Bob Lazzari On Sports

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 12-19-09

2009-12-16T00:21:00.001-05:00

Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a girls high school basketball game played last week here in Connecticut, Capital Prep dismantled Norwich Tech 78-7 (no need to put on the reading glasses, folks--you read that correctly); the winning squad held a 47-0 lead AT THE HALF (yes, a BASKETBALL game--NOT football, my friends). Comparing this to a women's boxing match, this bout should have been stopped before the losing fighter put on her TRUNKS...........TRIVIA QUESTION: Amazingly, the 1990-'91 Boston Celtics shot over 82% from the free-throw line as a TEAM. Can you name the player who led the team in FT % (minimum of 100 attempts) that season? Answer to follow..........I recently spoke with Eastern CT State University women's basketball coach Denise Bierly and asked her to reflect on her recent 300th career victory--which came against Rhode Island College. "I've had wonderful players here at Eastern," she told me. "It was never a goal of mine to win a certain number of games, but what I am proud of is continuing the excellence set by coach Bob Miller--who was here before me. Averaging almost 20 wins per season for the last 15 years is quite a statement about our program, but I reflect more on my relationships with my players and seeing them grow as people." Yes, a program that is in VERY good hands; congrats, Denise..........This week in sports history, December 21, 1974: Oakland Raiders quarterback Ken Stabler throws four touchdown passes--leading his team to a 28-26 AFC playoff victory over the Miami Dolphins. Stabler's final TD pass came with just 26 seconds remaining when he found Clarence Davis in a crowded end zone; the eight yard scoring strike capped an eight-play, 68-yard drive. Stabler's heroics enabled the Raiders to end Miami's two-year reign as Super Bowl champions..........Here goes: Shakopee, MN councilwoman Pamela Punt marries former Patriots RB Patrick Pass, divorces, then marries ex-Dolphins RB Jim Kiick. Fan of youth football competitions would surely enjoy her full married name of Pamela Punt Pass Kiick..........Did you know that Connecticut's own Scott Burrell is the only athlete in major professional sports history to be drafted in the first round in two sports? He was selected by the Seattle Mariners (as a pitcher out of Hamden High) in the first round of the 1989 MLB Draft; Burrell was later selected by the Charlotte Hornets in the first round of the 1993 NBA Draft after playing at UCONN. Burrell is currently an assistant basketball coach at Quinnipiac University under former UCONN assistant Tom Moore. (*Thanks to reader Bob Barth for his input on Burrell)..........Regarding this entire Tiger Woods fiasco: I've heard from people who've told me that he needs his ego checked, his head examined, and that he needs to be treated for sex addiction. I look at it this way: With a beautiful, blonde, Swedish model as a wife, I think Mr. Woods simply needs his EYESIGHT checked..........O.K.--one more crack about Tiger: His last name may be WOODS, but--when it comes to women--he surely has lots of IRONS in the fire, huh?..........Answer to trivia question: ED PINCKNEY--who converted 104-of-116 free throws for a percentage of .897; Larry Bird was second with a mark of .891..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA player Terry Mills--who blows out 42 candles on December 21st. A 6'10" forward out of Michigan, Mills played 11 seasons in the league between 1990 and 2001 as a member of the Nuggets, Nets, Pistons, Heat, and Pacers; he averaged 10.6 points and 5.4 rebounds per game for his career. Mills' best year came during the 1993-'94 season while with Detroit--a season in which he averaged more than 17 points and 8 rebounds per game; while at Michigan, Mills helped the Wolverines to the 1989 national title. Best wishes, Terry..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of Eastern Illinois offensive line coach Jeff Hoover--who died recently in a single-car accident following a game vs. Southern Illinois in Carbondale; he was just 41. Hoover joined Eastern Illinois in 2007 after serving as the offensive coordinator at Portland State; he also spent some time in the Arena Football League coaching the Sacramento Attack. He is survived by his wife, Penny, and two children, Lauren and Cole. May Jeff Hoover rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 12-12-09

