Hurt.

Even more archived "matches" to come soon, folks..........

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 5/7/11

2011-05-04T03:15:00.000-04:00

I can just picture these general managers/team representatives at last week's NFL draft--and the checklists they were utilizing: 1) good speed? 2) coverage ability? 3) vertical jump measure? 4) 40 yd. dash time? 5) any pending felony charges?..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The lowly 1989 Detroit Tigers--who finished 59-103 under Sparky Anderson--were actually led in victories by a RELIEF PITCHER. Can you name this former hurler? Answer to follow...........There are MANY things to admire about former NBA superstar Karl Malone, i.e. his MVP awards, 19 seasons in the league, his yearly durability, etc. But did you know that "The Mailman" put together a staggering 17 consecutive seasons averaging more than 20 points per game? This occurred between 1986 and 2003 with his lowest average during that stretch being 20.4 ppg in the '02-'03 season--his last year in Utah. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar also went 17 straight seasons while never averaging less than 20 ppg; Kareem's stretch spanned from 1969-1986 as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks and L.A. Lakers..........I used to think that watching the Dave Concepcion/Joe Morgan double-play combination was a pure thing of beauty. That all changed last week when I checked out the hip-hugging dress that Kate Middleton's sister Pippa was wearing at the royal wedding. My goodness.........This week in sports history, May 11, 1974: At the Tom Black Classic held at the University of Tennessee, Ivory Crockett becomes the world's fastest human--covering 100 yards in 9 seconds flat. Crockett shaved 1/10th of a second off the previous record of 9.1 set by fellow American Bob Hayes back in 1963 (and matched five times). A 150-pound marketing representative for an Illinois-based computer firm, Crockett set the record on a wet track--with no wind affecting the legitimacy of his memorable sprint..........Did you know that the 1996 Kansas City Royals were led in RBI's by Craig Paquette with a modest total of just 67? The topper? Paquette accomplished this while appearing in just 118 games--accumulating a total of 429 at-bats for the season..........ITEM: Southern Mississippi basketball player Darnell Dodson is dismissed from the team after his arrest for allegedly stealing items from a USM fraternity house; this is the SAME dolt who was kicked off the Kentucky team last summer only to be arrested for disorderly conduct a few months later. Not to be judgmental, but I'm gonna go out on a limb and say that Dodson will NOT be enrolling at a nearby school like Ole Miss in the very near future in order to study biochemistry...........Answer to trivia question: MIKE HENNEMAN--who went 11-4 while appearing in 60 games; starter Frank Tanana was second on the team with ten wins..........Classic quote from Chris Mascaro--one of my fellow co-hosts on Blog Talk Radio's "View From The Lone Red Seat"--after Carl Crawford's batting average dipped to .155 last weekend: "I think Crawford's new nickname should be 'The Priest' because he wears a COLLAR every day."..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former big league pitcher Marino Santana--who blows out 39 candles on May 10th. A native of the Dominican Republic, Marino may not have been one of the more popular Santanas to ever grace a major league roster as he spent just two seasons in the AL; he was a member of the Tigers in 1998 and Red Sox in 1999. In only 10 big league appearances (all in relief), Santana pitched 11.1 innings--allowing 17 hits and 10 earned runs while walking 11. Yes, folks, Marino Santana's career ERA was an inflated 7.94. I guess one can say that Santana's "claim to fame" was that he fanned 14 batters over the course of his short career--yes, an average of more than one per inning. Best wishes, Marino..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league infielder Reno Bertoia--who died recently in Windsor, Ontario after a battle with lymphoma cancer; he was 76. Bertoia was born in Italy in 1935 but his family moved to Canada when he was an infant. Reno spent a total of ten seasons in the "bigs" between 1953 and 1962--mostly as a member of the Tigers. Bertoia was only a .244 lifetime hitter, but actually led the American League in batting for the first half of the 1957 season. Among his favorite baseball memories was hitting a home run on opening day at Yankee Stadium in 1961 during a 6-1 Detroit victory over New York. After his baseball career ended, Bertoia spent 30 years teaching in Windsor Catholic schools and was also elected to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 1988. He was a very good friend to Tiger great Al Kaline; the two remained close long after their playing days had come to an end. He is survived by three children as well as three stepchildren; may Reno Bertoia rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 4/30/11

2011-04-26T23:44:00.000-04:00

Did you know that the lowly 1985 Pittsburgh Pirates--who finished 57-104 under manager Chuck Tanner--were led in RBI's by second baseman Johnny Ray with a modest total of just 70? The team didn't hit many home runs, either (80 total round-trippers), as first-baseman Jason Thompson was the team leader with only 12..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Name the leading scorer for the 1987-'88 world champion Los Angeles Lakers--who finished the regular season with a record of 62-20 under Pat Riley. Answer to follow..........ITEM: Canadian football player Yonus Davis is busted in California after federal agents nail him possessing nearly 67 pounds of Ecstasy tablets. Davis, the most outstanding special teams player in the CFL's West Division last season, was arrested April 9th by DEA agents posing as FedEx workers when he accepted a package containing the pills. My first thought was that Davis has MUCH more success recognizing kick returners/blocking schemes than he does recognizing the "feds"..........This week in sports history, May 3, 1980: Ridden by jockey Jacinto Vasquez, Genuine Risk becomes the first filly in 65 years to win the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Having finished a disappointing third at the Wood Memorial two weeks earlier, the filly put together a terrific stretch run while holding off Rumbo for a one-length victory--covering the 1 1/4 mile course in a time of 2:02. The last filly to have won this prestigious race was Regret--who was victorious at the Derby back in 1915..........Gotta 'love' the hypocrisy of the NBA and its players in general. During last weekend's Indiana/Chicago playoff game, the Bulls' Carlos Boozer appeared in an "NBA Cares" commercial--talking about his responsibility to kids, staying in school, etc. Ten minutes later, the same guy is given a technical foul for trash talking/taunting..........More negative news coming out of the questionable UCONN basketball program as forward Jamal Coombs-McDaniel is arrested on drug charges. Sheesh--I think I was MORE surprised when gasoline prices rose another nickel the other day..........Just wondering if Reds pitcher Mike Leake--recently arrested on shoplifting charges--lists the album "Sticky Fingers" by the Rolling Stones as one of his favorites of all-time..........Did you know that Hall of Fame second baseman Joe Morgan swiped 689 bases in his terrific career--but NEVER won a stolen base title? Morgan's career high in a season was 67, which he accomplished twice--in 1973 and 1975; in both years, he finished second in the league in stolen bases behind Lou Brock and Davey Lopes, respectively..........Answer to trivia question: BYRON SCOTT--whose average of 21.7 ppg was higher than teammates such as James Worthy, Magic Johnson, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar..........It's hard to believe that it's been seven years since the death of Pat Tillman--the true American hero who walked away from a lucrative NFL contract only to lose his life in Afghanistan. This week, as I reflect on Tillman, I'm wondering what he'd now think of the league and its players being unable to come to an agreement on how to divide TONS of money. The image I get of him right now is a man sitting on a high cliff somewhere--shaking his head in total disgust; I also picture him composing himself and then simply laughing at the absurdity of it all. In a skewed, warped society lacking TRUE heroes, you are sorely missed, Pat Tillman..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major leaguer Keith Moreland--who blows out 57 candles on May 2nd. Drafted by the Phillies in the seventh round of the '75 amateur draft, Moreland was a three-time All-American at Texas--where he led the Longhorns to three NCAA College World Series berths. In the big leagues, Moreland played 12 seasons as a member of the Phillies, Cubs, Padres, Tigers, and Orioles--hitting .279 lifetime. He was used as a catcher, first baseman, third baseman, outfielder, and DH throughout his career--appearing in over 1,300 games. Perhaps Moreland's best year came in 1985 while with the Cubs--a season in which he hit .307 and drove in 107 runs while appearing in 161 games. Recently, Moreland was named as a color commentator on Cubs radio broadcasts; best wishes, Keith..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former PGA golfer Mason Rudolph--who died recently in Alabama at the age of 76. In a 23-year PGA career, Rudolph was an amazingly consistent golfer--making cuts in 409 of 430 career starts. He amassed five victories on the PGA Tour, and once went 105 consecutive tournaments WITHOUT hitting a ball out of bounds. Rudolph was also one of the youngest golfers ever to play in a major golf tournament when he qualified for the U.S. Open in 1950 just SIX days after his 16th birthday. He later went on to play 44 events on the Champions Tour and also coached golf at Vanderbilt University. He is survived by his wife, Carol, and his sons Mason II and Griff; he was predeceased by a son, Craig, who died in a 1998 helicopter crash. May Mason Rudolph rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 4/23/11

2011-04-20T03:07:00.002-04:00

Did you know that Alfonso Soriano--then of the New York Yankees--led the American League in stolen bases in 2002 with a modest total of just 41? That was the lowest total to lead the league since Luis Aparicio of the Orioles led the AL with 40 swipes back in 1963..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last major league player to have more than 400 total bases in a season? Answer to follow..........ITEM: California youth football coach Saivaauli Savaiinea is arrested on a felony battery charge after attacking a parent; he allegedly punched the parent in the shoulder and then kicked him in the stomach--causing the victim to fall to the ground. The topper? The confrontation took place after Savaiinea thought he overheard the parent trying to recruit one of his best players (this took place in a league consisting of 9, 10, and 11-year-olds, folks). I can just picture Savaiinea taking his physically-intimidating tactics to the more competitive college atmosphere in the near future--where some "football factory" assigns him the new job title of Protector/Safeguard of Prized Recruits..........This week in sports history, April 26, 1952: Golfer Patty Berg sets a new women's record by shooting an opening round 64 at the Richmond Open--ultimately zooming to a seven stroke lead. Berg had ten birdies and two bogeys during her record-breaking performance--lowering the previous low mark of 66 shared by both Babe Didrickson Zaharias and Opal Hill. Berg shot a blistering 30 on the front nine at the Richmond Country Club; in addition, four of her birdies came on putts that were from distances of 12, 15, 25, and 31 feet..........After keeping tabs on this recent Barry Bonds fiasco/farce that was disguised as a federal trial, I just have one question: If I start ingesting flaxseed oil on a regular basis, will I able to write longer sports columns in HALF the usual time?..........Anyone out there remember when former Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Richie Hebner used to spend his off-seasons as a gravedigger at a cemetery run by his brother and father? It just got me thinkin' (which can be dangerous): Do you think he ever choked up on the shovel to increase his digging speed?..........Answer to trivia question: SAMMY SOSA--who put together a monstrous total of 425 total bases in 2001 as a member of the Chicago Cubs..........Anyone out there catch Steve Somers on WFAN Radio last weekend--"officiating" a memorial service in honor of the "dead" arm of Yankees pitcher Phil Hughes? I haven't laughed that hard in a LONG time; funny stuff, Steve..........Did you know that the last MLB pitcher to throw ten shutouts in a season was the Cardinals' John Tudor--who accomplished it back in 1985? Amazingly, Tudor started that season with a 1-7 record through the month of May before going a mind-boggling 20-1 the rest of the way. Though finishing 21-8 with an impressive ERA of 1.93, Tudor finished second in the Cy Young voting that season as a young Dwight Gooden went 24-4 with the Mets with an ERA of 1.53..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA player Dexter Boney--who blows out 41 candles on April 27th. Boney may have never been a star in the league (he played in only eight career games for Phoenix--all during the 1996-'97 season) but he surely left his mark on basketball in other ways. He was a three-time All-State player at Brandywine High School in Delaware; he holds the state scoring record with over 2,000 points. He later played at Nevada-Las Vegas and went on to become the CBA's MVP during the '96-'97 season while playing for the Florida Beachdogs--averaging 21.7 points per game. In 1999, Boney was named as one of the "Top 50 Greatest Delaware Sports Figures" by Sports Illustrated. Here's wishing you many more birthdays to come, Dexter..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league player/manager Eddie Joost--who passed away last week in California at the age of 94. An infielder who was used mostly as a shortstop, Joost spent 17 seasons in the "bigs" between 1936 and 1955; he played for the Reds, Boston Braves, and Athletics before finishing his career with the Boston Red Sox in '55. Joost compiled a lifetime batting average of just .239, but DID have six straight seasons ('47-'52) of 100+ walks. A two-time All-Star while in Philadelphia ('49 and '52), he later replaced Jimmy Dykes as manager of the Athletics for the 1954 season before finishing his career as a utility infielder with the Red Sox the following season. At the time of his death, Joost was the oldest living member remaining from the 1940 World Series champion Cincinnati Reds. May Eddie Joost rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 4/16/11

2011-04-13T00:04:00.000-04:00

Anyone out there see the picture of the lovely Christie Brinkley last week wearing a skin-tight red dress outside the Good Morning America studios in NYC? She's 57 YEARS OLD, folks. My first thought was that if Shaquille O'Neal had aged HALF as well as the "Uptown Girl," the Celtics would have clinched the best record in the Eastern Conference back in FEBRUARY..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1991 Houston Astros were led in saves by a pitcher who had 86% of his career total (of saves) during that one season. Can you name this former hurler? Answer to follow..........Immense praise is in order for the San Francisco Giants due to their admirable treatment of longtime clubhouse attendant David Loewenstein. Afflicted with advanced Crohn’s disease and diabetes, Loewenstein was in and out of hospitals during the team's championship run in 2010; he was forced to leave the team for good shortly before the playoffs began. The players huddled together and decided to give Loewenstein a FULL World Series share--which came out to over $317,000. He continues to have massive medical bills today; he cannot work and is gravely ill, but the team has allowed him to remain on both the current payroll and the club's insurance plan. Yes, in a sport where BAD news sometimes dwarfs actions like this, the Giants' generosity is HIGHLY commended. Great job, guys..........This week in sports history, April 18, 1942: The Toronto Maple Leafs complete the greatest Stanley Cup-series comeback in NHL history--beating the Detroit Red Wings 3-1 in Game 7 before more than 16,000 fans at Maple Leaf Gardens. Down three games to none, Toronto rallied to win Games 4, 5, and 6 by scores of 4-3, 9-3, and 3-0 respectively. Dave Schriner became the hero for the Leafs in Game 7 as he scored twice in a three-goal third period--allowing Toronto to become the first team to recover from a three-game Stanley Cup final deficit..........NBA tidbit: Did you know that the 1981-'82 San Diego Clippers averaged an impressive 108.5 points per game--but won only SEVENTEEN GAMES all season? Yes, defense was the team's Achilles' heel as Paul Silas' squad gave up a staggering total of 115.9 points per game--easily cementing a sixth-place finish in the league's Pacific Division..........Answer to trivia question: AL OSUNA--who saved 12 games in 1991 while accumulating a grand total of just 14 in his career--one that lasted from 1990-1996...........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a Connecticut high school girls softball game last week, Oxford annihilated O'Brien Tech 34-0; the winning squad led 22-0 after just two innings while O'Brien Tech made NINE errors during the course of this fiasco. Sheesh--and I used to think that star-nosed moles and sloths were ugly............Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league outfielder Jim Eisenreich--who blows out 52 candles on April 18th. In a 15-year career that spanned from 1982-1998, Jim played for five different teams--hitting an impressive .290 lifetime. Possessing Tourette Syndrome, Eisenreich went on the voluntary retirement list between 1984 and 1987 while he was undergoing treatment. He was later named as the first recipient of the Tony Conigliaro Award in 1990---given to a major league player who best overcomes an obstacle. Eisenreich was also a member of the 1997 world champion Florida Marlins; that season, he hit .280 in 293 at-bats. He now runs the Jim Eisenreich Foundation for Children with Tourette Syndrome--which he founded with his wife back in the 1990's. Best wishes, Jim...........A true hero has left us as Mandi Schwartz--a member of the Yale women's hockey team--recently passed away at the tender age of 23. You've read about Mandi before in this column as I've attempted to bring attention to her valiant fight vs. leukemia and the need for umbilical cord blood/bone marrow donors. Having recently talked with her teammate Aleca Hughes at length about this special young lady, I was immediately struck by the courage she demonstrated throughout her ordeal; her uplifting attitude and selfless nature were ALWAYS present as she fought the dreaded disease. Yeah--I guess we all could learn a lesson from the life of one Mandi Schwartz. Her name will now live on as the Yale athletic department has named its annual marrow donor registry drive in honor of Mandi. On April 21st, readers out there--along with the general public--can help save lives by being part of the nationwide "Get in the Game/Save a Life" campaign for the Be The Match Registry. It will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and take place at the Yale University Commons on the corner of College Street and Grove Street in New Haven where food will be served. Anyone out there interested in helping with the Mandi Schwartz Marrow Donor Registry Drive at Yale can contact Larry Ciotti with the Yale football team at larry.ciotti@yale.edu or by calling (203) 671-9805. We all miss you, Mandi.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 4/9/11

2011-04-05T21:36:00.001-04:00

Yes, folks, the 2011 MLB season is underway. Rosters have changed and managers have changed; Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens HAVEN'T changed. Here's how they'll finish:

AL EAST
Boston Red Sox
N.Y. Yankees
T.B. Rays
Baltimore Orioles
Toronto Blue Jays

AL CENTRAL
Chicago White Sox
Minnesota Twins
Detroit Tigers
Kansas City Royals
Cleveland Indians

AL WEST
Texas Rangers
Oakland A's
LA Angels
Seattle Mariners

**Notes:
AL EAST- If anyone out there thinks that Boston has a SIZEABLE advantage in this division, you've been nipping at the Samuel Adams way too much. Still a coin toss between Boston and NY--though I think neither will win 95 games; I'll put the Red Sox on top strictly due to the Crawford/Gonzalez additions (I also did a quick coin flip). Boston will just have TOO many men on base TOO often; bullpen is deeper but will guys like Beckett and Dice-K burn it out? Yanks still have WAY too much offense AND Rivera--and will NOT go away due to aging as some suggest; they'll acquire someone during the 'dog-days' of summer for their post-season run. Rays still have a formidable staff, but scoring runs and a shaky closing crew (Farnsworth?) will catch up with them. O's will score runs but strike out WAY too much; staff is still too unproven. Jays won't pitch well enough, and closing games for them will be more difficult than keeping Lindsay Lohan away from Hollywood gin mills.
AL CENTRAL- White Sox have best rotation in division, and Adam Dunn gives them additional pop; Guillen a maniac but a good manager. Twins' approach to the game (and possibly having baseball's best manager) renders them perennial contenders, but will Joe Nathan be a shell of his former self? After Verlander and MAYBE Scherzer, I question Detroit's staff. Royals will need to score SIX runs a game to win regularly--and just won't do that. Tribe has no legit .300 hitters and the starting staff will have manager Manny Acta chewing more Pepcid tablets than bubble gum on a daily basis.
AL WEST- Even w/o Cliff Lee, Rangers will hit a ton AND pitch well enough; I like the whole Nolan Ryan throwback approach. A's have some great arms (and an improved offense), but will the staff burn out come August? Angels have some proven vets (Hunter, Abreu), but don't hit enough for average; they'll continue to have a low OBP, too. Ichiro will be Ichiro, but M's won't generate enough runs--cementing a last-place finish.

NL EAST
Philadelphia Phillies
Atlanta Braves
Florida Marlins
N.Y. Mets
Washington Nationals

NL CENTRAL
Cincinnati Reds
Milwaukee Brewers
St. Louis Cardinals
Chicago Cubs
Houston Astros
Pittsburgh Pirates

NL WEST
S.F. Giants
Colorado Rockies
L.A. Dodgers
S.D. Padres
Arizona D'backs

**Notes:
NL EAST- Phils and Braves will go down to the wire. I prefer the Phils experience and their stellar starting pitching; Braves will be able to close well by committee, but the over/under date for Chipper Jones to get hurt is June 15th (they're also shaky defensively). I'm just not sold on the Marlins' pitching staff after Josh Johnson. Mets' health issues (Santana, Bay, Beltran) will put them under .500 and a "fire-sale" in July is imminent. Nats will score some runs, but Jayson Werth--while being able to pick up dinner tabs NIGHTLY for teammates with no worries whatsoever--will STILL wish he was back in Philly by June 1st.
NL CENTRAL- The Reds return a formidable offense and if they pitch just a little better than expected, they'll win the division; Chapman will be dominant out of the 'pen. Brewers will get monster years out of guys like Fielder and Braun and newcomer Greinke will be solid; will they be able to close games effectively and often? Wainwright going down seals Cards fate; Cubs can overtake St. Louis if some underachievers (hello, Mr. Soriano!) just ACHIEVE. Astros lack offensive pop and I question their bullpen. If you can name the Pirates rotation, you need to get a job, get a grip, or get a LIFE.
NL WEST- Giants' pitching staff STILL too good--and they now have championship swagger. Rockies can contend (which Todd Helton shows up?), but I question Huston Street's closing ability and their 'pen in general. Dodgers have talent, but will Mattingly motivate effectively and be able to handle everyday pitching decisions? Padres won't score enough, will miss Adrian G. too much, and hit home runs as often as yours truly dates supermodels. Can fiery Kirk Gibson motivate some players in AZ who truly NEED motivating? NO--they finish dead last.