2009-12-08T00:32:00.002-05:00

ITEM: Pittsburgh leads New Hampshire 15-7 at the HALF during a college basketball game last week--the fewest first-half points in a Division I game since the shot clock was employed. I haven't seen anything THAT ugly since a former roommate of mine at Fordham was combing the hair on his BACK..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last member of the Milwaukee Bucks to lead the NBA in free throw shooting percentage? Answer to follow..........Gotta love WFAN Radio's Steve Somers--who calls the lowly NBA team playing in New Jersey "The Empty Nets." Somers also commented last week about Derek Jeter's "squeaky clean" image--remarking, "This guy is so clean that the soap companies want to endorse HIM!"..........ITEM: The New York Jets bring in N.Y. Yankees manager Joe Girardi to teach QB Mark Sanchez how to slide. HUH??? Shouldn't "Gang Green" have hired a TRUE, former baserunner to teach such a skill--maybe Rickey Henderson? Then again, if you bring Henderson in, you may have to interrupt a card game in order to get him to show up at the practice field..........This week in sports history, December 15, 1946: The Chicago Bears capture their fifth NFL championship--defeating the New York Giants 24-14 in a game played at the Polo Grounds. The game was played under a cloud of suspicion as NY quarterback Frank Filchock and FB Merle Hapes reportedly were offered bribes by professional gamblers; Filchock went on to throw a pair of TD passes as the game was tied 14-14 after three quarters. However, Chicago quarterback Sid Luckman would put the Bears ahead to stay in the fourth when he ran 19 yards down the right sideline on a fake sweep--propelling his team to the title game victory..........How 'bout the NY Knicks and the New Jersey Nets winning on the SAME NIGHT last week? My first thought was that if something like THAT can happen, then there is STILL hope for yours truly to date Christie Brinkley and/or Jennifer Aniston within the next six months..........The honors continue to pile up for Eastern CT State Univ. soccer player Sarah Swann of Oxford (CT). She was recently named as a first team all-star to the women's ECAC New England Division III All-Star squad; as reported in this column a few weeks back, Swann had earlier been named as the Little East Conference's Offensive Player of the Year. Well done, Sarah.......... Answer to trivia question: JACK SIKMA--who made 321-of-348 free throws during the '87-'88 season for a percentage of .922..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week" (sit down for THIS one, folks): In a college basketball game played last week in Ohio, Walsh University obliterated Ohio St.-Mansfield 154-59; the winning squad set school records for margin of victory (95), field goals made (64), assists (47), rebounds (73), and points in a half (84). If I'm the coach of the losing squad, I inject some comforting humor into the equation while addressing my team after the game and offer this: "Good news and bad news, guys; the good news is that you still have your health intact and you will NEVER get beaten THAT badly ever again. The bad news is that our team trainer just took my blood pressure-- and the systolic number is 30 points higher than Walsh's total score tonight."..........I've heard a countless number of Tiger Woods references since his car crash/indiscretions became public, but I'll give reader Joe Pankowski credit for being the first to inform me that Tiger--from this day forward--should be known as "Cheetah"..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Doug Rau--who blows out 61 candles on December 15th. A native Texan who attended Texas A&M, Rau pitched nine seasons in the "bigs" between 1972 and 1981--spending most of his time with the Dodgers. Rau's best year came in 1976 while with L.A.--a year in which he went 16-12 with an impressive 2.57 ERA (second in the NL); his lifetime record was 81-60. However, Rau struggled while pitching in the postseason as a member of the Dodgers; in six postseason games (11 innings) during his career, Rau pitched to a record of 0-2 with a 6.55 ERA. Rau ended his career in '81 as a member of the Angels; best wishes, Doug..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of basketball Hall of Famer Al Cervi--who died recently in Rochester, NY at the age of 92. Cervi was the 1947 National Basketball League scoring champion and MVP as a guard for the Rochester Royals; he became a player-coach for the Syracuse Nationals in 1948 and remained in that role after the team joined the NBA. He retired as a player in 1953 and later coached the Nats to the NBA title in 1955. Cervi was elected to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Ruth, a son, two daughters, and four grandchildren. May Al Cervi rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 12-5-09

2009-12-01T23:35:00.004-05:00

As winter approaches and the '09 baseball season fades into memory, we once again recognize/reward some deserving individuals:

*The first annual EARL WEAVER/FULL PACK Award: Chris Ray of the Orioles. Formerly an effective closer, the guy gave up 64 hits and surrendered eight HR's in just 43 innings this year while pitching to an ERA of 7.27--giving Orioles fans more indigestion than any greasy crab cake you'd find along Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Yes, Weaver used to call former O's pitcher Don Stanhouse "Full Pack" due to the number of cigarettes he'd smoke while watching him pitch; I'm convinced that if the "Earl of Baltimore" was still managing, he'd nickname Chris Ray "Carton."
*The GEORGE BRETT/PETE ROSE HONORARY THROWBACK PLAYER Award: CC Sabathia of the N.Y. Yankees. Though paid gazillions to play a kid's game, he's still a "gimme the ball"-type pitcher. And when asked about pitching on just three days rest come playoff time, he downplayed it--saying, "I don't think it's that big of a deal....this time of the year, you tend to cut down on bullpens anyway." Yeah--my kinda guy.
*The LITTLE BUCKS/BIG NUMBERS Award: We'll give this one to Kendry Morales of the Angels. The man played 152 games--hitting 34 HR's and driving in 108--and was paid just over $1 million. From now on--whenever I hear that jingle "Don't You Just Love A Bargain"--I'll think of Kendry instead of the Christmas Tree Shops. Pablo Sandoval of the Giants finished second followed by the Reds' Joey Votto.
*The BLACKSTONE/HOUDINI DISAPPEARING ACT Award: Aaron Harang of the Cincinnati Reds. After putting together back-to-back 16 win seasons in '06 and '07, he's won just TWELVE games since then--sporting a combined record of 12-31 over the past two seasons. Garrett Atkins of the Rockies finished a close second as his HR and RBI total decreased for the third consecutive year.
*The ARSONIST OF THE YEAR Award: A 'no-brainer' as Phils reliever Brad Lidge pitched to a 7.21 ERA and blew 11 saves; the term "closer" took on a new meaning in the City of Brotherly Love as Philadelphia fans CLOSED their eyes each time Lidge entered a game.
*The BUM OF THE YEAR Award: No one came close to the Cubs' Milton Bradley. A "cancer" everywhere he's been, he was suspended in September for the remainder of the season after saying, "You understand why they haven't won in 100 years here." This is a guy who signed a three-year, $30 million contract before the season and hit just .257 with 40 RBI's. Question: Who SHOULD have done the bad-mouthing here--the Cubs GM or Bradley?
*The HIT OR MISS Award: For the second straight year, goes to Mark Reynolds of the D'Backs. Despite hitting 44 home runs, he broke his own MLB strikeout record this season by whiffing a staggering 223 times. Rumor has it that AZ team officials will charge Reynolds for the large amount of grass seed that was needed to constantly repair the path that Reynolds made from home plate to the dugout throughout the season.
*The MAYTAG/DEPENDABILITY Award: Mariners outfielder Ichiro Suzuki is automatically given this award yearly. In '09, the guy hit .352 with 225 hits--and missed 16 games (he usually plays them all). And yes, folks, three things in life are certain: The New England weather will disappoint, Christie Brinkley will NOT age, and Ichiro will win a Gold Glove; he won his NINTH in a row in '09.
*The AVERSION TO WALKING Award: Goes to Miguel Tejada of the Houston Astros. With 635 at-bats to his credit, he walked just 19 times. This guy may become the first player to ever swing at a RESIN BAG if a pitcher mistakenly throws it a few feet in front of the mound.
*The GERITOL/AGE DOESN'T MATTER Award: Mariano Rivera of the Yankees. At age 39, the man had his best save total (44) since 2004; in addition, he gave up ONE earned run in 16 postseason innings. Yes, he may be called "Mo," but I say that "Chateau Margaux" may be more appropriate due to his better-with-aging characteristics.
*The STAY AT FIRST Award: Awarded to Elijah Dukes of the Nationals. The man attempted to steal 13 bases and was thrown out TEN times. With a success rate of 23%, catchers don't sweat too much when this guy gets on base.
*The TONY BENNETT/BEST YEARS BEHIND HIM Award: Randy Johnson of the S.F. Giants. Gave up 19 HR's in 96 innings, spent a long stint on the DL, and no longer strikes out a batter per inning. Yes, at age 46, it's TIME, Big Unit. Ex-teammate Ken Griffey Jr. was a close second.
*The BONNIE AND CLYDE/HIGHWAY ROBBERY Award: I know injuries are part of the game (as well as guaranteed contracts), but this one undoubtedly goes to Jason Schmidt of the Dodgers. He made just FOUR starts due to injury for L.A. in '09--going 2-2 with a 5.60 ERA--and was paid more than $15 million. In fact, Schmidt has earned about $47 million since signing with the Dodgers before the '07 season and has won a grand total of just THREE games for the team. Rolaids, Dodger fans? Alfonso Soriano of the Cubs finished a close second.
*The RODNEY DANGERFIELD/LACK OF RESPECT Award: Goes to Ryan Braun of the Milwaukee Brewers. Almost unnoticed was the fact that the guy hit .320 with 114 RBI's. In addition, he played 158 games, scored well over 100 runs, stole 20 bases, and made just two errors in the outfield. Just goes to show you what happens when you play in the Midwest and your team finishes under .500.
*The PITIFULLY PUNCHLESS Award--for lack of offense: The S.D. Padres nailed this one. As a team, they were last in the majors in hits, RBI's, total bases, slugging %, AND batting average. Just like the altitude of Colorado results in better offensive production, the constant sunshine in San Diego must dry out bats--leaving them totally useless and ineffective.
*Finally, the DOLLY THE SHEEP/REASON TO CLONE Award: Derek Jeter of the world champion Yankees--with Albert Pujols of St. Louis finishing second. For the sixth straight season, Jeter played in 150 or more games while reaching the 200+ hit plateau for the seventh time. In addition, he won his fourth Gold Glove and added a NEW honor to his impressive resume--The Roberto Clemente Award--which recognizes the player who combines giving back to the community with superlative skill on the field. Quite simply, he's the 'Dudley Do-Right' of modern-day baseball; wish we had more MLB players like Mr. Jeter.

Enjoy the off-season, everyone.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11-28-09

2009-11-24T12:24:00.001-05:00

Yes--at first, I thought it was a basketball score, but I was wrong. In a Division II college football playoff game last weekend, West Liberty beat Edinboro 84-63 (I'm not kidding, folks); the teams combined for a Division II single-game record 1,394 yards of total offense. Here's the topper: QB Trevor Harris of Edinboro threw for an NCAA Division II playoff record 630 yards (on 50-of-76 passing, 5 TD's) and LOST. All I know is that the next time I come across Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese in my local supermarket, I'll think of these two teams' defenses.........TRIVIA QUESTION: Over the past 30 years, two members of the Montreal Canadiens have won the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the NHL's top defenseman. Can you name these two gentlemen? Answer to follow..........Can you imagine if 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..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college basketball game played last week, the school mentioned above--West Liberty--defeated Pitt-Titusville 145-70. Try to fathom these numbers, my friends: The winning squad had a staggering 41 assists as a team and made a total of 21 three-pointers. In addition, the 75-point margin of victory was the largest in school history. Geez, and I used to think that South American sloths were ugly..........This week in sports history, November 30, 1979: In Las Vegas, 23-year-old ex-Olympian Sugar Ray Leonard wins boxing's welterweight boxing title--scoring a 15th round technical knockout over previously unbeaten Wilfred Benitez. Referee Carlos Padilla stopped the bout with six seconds left in the final round after Benitez had climbed off the canvas following a Leonard left hook; Leonard had also knocked down the champion back in the third round. The victory was Sugar Ray's 26th in a row since turning professional while Benitez suffered his first loss in 39 pro bouts..........Post University of Waterbury (CT) has just announced it will join the Collegiate Sprint Football League next season; the team will play its first game at the University of Pennsylvania on September 24, 2010 at Franklin Field in Philadelphia. The interesting part? Sprint football has similar rules to regular college football, but the weight limit for players is 172 pounds. This league includes prestigious schools such as Army, Navy, Princeton, Cornell, Penn, and Mansfield; the focus is on providing students with a way to play competitive sports while building their leadership skills as they earn their college degrees. The school plans on hiring a coach in December and will play its home games at Municipal Stadium on Rt. 73 in Waterbury. Here's hoping that the inclusion of Post in this novel league will attract a loyal audience and provide an interesting addition to the local college sports scene in general ..........I used to think that a Jerry West jump shot was a true thing of beauty--that is, until I saw a photo the other day of supermodel Bar Refaeli modeling Passionata lingerie during a recent photo shoot..........Answer to trivia question: LARRY ROBINSON (1979-'80) and CHRIS CHELIOS (1988-'89)..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former ABA/NBA center/forward Jim Chones--who blows out 60 candles on November 30th. A native of Racine, Wisconsin who starred at Marquette, Chones played for five different teams in the two leagues between 1972 and 1982--averaging an impressive 12.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. Chones was a valued member of the 1979-'80 world championship L.A. Lakers squad. Jim was elected to the Marquette University Hall of Fame in 2004; in his post-basketball-playing days, Chones has spent time doing broadcasting work for the Cleveland Cavaliers in various capacities. Best wishes, Jim..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of Stefanie Spielman--wife of former NFL and Ohio State star Chris Spielman--who died recently after a lengthy battle with cancer; she was 42. Stefanie was 30 years old back in 1998 when she discovered she first had breast cancer; amazingly, she survived four bouts with cancer before a fifth recurrence back in March. Stefanie and Chris became major advocates for breast-cancer early detection over the years and raised more than $6 million for research at Ohio State through the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research. While with the Buffalo Bills, Chris gave up football for a year to stay home with his wife--even shaving his own head while she underwent chemotherapy treatments. Stefanie also helped form a support group for young women with breast cancer and was inducted into the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame in 2002 for her terrific work; yes, folks, sometimes courage goes WAY beyond the football field. Stefanie Spielman is survived by her husband and their four children: Madison, Noah, Macy and Audrey. May this special lady rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11-21-09