*Postseason: For some reason, I foresee a problem with the Red Sox pitching staff--particularly Beckett and Dice-K; too many 5 inning starts will catch up with their 'pen. This will enable the Yanks--who get better starting pitching than expected--to emerge from the AL while the Phillies stay fairly healthy all year long and represent the NL in the Fall Classic. Call me boring--it's the same prediction as I made last year. Rivera REMAINS Rivera (shocking!) throughout October (I'm STILL convinced he's not human)--allowing the Yanks' core players of Mo, Jeter, and Posada to win their final championship together. Enjoy the season, everyone.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 4/2/11

2011-03-30T00:40:00.001-04:00

Some Sports Memories of Yesteryear

* Having a baseball catch with my Dad: He would use his Red Schoendienst glove (not much bigger than his hand) and I'd use my new Vada Pinson model. I was surprised how well he could catch the ball after he turned 40--coming to the conclusion that he must have played a lot of ball in his younger days. I remember concentrating on ACCURACY a lot as I didn't want a guy "his age" having to go retrieve any bad throws.
* Neighborhood basketball games: Playing next door with 5-6 of the local boys--big wooden backboard, chain net, driveway that was NOT flat--which would send many errant balls into the street on a regular basis. Played for hours--almost DAILY--during basketball season. Truly learned how to make a bank shot and shoot free throws on that shoddy--albeit wonderful--"court." Sometimes I'd play at a friend's house a block away--different set of kids--where we'd all call out who we would "be" that day. I'd be "Pistol Pete" or George McGinnis for the afternoon; Jay always called out "Clyde." Game was over when the first kid was called by a parent for dinner.
* Summer fly ball shagging: Some of the same local boys carrying balls and bats (and maybe a 64-ounce bottle of Pepsi) down to the dusty high school field at the end of the street. We'd take turns hitting fly balls for HOURS until the blisters came--then we'd rotate. I remember the delightful feeling when it reached the point where I could judge/run down almost any fly ball hit in my direction. Yeah, and to this day, I still believe repetition is vastly underrated.
* Farm League/Little League baseball: Still very clear in my mind--maybe due to being surrounded by great people. I recall my first coach, Les, buying me a hot dog and soda if I pitched a good game--maybe a bag of chips, too. Then the Little League days; ah, that fence looked SO far away--until I was able to hit one over it. Broken bats? We'd simply take them home, put screws in the handles, apply mechanical tape, and use them again until they'd splinter near the barrel. We never knew what aluminum bats WERE back in those days--and I'm kinda glad we didn't.
* Football in the snow: No building snowmen for us--just pigskin time--and we always pretended we were in Minnesota. The more snow, the better--providing better cushioning while being tackled. It was even MORE fun when a pass was beyond one's fingertips--allowing that person to subsequently dive and slide into an area of untouched snow. Funny, we never felt the cold in those days--only the "warmth" of good times.
* Volleyball--before school: That's right--a bunch of us 8th graders who lived next to the school were allowed to play in the gymnasium from about 7:30-8:00 AM. It was co-ed, and I remember how easy it was to set-up Carol--a 6-footer who was very athletic. I remember volleyball teaching us kids the concepts of teamwork, cooperation, and responsibility--which helped me in all other sports. Loved playing it at the beach, too, when I became a bit older.
* Driveway hockey: Yeah, same driveway as the aforementioned, next-door basketball venue. We used a beat-up tennis ball as our puck and put tape on our sticks just like the pros did. The "goal" was a 4'X6' raised/rectangular design on the neighbor's garage door. Funny, the homeowners (parents of one of the 'hood kids) never seemed to complain despite constant shots caroming off that door--ones that sometimes came close to WINDOWS, too.
* Road football: Yes, out in the street--one with an uphill grade. It was like playing on artificial turf compared to our "snow football wars." Goal posts were telephone poles about 50 yards apart; 'out of bounds' was classified as any part of a resident's lawn. I can still remember the agreed-upon, collective yell of "CAR!!" when an approaching automobile was within sight of our "field." Always easier running a fly pattern going DOWNHILL.
* Schoolyard stickball: Played with the proverbial broom handle and a tennis ball at a grammar school; sometimes, we'd pool our money to get a new can of balls when some older ones had become too soft. Painted strike zones were on the walls that graced both the front AND rear of the building; we'd play in the rear most of the time unless it was being used as an event parking lot. Very competitive, too, as I remember John and I opposing a duo from the other side of town shortly after high school--$100 winner-take-all. Word got out and a decent crowd showed up; John and I later put the $100 winnings to great use at a local restaurant.
* Backyard wiffle ball: At the "stadium"--my next-door neighbor's fenced-in backyard. Played almost every night after dinner during the summer--probably after having shagged fly balls during the day. Curve balls, screwballs, knuckle balls--ah, the things one could do with that weird-looking ball that was manufactured in nearby Shelton. Nothing like clearing the wooden fence with a home run, either--which only a few of us could do. Loved catching batted fly balls, too; if you could catch a wiffle ball on a windy day, you could catch ANYTHING.
* Nerf basketball indoors: That's right--NERF; I remember receiving a Nerf ball/hoop set as a gift in the early 70's--and hung it on the dining room door which led to the basement. What a feeling being able to SLAM DUNK like Wilt; it was especially cool when you 'swished' a shot from the side--resulting in having to go rearrange the net manually. And I remember bouncing that ball off lamps, walls, tables, etc.--and my Mom really not minding too much because I was sharpening my basketball skills. Yeah, I miss you, Mom.
* Schoolyard basketball: Didn't even need a net; if the pole was standing fairly straight and a ball could fit through the rim, we'd use it. 3-on-3, sometimes 4-on-4--mostly half-court games. I remember the backboards being small--making it more difficult to convert bank shots. I also remember a participant showing up one day wearing shades, jewelry, and sunglasses--probably trying to impress a nearby gal who was jumping rope. My friend Bob's question to him at the time: "Who are you--TRAVOLTA?"

Bathe yourself in similar past experiences, folks; they'll surely make you smile.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 3/26/11

2011-03-23T01:31:00.000-04:00

I know that Elin Nordegren--the former Mrs. Tiger Woods--has the $$$ now to do almost anything she wants. But a $12.2 million/4,700 square foot, Palm Beach mansion with EIGHT bathrooms? I can only surmise that she wanted a bathroom for each day of the week--with the extra one to be used STRICTLY as the proverbial "reading room"..........TRIVIA QUESTION: In New Jersey Nets history, only three players have tallied 20 or more assists in a single game. Can you name this trio? Answer to follow..........Question: Now that actress Renee Zellweger is single again, do you think there is ANY chance that she'll soon be in the market for an aging, New England-based sports columnist?..........ITEM: Former UNLV basketball player Bobby Joyce is arrested in California for robbing a Vietnam veteran who was waiting at a Santa Ana bus stop in his wheelchair; Joyce's arrests/run-ins with the law dating back to the 1990's are too numerous to mention here. But sheesh--robbing a disabled vet--can it GET any lower than that? And shame on me; all this time I had surmised that those old Jerry Tarkanian teams of yesteryear were comprised solely of outstanding citizens and Rhodes Scholars..........Did you know that the 1993-'94 Detroit Red Wings--who finished 46-30-8 under Scotty Bowman--had FOUR players on the team with 30 or more goals during the regular season? Sergei Federov (56), Ray Sheppard (52), Vyacheslav Kozlov (34), and Keith Primeau (31) were all "scoring machines" for a team that finished first in the league's Central Division. However, they ultimately lost in the conference quarter-finals to the San Jose Sharks that season--4 games to 3..........This week in sports history, March 29, 1976: The Indiana Hoosiers overcome a six-point halftime deficit and ultimately roll to an 86-68 victory over Michigan in the NCAA Tournament championship game played in Philadelphia. Kent Benson and Scott May combined for 51 points for Indiana; Benson, May, and guard Quinn Buckner combined for 36 of the Hoosier's first 38 second-half points as coach Bobby Knight's squad became the seventh team to win the NCAA title with a perfect record (32-0)..........ITEM: Butler beats Pitt 71-70 last weekend--Pittsburgh's FOURTH straight year of losing to a lower seed in the NCAA tournament. Two possible explanations: 1) Pitt is now a program with a cemented reputation as an underachiever or 2) the selection/seeding committees have been hanging out with Charlie Sheen WAY too much over the past few years..........If anyone out there is well-aware that Luis Alberto Lazarte of Argentina is the current IBF junior flyweight champion of the world, then you have WAY too much time on your hands..........Did you know that the 1989 Cleveland Indians had four starting pitchers on their staff with ERA's less than 3.70--but the team STILL finished 16 games under .500? Bud Black, John Farrell, Tom Candiotti, and Greg Swindell were part of a very formidable staff that year. The problem with that team was OFFENSE; they scored the least amount of runs in the AL (604), had very little team speed, and were dead last in the league in on-base percentage (.310)...........Answer to trivia question: KEVIN PORTER (who did it four times in '77-'78), ROBERT PACK (1996), and STEPHON MARBURY (1999)..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Marcus Jones--who blows out 36 candles on March 29th. A native of Bellflower, CA, Jones is a member of that unique MLB fraternity of pitchers who appeared in just ONE big league game. As a member of the A's back in 2000, Jones started a game vs. the Rockies--allowing five hits and four earned runs over 2.1 innings. Yes, folks, Marcus Jones is listed in the baseball record books as having a career ERA of 15.43. Hey, they ALL can't be Vida Blue, right? Best wishes, Marcus..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former University of Minnesota football coach Murray Warmath--who passed away last week in Bloomington at the age of 98. Hired in 1954, Warmath put together a record of 87-78-7 in 18 seasons as coach of the Gophers. After finishing last in the Big Ten in 1959 while winning just two games, Warmath was criticized harshly by angry fans--to the point of garbage being thrown on his front lawn. A hard-nosed disciplinarian, Warmath responded in 1960 by leading his team to a Big Ten title with a record of 8-1 while also being named national champions. Warmath remains the last Gophers coach to win a national championship, a Big Ten title, and a Rose Bowl. He later became a Minnesota Vikings assistant coach in 1978 and also worked as a scout in the organization into the 1990's before retiring. He is survived by his son, Murray Warmath Jr., as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; may Coach Warmath rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 3/19/11

2011-03-15T22:47:00.000-04:00

Question--Of the following, which/who been 'higher' lately: gasoline prices, the average N.Y. Mets fan's blood pressure, national unemployment figures, or Charlie Sheen?..........TRIVIA QUESTION: From 1985-1994, the Portland Trail Blazers had a player on the team whose free-throw percentage never fell below 80% in a season. Can you name this talented individual? Answer to follow..........Did you know that former NBA center Matt Fish played in just three NBA seasons between 1994 and 1997 but was a member of FIVE different teams? Fish was also waived, released, or traded SEVEN times over that short time frame. Question: Do you think Fish gets a bit nauseous each time he hears Peter, Paul, and Mary's version of "Leaving On A Jet Plane?"..........Interesting fact: The New York Yankees will pay JUST their infielders (A-ROID, Jeter, Cano, and Teixeira) approximately $80 million in 2011--which is more than the ENTIRE payrolls of the Padres and Pirates COMBINED..........Gotta love Mets broadcaster Howie Rose--who truly levels with the listener. He was told by partner Wayne Hagin last weekend that pitcher Oliver Perez's fastball this spring has topped out at 84 MPH (at one time, it was perhaps in the mid-90's). Howie: "If that's the case, he needs pinpoint control and absolute command--attributes NOT normally associated with Oliver Perez."..........This week in sports history, March 22, 1969: UCLA center Lew Alcindor scores 37 points and pulls down 20 rebounds--leading the Bruins to a 92-72 victory over Purdue for their third consecutive NCAA championship. Purdue had come into the game featuring the nation's leading scorer--Rick Mount--who averaged 33.5 ppg. However, the UCLA defense held Mount to 12-of-36 shooting; most of his 28 points came long after the outcome of the game was no longer in doubt. Alcindor closed out his remarkable college career with a spectacular 88-2 record..........Did you know that the 1988 Chicago White Sox had two players who tied for the team lead in runs scored--with a modest total of just 59? Dave Gallagher and Steve Lyons crossed the plate the most times that season for the Pale Hose--with Gallagher doing it in just 347 at-bats..........I used to think that the finely manicured infield at Yankee Stadium was a pure thing of 'beauty'. But that definition took on an entirely new meaning last week when I saw the dress that Jennifer Aniston was wearing at the St. Regis Hotel down in Mexico while promoting her new fragrance..........ITEM: Four Auburn football players--Antonio Goodwin, Shaun Kitchens, Mike McNeil, and Dakota Mosley--are charged with first-degree robbery; personal property was taken from a residence in Alabama with one of the perpetrators reportedly displaying a handgun. Ah--but let's not jump to conclusions: Perhaps these "student-athletes" are all Human Development/Family Studies majors at the school--and were simply doing some field work/research on how the average household would react while being TOTALLY violated..........Answer to trivia question: TERRY PORTER--whose highest percentage came during the '89-'90 campaign when he made 421 of 472 attempts (.892); he had a career FT percentage of close to 84% while playing 17 seasons in the league..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former MLB catcher Matt Sinatro--who blows out 51 candles on March 22nd. A native of Hartford who played at Conard High School, Sinatro spent parts of 10 seasons in the "bigs" between 1981 and 1992 as a member of the Braves, A's, Tigers and Mariners. Sinatro never appeared in more than 37 games in a season and he never HIT much, either. In 252 career at-bats, Sinatro could muster just 48 hits--retiring with a lifetime batting average of just .190 (well below the "Mendoza Line"). A favorite of Lou Piniella, Sinatro remained employed under "Sweet Lou" as an MLB coach in Seattle, Tampa Bay, and Chicago. Though never making it big in the majors, Matt Sinatro will always remain a personal favorite of yours truly as the two of us were born on the EXACT same day; best wishes, Matt..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Tulsa football player Wilson Holloway--who passed away a few weeks ago of cancer at the tender age of 22. A 6-foot-6, 275-pound offensive tackle, Holloway was first diagnosed in 2008 but continued working out with the team while undergoing chemotherapy; he was later declared cancer-free and actually played in six games before the cancer returned that October. Many who knew Holloway were consistent in saying that his cancer NEVER affected the positive outlook he had on life; ah, what a legacy to leave. The university recently held a moment of silence for Holloway before a home basketball game vs. East Carolina. May Wilson Holloway--a true inspiration to many--rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 3/12/11

2011-03-08T23:39:00.001-05:00

Great cause: As a show of support and fundraiser for Yale women’s ice hockey player Mandi Schwartz in her continued battle with cancer, the Yale women’s golf team will play “100 Holes for Mandi” on Thursday, March 17th. The Bulldogs will accept donations per hole; the event will be held at the golf simulator in Yale’s Dave Paterson Golf Technology Center at the Payne Whitney Gym and will start at 8 a.m. Those interested in supporting the cause can e-mail their desired donation/contact info to Yale women's golf coach Chawwadee Rompothong at chawwadee.rompothong@yale.edu. Checks should be made out to “Yale University Relief Fund” with 'Mandi Schwartz' in the memo line and sent to: Chawwadee Rompothong, c/o Yale Athletic Department, PO Box 208216, New Haven, CT 06520-8216..........TRIVIA QUESTION: In the team's first year of existence (1989-'90), the Orlando Magic's top scorer was a forward whose NBA career would ultimately be over at the age of 29. Can you name this former player? Answer to follow..........Don't misunderstand me--I LOVE Division III basketball. But there is something fundamentally wrong when yours truly is watching Eastern CT play Albertus Magnus last weekend while--at the same time--the Ms. Bikini International competition is taking place in Columbus, Ohio..........This week in sports history, March 15, 1969: The powerful Soviet Union hockey team scores an astounding 11 second-period goals--en route to a 17-2 dismantling of the United States at the world championships in Stockholm, Sweden. American goalies Mike Curran and John Lothrop were peppered with 66 shots during the mismatch while the U.S. could only muster 13 shots on offense. Vlacheslav Starchinov led the Soviet team with four goals while two other Russian teammates tallied hat tricks in the most lopsided defeat by a U.S. team ever at the world championships..........Did you know that, during the 2001-'02 NBA season, guard Terrell Brandon of the Timberwolves attempted 84 free throws and made 83 of them--resulting in a percentage of .988? Brandon only appeared in 32 games that season--his last year in the league--after having previously played with Milwaukee and Cleveland. Brandon's career free-throw percentage? .873--having converted 1,784 of 2,043 attempts..........I was just informed that Bill Bishop of the Cheshire (CT) Rugby Club will shave his head on March 15th in solidarity with children who are suffering from cancer. I encourage other coaches, players, etc. to do the same and get involved with the St. Baldrick's Foundation--a volunteer-driven charity benefiting childhood cancer research. To organize an event, be a "shavee", or simply to donate, visit the Foundation's web site at www.stbaldricks.org or call (888)889-BALD (2253)..........Like all baseball fans, I'm excited about the upcoming season. But I became even more excited last weekend when I gazed at a picture of Carmen Electra stretching during a poolside yoga class in L.A...........Answer to trivia question: TERRY CATLEDGE--who averaged 19.4 ppg for a Matt Guokas-led team that finished with a record of 18-64..........Congratulations go out to Post University (CT) head men's basketball coach Al Sokaitis--who has been named the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference Coach of the Year. In his first year at Post, Sokaitis led the Eagles to a 14-4 conference record and an overall mark of 16-10 entering the playoffs. Al has received "Coach of the Year" awards SEVEN times during his career: three times at North Adams State, twice at Alaska-Fairbanks, once at Western State College (CO), and now at Post University. Keep up the fine work, Al--a well-deserved honor..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league outfielder/DH Steve Stroughter--who blows out 59 candles on March 15th. A native of Visalia, CA, his name may be familiar to only the most rabid baseball fans out there--seeing that he played just ONE season in the big leagues. Stroughter, at the advanced age of 30, appeared in just 26 games with the 1982 Seattle Mariners--and just didn't hit well enough to stay employed in the "big show." In 47 at-bats, Stroughter could muster just EIGHT hits--thus going into the MLB record books with a lifetime batting average of .170. Hey--but he CAN tell his grandchildren that one of those hits was a home run as he connected off pitcher Dennis Martinez on May 4th of that year. Following his brief MLB career, Stroughter returned to the minors for awhile and later played in Japan. Best wishes, Ed..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Kansas assistant basketball coach Ed Manning--who died recently in Texas of complications from a heart condition; he was 68. The father of former Kansas star Danny Manning, Ed was hired by ex-KU coach Larry Brown back in 1983 and would see his son lead the Jayhawks to a national championship in 1988. Like his son, Ed Manning played pro ball, too (between 1967 and 1976)--having spent time with Baltimore, Chicago, and Portland in the NBA as well as Carolina, New York, and Indiana in the ABA. He later became an assistant with the San Antonio Spurs and also worked as a NBA scout. May Ed Manning rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 3/5/11

2011-02-28T23:46:00.000-05:00

Of the following individuals, whose name has been mentioned the MOST lately--giving new meaning to the term "ad nauseum": Lady Gaga, Carmelo Anthony, Lindsay Lohan, or Isiah Thomas?..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1990-'91 New York Rangers--who finished 36-31-13 under coach Roger Neilson--had four players on the squad who tallied 25 or more goals apiece. How many of these players can you name? Answer to follow..........Recognition is in order for Eastern CT St. Univ. basketball player Jamie Kohn of Columbia (CT)--who has become the program's first selection to the CoSIDA Capital One College Division Academic All-District I Team. Currently a junior, Kohn is now eligible for the College Division All-America Team--which will be announced soon. Having had the opportunity to coach this special young man at the middle-school level, I can attest to his excellence both on AND off the court; it was never a question if Jamie would succeed--it was simply to what degree. You've made many people extremely proud, Jamie Kohn..........Speaking of Carmelo Anthony--I'm still trying to figure out who is currently the "First Lady of NY": Sandra Lee--love interest of Gov. Andrew Cuomo--or LaLa Vazquez?..........This week in sports history, March 8, 1937: While in the hospital recovering from a leg injury, hockey great Howie Morenz suffers a fatal heart attack at age 34--thus ending the life of one of the NHL's all-time best players. Morenz had been hurt back on January 28th--when he was checked into the boards during a game vs. the Chicago Blackhawks. Morenz started his career in 1923-'24 with the Montreal Canadiens; he led them to three Stanley Cup championships and scored 472 points during his 14-year career. A three-time winner of the Hart Trophy (MVP), Morenz also captured two scoring titles and was the league's biggest gate attraction during his early years with Montreal..........Looking for an AFFORDABLE way to enjoy professional baseball in 2011? Season tickets are now available for the upcoming CT Tigers (NY-Penn League) season. For the team's 38 home games at beautiful Dodd Stadium, premium box seats are $325 per seat while reserved boxes are $250. Season ticket holder benefits include a preseason "meet and greet" barbecue with players and coaches along with a 10% discount on merchandise in the Tigers Gift Shop. To reserve your season tickets, call (860) 887-7962 or email the team at info@cttigers.com ..........I suggest that some NBA team have an upcoming "Charlie Sheen Night." Free courtside seats will be awarded to the first 50 guys wearing ugly hats who stagger up to the ticket window with blondes on both arms..........Answer to trivia question: MIKE GARTNER (49), JOHN OGRODNICK (31), DARREN TURCOTTE (26), and BERNIE NICHOLLS (25)..........More good news at ECSU: Congratulations also go out to Eastern Connecticut State University's Stephanie Noheimer, a senior physical education major from Willimantic (CT), who was recently selected as recipient of the 2011 Holly E. Zimmerman Memorial Award. The award is presented to commemorate the spirit and love of the late Holly Zimmerman, a former ECSU athlete, and is given to an individual who possesses Zimmerman's qualities such as loyalty, thoughtfulness, and academic determination. Noheimer has lettered in indoor and outdoor track at Eastern since transferring from Rhode Island College in 2009. A health education minor, Noheimer carries an overall 3.90 GPA and was recently honored between games of a Little East Conference basketball doubleheader. Excellent work, Stephanie..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA guard Litterial Green--who blows out 41 candles on March 7th. A native of Mississippi who played at Georgia, Green was a member of four different teams during his short, five-year career--his last season coming in 1998-'99 with Cleveland. One thing that Green should NOT have done during his NBA playing days was attempt to shoot from "downtown." In 26 lifetime three-point attempts, Green connected on just TWO--resulting in a career percentage of just .077. Hey--they all can't be Ray Allen, right? Green also spent time playing in the CBA in-between his NBA stops and also played overseas from 1999-2002. Here's wishing you many more celebrations to come, Litterial; best wishes..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Brooklyn Dodgers infielder Tony Malinosky--who died a few weeks ago in California at the age of 101. Yes, at the time, he was the oldest former living MLB player--having appeared in 35 games while hitting .228 for the team during the 1937 season. Sadly, his career was cut short due to a knee injury. He later served in the U.S. Army and saw action in the Battle of the Bulge. In a touching ceremony, Malinosky was honored at Dodger Stadium back in 2009 when he turned 100. You may have had a short career, Tony, but you surely enjoyed a long run at life. May Mr. Malinosky rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports RoundUp" - - - - 2/26/11

2011-02-22T23:32:00.000-05:00

Congratulations go out to all involved at Bassick (CT) High School in the production of "The Pride of the Lions"--a student-made documentary; it has been accepted to the Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France this coming May. The film chronicles the plight of the school’s football and soccer teams--both which play without home fields. Having had the opportunity to view this fine work--courtesy of football coach Frank Marcucio--I can attest to its quality and emotional appeal. It is also scheduled to be screened in a Las Vegas film festival in March, in Los Angeles in May, and at a Miami festival in September. My readers can view it by logging onto www.timesunion.com and simply searching for "The Pride of the Lions." Great work, Bassick High..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1997-'98 Indiana Pacers--who finished 58-24 under coach Larry Bird--had FOUR players on the squad who each shot more than 85% from the free-throw line. How many of these players can you name? Answer to follow..........Yes, the Sports Illustrated 2011 Swimsuit Edition arrived last week. All I'll say is THIS: Page 186, guys--page 186..........I BADLY miss Dave Zinkoff, World B. Free, 'Dr. J.', and the WHOLE Philadelphia 76er/Spectrum thing of the late 70's..........ITEM: White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle says he and his wife sometimes rooted for Eagles quarterback/slime-ball Michael Vick to be injured during the 2010 season as payback for Vick's mistreatment of dogs. Put it this way: I'd be the LAST person to wish injury/bad health on ANYONE. But one begins to understand Buehrle's mindset if you consider this: If Vick were to, say, separate a shoulder/blow out a knee during a future game, would that injury even REMOTELY qualify as revenge/justice--seeing that this punk has already murdered/tortured countless animals? Hmmmmm. Oh--but they're "only" dogs, right?..........This week in sports history, March 1, 1988: Wayne Gretzky becomes the NHL's all-time assists leader--feeding the puck to Jari Kurri for a first period goal during the Edmonton Oilers' 5-3 victory over the Los Angeles Kings. "The Great One's" record-setting assist--the 1,050th of his magnificent career--came in just his 681st game; it took previous record-holder Gordie Howe 1,767 games to amass the former mark of 1,049. Gretzky's age at the time of this immense milestone? Just 27-years-old..........Milestone: Last weekend, Eastern CT St. Univ. women's basketball coach Denise Bierly became the school's winningest coach in the program's 40-year history. She won her 333rd game (vs. Southern Maine)--breaking the previous record of 332 held by Bob Miller (1974-1993). Now in her 17th year, Bierly trails only legendary baseball coach Bill Holowaty (1,319) and former women's volleyball coach Floretta Crabtree (616) for most wins in the history of ECSU athletics. Congratulations, Denise..........Answer to trivia question: CHRIS MULLIN (.939), REGGIE MILLER (.868), TRAVIS BEST (.855), and FRED HOIBERG (.855)..........The following still remains one of my favorite sports quotes of all-time--offered by Los Angeles Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda in Baseball Digest back in February of 1978: "I don't know how old Vic Davalillo and Manny Mota are, but someone told me they were both waiters at the Last Supper." ..........Congrats also go out to Aleca Hughes--a junior forward on the Yale women's hockey team--who has been named a finalist for the 2011 BNY Mellon Wealth Management Hockey Humanitarian Award. This award seeks to recognize hockey players at the college level who truly give back to their communities in immense ways; she was one of eight finalists from a pool of 25 nominees nationwide. Aleca has been very instrumental in raising awareness of the need for blood marrow donors along with raising funds for her teammate Mandi Schwartz--who has been battling cancer for more than two years. Aleca will also earn her third ECAC Hockey All-Academic Team selection this season--posting a 3.50 cumulative GPA in the classroom. Having interviewed this special gal on CTV-14's "Monday Night Sports Talk," I can attest to a person whose excellence reaches FAR beyond the hockey rink. Excellent work, Aleca..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA guard Dwayne Polee--who blows out 48 candles on March 2nd. A high school star in L.A. who played at Pepperdine, Polee has the distinction of appearing in just ONE NBA game--which happened during the '86-'87 season with the Clippers. In that game, Polee picked up three personal fouls in just SIX minutes--yes, one for every two minutes of play (perhaps one of the highest fouls-per-minutes-played ratios in history). Oh--he did score two points that day--on one-for-four shooting. Polee has been USC's director of basketball operations since 2007; best wishes, Dwayne..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NFL defensive back Dave Duerson--who was found dead in his Florida home last week; he was 50. A native of Indiana who played at Notre Dame, Duerson was a third-round pick of the Bears in the '83 NFL draft; he made five interceptions during Chicago's '85 Super Bowl season--playing on one of the best defensive units ever assembled. Duerson also played with the N.Y. Giants in 1990 before finishing his career in Phoenix in 1993. While with the Bears, Duerson made four straight Pro-Bowls during the 80's; may he rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports RoundUp" - - - - 2/19/11

2011-02-15T21:37:00.000-05:00

*As promised--Part II of "Game, Set, Match!":

I'll match up "Grey's Anatomy" star Sandra Oh with former big league pitcher Butch Henry. If they ever tied the knot, old candy lovers would delight in her married name of Sandra Oh Henry..........LPGA golfer Wendy Ward hooks up with former Middlebury College (VT) wide receiver Tom Cleaver. If they ever got hitched, fans of "Leave It To Beaver" would surely delight in her married name of Wendy Ward Cleaver..........Former SUNY-Fredonia basketball player Danielle Bleecker hooks up with MLB pitcher Huston Street. If they married, lovers of NY's Greenwich Village would delight in her married name of Danielle Bleecker Street..........LPGA golfer Meredith Duncan hooks up with ex-Iowa State track athlete Neil Hines. If they ever tied the knot, cake lovers would surely savor her married name of Meredith Duncan Hines..........LPGA golfer Teresa Lu marries former University of Prince Edward Island soccer player Chris Diamond, divorces, then marries former major league infielder Mike Phillips. Fans of the popular "La Bamba" actor would surely delight in her full married name of Teresa Lu Diamond Phillips..........LPGA golfer Alena Sharp marries PGA golfer D.A. Points. There'd be nothing "dull" about her full married name: Alena Sharp Points..........Former Lock Haven University track star Sandy Ritz marries Hall of Fame pitcher Steve Carlton, divorces, marries PGA golfer Duffy Waldorf--divorces again--then marries former big league outfielder Dave Hilton. Lovers of expensive hotels would delight in her married name of Sandy Ritz Carlton Waldorf Hilton.........Former Lewis & Clark College basketball player Gwen Forrest hooks up with PGA golfer Scott Gump. If they ever walked down the aisle, fans of Tom Hanks' flicks would surely delight in her married name of Gwen Forrest Gump..........Former FDU basketball player Tommica Woods marries ex-NFL linebacker Gerald Irons, divorces, marries NFL WR Donald Driver--divorces again--then marries MLB manager Eric Wedge. Golf equipment manufacturers would surely delight in her full name of Tommica Woods Irons Driver Wedge..........LPGA golfer Brandie Burton walks down the aisle with former NBA player Terry Cummings. Fans of The Guess Who would surely delight in the married name of this "American Woman": Brandie Burton Cummings..........If pop singer Pink married former major league pitcher Jim Panther, could she then be referred to as Pink Panther?.........Pop singer Jewel marries former big league outfielder Terry Puhl, divorces, marries Champions Tour golfer Doug Tewell--divorces again--then marries former major league pitcher Vern Ruhle. Could we then call her Jewel Puhl Tewell Ruhle?..........Former women's college basketball player Ann Ching marries ex-tennis champion Michael Chang--divorces--then marries former world-ranked badminton player Andy Chong. She'd then be playing pick-up games with the name of Ann Ching Chang Chong..........Tennis star Lindsay Davenport marries former big league pitcher Frank Linzy, divorces, then marries former Rider University track star Justin Lindsey. She'd be gracing the courts with the repetitive married name of Lindsay Linzy Lindsey..........LPGA golfer Brooke Tull marries former Le Moyne College basketball player Sid Pond, divorces, marries former big league catcher Steve Lake--divorces again--then marries singer Billy Ocean. She'd be roaming fairways with the water-themed name of Brooke Pond Lake Ocean..........WNBA player Betty Lennox marries former track star Carl Lewis, divorces, marries Coast Guard football coach Bill George--divorces again--then marries former NFL RB Chuck Foreman. Fans of the heavyweight ranks would enjoy her full name of Betty Lennox Lewis George Foreman..........Tennis player Venus Williams marries Motley Crue guitarist Mick Mars, divorces, marries former Virginia high school quarterback Jon Jupiter--divorces again--then marries sportswriter/author Terry Pluto. Astronomy buffs would take note of her full married name of Venus Mars Jupiter Pluto..........LPGA Hall of Famer Betsy King marries NHL'er Joey Crabb. Seafood lovers everywhere would surely love her married name of Betsy King Crabb..........Former Hillsdale College track star Trudy Chase marries former NHL goalie Kelly Hrudey, divorces, marries former USC quarterback John David Booty--divorces again--then marries golfer Charles Coody. She's then known as Trudy Hrudey Booty Coody.......... Pop singer Olivia Newton-John marries former big league infielder Bill Stein--divorces--then marries Champions Tour golfer Chip Beck. Of Mice and Men fans would surely delight in her full name of Olivia Newton-John Stein Beck..........Women's tennis player Virginia Ruano Pascual walks down the aisle with former White Sox infielder Mike Squires. Fans of the old ABA would love her new name: Virginia Squires..........Compliments of my good friend Wayne Norman of WILI AM radio: If ex-UCONN athletes Mel Thomas and Terry Caulley were to ever marry and produce a child, could we then call their offspring a "Mel an' Caulley baby"?..........Aforementioned Mel Thomas walks down the aisle with former big league outfielder/World Series hero Kirk Gibson. "Lethal Weapon" fans would surely delight in her married name of Mel Gibson..........Finally, former Canadian college basketball player Jamie Born walks down the aisle with former NBA guard World B. Free. Fans of a former on-screen, orphaned lioness named Elsa (and of Andy Williams' music) would enjoy her married name of Jamie Born Free.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 2/12/11

2011-02-09T10:40:00.000-05:00

Over the years, I've been known to let my mind wander at times while writing about sports--trying to creatively interest the reader and possibly produce a smile/giggle. It was probably back in 2004 when the "Lazzari Matchmaking Dept." made its debut in this column; when it's featured, some laugh and some call it "corny"--while Valley Times sports editor Bill Pucci continually reminds me that I simply have "too much time on my hands" in order come up with these "tidbits." In any case, as writer's block presents itself during the doldrums of winter, I've decided to look back at some "athletic matches" that have appeared in this column and bundle them together for the reader over the next couple of weeks. Here's Part I of what we'll call "Game, Set, Match!":

LPGA golfer Leslie Spalding marries former pitcher Scott McGregor, divorces, marries former Mets outfielder Mookie Wilson--divorces again--then marries former Expos outfielder Ron Calloway. Sporting goods manufacturers would delight greatly in her full name of Leslie Spalding McGregor Wilson Calloway..........LPGA golfer Sally Little marries former Georgia Tech basketball player Jarrett Jack--divorces him--then marries former major leaguer Bob Horner. Nursery rhyme aficionados would delight in her full name of Sally Little Jack Horner..........Actress Tracey Gold hooks up with former NBA player Kareem Rush. If they ever tied the knot, miners in California would delight in her married name of Tracey Gold Rush..........Former WNBA player Nykesha Sales hooks up with former big-league pitcher Robert Person. If they ever tied the knot, retailers everywhere would delight in her new name of Nykesha Sales Person.......LPGA golfer Rosie Jones marries former major leaguer Steve Hosey--divorces--then marries former NFL linebacker Jeff Posey. She'd be walking around golf courses with the catchy name of Rosie Hosey Posey..........Supermodel Kathy Ireland marries ex-Tulsa DB Anthony Germany, divorces, marries former big league pitcher Mark Portugal--divorces again--then marries ex-Eagles place-kicker Todd France. She'd be walking around with the "worldly" name of Kathy Ireland Germany Portugal France..........LPGA golfer Birdie Kim marries former Air Force swimmer Evan Parr--divorces--then marries New York-based sportscaster Ian Eagle. She'd be roaming golf courses with the catchy, appropriate name of Birdie Parr Eagle..........LPGA golfer Sally Little ties the knot (again) with MLB pitcher Brandon League. Young ballplayers everywhere would be delighting in her new married name of Sally Little League..........Yoko Ono marries former distance runner Henry Rono, divorces, then marries former NFL quarterback Steve Bono. Her late husband John would have been proud of her rhyming ability as she'd be roaming the streets of Manhattan with the name of Yoko Ono Rono Bono..........If Brown University volleyball coach Diane Short had once married former Olympic champion Al Oerter--divorced--then married PGA golfer John Cook, patrons of "greasy spoon" diners everywhere would have delighted in her married name of Diane Short Oerter Cook..........Australian basketball player Penny Taylor hooks up with outfielder Jason Lane. If they ever decided to tie the knot, fans of the Beatles would delight in her married name of Penny Lane..........Former Olympic swimmer Summer Sanders hooks up with N.O. Saints quarterback Drew Brees. If they ever married, fans of Seals and Crofts would delight in her married name of Summer Brees.........Tennis commentator Mary Carillo marries former NFL running back Floyd Little, divorces, then marries former big league catcher Steve Christmas. Those who celebrate the Epiphany would delight as she'd be sporting the full, married name of Mary Little Christmas..........Former UCLA water polo star Robin Beauregard marries ex-NBA guard Rory Sparrow, divorces, marries skateboarding king Tony Hawk--divorces again--then marries former major league pitcher Mike Parrott. Countless members of the National Audubon Society would love her full name of Robin Sparrow Hawk Parrott..........Former USC volleyball star April Ross marries former big league outfielder Carlos May, divorces, then marries former NFL linebacker Cato June. Lovers of springtime would then delight in her full name of April May June..........LPGA golfer Tammie Green marries former NFL center Forrest Blue, divorces, marries ex-NFL kick returner Mel Gray--divorces again--then ties the knot with former NBA coach Larry Brown. She'd be roaming around the links with the "colorful" name of Tammie Green Blue Gray Brown..........Ex-Mississippi State soccer player Stephanie Dallas marries PGA golfer Woody Austin, divorces, marries former NFL running back Wendell Tyler--divorces again--then marries former NBA guard Allan Houston. Lovers of the Texas landscape would delight in her full married name of Stephanie Dallas Austin Tyler Houston..........Finally, female wrestler Hsiao-Wei Hung of Taiwan marries former Chicago Cubs draft pick Cameron Jury. Trial/courtroom drama lovers would surely enjoy her married name of Hsiao-Wei Hung Jury.

More to come next week, folks........

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 2/5/11

2011-02-02T00:35:00.000-05:00

I recently spoke with Leigh Torbin--who works in the athletic department at Central Florida--about the great "Pistol" Pete Maravich; the two of us share in our admiration of this incomparable individual--a man taken from this world much too soon. Torbin: "People just have no idea how good he was. No idea at all. 44 points per game (in college) without a three point line and maybe the best passing ability ever. I've been asked before about athletes I'd like to go back in time to see and the kid with the floppy socks at LSU is always on the list." Amen, Leigh..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1993-'94 Dallas Mavericks--who finished a pathetic 13-69 under coach Quinn Buckner--DID have two players on the team who averaged more than 19 points per game apiece. Can you name these two individuals? Answer to follow..........WFAN Radio's Richard Neer--speaking about the NFL Pro Bowl last Sunday prior to the game: "You're basically watching flag football today."..........Speaking of the aforementioned Pete Maravich: Can you imagine if Dick Vitale was doing color commentary during Maravich's college days at LSU--and how many times he'd have to say, "ARE YOU SERIOUS?????" each time 'The Pistol' made a spectacular play?..........I saw a picture the other day of lovely actress Jessica Alba wearing a sparkling, form-fitting dress at a Vogue dinner in Paris. Sorry, sports fans--some things ARE prettier than a Ray Allen jump shot..........This week in sports history, February 8, 1987: 30-year-old Nancy Lopez shoots a two-over-par 74 in the final round of the Sarasota Classic--good enough to claim victory and the winner's prize of $30,000. Lopez finished with a seven-under total of 281 for the tournament--finishing ahead of Kathy Baker and Anne Marie Palli. The victory was the 35th of Lopez's outstanding career--automatically qualifying her for the LPGA Hall of Fame. She would become eligible for induction four months later--after she completed her tenth year on the LPGA tour. Ironically, Nancy's milestone victory came on the same Florida course where she won her very first tournament back in 1978..........I'm not sure what's been more unstable over the past year or two--the life of actor Charlie Sheen or the New York Mets' financial situation..........Answer to trivia question: JIM JACKSON (19.2 ppg) and JAMAL MASHBURN (19.2 ppg)..........Congratulations go out to three members of the Post University (CT) women's soccer team--who have been named to the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) All-Academic team for the THIRD time. Elizabeth Johnson (3.65 GPA, Sports Management), Alison Monroe (3.90, Psychology), and Rachael Shivers (3.91, Management) all achieved this remarkable honor. As seniors, they have maintained a 3.50 GPA throughout all four years. Excellent job, ladies. Altogether, Post had 15 student-athletes (of the 151 total athletes from the 14 conference schools/fall athletic season) make this year’s team. Yes--extremely refreshing to see college athletes get it done both in AND out of the classroom..........I still say that if Brett Favre had aged HALF as well as Brooke Shields, the VIKINGS are playing vs. the Steelers this weekend in Super Bowl XLV..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA forward Derek Strong--who blows out 43 candles on February 9th. A native of Los Angeles who played at Xavier, Strong surely kept his bags packed during his NBA days--playing for a total of SIX different teams over his ten-year career. Strong played in a total of 456 games while scoring 3,088 points; perhaps his best season came in 1997-'98 with Orlando when he averaged 12.7 ppg along with 7.4 rpg. After his playing days were over, Strong became a professional stock car driver and owner of Strong Racing. Best wishes, Derek, for many more birthdays to come..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league player/manager Steve Boros--who died a few weeks ago in Florida at the age of 74. Boros, an infielder, played parts of seven seasons in the majors between 1957 and 1965--appearing in 422 games as a member of the Tigers, Cubs, and Reds. While in Detroit in 1962, he hit three home runs in a game; no other Tigers player would accomplish that feat until Bill Freehan in 1971. He later managed the Oakland Athletics in 1983 and part of 1984, and was the skipper of the San Diego Padres in 1986. Boros worked for more than four decades in baseball for various organizations; he spent the last nine years of his career employed in various capacities for the Tigers. Boros was a very cerebral man--spending much of his free time writing and reading literature. Boros is survived by his wife, Sharla, two daughters, a son, and several grandchildren. May Steve Boros rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 1/29/11