2009-11-17T10:13:00.001-05:00

Congratulations go out to Eastern CT State University soccer player Sarah Swann of Oxford (CT)--who was recently named the Little East Conference Offensive Player of the Year. Swann scored nine goals and added three assists in seven conference matches; she also scored both goals during a 2-1 road win over three-time defending conference champion Western Connecticut. Swann (along with teammate Christine Lemieux) repeated first-team all-conference honors this past season; great job, Sarah..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Amazingly, the 1990-'91 Phoenix Suns had three starters on the squad who shot 83% or higher from the free-throw line. Can you name this trio? Answer to follow..........ITEM: San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker may miss up to a week due to a sprained left ankle. I'm totally convinced that Parker's injury probably warranted him missing about a MONTH--but being married to Eva Longoria speeds up the healing process DRASTICALLY..........This just in: Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler just attempted to throw a bottle into a garbage bin outside Soldier Field--and it got picked off..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college basketball game played last week, Arkansas dismantled Alcorn State 130-68; the winning squad built up a 71-26 lead BY HALFTIME. In addition, the Razorbacks' Rotnei Clarke scored 51 points in this terrible mismatch (making 13 three-pointers) while SITTING OUT the last five minutes of the game. Sheesh--and I used to think that the famed mugshot of Nick Nolte (following his DUI arrest in 2002) was ugly..........This week in sports history, November 23, 1991: Kansas running back Tony Sands runs for an NCAA-record 396 yards--leading his team to a 53-29 victory over Missouri in his final game as a college player. The 5-foot-6 Sands carried the ball a remarkable 58 times while scoring four touchdowns; he gained 240 yards in the second half on his way to breaking the previous mark of 386 set by San Diego State's Marshall Faulk earlier in the season. Sands' heroics enabled the Jayhawks to experience their first winning season since 1991..........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 fans would surely delight in her full married name of Kathleen Henry Wadsworth Longfellow..........ITEM: The great Vin Scully says he will continue to broadcast L.A. Dodgers games for yet another season. At this juncture, you can be sure of three things in life: yours truly will wake up each AM with joint stiffness, Carmen Electra will look good in ANY photo she takes, and Vin Scully will be calling a baseball game SOMEWHERE come summertime..........How 'bout Yale junior DB Jesse Reising--who was class valedictorian at Eisenhower High School (Decatur, IL)? Reising is double-majoring in Economics/Political Science and plans to join the Marines after graduation. Don't look for THIS guy to be caught cheating on any online music history exam in the foreseeable future..........Answer to trivia question: TOM CHAMBERS (83%), KEVIN JOHNSON (84%), and JEFF HORNACEK (90%)..........ITEM: Joe Namath's dog Leo has been deemed "dangerous" and must be muzzled and leashed even while on Namath's property in Florida. Let's just hope that "Joe Willie" doesn't get cited for animal cruelty should he decide to use panty hose in an attempt to keep the pup's jaw shut..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA player Gary Voce--who blows out 44 candles on November 24th. I know--WHO??? A native of Bridgeport (CT) who played at Notre Dame, the former 6-foot-9 forward is one of those handful of individuals who played in just ONE NBA game; Voce appeared in one regular season game for the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 1989-'90 season vs. the Washington Bullets--scoring two points (on 1-for-3 shooting) and grabbing two rebounds. Hey--they ALL can't be Lebron, right? Best wishes, Gary..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NBA center Alan Ogg--who passed away recently in Alabama from a staph infection that ultimately reached his heart; he was 42. The 7-foot-2 inch, 240-pound Ogg played collegiately at UAB; he remains that school's all-time leading shot blocker with a total of 266 over four seasons. Between 1990 and 1993, Ogg played in the NBA for Miami, Milwaukee, and Washington--appearing in 80 games; he also spent time playing overseas before retiring for good in 2001. May Alan Ogg rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11-14-09