2011-01-26T00:25:00.000-05:00

Reader Tim Parry chimes in with this classic quip--regarding the T.B. Devil Rays' recent acquisitions: "Well, this should help boost the Rays' attendance figures; no doubt that Johnny Damon and Manny Ramirez resonate with senior citizens."...........TRIVIA QUESTION: Looking back at the 1985-'86 NBA season, the San Antonio Spurs had the NBA's top two leaders in field goal percentage. Can you name these two former players? Answer to follow.........ITEM: American Andy Roddick bows out of the Australian Open--losing in straight sets to Stanislas Wawrinka; he had also lost in straight sets in the final of the Brisbane International prior to the Grand Slam loss to Wawrinka. Now approaching the age of 29, one wonders if he'll ever make it to a Grand Slam final again. However, don't feel sorry for THIS "A-Rod"; when you're married to Brooklyn Decker--a Sports Illustrated swimwear model/actress--losses in Grand Slam events and various other disappointments are placed on the "back-burner" VERY quickly..........Interested in a sports-related web site with a little "edge" to it? Go to www.bobsblitz.com --a Bob Mantz, Jr. creation that calls itself "a blitzkrieg of sports, pop-culture, and stupidity." You'll come across some good stories, video content, and interesting "Blitz Picks"; check it out when you can..........ITEM: Irish golfer Padraig Harrington is disqualified from the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship after he failed to replace a ball that had moved a fraction of an inch when he picked up his marker during the opening round. Wow--and they say that BASEBALL is a "game of inches?"..........This week in sports history, February 1, 1970: Backup goaltender Terry Sawchuk of the New York Rangers extends his own NHL record--posting his 103rd career shutout during his team's 6-0 victory over Pittsburgh at Madison Square Garden. The 40-year-old Sawchuk had been acquired by New York to ease Ed Giacomin's work load; he stopped 29 shots and recorded his first shutout since the '67-'68 season--when he was a member of the L.A. Kings. He had started his remarkable career with Detroit during the '49-'50 campaign and would accumulate more than 400 wins during his long NHL tenure..........I was extremely sad to hear about the recent passing of Marcia Heussler--wife of my friend/colleague Bob Heussler (sports anchor on WFAN Radio); she died of cancer at the age of 53. I never had the opportunity to meet Marcia; I'll just say that there's not a finer man in the media biz than Mr. Heussler--and I can only imagine the type of wonderful woman he'd marry. I DO know she was a loving mother, a wonderful nurse, and very devoted to her husband--whose job kept him on the road a lot. My condolences go out to the entire Heussler family; on the brighter side, such a special lady will leave terrific memories for years to come..........ITEM: Relief pitcher Kyle Farnsworth signs a one-year deal with the Rays worth $3.25 million; this is a man who's compiled a 34-55 record and 4.39 ERA with 27 saves over a 12-year career with five different teams. Yes, MLB--an organization where mediocrity surely DOES pay..........Just came across a picture of bikini-clad actress Jessica Biel snorkeling while on vacation in Hawaii. Sheesh--and I used to think that a Magic Johnson "no-look" pass was a pure thing of beauty..........Can you imagine if Colorado wrestler Trinity Plessinger married NFL wide receiver Antonio Bryant, divorced, married artist James Yale--divorced again--then married Washington-based banker Joseph Tufts? Fans of some highly-regarded colleges here in the Northeast would surely delight in her full, married named of Trinity Bryant Yale Tufts..........Answer to trivia question: STEVE JOHNSON (.632) and ARTIS GILMORE (.618)..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA guard Robert Pack--who blows out 42 candles on February 3rd. A native of New Orleans who played at USC, Pack was undrafted coming out of college in 1991, but went on to play for seven different NBA teams in a career that lasted until 2004. Pack played in a total of 552 games during his career, but injuries seemed to always prevent him from playing a full season. He did average an impressive 18.1 ppg/7.8 apg during the 1995-'96 season while with the Washington Bullets--although he appeared in just 31 games. Pack is currently an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Clippers; best wishes, Robert..........Finally, condolences also go out to the family of former major league manager Roy Hartsfield--who died recently at his daughter's home in Georgia at the age of 85. Hartsfield became the first Toronto Blue Jays manager ever back in 1977; players like Jim Clancy, Dave Stieb, and Ernie Whitt all made their debuts under Hartsfield--who was 166-318 in his three years managing Toronto. Previously, Hartsfield had spent many years in the Dodgers organization as a coach and minor league manager. He also spent three years in the majors as an infielder for the Boston Braves from 1950-1952--appearing in 265 games while batting .273 lifetime. May Roy Hartsfield rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 1/22/11

2011-01-18T23:57:00.000-05:00

Great analogy by ESPN's Teddy Atlas last week during the network's "Friday Night Fights" coverage--when boxer Daniel Edouard was hurt badly by super-middleweight opponent Peter Manfredo, Jr. and appeared totally dazed: "Edouard's legs are like sticks blowing in the wind."..........TRIVIA QUESTION: A pair of players with the same surname led the 1986-'87 Washington Bullets (coached by Kevin Loughery) in scoring. Can you name this talented duo? Answer to follow..........I came across a picture of lovely actress Sharon Stone the other day--stepping out on the streets of Paris recently. As far as her aging and current looks are concerned, let me use a baseball analogy: She may no longer be a "40-40" player, but she can still hit 35 round-trippers and swipe 30 bases for any team she plays for..........If Brett Favre ever receives an endorsement deal from a cell phone manufacturer/carrier--praising a certain phone's texting capabilities--I'm giving up following sports FOREVER..........This week in sports history, January 25, 1960: Philadelphia Warriors rookie center Wilt Chamberlain enjoys a game for the ages--scoring 58 points and pulling down 42 rebounds during his team's 127-117 victory over Detroit in a game played in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The 7-footer connected on 24 field goal attempts and added ten free throws; 23 of his points came in the fourth quarter when the Warriors were able to put the game away. Chamberlain's 58-point effort was the second-highest single-game performance in league history; Lakers forward Elgin Baylor had set the record earlier that year when he scored 64 in a single game vs. Boston.........."Raven" Update: My good friend Robert "Raven" Kraft of Miami Beach, well, he just keeps on goin'. This past January 1st, this amazing individual completed his 36th consecutive year of running his daily, 8-mile route--WITHOUT ever having missed a day. Yes, folks, that's over 13,000 consecutive days covering a total of over 105,000 miles. Yeah, some accomplishments need no follow-up, editorial input. Find out more about this remarkable man--AND ongoing streak--by logging onto www.ravenrun.net ..........Answer to trivia question: MOSES MALONE (24.1 ppg) and JEFF MALONE (22.0)..........Of the following, which is more likely to be a higher number: the number of times that Celtics color man Tom Heinsohn will complain about officiating on NESN telecasts this year or the total number of recruiting violations at Texas Tech during the 2007-2009 Mike Leach era?..........And who has aged better over the past five years: Mariano Rivera or Michelle Pfeiffer?..........I'll remind my readers about a terrific, non-profit organization out there: Pitch In For Baseball. Have any "gently-used" baseball gloves, bats, helmets, catcher's mitts, etc. that may be collecting dust in a closet somewhere? Your donation will be used to introduce the game of baseball to kids around the globe; monetary funds can also help to store/ship equipment to children internationally as well as purchase new equipment. If you can help, please visit www.pitchinforbaseball.org or email my friend Angela directly at angela@pitchinforbaseball.org ..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA forward Ralph Ogden--who blows out 63 candles on January 25th. The name may not ring a bell--and for good reason: Ogden played just ONE season in the league--appearing in 32 games for the 1970-'71 San Francisco Warriors. A 6'5" forward who played his college ball at Santa Clara, Ogden didn't exactly rip up the nets during his NBA career, either. He had a total of 71 field goal attempts in his career and converted just 17 of them--thus resulting in a lifetime FG percentage of just .239. Hey--they all can't be like the aforementioned Elgin Baylor, right? Best wishes, Ralph..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of Pennsylvania high school football coaching legend Larry Bruno--who died recently at the age of 88. Bruno coached Hall of Fame QB Joe Namath at Beaver Falls High--guiding Namath and the Tigers to a 10-0 season and a WPIAL football championship in 1960. Bruno also served as head coach at Monaca High from 1949-1958; he then led Beaver Falls from 1959-1978--compiling a record of 184-52-9 as Tigers coach. A great running back at Geneva College, Bruno was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1947 but decided to concentrate on high school football coaching instead. In 1985, Bruno was chosen to present Namath at his 1985 Hall of Fame induction ceremony; Namath remarked that day, "Bruno helped me immensely in my life--it has carried over to now. I was heading in some directions that could have been wrong directions. Well, Coach Bruno helped me a heck of a lot--steered me right." Bruno is survived by a son, daughter, sister, two grandchildren, and one great-grandchild; rest in peace, "Coach."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 1/15/11

2011-01-10T23:22:00.000-05:00

O.K.--kudos to the Seattle Seahawks for a huge win last weekend vs. New Orleans--and the run by the 'Hawks Marshawn Lynch was one for the ages. But the tackling on the part of New Orleans' defense was among the worst I have ever seen in the postseason. Quite frankly, I've seen better tackling during courtroom melees..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last NBA player to lead the league in offensive rebounds FOUR years in a row? Answer to follow..........Speaking of the aforementioned Seahawks: While taping an edition of "Monday Night Sports Talk" recently, the subject of college recruiting violations came up--specifically involving Pete Carroll (current Seattle coach) while he was at USC. I asked my co-host Tony DeAngelo about Carroll and how he would describe him in a short phrase. His sarcastic answer? A "bastion of integrity.".......... If the old Goodson/Todman production "I've Got A Secret" ever makes a comeback, I think newly-appointed Maryland football coach Randy Edsall would make the IDEAL host..........Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco recently told the New York Post that his three favorite dinner guests from any historical period would be Babe Ruth, Jessica Biel, and Vince Lombardi; he also said that his Mom's home-cooked pasta is his favorite meal. And people wonder WHY I like this guy so much?..........This week in sports history, January 17, 1988: The Denver Broncos qualify for their second straight Super Bowl--defeating the Cleveland Browns 38-33 in the AFC championship game. QB John Elway connected on a 20-yard TD pass to RB Sammy Winder with 4:01 remaining to give Denver a 38-31 lead. Browns QB Bernie Kosar ultimately led his team down to the Denver 8-yard line with just over a minute left to play; RB Earnest Byner was then stripped of the ball by Denver's Jeremiah Castille as he crossed the 5-yard line after taking a handoff (with a clear path to the end zone)--securing the victory for the Broncos..........Just thinkin': Can you imagine if Notre Dame women's basketball coach Muffet McGraw married singer Jimmy Buffett--divorced--then married noted sculptor Kim Duffett? She'd be roaming the sidelines with the full married named of Muffet Buffett Duffett..........Answer to trivia question: DENNIS RODMAN--who led the league each year from 1990-1994 as a member of the Pistons and Spurs..........I know that media members have been urged over the past few years to look at race car driver Danica Patrick as being "just another one of the guys." But c'mon--when I see photos of this woman in a bikini, it's TRULY difficult to picture her being affiliated with the same sport as A.J. Foyt and Richard Petty..........O.K--here goes--one more: California physician Dr. Kathy Bak marries Singaporean photographer Ken Seet--divorces--then marries Green Bay Packers WR Donald Driver. Her full married name? Kathy Bak Seet Driver..........ITEM: Reliever Hideki Okajima re-signs with the Red Sox--a one-year deal. Put it this way: If manager Terry Francona doesn't use this guy STRICTLY to face just ONE batter in lefty-lefty situations during 2011, the Yankees automatically gain 3-4 games on Boston in the AL East standings..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA forward/center Larry Smith--who blows out 53 candles on January 18th. A native of Mississippi who played college ball at Alcorn St., Smith spent 13 seasons in the league between 1980 and 1993 as a member of the Warriors, Rockets, and Spurs. Smith made the All-Rookie team in 1981 while with Golden State; he would go on to become one of the best rebounders in the league for years--averaging 9.2 rpg for his career. Smith led the NBA in offensive rebounds during the '85-'86 season and pulled down a total of 8,125 total boards during his career. Smith is currently the head basketball coach at Alcorn State--a position he has held since 2008. Best wishes, Larry..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league pitcher Ryne Duren--who passed away last week in Florida at the age of 81. Amazingly, Duren pitched for SEVEN different teams during his 10-year big league career--pitching mostly in relief. Known for his 100-mile-per-hour fastball and occasional wildness, Duren made his mark while pitching for the Yankees from 1958-1961; he put together back-to-back ERA's of 2.02 and 1.88 in the '58 and '59 seasons respectively while giving up a combined 89 hits in over 150 innings of relief work during that two-year span. In five World Series games, Duren was 1-1 with a 2.03 ERA--striking out 19 in 13 1/3 innings. His problems with alcohol were well-documented; he later spent much of his time helping many ballplayers with their addictions. His name will live on in baseball history as former Cub standout Ryne Sandberg's plaque in Cooperstown includes this note: "Named after former Yankees pitcher Ryne Duren." May Ryne Duren rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 1-8-11

2011-01-05T00:58:00.001-05:00

Some things one columnist would like to see in 2011......

* Christie Brinkley develop an obsessive desire to date New England-based sports columnists
* Brett Favre do a cell phone commercial--demonstrating the texting capabilities of a new smartphone
* young athletes be CONSTANTLY reminded of what the word "hustle" means
* yours truly offered personal dance lessons from Paula Abdul
* Bill Belichick do a commercial for a toothpaste that brightens one's smile
* good health for baseball Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew--and ANY person battling cancer
* a "mercy rule" in women's college basketball (i.e. Georgia Tech defeats Tenn. St. 82-11 on 12/30)
* an NFL running back score a TD and IMMEDIATELY remember how Walter Payton and Barry Sanders celebrated
* a $4.00 bottle of water at Yankee Stadium sprout arms and provide a massage, also
* unlimited Kleenex handed out to teary-eyed people exiting the Metro-North platform near the old Yankee Stadium--as they pass the ruins of a once-sacred ballpark on their way to the new "shrine"
* pretzel$ sold inside Yankee Stadium in the shapes of dollar sign$
* aluminum bat advocates get a CLUE
* tattoo parlors adjacent to every NBA locker room
* ushers at Fenway Park hand out Pepcid AC tablets to all fans as soon as Hideki Okajima is summoned from the bullpen
* larger restrooms in the Yale Bowl press box--and ones that remain "in operation"
* technological advancements in "Port-O-Pottys" used at various athletic events
* an NFL replay/challenge that--time-wise--doesn't remind people of the movie "Gandhi"
* not hear ONE kid say "That's BORING!"
* Brett Favre and Andy Pettitte appear in a highly-anticipated ESPN special called "The Indecision"
* Jets coach Rex Ryan do a TV commercial for Curel Foot Therapy Cream
* officials at Glastonbury (CT) High School tear down the fairly-new press box there--and start OVER
* a nice, heated, well-designed press box at ANY CT high school football venue
* high school athletic directors become more receptive/accommodating to media members (didn't I say that LAST year?)
* Evander Holyfield FINALLY hang up the boxing gloves (didn't I say that FIVE years ago?)
* UCONN sports administrators lose the "holier than thou" attitude
* a few hundred more people each night at Connecticut Tigers baseball games
* Larry Brown go into the relocation/moving business
* Yankees play-by-play man John Sterling check his ego before every radio broadcast
* a Victoria's Secret Fashion Show to be held prior to every CT Sports Writers Alliance meeting
* a GPS system that is programmed to find ONLY Hooters Restaurants
* the Georgia football program go SIX months without having a player arrested (this may now be a moot point as I wrote this column a few days ago)
* a University of Georgia football game held at Riker's Island
* more stringent rules/penalties for idiotic parents attending youth sporting events
* Mariano Rivera PROVE that he's human
* Las Vegas oddsmakers provide an over/under date for when Urban Meyer returns to coaching at some level (I'll say 6/1/12)
* Albert Haynesworth do a commercial for fitness equipment
* Albert Haynesworth CARE once again
* Michael Vick donate HALF his salary to the Humane Society and/or ASPCA
* Rajon Rondo become just a 60% free throw shooter
* the Dallas Cowboys MATTER again
* LPGA golfer Natalie Gulbis request a tour of the TPC in Cromwell from a certain, available sports columnist
* a "Straitjacket Day"/giveaway at Citi Field in honor of frustrated N.Y. Mets fans
* the Fordham basketball program MATTER again
* Joe Paterno PROMISE not to coach past the year 2020
* a new Bowl game--called the "Yet Another" Bowl
* Heisman winner Cam Newton's Dad become an auctioneer
* a future Wes Welker born somewhere
* a future Michael Vick NOT born ANYWHERE
* the Carmen Electra 2011 wall calendar included among the media gifts given out at the Travelers Championship
* a Michael Vick voodoo doll sold at all PETCO locations
* a great-tasting, fat-free bacon cheeseburger
* less writer's block (I've said that YEARLY since doing this type of column)
* penalties called for STUPIDITY on football players playing defense who make a great hit on a runner and celebrate wildly--AFTER that offensive player has already made a FIRST DOWN on the play
* coaches to call out those SAME "all about me" dolts who celebrate wildly when their team is TRAILING 35-0
* finally, health and prosperity for readers of this column.

Happy 2011, everyone.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 12-25-10

2010-12-22T04:01:00.001-05:00

Remembering "Rapid Robert"

The numbers are staggering: 266 victories, over 3,800 innings pitched, 279 complete games, twelve one-hitters--all while missing nearly four seasons due to military service. Oh, he was also a World War II hero (gun captain on the USS Alabama), World Series champion, and an eventual baseball Hall of Famer. When I first heard about the death of legendary pitcher Bob Feller last week, I immediately thought, 'Man--there was a guy who did it ALL.' He was a cherished sports icon in Cleveland, for sure; elsewhere, he was sometimes thought of as being a bit stuffy, grumpy, and a bit full of himself. One thing was never debated, though: the man could flat-out PITCH like few others EVER have.

I look back on Feller's 1946 season with Cleveland and just say 'Wow.' People were wondering before Feller's first start that year if the guy could ever be a dominant starting pitcher again. Yes, he HAD pitched effectively in nine games after returning from the service in 1945, but the question still remained: Could he ever shake off the extended military-stay "rust" and be a 20-25 game winner once again? Feller's answer: 26 wins, 36 complete games, 371 innings (you read that correctly) and 348 strikeouts. Yes, Bob Feller never DID have a problem answering critics throughout his lifetime. And when he spoke, he made SURE he was heard.

I met Bob Feller for the only time back in 1980 at a West Haven Whitecaps (Eastern League) game; he was there during a promotional tour--available to sign autographs for the first few innings. I was in college at the time and was keenly aware of the man's legendary status--mostly due to my Dad having always told me that Feller and Sandy Koufax were the best pitchers he'd ever seen (ironically, my Dad knew the woman who'd later become Feller's second wife--Anne Gilliland--and carried her books to school on occasion as a youth). I just HAD to get a ball signed by him that evening; it's not often that you're in the company of true baseball royalty. I had also known that Mr. Feller could be a bit stand-offish and gruff; how would he react when I reached the front of the line? Should I say something? What would I say? When I finally handed him the ball to be signed, I recall nervously saying, "Mr. Feller, it's an honor to meet you--and my father STILL says you're the best pitcher he's ever seen." I remember him replying something like, "Thank you, kid--was your father a Cleveland fan?" I think I was too nervous to answer at that point and my friend, Bob--who accompanied me to the game--proceeded to engage in some small talk with the legend. It didn't take long for Feller to realize that we were true baseball fanatics as my friend and I proceeded to start reeling off some famous Indians over the years. Then, while exchanging handshakes, our jaws nearly dropped when Feller said, "When I'm done here, boys, I'll come look for you in the stands and we'll talk more baseball." I didn't fall down/pass out at the time--but I came close. Would baseball Hall of Famer Bob Feller REALLY seek us out and spend some time with US? I had my doubts as we returned to our usual, behind-the plate bench seats.

Two innings later--almost inconspicuously--Feller and an aide entered the ballpark seating area; we waved at him and he simply pointed back at us. Without hesitation, he walked up the stairs and took a seat next to us; yeah, the game suddenly became secondary. I kept thinking/wondering: So THIS is the ornery, uncooperative man with the questionable personality? I didn't see it--not THAT night. I recall us talking about some modern-day players, how the game has changed over the years, then finally asking him who was the toughest hitter he ever faced. He replied, "Ted Williams was the best hitter--but DiMaggio and Tommy Henrich always gave me more trouble." After another few minutes of stimulating conversation among 'the three Bobs' (he also talked about his military record--which he took great pride in), Feller excused himself--lamenting, "Well, guys, I have a flight to catch--a pleasure meeting you." The autographed ball is still displayed in my bedroom; I gaze at it from time to time and remember that special conversation from 30 years ago. Yeah--I always smile.

My Monday Night Sports Talk co-host Tony DeAngelo on Feller: "I had to laugh when he (Feller) went to the Baseball Encyclopedia once and asked them to put In the Service of our Country next to the names of players who missed time during the war; they told him it would be an 'inconvenience' to do so. Feller then remarked 'Inconvenience? What do you think it was for me getting bombed and shot at on an aircraft carrier every day?' And this came from a man who did his running and throwing on the boat between attacks. Yes--what an inspiration for those who will choose to listen."

Yeah, I guess there was only ONE Bob Feller--"Bullet Bob" back in the day. Again, many fans/colleagues didn't care for the man due to his disdain for the modern-day player (he consider them spoiled--and hadn't earned what they reaped); they also considered Feller egotistical--on the verge of being boisterous. Yes, perhaps it came down to which Bob Feller you met on a particular day. I'm just glad I was able to meet the Bob Feller who simply enjoyed talking baseball with two "pie-eyed" young men on a summer evening a few decades ago. I'll prefer to remember him in a positive way the rest of my life, too.