2009-11-10T12:03:00.001-05:00

ITEM: Former NBA center/Yale grad Chris Dudley is running for governor of Oregon--as a Republican. Sheesh, if this guy should ever win and run that state like he once shot free throws, look for the following to happen: state taxes to rise at an astronomical rate, Oregon's unemployment rate to approach 50%, and HUGE chunks of the state to start eroding into the Pacific Ocean..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1991-'92 Golden State Warriors--who scored an impressive 118.7 points per contest--had three players on the squad who averaged more than 18 points per game apiece. Can you name these three gentlemen? Answer to follow.........This week in sports history, November 17, 1991: During his team's 21-10 victory over the Los Angeles Rams, Lions offensive lineman Mike Utley suffers a paralyzing injury during a pass-blocking assignment. David Rocker of the Rams, who leaped in an effort to block Detroit QB Erik Kramer's pass, landed on Utley--who fell forward while fracturing his sixth cervical vertebrae. The 6-foot-6, 290-pound Utley would undergo 2 1/2 hours of surgery to decompress fragments and tissue that were pressing against his spinal cord; doctors later claimed that the operation went as smoothly as could be expected, but still could not predict if the paralysis would be permanent..........Can you imagine if famed socialite (I'll stop short of saying "actress") Paris Hilton married Wake Forest track star Phillip Warsaw, divorced, married former Miami quarterback Brock Berlin--divorced again--then married sports talk show host Jim Rome? Fans of European geography would surely enjoy her full married name of Paris Warsaw Berlin Rome..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a game played in New Hampshire last Saturday, Southern Connecticut annihilated St. Anselm 71-14; SCSU scored 50 seconds into this "laugher" and held a 43-7 lead AT THE HALF. In theological history, St. Anselm is said to have been treated harshly by his father, but I'd be willing to bet that even Anselm himself would have had trouble fathoming the type of mistreatment that Southern CT handed out during THIS debacle..........New York Giants linebacker Michael Boley recently told the New York Post that his choice of preferred dinner guests would include both Bill Gates and Tiger Woods. My first reaction? Regardless of WHERE they chose to dine, there would be absolutely NO problem WHATSOEVER covering the tab..........So I hear that my alma mater, Fordham, has begun advertising its basketball program on WFAN Radio. Geez, having won just THREE games last season while going 1-15 in the Atlantic 10, I was beginning to think that the term "Fordham Basketball" was an oxymoron..........Speaking of the Fordham Rams: If that team makes the NCAA basketball tournament this season, then yours truly goes out on dates with Charlize Theron and Cameron Diaz on consecutive evenings sometime during 2010..........Answer to trivia question: CHRIS MULLIN (25.6 ppg), TIM HARDAWAY (23.4), and SARUNAS MARCIULIONIS (18.9)..........How 'bout that college football game in the Midwest last weekend--Crown (MN) defeating Eureka 69-63? The game featured over 1,400 yards of total offense and lasted nearly four hours. I'm just wondering--with the score tied at 42-42 late in the third quarter--if the eventual losing squad actually YELLED "Eureka!" when they finally forced Crown to punt for the first time..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league player Eli Marrero--who blows out 36 candles on November 17th. A native of Cuba, Marrero spent ten seasons in the "bigs" between 1997 and 2006--playing for six different teams. A versatile player who caught, played first base, and also played the outfield, Marrero was a lifetime .243 hitter; in 250 at-bats, he hit .320 for the Braves in 2004. However, Marrero had absolutely NO success as a postseason player; appearing in five playoff series as a member of the Cardinals and Braves, Marrero hit just .105--gathering only four hits in 38 at-bats. Hey--they all can't be Hideki Matsui, right? Best wishes, Eli..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Iowa football coach Forest Evashevski--who died recently in Michigan at the age of 91. A former star himself at Michigan, Evashevski was hired at Iowa in 1952 and led the Hawkeyes to a pair of Rose Bowl victories as well as three Big 10 championships; he coached the team until 1960. Evashevski was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000; he leaves his wife, Ruth, five sons, and two daughters. Rest in peace, "Coach."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 11-7-09

2009-11-03T23:36:00.001-05:00

The "Unwatchable NBA" Update (yes--sadly, this feature returns, folks): In a game played in Boston last week, the Celtics annihilated the Bobcats 92-59; Charlotte was 0-for-10 from 3-point range, had just 10 assists AS A TEAM, and shot a pitiful 52% from the free-throw line on 13-for-25 shooting. Geez, and I used to think that hippopotamuses, slugs, and Chihuahuas were ugly..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last NBA player to lead the league in personal fouls in consecutive years? Answer to follow..........I'd love to see a bumper sticker in New York City that reads the following: DECISIONS, DECISIONS--MORTGAGE PAYMENT OR YANKEE GAME?..........Congratulations go out to Bill Brickett--long-time softball stand-out from Shelton, CT--who recently bowled the second perfect game of his career while competing in the Business/Industrial Bowling League at Colony Lanes in Wallingford. In addition to the 300 game, Brickett (son-in-law of New Haven-area sports announcer Bob Barth) added games of 246 and 214 for a three-game total of 760--raising his overall game average from 225 to 229. Great job, Bill..........This week in sports history, November 10, 1963: Gordie Howe of the Detroit Red Wings becomes the NHL's all-time leading goal-scorer--tallying #545 during his team's 3-0 victory vs. Montreal. Howe broke the record--previously held by Maurice "Rocket" Richard--at 15:06 of the second period. During the same game, Red Wings goalie Terry Sawchuk made some headlines, too--posting his 94th career shutout; his 39-save effort matched the NHL's all-time record for shutouts held by former Montreal goalie George Hainsworth..........For any "do-gooders" out there who may have been disturbed that WNBA star Diana Taurasi had to spend just a day in jail after her DUI bust: Taurasi's blood-alcohol level was 0.17--twice the legal limit in Arizona. Sorry, folks, but when one is THAT intoxicated--and behind a wheel--the vehicle becomes a lethal weapon. The truly disturbing/scary part is THIS: her actions are really no different than carelessly discharging a deadly firearm near a crowd of people--and LUCKILY not hitting anyone..........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..........Sorry, but whenever I hear the words "baseball" and "integrity" in the same sentence, the term "oxymoronic" always comes to mind..........The other day, I came across a lovely picture of model/actress Elizabeth Hurley wearing a stunning, flowered dress at a luncheon for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Geez, and I used to think that Wade Boggs' SWING was a thing of beauty..........Answer to trivia question: KURT THOMAS of the New York Knicks--who led the league in personal fouls in 2001-'02 (341) and again in '02-'03 (344)..........How 'bout quarterback John Skelton of my alma mater Fordham--who threw 67 passes and also RUSHED 15 times last Saturday during a 41-27 loss to Holy Cross? I'm gonna go out on a limb and say that the guy had NO need for melatonin, chamomile tea, or any other sleep aid that evening in order to get some badly-needed shuteye..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league outfielder Dion James--who blows out 47 candles on November 9th. A native of Philadelphia, James spent 11 seasons in the "bigs" between 1983 and 1996--hitting a respectable .288 lifetime. James spent time with the Brewers, Braves, Indians, and Yankees during his playing days; perhaps his best year came with Atlanta in 1987 when he drove in 61 runs and finished fifth in the National League with a batting average of .312. Best wishes, Dion..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NFL assistant coach Darvin Wallis--who died recently in Colorado at the age of 60. Wallis spent time as a college assistant at Mississippi, Tulane and Adams State before beginning his NFL career with the Cleveland Browns under head coach Sam Rutigliano in 1982. He went on to spend 19 years with the Kansas City Chiefs as a defensive assistant/quality control coach before retiring in January 2008. Wallis is survived by his wife, Vicky, and three sons: Tyson, Darvin Jr., and Austin. May Darvin Wallis rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10-31-09