Rest in peace, "Rapid Robert."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 12-18-10

2010-12-14T23:52:00.000-05:00

Gotta love WFAN's Steve Somers--who recently called the disappointing 2010 Dallas Cowboys squad the "Arlington Afterthoughts"..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1995-'96 Minnesota Timberwolves--who finished a disappointing 26-56 under coaches Bill Blair and Flip Saunders--were led in scoring by a player who was a member of five different teams over his nine-year career. Can you name this individual? Answer to follow..........ITEM: Former NFL lineman Keith McCants is arrested AGAIN--this time for crack cocaine possession outside an exotic dance club in Florida; it was his SIXTH drug-related arrest since 2008. The ironic part of this latest bust has to do with the name of the establishment where this low-life criminal had been hanging out that evening just prior to his arrest: "Tina's House of Angels"..........In my next lifetime, I DO NOT want to be in the same foxhole with Washington Redskins defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth..........This week in sports history, December 20, 1979: The Philadelphia Flyers extend their unbeaten streak to an NHL record-tying 28 games; they get a third period power play goal from Behn Wilson that results in a 1-1 tie with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Over 17,000 fans at the Philadelphia Spectrum saw Wilson put the puck past Penguins goalie Greg Millen with 4:08 remaining. The tie allowed the Flyers to match the 28-game unbeaten streak put together by the 1977-'78 Montreal Canadiens.........If you're putting together a new football team and you want guys on your squad who play the game the way it's SUPPOSED to be played, can you go wrong by picking New England's Wes Welker on offense and Pittsburgh's Troy Polamalu on defense?..........I've been hearing all year long from some fellow NFL fans that sooner or later the "roof would cave in" on the Vikings season--due to Brett Favre's advancing age, etc. And YES--last weekend it caved in LITERALLY..........If Joe Paterno had aged HALF as well as actress Teri Hatcher, then Penn State would be playing for a national championship in a few weeks; just sayin'..........The insanity continues: I see that pitcher George Sherrill recently agreed to a $1.2 million contract with the Atlanta Braves; in 65 games last year with the Dodgers, Sherrill pitched to an ERA of 6.69. Yes--in my next lifetime, I DO want to come back as a below-average, left-handed relief pitcher..........Great stuff from color guy Dan Dierdorf during last weekend's Steelers/Bengals game. He pointed out that Cincinnati LB Dhani Jones was recently asked how is he still able to play so hard for a team that's now 2-11. Jones simply answered, "Because my mother and father are watching." Yes, pride STILL matters to some..........Answer to trivia question: ISAIAH "J.R." RIDER--who averaged 19.6 ppg while appearing in 75 games..........ITEM: Former MLB player Gary Sheffield has partnered with a New York lawyer and plans to advise clients in the player representation business. Yeah, JUST the kind of guy I'd want overseeing MY career--surly, confrontational, linked to steroids, and uncooperative. Sheesh--what's this world comin' to, folks?..........I'd love to see Debra Grand--a VP at the Bank of America--hook up with PGA golfer Fred Funk. If they ever tied the knot, fans of a great American band would surely delight in her full married name of Debra Grand Funk..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Paul Swingle--who blows out 44 candles on December 21st. The most avid baseball aficionado out there may not be familiar with this native of Inglewood, CA--who attended Grand Canyon University. Swingle played just ONE season in the majors--1993 with the California Angels. In just nine career appearances (all in relief), Swingle pitched a total of 9 2/3 innings, gave up 15 hits, and allowed nine earned runs--thus rendering him a lifetime ERA of 8.38. Hey--they ALL can't be Nolan Ryan, right? Best wishes and happy holidays, Paul..........Finally, condolences go out the family of a special man who passed away recently--Frank Pergola of Ansonia, CT. Frank was a member of the Silver Sluggers Baseball Club--a close-knit group of individuals who meet weekly down in southern CT during the baseball season to discuss the happenings in major league baseball. Frank was a long-time friend to my father; whenever I'd see Frank at the weekly meetings, he'd kindly shake my hand and ALWAYS ask how my Dad was doing. Frank was simply a soft-spoken individual with a smile that could truly light up a room. I've met bigger BASEBALL FANS in my life than Mr. Pergola, but few nicer PEOPLE; he'll truly be missed. May you rest in peace, Frank Pergola.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 12-11-10

2010-12-08T00:45:00.000-05:00

I was very saddened to hear about the passing of former Chicago Cubs third baseman/broadcaster Ron Santo--who died recently from complications of bladder cancer at the age of 70. Santo was a man whose loyalty to the Chicago organization was still very apparent long after his playing days were over; and yes, he is definitely worthy of Hall of Fame induction. I talked to his former teammate Carmen Fanzone--who offered these words the day after Santo's death: "I'm just proud to have been a teammate of such a great man. He had a wonderful career, and I can only imagine the kind of pain he was in before his passing. It's a very sad time for me." Yes, Mr. Santo will be missed greatly by the entire baseball community--whether you are a Cubs fan or not; thanks for the memories, Ron.........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1993 Washington Redskins--who finished 4-12 under coach Richie Petitbon--were led in rushing by a back who played a total of just 40 NFL games. Can you name this individual? Answer to follow..........My "Monday Night Sports Talk" co-host Tony DeAngelo recently put into perspective what kind of pitiful shape this country is in by using a baseball reference. Seeing that about 20,000,000 individuals are unemployed at this juncture (a conservative estimate), Tony pointed out that this amount of people would fill the equivalent of 400 Yankee Stadiums at FULL capacity. Wow..........This week in sports history, December 14, 1988: Following 17 consecutive losses, the expansion Miami Heat win their first game ever--defeating the Los Angeles Clippers 89-88 in a game played at the Los Angeles Sports Arena. A jump shot by the Clippers' Ken Norman fell short with just two seconds remaining--giving the Heat this historic victory. Miami was led in scoring by Pat Cummings, Grant Long, and Billy Thompson--with each of them tallying 15 points. The 17 losses to begin a season was an NBA record--although the Cleveland Cavaliers (during the 1980's) and Philadelphia 76ers (70's) had lost more consecutive games in the past..........Shame on Glastonbury (CT) High School due to the continued, horrific media accommodations there; I was present at the recent Staples/Glastonbury quarter-final football game. First of all, although it's fairly new, the press box is TINY--with seating for approximately 5-6 people (you read that correctly--even at a PLAYOFF game, folks). Second, there is a partition in the middle of the box--making it impossible to see both end zones and the scoreboard if you're lucky to even HAVE a seat. Finally, when the wall heater is turned on, the place (due to its miniscule size) turns RIDICULOUSLY warm; my colleague Tom Yantz of the Hartford Courant called it "an oven". Question: Do you think the person/people who designed this box may have flunked out of engineering school?..........Answer to trivia question: REGGIE BROOKS--who rushed for 1,063 yards (which was more than half of his career total of 1,726)..........ITEM: The Cincinnati Bearcat mascot is cited for disorderly conduct after a snowball-throwing incident last Saturday afternoon during a game vs. Pittsburgh; the mascot was told to stop throwing snowballs in the stands and then proceeded to push a security guard. Doing some research on bearcats, I found out that they CAN be vicious--but are also nocturnal. If that's the case, WHY was that bearcat even AWAKE around 2:00 that afternoon?..........I'll go out on a limb and say that Derek Jeter will NOT follow the same path of former NBA-er Latrell Sprewell--and WILL be able to live on the $15-20 million per year that he'll now be earning..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Jon Perlman--who blows out 54 candles on December 13th. Perlman has the distinction of having played for three different teams in his three big league seasons; he pitched for the Cubs, Giants, and Indians between 1985 and 1988. Perhaps the reason he isn't familiar to most fans out there is that he appeared in a career total of just 26 games--all in relief. In 39 2/3 career innings, Perlman walked 23 batters and gave up 28 earned runs--rendering him with a lifetime ERA of 6.35. Not pretty, I understand, but he can always tell his grandchildren that he was a teammate of Hall of Famers Dennis Eckersley and Ryne Sandberg while in Chicago, right? Best wishes, Jon..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major leaguer Gil McDougald--who passed away recently in New Jersey of cancer at the age of 82. A native of San Francisco, Gil was the AL's Rookie of the Year in 1951 while playing for the Yankees--a team he spent his entire career with from 1951-1960. A member of five world championship teams, he was a five-time All-Star while being a very versatile infielder--having seen playing time at second base, shortstop, and third base. McDougald later coached baseball at my alma mater--Fordham University--from 1970-1976; he recorded two 20-win seasons and five winning seasons during his seven-year tenure there. He is survived by his wife, Lucille, seven children, and 14 grandchildren; may Gil McDougald rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 12-4-10

2010-12-01T01:22:00.000-05:00

ITEM: University of New Mexico football player Julion Conley spends Thanksgiving behind bars and faces criminal charges after he was accused of beating up bouncers at a local nightclub in Albuquerque. Question: Doesn't this guy know that you're supposed to EAT stuffing at Thanksgiving--and not BEAT it out of individuals???..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1992 Philadelphia Eagles--who finished 11-5 under coach Rich Kotite--had three players on the team who rushed for more than 500 yards apiece. How many of these players can you name? Answer to follow..........Oh, regarding the Albuquerque bouncers mentioned above--my friend Mitzi makes a good point: "If the bouncers at that establishment were beaten up, could they perhaps be in the WRONG line of work?" Can't disagree, Mitzi!..........If Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre had aged HALF as well as actress Jane Krakowski, his team would be a few games over .500 right now and coach Brad Childress would still have a job..........This week in sports history, December 7, 1968: Niagara guard Calvin Murphy sets an NCAA single-game scoring record (vs. Division I competition)--tallying 68 points during his team's 118-110 victory over Syracuse. Murphy made 24 field goals and added 20 free throws while scoring 34 points in each half. The junior guard's heroics broke the previous record of 66 points set by Washington & Lee's Jay Handlan vs. Furman back in 1951..........Sure, I enjoy watching Division III basketball--as I attend most of the Eastern CT St. University (both men AND women's) home games. What makes it even MORE enjoyable is that songs like Mountain's "Mississippi Queen" and the Allman Brothers "Midnight Rider" are played over the P.A. system during timeouts. Yeah, my kinda music--even though I'm surrounded by co-eds that are still wet behind the ears.........I used to think that a Roger Federer backhand was a pure thing of beauty; that all changed when I saw a recent preview of the upcoming Carmen Electra 2011 wall calendar. My goodness.........If anyone out there can tell me what former Heisman Trophy winners Jason White, Eric Crouch, and Danny Wuerffel are up to these days, then you have WAY too much time on your hands..........Answer to trivia question: HERSCHEL WALKER (1,070), HEATH SHERMAN (583), and RANDALL CUNNINGHAM (549)..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played last week, Northern Illinois destroyed Eastern Michigan 71-3; NIU accumulated 642 yards of total offense, scored TEN touchdowns, and held EMU to a total of just ELEVEN (11) yards passing. Yes, I definitely thought it was ugly--that is, until I saw the uniforms that the Oregon football team was wearing later that day during an impressive victory over Arizona..........Speaking of ugly, you soon may be able to look up that word in the dictionary and be directed to "see Manhattanville women's basketball team performance vs. Eastern CT on 11/27/10." Get this: The Valiants had a team total of just TWO assists in the entire first half and shot 12-53 from the field (23%) during this 'laugher'--including 2-for-13 from 3-pt. range (15%). In addition, the Manhattanville team probably threw up about a dozen "air balls" during this 67-36 shellacking. Yeah, I give the Eastern CT defense SOME credit in this game--but I still say that this qualifies as flat-out ugly--if not totally GROTESQUE..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA player Herman "Skeeter" Henry--who blows out 43 candles on December 8th. A native of Dallas who played his college ball at Oklahoma, Henry played just ONE season in the league--1993-'94 with the Phoenix Suns. Appearing in four games that season, Henry scored a total of just FOUR points--making it very easy to figure out his lifetime scoring average of 1.0 ppg. Hey, they ALL can't be Connie Hawkins, right? Henry also played in the CBA and overseas during his professional playing days; best wishes, "Skeeter"..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Nebraska assistant football coach Dan Young--who died recently in Lincoln at the age of 69; he had been diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer this past July. Before retiring following the Cornhuskers' 2002 season, Young spent two decades on Nebraska's coaching staff--including 17 as the team's co-offensive line coach; during his tenure, NU won a total of ten NCAA rushing titles. Young was very instrumental in Nebraska's three national championships in four years during the 1990's--often working with kickers and punters, too. He is survived by his fiance, Cathy, two children, as well as five grandchildren; may Coach Young rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11-27-10

2010-11-23T23:38:00.000-05:00

I used to think that the NASCAR racetrack in Sonoma, CA had a lot of curves--that is until I saw a recent picture of actress Sharon Stone decked out in a red dress at the Mr. Chow restaurant in Beverly Hills..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The lowly 1990-'91 Dallas Mavericks--who finished just 28-54 under coach Richie Adubato--had two guards on the squad who were the team's top scorers. Can you name this talented duo? Answer to follow..........Still think that the economics of college sports hasn't gotten out of control? Michigan State recently gave basketball coach Tom Izzo a $500,000 annual RAISE--increasing his yearly compensation to approximately $3.5 million. When you consider the fact that his RAISE (not salary) is about TEN times more than an average elementary teacher's yearly pay, there's something AWFULLY wrong with our society's priorities, folks..........This week in sports history, November 30, 1974: A capacity crowd at the Los Angeles Coliseum sees the USC football team score a remarkable total of 49 second-half points en route to a 55-24 victory over the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. Notre Dame actually led the game by a score of 24-0 with a minute left to play in the first half. However, Anthony Davis--the talented Trojans RB--would go on to score four TD's while QB Pat Haden threw four touchdown passes during this amazing comeback victory. Notre Dame's defense had come into the game ranked #1 nationally--allowing only nine touchdowns in its previous ten games..........ITEM: Calgary Flames forward Brett Sutter is briefly tossed in jail after punching a man outside a bar in Scottsdale, AZ. The good news? Penalty boxes will no longer seem so intimidating to Sutter for the remainder of his NHL career..........O.K.--here goes: University of Maryland faculty researcher Heather Fogg marries former major leaguer Sam Horn, divorces, marries former Brown hockey standout Chris Legg--divorces again--then marries former NFL wide receiver Joe Horn. Fans of the old "Looney Tunes" cartoons would surely delight in her full married name of Heather Fogg Horn Legg Horn..........ITEM: San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker and lovely actress Eva Longoria plan to divorce after it was discovered that Parker had been exchanging very personal text messages with a female friend. My first thought? What should Parker do first--have his priorities examined, have his eyesight examined, or have his HEAD examined?.......... Answer to trivia question: ROLANDO BLACKMAN (19.9 ppg) and DEREK HARPER (19.7)..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played here in the East last weekend, Alfred annihilated NY Maritime 60-0; Alfred scored touchdowns on four of its first five drives and held a 29-0 lead at the end of the first quarter. I'll go out on a limb and say that NO member of the current NY Maritime squad will EVER name any future son "Alfred" or "Al" for fear of having some VERY bad flashbacks/memories in the future ..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA guard Dan Tieman--who blows out 70 candles on November 30th. If the name doesn't ring a bell, it may be due to the fact that Tieman (who attended Thomas More College) played just ONE year in the NBA as a member of the Cincinnati Royals during the 1962-1963 season. His stats weren't pretty, either; Tieman shot 15-for-57 from the field (26%) that year and just 4-for-10 (40%) from the free throw line. Yes, all told, Tom Tieman goes into the NBA record books having scored 34 points in 29 career games--for an average of 1.2 ppg. Hey, they all can't be Oscar Robertson, right? Later in life, Tieman taught and coached at Covington Catholic High School--of which he was a graduate. Best wishes, Tom..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NHL player Gaye Stewart--who passed away recently in Ontario at the age of 87. Stewart played nine seasons in the league between 1942 and 1953 (he also served in the Canadian Navy during that time period) and was a member of two Stanley Cup champion squads while with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He won the league's Calder Cup as Rookie of the Year in 1942-'43 and later led the NHL in goals scored with Toronto during the '45-'46 campaign. Stewart also played with Chicago, Detroit, New York, and Montreal before his playing days were over. Gaye Stewart scored 185 goals during his NHL career and assisted on 159 others for a total of 344 points; may he rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11-20-10

2010-11-16T21:21:00.003-05:00

SO LONG, JOE......

Yes, a very special man quietly passed away last weekend--Joe LeMay, Sr. of Ansonia (CT); he died of lung cancer at the age of 78. The name may not be familiar to the average sports fan/loyal reader out there, but he was a man whose positive presence/deeds surely influenced me during my earlier years. He was a neighbor, friend, loyal husband, and a devoted father of five--not to mention a very hard-working, blue-collar individual. Oh, yeah--he was an avid sportsman, too--just one of the many reasons why I liked the guy so much. If I had to describe Mr. LeMay to a stranger, I'd definitely say that he was the "salt-of-the-earth"-type--for sure.

After moving to his neighborhood with my family when I was approximately 11-years-old, Joe went out of his way to make us all feel welcomed; I soon became very close friends with his children and spent a good part of my teenage years being in and around the LeMay household. Joe was an avid sports fan who was a big supporter of the NY Yankees. There were countless times on hot summer evenings when I'd go next door to hang out with his sons in the cool basement of their three-floor dwelling; I could always count on hearing the WPIX telecast--along with the resounding voice of Phil Rizzuto--on the living room television directly above us. And I remember him often butting heads in a playful manner with Al--his youngest son who was an avid fan of the AL East rival Tigers; it was all in fun and Mr. LeMay usually ended their short but fiery debates by kindly complimenting a Detroit player. Joe LeMay was like that--a selfless, pleasant man. I don't recall the man ever becoming angry; I'm sure he did at times, but he never demonstrated any sense of ire while the young, admiring kid from next-door was visiting. Thanks for that, Mr. L.

I also remember Joe being SO supportive of us neighborhood kids' sporting endeavors. We'd use his backyard to play wiffle ball nightly during the summer; he'd always make sure the grass was cut or the swimming pool was skimmed well-before we'd be ready to "take the field." In fact, he KNEW we'd be planning a game each night after dinner and arranged his yard work around OUR schedule in order for us to play until darkness set in. Yes, he was a conscientious man--like few others I've met. Once his manicuring deeds had been completed, Mr. LeMay often became a spectator--sometimes yelling, "Good hit!" as he'd watch the action from the patio area while smoking his pipe and perhaps enjoying a cold beverage. Yeah, "LeMay Stadium" we called it--complete with an outfield fence with rocks as bases. It may have been just a backyard to some, but it was surely a 'home field' to many of us--all due to the efforts of "Head Groundskeeper Joe."

Looking back, Mr. LeMay followed all of the major sports--but he just LOVED to go fishing. In fact, I remember Joe taking me on one of my very first fishing "expeditions" as a young teen--angling off the banks of the Housatonic River one evening during the 70's shortly after fishing season had commenced. I remember being in awe about how much the man knew about rods, reels, hooks, lures, etc. Yes, a fishing pole in Joe LeMay's hands was almost like Rod Carew swinging a baseball bat--it was natural. I recall Mr. LeMay snagging a perch on his line that evening and allowing me to reel it in--remarking, "You got one!!" And he was so devoted to his craft, too; he'd sometimes fish in the early AM--long before any family members had even risen for the day. I surmise that fishing was Mr. LeMay's main source of "down-time" and his way of relaxing; honestly, I truly don't remember the man being all-that-comfortable just sitting around the house back in those days. He'd often be tinkering and doing various home improvement chores; he was a great "handyman"--always busy--but he'd always be sure to take time out to say "hello" to me and ask how my folks were doing if he hadn't seen them in awhile. Again, selfless AND likeable--THAT was Joe LeMay.

Some more fond memories of Mr. Joe LeMay:
*him telling us to "Be Careful!" as we'd play touch football in the road in front of his house
*calling his sons from afar when it was dinnertime as we played tackle football in the snow a few houses away
*grilling "steamers" or a recent "catch" during a backyard barbeque
*perhaps sharing some of that same "catch" with the family cat, Chester
*tossing the keys to his '66 Barracuda to his son, Joe Jr.--kindly allowing a carload of us kids to grab a burger at Hardee's following a long day of sports activities during the summer

I last saw Mr. LeMay at a memorial service for my Mom--following her death three years ago. He had aged somewhat since our last meeting and exhibited a noticeably-slower gait as he paid his respects to his former neighbor. I simply smiled as we shook hands and hugged--bathing myself in some of the aforementioned memories in order to provide some needed comfort; yeah, it worked, too.

My sincere condolences to his wife, Kathy, and the entire LeMay family regarding the passing of a wonderful man. He was simply your "regular Joe"--and just happened to possess the name to go with it. I'll miss your kindness, Mr. LeMay; thanks for being such a positive presence during those formative years. May you rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11-13-10

2010-11-09T23:24:00.000-05:00

How 'bout center Brook Lopez of the New Jersey Nets--who missed his first THIRTEEN shots vs. the Orlando Magic in a game last week? I am now convinced that if Lopez had gone sky-diving prior to the game, he would have jumped out of a plane and totally missed the GROUND..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1996-'97 Portland Trail Blazers--who finished 49-33 under coach P.J. Carlesimo--were led in scoring by a player who was a member of NINE different teams over the course of his 14-year NBA career. Can you name this individual? Answer to follow..........While in the supermarket the other day, I came across of package of Johnsonville "Brats" in the meat section. Can someone tell me why I IMMEDIATELY thought of John Madden?..........Just Thinking Out Loud--Question #1: Of the following, which/who is the most unstable: Lady Gaga, the U.S. dollar, Randy Moss, or Isiah Thomas' entire thought process?..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played last weekend in New Jersey, Rowan demolished Western Connecticut 57-0. Just HOW ineffective was the WCU offense in this game? The team rushed 32 times for a total of EIGHTEEN yards--or an average of 0.6 yards per carry. I haven't seen anything THAT ugly since the first pair of Crocs came off the assembly line back in 2002.........This week in sports history, November 16, 1968: Playing on a wet field, Michigan running back Ron Johnson sets a major college rushing record--tallying 347 yards as the Wolverines defeat Wisconsin 34-9. On Michigan's second play from scrimmage, Johnson scampered 35 yards for a touchdown; he would run for four more TD's on this record-setting day--the last one coming from 49 yards out just 20 seconds into the fourth quarter. Johnson's 347-yard effort broke the previous NCAA record of 340 set just six weeks earlier by Eugene "Mercury" Morris of West Texas State..........Answer to trivia question: Guard KENNY ANDERSON--who averaged 17.5 points per game (he also led the team in assists that season with an average of 7.1 apg)..........I'd love to see ex-professional tennis players Ann White and Andrew Castle hook up. If they ever tied the knot, fans of small, square hamburgers would truly delight in her full married name of Ann White Castle..........Yes--how soon we forget: Reader Dan Santoro of Florida points out to me that the 1981 Cincinnati Reds had baseball's BEST overall record during the strike-shortened season--but did NOT make it to the postseason due to the modified playoff scenario that year. Santoro also told me that he's STILL angry at former Reds GM Bob Howsam to this day for trading his favorite player, Tony Perez, following the 1976 season. Love your passion, Dan, but PLEASE let it go in the best interest of your overall cardiac health, O.K.?.........Just Thinking Out Loud--Question #2: Of the following, which/who ages the best: Chateau Margaux wine, Mariano Rivera, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, or actress Denise Richards?.........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA center/forward Wayne Cooper--who blows out 54 candles on November 16th. A native of Georgia, Cooper was the Sun Belt Conference's Player of the Year in 1977-'78 while playing at New Orleans; he was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in the 2nd round of the '78 NBA draft. Cooper went on to play 14 NBA seasons for five different teams--playing in a total of 984 games. Wayne's best season came in '85-'86 as a member of the Denver Nuggets--a year in which he averaged 13.1 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Best wishes, Wayne..........There's been so much written about the passing of George "Sparky" Anderson (and deservedly so) over the past week--one of the great managers of our time and a true Hall of Famer. I remember back in 1976--shortly after receiving my driver's license--making the trip out to Cincinnati to visit some relatives and also see "The Big Red Machine" play the Montreal Expos. I had always been fascinated by the manager with the premature gray hair--yes, small in stature but such a huge presence in any dugout. I'll always feel fortunate to have seen that '76 squad play in person--a team that would go on to win 102 games in the regular season and sweep the postseason en route to another world championship. "Captain Hook" was the guiding force; eight years later he'd win even MORE games in a DIFFERENT league while capturing another championship with Detroit. Bottom line? Whenever you'd hear Sparky Anderson speak about baseball, you just KNEW he was a man who was as passionate about the game as any individual who ever graced a clubhouse. The man simply leaves a wonderful baseball legacy; rest in peace, Sparky Anderson.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11-6-10

2010-11-01T21:43:00.001-04:00

*Terrific cause: The Yale women's hockey team is dedicating next Friday night's game (November 12th vs. RPI) to Mandi Schwartz--who continues her courageous battle vs. cancer. The "White Out for Mandi"--with everyone wearing white--will be used as a fundraiser; no admission will be charged (donations WILL be accepted at the door) as pledges from various donors have been secured based on the attendance total at the Ingalls Rink that evening. The event will also help raise awareness about the need for bone marrow/umbilical cord donors. Mandi is currently in Seattle recovering from a stem cell transplant after battling leukemia for the past couple of years. More info regarding this special event can be obtained by contacting Sam Rubin of the Yale sports publicity staff at (203)432-1456 or by emailing him at sam.rubin@yale.edu ..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1984 Tampa Bay Buccaneers--who finished 6-10 under coach John McKay--were led in rushing yards by a running back who also led the league in rushing attempts. Can you name this former player? Answer to follow..........Now here's a score for you from last weekend's college football action: Gettysburg 61, Susquehanna 50. Yes, the 111 combined points in this shootout was a Centennial Conference record as the two teams combined to rack up a ridiculous total of 1,162 yards. My first thought was simply that I wouldn't expect these teams' defensive coordinators to be in line for any head coaching gig in the very near future. Upon further thought, let me amend that; they BOTH may end up being head coaches soon--yes, in the Suburban Youth Football League in Pennsylvania--if their defensive units don't improve REAL soon..........I used to think that watching Wayne Gretzky skate up and down the ice was a pure thing of beauty. That all changed last weekend when I saw a picture of the stunning dress that actress Eva Mendes was wearing at a Directors Guild of America gala out in Los Angeles..........This week in sports history, November 9, 1946: In a battle between two of college football's offensive powers, #1-ranked Army and #2-ranked Notre Dame play to a surprising 0-0 tie before a capacity crowd at Yankee Stadium. Army (7-0) had come into the game having won 25 games in a row while outscoring its opponents 208-55 so far in the '46 season; Notre Dame had outscored its opposition 177-18 in its five games. The talented Army running back tandem of Glenn Davis and Doc Blanchard was held to just 80 yards rushing while Irish quarterback Johnny Lujack was able to complete just six passes during the hard-fought defensive standoff..........Great quote last weekend by WFAN Radio's Richard Neer while talking about N.Y. Giants punter Matt Dodge: "Like Angelina Jolie, he's got a good leg on him."..........Congratulations go out to my good friend Robert "Raven" Kraft of Miami Beach--who has been named a 2010 semifinalist for the Energizer Keep Going Hall of Fame due to his "perseverance, determination, and unstoppable spirit." "Raven" has now completed his 8-mile daily beach run for over 13,000 consecutive days (dating back to New Year's Day of 1975)--covering a distance of more than 104,000 miles. The Energizer Keep Going Hall of Fame was created in 2006 to recognize unsung heroes who inspire others with their motivation and perseverance. Keep it going, "Raven"; more info on this dedicated man and his unfathomable streak can obtained by logging onto www.ravenrun.net ..........Answer to trivia question: JAMES WILDER--who carried the ball a league-leading 407 times for a total of 1,544 yards..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA guard Anthony Bowie--who blows out 47 candles on November 9th. A native of Tulsa who played at Oklahoma, Bowie spent eight years in the league between 1988 and 1998; he also spent time playing overseas. While in the NBA, Bowie played with the Spurs, Rockets, Magic, and Knicks; he played in a total of 461 games and was a career 82% free-throw shooter. His best individual season came with Orlando in '91-'92--a year when he started 26 games while averaging 14.6 points per contest. Bowie later became a high school coach in Orlando, FL; best wishes, Anthony..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Vanderbilt basketball coach Roy Skinner--who passed away recently in Nashville of respiratory failure; he was 80. The winningest coach in school history, Skinner compiled a mark of 278-135 as coach of the Commodores; he was a four-time SEC coach of the year. His 1965 team won the school's first SEC title while advancing to the Elite Eight of the NCAA tournament. Skinner was always proud of his home record as his teams went 181-41 at their home gym--the Memorial Coliseum. Skinner also made a name for himself by recruiting Perry Wallace--the league's first African-American scholarship player--who broke the SEC's color barrier back in 1967. May Coach Skinner rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10-30-10

2010-10-26T23:37:00.005-04:00

I used to think that watching Rod Carew lay down a bunt was a pure thing of beauty--that is, until I saw a recent photo of actress Anna Kendrick in a form-fitting dress at Elle Magazine's annual 'Women in Hollywood' tribute..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The lowly 1995-'96 Milwaukee Bucks--who finished 25-57 under coach Mike Dunleavy--DID have two players on the squad who averaged more than 20 points-per-game apiece. Can you name this pair of forwards? Answer to follow..........Yale football broadcaster Ron Vaccaro--using a baseball reference last weekend to describe a short run by Penn running back Michael DiMaggio: "DiMaggio 'jolts' forward for a few yards!"..........Following last week's 50-14 victory over Rocky Hill, I had the pleasure of walking to the team bus with Berlin High's All-State running back Max DeLorenzo--who had just rushed for 200 yards. A senior who's heading to UCONN next year, I was just as impressed with this kid's manners as I was with his spectacular performance. He constantly referred to me as "sir", thanked me for covering his game, and was amazingly modest when I simply recognized his stellar on-the-field efforts. Yes--considering recent events--he'll be a great addition to a college program that can surely USE a little more class on the gridiron..........*Mandi Schwartz Update: The Yale women's hockey player recently spent six days in intensive care out in Seattle due to complications from stem-cell transplant surgery. However, recent engraftment test results now indicate that the transplanted stem cells have begun to grow in her bone marrow and manufacture new blood/immune cells--which puts her in a better position to fight off any potential infection. Continued thanks go out to Sam Rubin of Yale's publicity staff for keeping me updated on this brave gal's condition. More info on Mandi's situation can be obtained by visiting www.yalebulldogs.com/mandi; keep fighting with your chin up, Mandi..........This week in sports history, November 2, 1990: In a game played at Denver's McNichols Arena, the Golden State Warriors defeat the Denver Nuggets 162-158--setting an NBA record for combined points in a regulation game. The Warriors led this high-scoring affair 87-83 at halftime; the 320 combined points surpassed the previous record mark of 318 set in 1984--when Denver outscored San Antonio 163-155. Chris Mullin was the high scorer for Golden State--tallying 38 points--while teammate Tim Hardaway chipped in with 32 points along with an impressive 18 assists..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played in the midwest last weekend, Sioux Falls defeated Dakota Wesleyan 63-3; DWU actually LED this game 3-0 at one point before Sioux Falls reeled off NINE consecutive touchdowns. My first thought was that this chain of events surely gives birth to a whole new expression: "He who scores FIRST, laughs LAST"..........Congratulations go out to Penn football coach Al Bagnoli (an East Haven High (CT) graduate)--who recently broke the record for all-time coaching wins at the Ivy League school. Folks, this is a record that stood for 109 years (you read that correctly)--going back to when George Woodruff won 124 games between 1892 and 1901; Bagnoli now has 127 victories. The Penn football publicity staff included this milestone in pre-game press notes given to media members before last week's Yale game--and also pointed out the following: Just HOW long has it been since the last time a Penn head coach set an all-time wins record? 1) Franklin Field had not yet been built 2) There were 44 U.S. states--and 3) Grover Cleveland was U.S. President. Yes-- WOW..........Answer to trivia question: VIN BAKER (21.1) and GLENN ROBINSON (20.2)..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league outfielder Larry Herndon--who blows out 57 candles on November 3rd. A native of Sunflower, MS, Herndon played 14 seasons in the "bigs" between 1974 and 1988 as a member of the Cardinals, Giants, and Tigers; he was a .274 lifetime hitter--appearing in 1,537 games. Herndon's best years undoubtedly came while in Detroit; in 1983, he drove in 92 runs while batting at an impressive .302 clip. The following season, Herndon helped the Tigers to a championship as he batted .333 (5-for-15) in the World Series vs. San Diego. Best wishes for many more birthdays to come, Larry..........Finally, condolences go out to former high school/college football coach Dick Corbin--who died recently as a result of a two-vehicle auto accident in Massachusetts; he was 71. Corbin was famous for developing Milford (MA) High School into a football power; during his eleven years at Milford, Corbin's teams went 72-25-1--dominating the Midland League. While there, Corbin coached football Hall of Famer Howie Long--who referenced Corbin's efforts during his induction speech ten years ago. Following his tenure at Milford, Corbin worked as a line coach at Harvard for 15 years and later served as athletic director at Griswold Junior-Senior High here in Connecticut. Rest in peace, "Coach."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10-23-10

2010-10-20T01:04:00.000-04:00

Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played last week out in Missouri, Lindenwood annihilated Culver-Stockton 90-19; the winning squad scored on 13 of 16 possessions (including eight rushing TD's), had 721 yards of total offense, and led by a score of 48-3 at HALFTIME. Sheesh--and I used to think that the Liz Taylor/Larry Fortensky relationship was a mismatch..........TRIVIA QUESTION: During the 1982 World Series (won by St. Louis in seven games vs. the Milwaukee Brewers), three Cardinals players tallied nine hits apiece. Can you name this trio? Answer to follow..........ITEM: Georgia RB Caleb King is arrested for failing to appear in court--making him the ELEVENTH Bulldogs player arrested in 2010. I am now totally convinced--as long as Mark Richt remains head coach--that this will be the first college football program in history to soon employ a team bail bondsman--and have that person be considered an INTEGRAL part of the athletic staff..........Anyone out there catch the recent photo of Christie Brinkley attending the screening of "Fair Game" at NYC's Museum of Modern Art? Follow-up question: Does anyone out there still think that exercise DOESN'T do a body good?..........This week in sports history, October 26, 1970: Former heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali ends a 3 1/2 year boxing layoff--scoring a third-round technical knockout vs. Jerry Quarry in a non-title bout held in Atlanta. Ali had been stripped of his title a few years earlier when he refused to be inducted into the armed services due to religious beliefs. Ali was simply much too fast/nimble for the slow-moving Quarry and proceeded to open a huge gash over his younger opponent's left eye during the third round--resulting in Quarry's trainer ultimately throwing in the towel..........Congratulations go out to a friend, Lori Harley--a "forty-something" Minnesota resident--who recently completed the Twin Cities Marathon (her FIRST 26-mile undertaking) in a respectable time of 4 hours, 13 minutes. She assures me she won't stop there, either; Lori plans on running her second marathon down in Miami in January--which happens to fall on the same day as her 23rd wedding anniversary. Great job, Lori--and continued good luck!..........A possible reason why the Fordham Rams DON'T have last names on the back of their football jerseys? Defensive tackle George Apostolopoulos..........Great quote by Yale football broadcaster Ron Vaccaro during last weekend's Fordham/Yale game--when the Rams were trailing by a point while on their own ten-yard-line with about a minute left to play: "Fordham needs a MIRACLE--but they ARE a Catholic school."..........Loyal column reader Dr. David Kramer chimes in once again with this gem: "People talk about Brett Favre's interception near the end of the Vikings/Saints' playoff game last year as one pass that he shouldn't have thrown. In terms of Jenn Sterger (the Jets sideline reporter whom the married Favre was pursuing), perhaps he shouldn't have made THAT pass, either."..........Answer to trivia question: GEORGE HENDRICK, DANE IORG, and LONNIE SMITH..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Pete Vuckovich--who blows out 58 candles on October 27th. In a career that spanned 11 seasons between 1975 and 1986, Vuckovich pitched for four teams--the White Sox, Blue Jays, Cardinals, and Brewers--winning 93 games lifetime. While with Milwaukee (where he became a fan favorite due to his colorful personality), Vuckovich led the AL in wins during the 1981 strike-shortened season (14) and followed that up by winning the Cy Young Award in 1982--a year in which he went 18-6 while pitching 223 innings. In three postseason series with the Brewers, Vuckovich went 1-2 with an ERA of 3.74. Shoulder problems ultimately cut short Pete's career as he was done with baseball at the age of 33. Best wishes, Pete..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NBA player Larry Siegfried--who died recently in Ohio after suffering a heart attack on October 5th; he was 71. Siegfried helped Ohio State win its only NCAA championship back in 1960; he was also the captain and MVP of the school's 1960-'61 squad and was a second-team All-American. Siegfried, a guard/forward, later became a member of five Boston Celtics championship teams from 1964-1969; he also played in San Diego, Houston and Atlanta over his nine-year career. Siegfried averaged close to 11 points per game during his NBA tenure and was a career 85% shooter from the free-throw line. He is survived by his wife, Tina, three daughters, a son-in-law, and a grandson. May Larry Siegfried rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10/16/10

2010-10-12T23:38:00.000-04:00

Yes--as autumn baseball winds down with most players now hanging out at the golf course, recognition is in order based on the 2010 regular season:

*The STAY AT FIRST Award: No doubt--goes to Torii Hunter of the L.A. Angels. Hunter tried to steal 21 times this year and was thrown out on TWELVE occasions--a SB success rate of just 43%. Just a reminder, Torii: You're NOT 25 anymore.
*The PETE ROSE/GEORGE BRETT HONORARY THROWBACK PLAYER Award: Roy Halladay of the Phillies. When I see this guy pitch, I think it's 1970 again. A stud, a horse--you get the picture. Led ALL MLB pitchers in complete games, innings, AND shutouts; when he DOESN'T go nine, he looks like Clint Eastwood in a "Dirty Harry" scene. Yeah--my kinda guy.
*The TONY BENNETT/BEST YEARS BEHIND HIM Award: Without question--goes to Brewers reliever Trevor Hoffman. In 50 relief appearances at age 42, the all-time saves leader blew five saves, went 2-7, and pitched to an ERA of 5.89. This is a guy who used to average around 40 saves per season and pitch to an ERA of at least three runs LESS than the inflated # he put up this year. Yes, Trevor--it's time.
*The LITTLE BUCKS/BIG NUMBERS Award: Goes to Carlos Gonzalez of the Rockies. The man earned the league's minimum salary and put up MVP-type #'s: 34 HR's, 117 RBI's, .336 batting average. Yeah--a MAJOR return on the team's investment. Milwaukee's Casey McGehee and Trevor Cahill of the A's finished high in this category.
*The BONNIE AND CLYDE/HIGHWAY ROBBERY Award (for stealing large sums of money): Sadly, goes to Todd Helton of the Colorado Rockies. Once the best hitter in the game, Helton hit .256 with just 8 HR's and 37 RBI's in the thin air of Coors--and was paid almost $18 million (ouch). Helton could have easily qualified for the aforementioned Tony Bennett Award, too. Barry Zito finished second--earning even MORE than Helton and winning just nine games.
*The BLACKSTONE/HOUDINI DISAPPEARING ACT Award: Ubaldo Jimenez of the Rockies. When he was 15-1 at the All-Star break, it was simply a question of if he'd win 20 by Labor Day. He proceeded to go 4-7 the rest of the way--failing to hit the 20-win mark while making Colorado fans wonder if burnout will be an issue with him as his career unfolds.
*The PITIFULLY PUNCHLESS Award (for lack of offense): Hands down--goes to the Seattle Mariners. They hit a pathetic .236 as a team and finished last in the majors in runs, hits, OB %, total bases, doubles, triples,--well......EVERYTHING. Somewhere, Felix Hernandez is weeping.
*The ARSONIST OF THE YEAR Award: I'll give this one to George Sherrill of the L.A. Dodgers. Appearing in 65 games, he pitched to an ERA of 6.69 while hitters tallied a .311 batting average against him; right-handed hitters hit a blistering .427 off Sherrill. Yes, vs. right-handed batters, Sherrill might have been better off letting them hit off a TEE--and Joe Torre would concur.
*The BUM OF THE YEAR Award: Oliver Perez of the N.Y. Mets. The man pitched 46 innings and walked 42 hitters in 2010. In fact--since signing a 3-year, $36 million pact before the '09 season--"Ollie" has now put up ERA's of 6.82 and 6.80 and won just THREE games. I don't know a SINGLE Mets fan who wants this guy to even SHOW UP at spring training in five months--and he's owed another $12 million.
*The second annual EARL WEAVER/FULL PACK Award: This one goes to Hideki Okajima of the Red Sox. If manager Terry Francona DID smoke, he would have gone through a pack of cigarettes QUICKLY (like Weaver did with Don Stanhouse) every time Okajima pitched. He gave up 59 hits in 46 innings, was susceptible to the HR ball, and opponents hit .314 against him. Red Sox Nation collectively holds its breath EVERY time he jogs in from the bullpen. A Double-A pitcher at this juncture.
*The HIT OR MISS Award: A "no-brainer" as D'Backs infielder Mark Reynolds wins this award for the third year in a row--in a LANDSLIDE. The man slugged 32 home runs but also struck out 211 times--the third year in a row he's topped the 200 mark. Winning this award is usually only "slightly" embarrassing; the REAL embarrassing part of Reynolds' 2010 campaign was that he hit .198--yes, below the famed "Mendoza Line."
*The MAYTAG/DEPENDABILITY Award: As mentioned last year, Ichiro Suzuki of the Mariners is a shoe-in for this award YEARLY--as long as he's breathing. Once again, he played in ALL 162 games; he also garnered 200+ hits for the TENTH year in a row. Also played great in the outfield once again and stole 42 bases at the age of 36. Bottom line with this guy? When you have an "off" year and bat at a .315 clip, Cooperstown will be calling in the near future.
*The AVERSION TO WALKING Award: Pedro Feliz--who split time with the Astros and Cardinals in 2010. The man came to bat 409 times this season and walked just THIRTEEN times--yes, just once every 31 at-bats. This guy takes pitches about as often as yours truly dates supermodels.
*The GERITOL/AGE DOESN'T MATTER Award: The Yankees' Mariano Rivera wins this award for the second year in a row. At age 40, he gave up just 39 hits in 60 innings--allowing just two home runs and pitching to an ERA of 1.80. Opponents hit .183 against him as he saved 30 or more games for the thirteenth time in his career. I'm beginning to think that Rivera is aging just as well as Christie Brinkley--well, ALMOST.
*The RODNEY DANGERFIELD/LACK OF RESPECT Award: Paul Konerko of the White Sox. Made the All-Star team only because Justin Morneau got hurt--yet put up huge #'s this year: 39 HR's, 111 RBI's, .312 BA. Plays a decent first base, too--though that's overlooked at times. Adam LaRoche of the D'backs received votes in this category--going 'under the radar' while driving in 100 runs for a last-place club.
*Finally, the DOLLY THE SHEEP/REASON TO CLONE Award: Albert Pujols of the Cardinals. What more can you say about a guy who's hit 30 or more HR's/drove in 100 or more runs in EACH of his ten big league seasons (seemingly in CLEAN fashion, too)? Rarely misses a game--and a slugger who's NEVER struck out 100 times in a season. Great fielder (almost underrated) who made just four errors in 2010. Good family man, too, who launched the Pujols Family Foundation in 2005 (dedicated to Down's syndrome) with his wife Deidre. Congrats, Albert--to a guy who does it on the field AND off.

Enjoy the rest of the postseason, folks.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10-9-10

2010-10-05T13:25:00.000-04:00

*ATTENTION, TENNIS FANS: Tennis Ledger Magazine is now online--a quarterly publication that includes great stories and photos aimed at the true tennis aficionado out there. Publisher Joe McDonald has put together a skilled staff of knowledgeable tennis journalists in order to provide the reader with insightful coverage of the sport on a local and international basis. Fans can experience this new, wonderful website by logging onto www.tennisledger.com ..........TRIVIA QUESTION: In the 1993 ALCS played between the Blue Jays and the White Sox (won by Toronto 4-2), two starting pitchers combined to win all four games for the victors. Can you name this duo? Answer to follow..........Just wonderin': Do you think the two Redskins players who "pancaked" Philly's Michael Vick last weekend--forcing him from the game--are MAJOR dog-lovers?.......... ITEM: Georgia freshman linebacker Demetre Baker is dismissed from the squad after being charged with DUI, underage possession of alcohol, and improper driving; Baker is the TENTH Georgia player to be arrested this year. At this rate, I'm convinced that it's now advantageous for coach Mark Richt to restrict/simplify his recruiting efforts; Richt should do nothing more than hold open tryouts on the grounds of the Johnson State Prison in Wrightsville each summer--located about 90 miles from the Georgia campus..........With names like Ocieka Bakou, Ojatunji Idowu, and Prosper Mbongue-Muna on the University of Albany football roster, I'm just glad I'm not the Great Danes' home stadium public address announcer..........In a recent vote by Yale football players, it was decided that senior linebacker Jesse Reising (Decatur, IL) is "most likely to be U.S. President." Why? Maybe it's because Reising--who will complete Marine Corps Officer Candidate School next year--currently possesses a 3.75 GPA (economics/political science) and is the Bulldogs' (ummm, NOT Georgia) candidate for the National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete Award. Excellent job, Jesse--and best wishes in WHATEVER you "tackle" once your fine college career comes to an end..........This week in sports history, October 12, 1992: During the Redskins' 34-3 Monday night rout of the Denver Broncos, wide receiver Art Monk catches career pass #820--breaking the record for most receptions in NFL history. Seattle Seahawks great Steve Largent--who retired in 1989--held the record previously. Monk's record-setting catch came on a 10-yard sideline pass from Mark Rypien; #820 came on the third straight pass thrown by Rypien to Monk. Monk also extended his streak of catching a pass in a game to 137--third on the all-time list behind Largent (177) and former Cleveland Browns star Ozzie Newsome (150)..........If Mike Lowell, Jason Varitek, and Tim Wakefield had aged HALF as well as a woman named Christie Brinkley, then the Red Sox are STILL playing baseball at the time you're reading this current column..........Answer to trivia question: JUAN GUZMAN (Games 1 & 5) and DAVE STEWART (Games 2 & 6)...........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Steve Shirley--who blows out 54 candles on October 12th. The name probably doesn't ring a bell, most likely due to the fact that this native of San Francisco pitched in only ONE big league season--1982 with the Dodgers. Shirley went 1-1 that season with an ERA of 4.26 while appearing in just 11 games. However, Shirley is a member of a unique fraternity; he came to bat just once during his short MLB tenure and SINGLED. Yes, folks, Steve Shirley can always brag that he'll forever remain in the big league record books with a lifetime batting average of 1.000. Best wishes for many more celebrations to come, Steve..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Central Michigan basketball player/head coach Leonard Drake--who died recently in Evanston, IN after suffering a stroke; he was 56. Drake played at CMU from 1974-1977 and scored 1,338 points in his career--ranking #8 all-time in the school's record book. During his freshman year, Drake hit two free throws with no time remaining on the clock as his team beat Georgetown 77-75 in a first round NCAA Tournament game. During his junior season, Drake averaged over 18 points per game as CMU won a share of the MAC title; he shot 88% from the free-throw line that year--ranking third in the nation. Drake later became CMU's head basketball coach for four seasons--from 1993-'94 through 1996-'97. All told, the former team captain spent 33 years in collegiate athletics--most recently as an assistant coach for the Eastern Michigan University women's basketball team. Drake is survived by his wife, Rhonda, a son, Jared, and a daughter, Enjoli; may Leonard Drake rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10-2-10

2010-09-28T23:10:00.000-04:00

*Mandi Schwartz Update: The Yale women's hockey center received her long-awaited stem cell transplant last week in order to beat cancer; with her immune system having been wiped out due to chemotherapy and radiation, the hope is that the transplanted stem cells begin to grow in her bone marrow and manufacture new blood/immune cells. Prior to the transplant, Mandi had these heartfelt words for her fellow hockey teammates: "I'm praying every day for everything to work out, and I know you all are thinking about me and praying for me; thank you very much--your support means the world to me. I think about the team, your workouts, the busy school day, and the beautiful feeling of stepping out onto that ice every day." Trust me, Mandi--many people you've never even met are thinking of YOU, too. Best wishes, Mandi..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1990 Chicago White Sox--who finished 2nd in the AL West under manager Jeff Torborg--had three players who stole more than 30 bases apiece. Can you name this trio? Answer to follow..........There have been many questionable decisions over the years regarding baseball's postseason awards, but how 'bout this one for pure insanity: In 2000, Todd Helton of the Colorado Rockies led the NL in hits, doubles, RBI's, batting average, on-base%, slugging %, and total bases--and finished FIFTH in the MVP voting. Just unfathomable..........ITEM: N.Y. Jets wide receiver Braylon Edwards is arrested for DUI--reportedly registering a blood-alcohol level of .16. When I first saw that number, I immediately asked myself if it also was his approximate grade-point average while he was attending Michigan..........This week in sports history, October 5, 1985: Grambling's Eddie Robinson becomes the winningest coach in college football history as his Tigers defeat Prairie View A&M 27-7 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. The victory was the 324th in Eddie's remarkable career--breaking the record of 323 formerly held by Alabama coaching legend Paul "Bear" Bryant (who retired in 1982). Over 36,000 fans and 500 media members were on hand to witness Robinson's record-setting win--which came in his 45th year as a coach..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game last week, Wisconsin annihilated Austin Peay 70-3; the Badgers scored TD's on all SEVEN of their first half possessions. My first thought? Since Wisconsin is a leading state in milk and cheese production, I'm wondering if the current Austin Peay players will become nauseous after consuming ANY type of dairy product over the remainder of their lifetimes.........If any retailers up there in the Boston area are interesting in peddling more antacids, just continually remind Red Sox fans of THIS: The team will pay under-achieving starters Josh Beckett and John Lackey approximately $33 million in 2011. {{belch}}...........Answer to trivia question: LANCE JOHNSON (36), IVAN CALDERON (32), and SAMMY SOSA (32)..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NFL cornerback Albert Lewis--who blows out 50 candles on October 6th. A native of Louisiana who attended Grambling, Lewis played a remarkable 16 seasons in the league between 1983 and 1998; he spent eleven seasons with the Chiefs and five with the Raiders. Albert intercepted 42 passes in his career and appeared in four consecutive Pro Bowls from 1987-1990. Lewis was named Chiefs MVP for the 1986 season when he recorded 69 tackles and four interceptions. He was elected to the Chiefs 25-Year All-Time Team in 1987 and was also inducted into the Chiefs Hall of Fame in March of 2007. Best wishes, Albert..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Utah high school basketball/football coach Ray Odette--who passed away recently due to a stroke at the age of 72. Odette may not have been a national, household name, but he developed an immense reputation throughout Utah as a selfless coach who flat-out LOVED kids; he was a second father to many young men who were fortunate to cross paths with him. Just how respected was Ray Odette? After going 0-8 at Dixie High back in 2000, many parents begged him to stay on as coach due to the immense, positive influence he had on their children. He spent the majority of his coaching life at Dixie, but also coached for three years at Snow College. Odette truly led by example; unlike many current coaches, he wasn't classified as the in-your-face/"rah-rah"-type. He even preferred to sit on the visitor's side of the field while viewing games in retirement in order to remain anonymous. Yes--he truly disdained the limelight; refreshing, huh? Odette leaves his wife of 51 years, Rose, three sons, and a daughter. Rest in peace, "Coach"--you'll truly be missed.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9-25-10

2010-09-21T12:36:00.000-04:00

Continued well-wishes go out to Yale women’s hockey center Mandi Schwartz--who was scheduled to undergo a stem cell transplant this week at the University of Washington Medical Center. The transplant, which utilizes stem cells from two umbilical cord blood units donated anonymously to public cord blood banks, is just another step in Mandi's battle against cancer. She has been battling acute myeloid leukemia for almost two years and needs a stem cell transplant to survive. Hang in there, Mandi--and keep fightin'..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1987 Cincinnati Reds--who finished 2nd in the NL West under Pete Rose--had four players who hit more than 20 home runs apiece. How many of these players can you name? Answer to follow..........I used to think that a Steve Carlton slider was a pure thing of beauty--that is, until I saw a recent picture of actress/supermodel Eva Mendes wearing a stunning green dress at the London premiere of "The Other Guys."..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played last weekend in Ohio, Malone defeated Anna Maria (MA) 69-0; the winning squad held a 521-150 advantage in total yards, forced two fumbles, and blocked a pair of punts. My first thought when I saw this outrageous score was that an outnumbered INDIVIDUAL named Anna Maria was facing the opposition by HERSELF--and could never get things going offensively..........This week in sports history, September 28, 1941: In a final-day doubleheader played at Shibe Park in Philadelphia, Boston's Ted Williams tallies six hits in eight at-bats--enabling him to finish the season with a phenomenal .406 batting average. Before the twin bill started, Red Sox manager Joe Cronin had offered Williams the day off in order to maintain his .400 batting average (.39955)--but the 23-year-old refused. Williams went 4-for-5 in the opener and followed that up with a single and double in three-at-bats in the nightcap--helping the Red Sox to a sweep of Philadelphia. Williams became the first .400 hitter since the New York Giants' Bill Terry (.401) in 1930 and the first in the AL since Detroit's Harry Heilmann (.403) in 1923..........I'd like to see former University of Florida golfer Eleanor Tucker hook up with English soccer player Andrew Rigby. If they ever walked down the aisle, fans of the Beatles' Revolver album would surely delight in the bride's new married name of Eleanor Rigby..........Congratulations go out to former Yale pitcher/current A's reliever Craig Breslow--who has been nominated for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award for humanitarian and community service. Breslow is the founder of the Strike 3 Foundation--a charitable organization that heightens awareness and raises funds for childhood cancer research; he created the foundation in honor of his sister, Lesley--a survivor of pediatric thyroid cancer. Breslow, an '02 Yale graduate, was honored by the A's in a pregame ceremony before the Sept. 8th game against the Seattle Mariners at the Oakland Coliseum. On-line voting for the award is available on Major League Baseball’s website, mlb.com, through Oct. 8. Having had the opportunity to interview Breslow in the past, I can vouch for the man's integrity and tremendous charitable nature; great job, Craig..........Answer to trivia question: ERIC DAVIS (37), DAVE PARKER (26), KAL DANIELS (26), and NICK ESASKY (22)..........Terrific quote from Tim McCarver last week on FOX--commenting about the way Braves manager Bobby Cox has conducted business/approached his work over a long career: "If Bobby Cox had been a college football coach, 98% of his players would graduate."..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Craig Lefferts--who blows out 53 candles on September 29th. Lefferts spent 12 seasons in the "bigs" between 1983 and 1994 pitching for six different teams--appearing in 696 games during his career. Used mostly in relief, Craig won 58 games and compiled 101 saves--while pitching to a career ERA of 3.43. Perhaps Lefferts' best year came in 1990 while with the Padres--a season in which he went 7-5, saved 23 games, and pitched to an impressive ERA of 2.52. Back in 1986, Lefferts appeared in 83 games--leading both leagues. Best wishes, Craig..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Oklahoma Sooners basketball player Ken Pryor--who passed away recently at the age of 85. Pryor was famous for making the game-winning shot with less than ten seconds remaining in OU's 1947 NCAA semifinal victory over Texas; his team eventually lost to Bob Cousy and Holy Cross in the championship game. After his career at Oklahoma, Pryor played some amateur basketball, worked at an oil company, and opened his own insurance agency. He was also an accomplished golfer and was a long-time football/basketball official for the Big Eight. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Pauline, three daughters, and a son. May Ken Pryor rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9-18-10

2010-09-13T21:10:00.000-04:00

Great quote by WDRC-FM's Mike Stevens last week following the Red Sox 14-5 loss to Tampa Bay--a game where Daisuke Matsuzaka gave up EIGHT earned runs in just over four innings: "Dice-K was serving up more meat than the Golden Arches."..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1987 Baltimore Orioles--who finished sixth in the AL East under Cal Ripken, Sr.--were led in home runs by a player who hit less than 100 round-trippers during his entire career. Can you name this former outfielder? Answer to follow..........Yes, suffice it to say that yours truly likes baseball just as much as the next guy. But when it comes down to either watching the aforementioned Dice-K start a game for the Red Sox or Christie Brinkley doing an infomercial, the woman in Spandex wins out EVERY time..........*Here goes: Former Citadel volleyball player Ashley Winter marries music superstar Stevie Wonder, divorces, then marries author Jon Land. Her full married name as the cold weather approaches? Ashley Winter Wonder Land..........Ah, yes, it surely seems that many people I know are excited that the pro football season has returned and is now underway. Check out this gem of an equation just submitted to me by a friend of mine, Marcie: " N.Y. Giants football + homemade onion dip with BACON pieces in it + an endless supply of Hoegaarden = The Perfect Sunday..........This week in sports history, September 21, 1985: Larry Holmes' seven-year reign as heavyweight champion comes to an end in Las Vegas as he loses his title to Michael Spinks in a unanimous 15-round decision. Spinks, the light-heavyweight champion who was moving up in weight class, was the busier of the two fighters as Holmes could only offer an occasional weak jab during the bout. Holmes was bidding to tie former heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano's record of 49 straight professional wins; ironically, Holmes' loss to Spinks came exactly 30 years to the day when Marciano won his 49th in a row against Archie Moore. The victory enabled Spinks to claim the title that his brother Leon had held briefly back in 1978..........WFAN's Mike Francesa was discussing the N.Y. Jets last week--specifically how the team will have a target on its back this season due to the continuous "trash-talking" nature of coach Rex Ryan. Francesa talked about opposing defenses and the aggressiveness they will bring while going after QB Mark Sanchez: "These guys (the opposing defenses) are gonna go around the left guard like they're on the L.I.E." He also added: "When Rex Ryan talks, Sanchez better DUCK."..........ITEM: University of Miami baseball player Frankie Ratcliff is arrested for trying to sell marijuana to undercover detectives; officers later searched his apartment and found three more bags of pot and 19 vials of steroids. My first thought was that this guy is probably more familiar with various drugs than 3/4 of the students enrolled in the PRE-MED program at Miami..........Answer to trivia question: LARRY SHEETS--who led Baltimore in home runs that year with 31 while also hitting an impressive .316..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league catcher Cesar Devarez--who blows out 41 candles on September 22nd. Few may remember this native of the Dominican Republic--who played just two years in the "bigs" with the Orioles back in 1995 and '96. Devarez appeared in just 16 major league games; he came to bat a total of 22 times in his short-lived career and accumulated just TWO hits--thus compiling a lifetime batting average of .091. However, he CAN brag to anyone who will listen that one of his two career hits was a TRIPLE; hey--not bad for a catcher, huh? Best wishes, Cesar..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former women's college basketball coach J. Kelly Hall--who passed away recently after suffering a heart attack at his home in South Carolina; he was 51. Hall was the winningest coach in the history of Louisiana-Lafayette--tallying 86 victories during his five seasons there (2002-2007); he was the 2005 Sun Belt Coach of the Year. Hall had previous assistant coaching jobs at places like Louisville, Auburn, Cal State Fullerton, and Alabama; he left the LA-Lafayette program to serve as head coach at the University of Cincinnati from 2007-09. During his career, Hall was known as one of the best defensive coaches in the women's college game--famous for his expertise of the match-up zone. Hall is survived by his wife, Meredith, two daughters, and a son; may Coach Hall rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9-11-10

2010-09-08T00:29:00.000-04:00

Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week" (a no-brainer): In a college football game last weekend, Oregon defeated New Mexico 72-0--with the winning team having led during this 'laugher' 59-0 at HALFTIME. The Ducks piled up a school-record total of 720 yards on offense and (get this) played WITHOUT starting RB LaMichael James. But what stood out to me was what New Mexico defensive end Johnathan Rainey said after the game--remarking that this should be a "wake-up call" for the losing Lobos. Put it this way, Johnathan: If THAT kind of score doesn't wake your team up, then I'm truly convinced that you and your teammates would have nodded off during the ear-splitting Who concert I saw at the Meadowlands back in 1982..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1990 Philadelphia Phillies--who finished 4th in the NL East under manager Nick Leyva--were led in victories by a starting pitcher with a measly total of just TEN. Can you name this former left-handed hurler? Answer to follow..........I have a new nickname for Bill Hall of the Boston Red Sox: "The Pendulum." WHY? Because he's ALWAYS swinging. When he drew a walk last weekend vs. Chicago, it was his first in 85 at-bats--dating back over a MONTH. I'm totally convinced that the next time a floating hot dog wrapper is near home plate while Hall is in the batter's box, he'll offer at it and start running to first base..........This week in sports history, September 14th, 1968: The Detroit Tigers rally for two runs in the bottom of the ninth--defeating Oakland 5-4 and enabling pitcher Denny McLain to garner his remarkable 30th win of the season. Willie Horton drove in the winning run for Detroit--singling over a drawn-in infield to score Mickey Stanley. The victory improved McLain's season record to 30-5; he became the first 30-game winner in the American League since 1931 when Lefty Grove compiled a record of 31-4 while pitching for Philadelphia..........Is it me--or are baseball announcers currently supplying more useless/non-impressive information than ever before? During last week's meeting between Cincinnati and St. Louis, Cardinals color man Al Hrabosky remarked that Jonny Gomes of the Reds had hit safely in 4 of his last 5 games. Wow, Al, now you have me wondering if a parade should be in order if a player hits in 15 or more consecutive games..........Anyone out there catch a glimpse of the dress that 47-year-old "supermodel" Elle MacPherson was wearing recently at the opening of a lingerie shop in Brazil? Three comments: 1) This woman looks as good right now as she did at age 27. 2) Elle and Mariano Rivera could make a fortune collaborating on a book titled Secrets to Anti-Aging. 3) She surely lives up to her nickname of "The Body."..........Answer to trivia question: PAT COMBS--who led the Phils in wins that year while pitching to a record of 10-10..........Anyone out there remember major league shortstop Tom McMillan? I didn't think so. Well, he'll celebrate his 59th birthday this week. Perhaps the reason why his name is so "foggy" to the average baseball fan is because he played just ONE year in the "bigs"--1977 with the Mariners--appearing in just TWO games. McMillan came to bat five times that year without a hit--thus joining a select group of players who've gone into the MLB record books with a lifetime batting average of .000. Hey--he CAN tell his grandchildren that he handled five chances in the field that season WITHOUT making an error; yes--he can always brag that his career fielding % will forever remain a perfect 1.000. Best wishes for many more birthdays to come, Tom..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Yale football player Jim MacLaren--who died recently at the age of 47. Jim was a three-year letter-winner at Yale--graduating in 1985--but he'll truly be remembered for his heroic actions OFF the gridiron. Struck by a New York City bus in 1985, MacLaren had his left leg amputated from the knee down but went on to become one of the world's most prolific amputee distance runners/triathletes. Tragedy struck again in 1993 when Jim was struck by a van during a triathlon competition in California--which resulted in him becoming a paraplegic. Making the most of his plight, MacLaren became a motivational speaker and formed the Choose Living Foundation--supporting various philanthropic endeavors that were dear to his heart. A former recipient of the Arthur Ashe Courage Award, we ALL can learn a lesson from the way MacLaren approached life. Back in the mid-90's, I'd occasionally see Jim at Claire's Corner Copia (restaurant) in New Haven; he was always wearing his racing gear and would park his bike near the front entrance. We became casual acquaintances simply due to our shared athletic interests and mutual fondness for Claire's menu. When we'd crossed paths there, I'd often say, "How ya doing, Jim?" And he'd smile and usually say something like, "Great--and you? Nice day for a ride!" He was a true gentleman and an inspiration to countless individuals; yes, albeit a short one, his was a life well-lived. Rest in peace, Jim.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9-4-10

2010-08-31T01:22:00.000-04:00

Great line by WFAN Radio's Mike Francesa last week--describing to a caller how the greedy, New York football teams have "put the screws" to fans with seat licensing fees: "They turn you upside down until the nickels fall out of your pockets"..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last member of the New York Yankees to lead the American League in runs scored in consecutive years? Answer to follow..........I used to think that watching Rick Barry shoot free throws underhanded was a pure thing of beauty--that is, until I saw a recent picture of lovely actress Jessica Alba in a form-fitting dress at the LA screening of her upcoming movie "Machete"..........ITEM: Oregon State offensive lineman Tyler Patrick Thomas is dismissed from the team after police find him drunk AND naked in a stranger's home; when told by police to get on the ground/surrender, Thomas proceeded to form his usual three-point stance and actually lunged at the officers. Yes, stun guns had to be used to tame the massive 19-year-old. If I was one of the arresting officers involved in this saga, my first question after corralling the intoxicated Thomas would have been, "Hey Ty--by the way--do you remember if this was supposed to be a running or passing play?"..........This week in sports history, September 7, 1970: In the fourth race at Del Mar (California), horse racing legend Bill Shoemaker becomes the world's winningest jockey--guiding 2-year-old filly Dares J to a 2 1/2 length victory. The win was the 6,033rd of Shoemaker's storied career--passing Johnny Longden's old mark of 6,032. With Longden among the 20,000 people in attendance, Shoemaker broke the record while on his 24,534th mount; the two legendary jockeys also posed for photographs together following this memorable, six-furlong race..........Recently, I was surprised AND impressed to find out that All-Pro NFL guard Alan Faneca has lived with epilepsy for years and has enjoyed a tremendous football career. Funds continue to be desperately needed to assist in the fight against epilepsy. Robert Fiore--the president and founder of The Connecticut Epilepsy Advocate, Inc.--will soon partake in the first annual "Walking Miles For Epilepsy" on Wednesday, September 15th; Fiore will venture out at 8:00 AM from the Washington Bridge in Milford (CT) and walk to the University of New Haven. This year's donations will be used for The Yale Epilepsy Program--which provides promising options for many pediatric and adult patients with epilepsy. A great cause, folks; to support Mr. Fiore and his valiant fundraising efforts, please make checks payable (and mail) to: Connecticut Epilepsy Advocate, Inc., 20 Salem Walk, Milford, CT 06460-7132..........This is directed at all male, Boston Red Sox fans out there: I know you're amazingly devoted and truly take each loss to heart. But when you get to gaze at the lovely Heidi Watney doing interviews following those tough defeats, doesn't a LOT of the sting suddenly disappear?..........Answer to trivia question: RICKEY HENDERSON--who led the AL in runs scored in 1985 and '86 with totals of 146 and 130 respectively..........Happy birthday wishes go out to NBA Hall of Famer Nate "Tiny" Archibald--who blows out 62 candles on September 2nd. A product of the Bronx who played at UTEP, "Tiny" spent 13 seasons playing in the league--most notably with the Kings and Celtics--averaging an impressive 18.8 points and 7.4 assists per game over the course of his career. Archibald undoubtedly had one of the greatest seasons in the HISTORY of the NBA back in '72-73 while playing in Kansas City--a year in which he led the league in both scoring (34.0) AND assists (11.4). Archibald was named to the All-NBA First Team three times during his marvelous career and was a six-time All-Star. Nate was also a member of the world champion Celtics team in '80-81--playing alongside a young Larry Bird. He was named to the NBA's 50th Anniversary All-Time team and elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1991. Funny, Archibald was listed as being 6'1" tall when he played; if that was the case, Mickey Rooney was a six-footer, too. Best wishes, "Tiny"..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of legendary college running back Johnny Bailey--who died recently at the age of 43 from pancreatic cancer. Bailey played at Texas A&I (now Texas A&M-Kingsville) from 1986-1989. In his collegiate career, Bailey rushed for a staggering 6,320 yards; at the time, only he and Tony Dorsett from Pittsburgh had run for more than 6,000 yards in a career. He was a three-time NCAA Division II player of the year and gained 7,803 all-purpose yards--an NCAA career record. Bailey later played six seasons in the NFL with the Bears, Cardinals, and Rams; he holds the Bears team record for the longest punt return as he returned one 95 yards for a touchdown as a rookie. Bailey also made the Pro Bowl in 1992--a year when he averaged 13.2 yards returning punts for the Cardinals. Appropriately, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. May Johnny Bailey rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8-28-10

2010-08-24T22:17:00.000-04:00

ITEM: N.Y. Mets pitcher Mike Pelfrey admits to being ill and VOMITING before his start vs. the Pittsburgh Pirates last week. I'm now convinced that someone advised Pelfrey shortly before his "hurling" episode that the Bucs hadn't experienced a winning season since 1992. Yes, THAT's sickening, folks........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1993 Chicago White Sox--who finished first in the AL West under manager Gene Lamont--had three starting pitchers who won 15 or more games apiece. Can you name this trio? Answer to follow..........Just wondering: If New Orleans-based artist Jennifer Beach married former NFL defensive lineman Jerry Ball, would she then mind being referred to by her full, "summer-y" name of Jennifer Beach Ball?..........This week in sports history, August 30, 1991: Long-jumper Mike Powell leaps into the record books--soaring 29 feet, 4 1/2 inches at the World Track and Field Championships in Tokyo. Powell's magnificent effort was two inches better than Bob Beamon's previous record mark--set back in 1968 at the Mexico City Olympic Games. Powell's record leap erased the oldest track and field record in history; it also enabled him to finally claim victory over the great Carl Lewis--who had been undefeated in 65 consecutive meets over a ten-year period..........ITEM: Indianapolis Colts defensive lineman John Gill is arrested for public intoxication after police find him passed out in a ditch on the side of a road at 4AM. My first thought? This is probably NOT what the Indy coaches are referring to when they tell their defensive linemen to "plug holes"..........Answer to trivia question: JACK McDOWELL (22), ALEX FERNANDEZ (18), and WILSON ALVAREZ (15)..........I used to think that a Jerry West jump shot was a pure thing of beauty--that is, until I saw a recent picture of actress Jessica Szohr wearing a low-cut, red-ruffled dress at a Hollywood party for the premiere of "Piranha 3D"..........After watching minor league baseball all summer long at Dodd Stadium in Norwich, the best defensive play I witnessed happened last weekend. In the 3rd inning vs. the Staten Island Yankees, CT Tigers first baseman James Robbins leaned over the tarpaulin and into the stands to make a spectacular catch on a foul pop-up. With the SI runner on second base then tagging up, Robbins recovered and threw a laser-like strike to the third baseman--completing an unlikely double play. Great play, James, and worthy of being part of ANY highlight reel..........Heartfelt well-wishes go out to Yale women's hockey player Mandi Schwartz--who has been diagnosed with leukemia for the second time in two years and will eventually need a stem cell transplant to survive. To support Mandi and raise attention to her situation/continued fight, teammate Samantha MacLean recently ventured out on a bike ride from Toronto to New Haven--a distance of about 824 kilometers. Referred to as "The Ride for 17" (Mandi's uniform #), monetary proceeds go directly to Mandi and her family as she forges ahead with medical treatment. More info about Mandi's story and how to make a donation online can be obtained by visiting www.welovemandi.webs.com. Checks can also be mailed to Yale Athletics, ATTN: Wayne Dean, 20 Tower Parkway, New Haven, CT 06520. Thanks for your biking/awareness efforts, Samantha, and here's wishing Mandi Schwartz the best of health..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former MLB pitcher Jason Gilfillan--who blows out 34 candles on August 31st. A 6'5" right-hander who attended the College of Charleston, Gilfillan pitched just ONE year in the "bigs"--2003 with the Kansas City Royals--appearing in 13 games as a reliever. His overall #'s that year weren't pretty, folks: 16.1 innings pitched, 22 hits, 14 earned runs--an ERA of 7.71. However, Gilfillan was the winning pitcher in two of those thirteen lifetime games and never lost--thus going into the MLB record books with a career record of 2-0 (a winning % of 1.000). You're still a young man, Jason; here's wishing you many more birthday celebrations to come..........Yes, we lost the legendary Bobby Thomson recently--famous for his "Shot Heard 'Round The World"; for what it's worth, I still think it's the most memorable home run in MLB history. However, many fans may not realize that Thomson drove in more than 100 runs FOUR times during his career and also led the NL in triples as a member of the Giants in '52. Sincere condolences go out to his entire family. One thing's for sure, Bobby: EVERY true baseball fan will be forever grateful for that magical moment in '51. May you rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8-21-10

2010-08-18T02:53:00.000-04:00

ITEM: N.Y. Mets reliever Francisco Rodriguez (K-ROD) punches out his girlfriend's Dad following a recent game at Citi Field. The response from the Mets' front office was basically that this should be considered as inappropriate behavior." WFAN host Richard Neer had a major problem with that explanation last weekend--more accurately defining the term inappropriate behavior as more like "belching at a wedding." Excellent point, Richard..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The lowly 1985 Texas Rangers--who finished with a record of 62-99 in the AL West--had only one player on the roster who drove in more than 70 runs. Can you name this former infielder? Answer to follow..........It's really tough being so technology-challenged: All this time, I thought an "Android" was an athlete named Andrew who was taking steroids..........Need some great late-summer sports reading? How 'bout the new work from Sports Illustrated senior writer Tim Layden: Blood, Sweat and Chalk. In addition to some great football anecdotes included among the book's 256 pages, it also entertains the readers with stories through the eyes of legendary coaches such as Don Coryell, Mike Shanahan, Bill Walsh, Barry Switzer, and many others. For more information on the book and/or to purchase, visit www.amazon.com ..........This week in sports history, August 24, 1963: In front of friends and family in his hometown of Miami, John Pennel becomes the first pole-vaulter ever to clear 17 feet--breaking his own world record at the Florida Gold Coast Amateur Athletic Union meet. Pennel's vault of 17'-3/4" came just a year after Marine John Uelses had cleared the magical mark of SIXTEEN feet for the first time. Pennel had set the world record when he vaulted 16 feet, 3 inches a few months earlier (in March) and went on to break his OWN record SIX times before clearing 17 feet on this late-August day. His previous best vault before the meet in Miami was 16'-10 1/4"..........Regarding the aforementioned punk Francisco Rodriguez: So this idiot goes and sucker-punches Carlos Pena--the grandfather of his children. Ah, so I assume this dolt thinks he's a tough guy, right? Just wondering, folks: Do you think there are a THRONG of guys at a place called Riker's Island--just a few miles from Citi Field--who'd eagerly like to show Rodriguez what the word "tough" REALLY means?..........*O.K.--here goes: Former Niagara basketball player Jessica James marries former NFL coach Chuck Knox, divorces, then marries Connecticut Tigers (NY-Penn League) outfielder P.J. Polk. Fans of U.S. presidential history would surely take joy in her full married name of Jessica James Knox Polk..........Answer to trivia question: PETE O'BRIEN--who had 92 RBI's (along with 22 home runs) for his last-place Texas club..........ITEM: Seneca High School (Kentucky) basketball coach Matthew Lemon is arrested for DUI and hit and run; he allegedly hit an oncoming car on Interstate 64 and then fled the scene of the accident. Sheesh--gives a whole new meaning to the term "fast-break", huh?..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former MLB pitcher Mike Boddicker--who blows out 53 candles on August 23rd. A native of Iowa, Boddicker spent 14 seasons in the "bigs" between 1980 and 1993--compiling a record of 134-116. Mike spent the majority of his career pitching for the Orioles; he also spent time as a member of the Red Sox, Royals, and Brewers. Boddicker had a fine year in 1983 for Baltimore when the O's won the world championship; he went 16-8 with a league-high five shutouts. He followed that up with another fine effort in 1984--winning 20 games and leading the American League with an impressive ERA of 2.79. Boddicker also won a Gold Glove in 1990 as a member of the Red Sox--a year in which he won 17 games while pitching 228 innings. Best wishes, Mike..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Olympic sprinter Antonio Pettigrew--who was recently found dead in the backseat of his car in North Carolina; he was just 42. Pettigrew was best-known for being part of the 1,600-meter U.S. relay team that won the gold medal at the Sydney Olympics in 2000; the International Olympic Committee later stripped the team of the medal after Pettigrew admitted to doping during a trial of a former coach. At the time of his death, Pettigrew was an assistant track coach at the University of North Carolina--where he focused on hurdles, relays, and sprints. After his admission of cheating, Pettigrew spent a great deal of time speaking to young people about the dangers of banned substances. Pettigrew is survived by his wife, Cassandra, and a son, Antonio Pettigrew, Jr. Yes, he may go down in history as the all-too-familiar "disgraced athlete," but the hope here is that his regretful actions have a positive effect on some generations to follow. Rest in peace, Antonio.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8-14-10

2010-08-10T23:16:00.000-04:00

In search of some great, late-summer reading? Check out A Bitter Cup Of Coffee by author Doug Gladstone. This terrific publication references the plights of 874 MLB players who were active between 1947 and 1979; due to rules prior to 1980, these players have received NO pension money for their service to the national pastime. After 1980, MLB players have needed just ONE day of service credit for health benefits and only 43 days to be eligible for a retirement allowance. More information on the book can be obtained by visiting the Barnes and Noble website (www.bn.com) or by logging onto www.abittercupofcoffee.com ..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1985 Philadelphia Phillies--who finished in fifth-place in the NL East under manager John Felske--were led in RBI's (102) by a player who never came close to equaling that number in any season before or after. Can you name this individual? Answer to follow..........A pair of two-word phrases we may never hear in our lifetimes: Yours truly saying "I do" and Brett Favre saying "I quit"..........Classic stuff: WFAN's Steve Somers--due to the Red Sox having at least a DOZEN players on the DL--referred to the team last week as the "Boston Red Cross"..........This week in sports history, August 16, 1984: 43-year-old Pete Rose is re-acquired by the Cincinnati Reds from the Montreal Expos for a minor leaguer and is immediately named as player-manager--replacing Vern Rapp. Rose had accumulated hit #4,000 four months earlier for the Expos and stood 130 hits shy of Ty Cobb's all-time hits record when he returned to Cincinnati. The Cincinnati-born "Charlie Hustle" had spent his first 16 seasons with the Reds and was a vital catalyst for the "Big Red Machine" teams of the mid-70's--who won World Series titles in 1975 and 1976..........I'm truly convinced that Isiah Thomas becoming a consultant to the N.Y. Knicks is equivalent to Lady Gaga becoming an advisor to the Miss Universe pageant..........Telling stats: Going into last weekend, the Brooklyn Cyclones (NY-Penn League) led all teams in the league in runs, hits, total bases, doubles, homers, and RBI's. Most impressive is that their .298 TEAM batting average was a staggering 29 points higher than the next best team, Jamestown--who was at .269. Wow.........Answer to trivia question: Outfielder GLENN WILSON--whose next highest RBI total in any of his ten seasons came the following year with the Phillies when he drove in 84..........Regarding the aforementioned Isiah Thomas: On WFAN last week, host Richard Neer basically summed up the man's overall ability to work in a basketball team's front office: "He looks good in a suit and has a great smile"..........Congratulations go out to Danae Rivers, a 12-year-old from Derby (CT), who set two national records at the National AAU Junior Olympic games at Norfolk State University in Virginia last week. Running for a track club out of New Haven, Danae set records in both the 800 meter and 1500 meter runs while competing in the Midget Division. Her time of 2:15.32 in the 800 eclipsed the previous record of 2:16.83 set in 2001 by Quantikia Stepeny of Baltimore, MD. Meanwhile, her time of 4:41.14 in the 1500 easily beat the previous record of 4:45.0 set 22 years ago in 1988 by Heather Burroughs of Overland Park, KS. Well done, Danae, and continued success..........Broadcaster Ken Levine--after A-ROID hit HR #600 last week: "Congrats to Alex Rodriguez on hitting his 384th non-performance-enhanced home run earlier today"..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former MLB pitcher Jim Converse--who blows out 39 candles on August 17th. A native of San Francisco, Converse spent just four seasons in the "bigs" between 1993 and 1997 as a member of the Mariners and Royals--and the results weren't pretty, folks. In 35 career games, Converse compiled a record of 2-11 with an ERA of 7.21--having given up 128 hits and 78 earned runs in just over 97 innings. However--he CAN tell his grandchildren that he DID pick up one lifetime save as a member of the Mariners in 1995. Best wishes, Jim..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NFL defensive lineman Gary "Big Hands" Johnson--who died recently in Louisiana following a stroke; he was 57. Johnson--who played at Grambling--spent 11 seasons in the league between 1975 and 1985--the majority of it as a member of the San Diego Chargers; he also won a Super Bowl ring with the 49ers in 1985. A four-time Pro-Bowler, Johnson received his nickname in middle school while picking up a basketball in gym class. Loved and respected by many, he'll surely be missed; rest in peace, "Big Hands."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8-7-10

2010-08-03T13:36:00.000-04:00

Recently, I had the opportunity to interview a pair of interesting individuals--author Johanna Wagner and former major league catcher Brent Mayne. Both currently have terrific books on the market; Johanna's is called A View From The Stands--which chronicles her visits to all 30 MLB ballparks back in 2002. Mayne's work is titled The Art of Catching--designed to help coaches, fans, and players understand and enjoy this important defensive position. More info on Johanna and the book itself (along with some great blog entries) can be obtained by visiting www.loveymyteam.com. To find out more about Mayne's book (and to sign up for a free "Art of Catching" newsletter), log onto www.brentmayne.com ..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1987 Pittsburgh Pirates were led in victories by a hurler whose win total that year was more than HALF his career total. Can you name this former right-handed pitcher? Answer to follow..........‎Lazzari's "Cheap Win of the Week": A "no-brainer"--goes to Jonathan Papelbon of the Red Sox. He enters the 9th inning last weekend vs. Detroit with a 3-0 lead, blows his fifth save, and allows Detroit to tie the game 3-3. However, he picks up the "W" nonetheless as the Sox proceed to win on an errant throw by Tigers pitcher Robbie Weinhardt in the bottom of the 9th..........*OK--here goes: Longwood University Assistant Dean Kathy Charleston marries Cleveland Indians outfielder Shin-Soo Choo. Lovers of flavored nougat covered in chocolate would surely love her new married name of Kathy Charleston Choo.........."Raven" Update: My good buddy Robert "Raven" Kraft of Miami Beach continues to amaze, inspire, and carry on. "Raven" reached his 13,000th day of consecutive 8-mile runs this past Wednesday, August 4th, and will also reach the 104,000 total mile-mark this weekend (August 7th). This is a man who made it his New Year's Day resolution back on January 1, 1975 to run every day for just ONE year; he hasn't stopped SINCE, folks. Learn more about my remarkable friend--one of the top "streak runners" in the country--at www.ravenrun.net ..........This week in sports history, August 9, 1988: In one of the most shocking trades in sports history, the Edmonton Oilers send "The Great One"--Wayne Gretzky--to the Los Angeles Kings after Gretzky had asked owner Peter Pocklington to orchestrate the deal. The 27-year-old Gretzky had married American actress Janet Jones in July--a Los Angeles native--perhaps a major reason for Wayne's request to land in Hollywood. Still a very young man, Gretzky had already piled up a mind-boggling 43 NHL scoring records, and stood just 219 goals/182 points shy of the great Gordie Howe's all-time scoring marks--once considered untouchable..........ITEM: 21-year-old Matthew Clemmens of Cherry Hill, NJ is sentenced to jail and community service for sticking his fingers down his throat and VOMITING on fans at a Phillies/Nationals game back in April. If I'm the judge presiding over this dolt's sentencing, I order him to take the 100-or-so mile trip from Cherry Hill to Baltimore as a punishment and force him to watch the pathetic Orioles play--which would most likely make him regurgitate profusely WITHOUT even having to use his fingers..........Answer to trivia question: MIKE DUNNE--who went 13-6 for Jim Leyland's fourth-place club that season but ended up winning only 25 games over his five-year career.........I thought the infield at the new Yankee Stadium was truly beautiful when I saw it recently--but then it took a MAJOR back seat a few days later when I saw a picture of the gown Jessica Biel was wearing at the London film premier of "The A-Team"..........At one point last week, I was TOTALLY convinced that Washington Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth would have a better chance of passing any state's BAR EXAM than any team-given conditioning test..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league outfielder Jimmy McMath--who blows out 61 candles on August 10th. A native of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, McMath belongs to that unique fraternity of ex-ballplayers who played just ONE big league season; as a teenager, Jimmy played for the Cubs in 1968--appearing in just SIX games. Coming to bat 14 times in his brief career, McMath managed just TWO hits (singles)--thus going into the MLB record books with a lifetime batting average of just .143. Hey, they all can't be Billy Williams, right? Best wishes, Jimmy..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league pitcher Billy Loes--who died recently in Arizona at the age of 80; he had undergone open-heart surgery a few years ago and also fought diabetes. In an 11-year career between 1950 and 1961, Loes won 80 games as a member of the Dodgers, Orioles, and Giants; he pitched on three pennant-winning Brooklyn Dodgers teams in the 1950's and won a World Series game vs. the Yankees in 1953. Billy Loes is survived by a wife, Irene--from whom he was separated; may he rest in peace.