2009-10-28T01:29:00.001-04:00

How 'bout that college football game played out west last weekend--Nevada defeating Idaho 70-45? In a state where gambling is so prevalent--and where one can bet on almost ANYTHING--I'm now wondering if there are odds in regard to which school's defensive coordinator will be fired first..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last NBA player to lead the league in turnovers in consecutive years? Answer to follow..........I am TOTALLY convinced that in a previous life, Manny Ramirez was a flying insect that would visit different family picnics every so often--and be a nuisance each and every time..........O.K.--here goes: 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..........This week in sports history, November 3, 1973: Wide receiver Jay Miller of Brigham Young sets a new NCAA record for receptions in a game--tallying 22 during his team's 56-21 victory vs. New Mexico. Catching passes from quarterback Gary Sheide (who threw for 408 yards and six TD's), Miller caught three in the first quarter, six in the second, four in the third, and nine in the fourth; he broke the mark previously held by Tulsa's Rick Eber--who caught 20 in a game back in 1967..........ITEM: ESPN baseball analyst Steve Phillips has an affair with a 22-year-old production assistant; Phillips has also admitted to having multiple affairs with women when he worked for the N.Y. Mets. Geez, I know his former job as a major league GM gave him LOTS of experience in "making moves," but it seems like Steve has taken that expression to an ENTIRELY different level..........During the Pats/Bucs game last Sunday in London, CBS' Jim Nantz and Phil Simms talked about the degree to which interceptions bother New England QB Tom Brady--how he thinks about them all week. Maybe so, but if I'm going home daily to a wife name Gisele Bundchen, the occasional "pick" becomes a HECKUVA lot easier to swallow..........While covering a high school football game for ESPN Radio last week on a cold, windy, rainy night in central CT, I was also exposed to various other "pleasantries": a long, muddy walk to a small/unheated/crowded press box, a dimly-lit field with difficult-to-see yard-markers, and a loud band/unruly kids next to me--resulting in difficulty phoning in my reports. There's more: I was given no team rosters, there were no bathrooms in sight, there was bench seating in the limited-view, noisy press box that brought new meaning to the term "discomfort", and a fourth-quarter downpour resulting in my own paperwork getting totally soaked. Oh--finally, the parking lot made a sardine can seem roomy--resulting in a half-hour wait while exiting the premises. Yes, folks, putting all that aside, it was truly a TERRIFIC experience!..........Answer to trivia question: JERRY STACKHOUSE of the Detroit Pistons--who led the NBA in turnovers in 1999-'00 (311) and 2000-'01 (326)..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA player Steve Johnson--who blows out 52 candles on November 3rd. A native of Ohio, Johnson played a total of ten seasons in the league (for a variety of teams) between 1981 and 1991--averaging 11.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game for his career. A power forward/center, Johnson's best year came during the '86-'87 campaign while in Portland--a season in which he averaged 16.8 ppg/7.2 rpg; he was named to the NBA All-Star team the following season. Johnson played collegiately at Oregon State where he was the star of the 1980-'81 squad--a team that spent most of the season at #1 in the national polls. That year, Johnson made 235 of 315 shots for a field goal percentage of 74.6%--a single-season mark which remains an NCAA men's record to this day. Best wishes, Steve..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former University of Oklahoma softball standout Mariee Mena--who passed away recently from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident; she was just 26. A California native, Mariee was a member of the Sooners’ 2003 and 2004 Women’s College World Series teams as well as Oklahoma’s 2007 Big 12 Championship squad. Mena earned USA Softball and NFCA National Player of the Week honors in February of '07 after leading OU at the Palm Springs Tournament--hitting a blistering .692 with eight RBI's. Mariee Mena is survived by her parents, Adam and Isela Mena, a sister, and two brothers; may she rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10-24-09

2009-10-20T12:39:00.002-04:00

ITEM: The Plainfield (CT) High School football team has scored a grand total of just THIRTEEN points over the course of its first five games this season. Sheesh, this team's offense sees the end zone about as often as pretty women wink at yours truly..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who is the last NHL player to lead the league in goals scored for three consecutive years? Answer to follow..........I'm not sure what lovely model/actress Liz Hurley does to retard the aging process, but any GM of a big league team with an aging pitching staff should invest a TON of money to find out what it is..........Call me crazy, but isn't there something fundamentally bizarre about the fact that Sammy Wanjiru of Kenya can run the Chicago Marathon in a time (2:05.41) that's about 45 minutes FASTER than the average major league baseball game?..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played last weekend, New York Maritime defeated Becker 68-6; Becker fumbled EIGHT times during this massacre while the victorious squad never had to punt. Yeah--when it come to ugliness, this game ranks right up there with those old AMC cars such as the Gremlin, the Pacer, and the Matador..........This week in sports history, October 27, 1984: Washington State running back Rueben Mayes breaks college football's single-game rushing record--tallying 357 yards during his team's 50-41 victory over Oregon. Mayes broke the record previously held by Georgia Tech's Eddie Lee Ivery--who rushed for 356 yards in a game back in 1978. Amazingly, Mayes (who scored three TD's during the game) rushed for 156 yards in the second quarter ALONE; he would rush for 87 yards in the final quarter--ultimately breaking the record with 1:12 remaining on a four-yard run..........ITEM: Former Kentucky basketball coach Billy Gillispie is busted on a DUI charge after the arresting officer noticed his eyes were red, his speech was slurred, and he had a strong, fruity smell coming from him; Gillispie simply said that he was playing golf all day. Yeah--shame on that officer, Billy; I thought ALL law enforcement people were already aware of how popular Starbust candies and Hawaiian Punch were at most golf courses/country clubs these days..........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..........WARNING: The following tidbit may cause intense stomach sickness/intestinal distress; read with caution: Alex Rodriguez of the New York Yankees came to bat 444 times during the regular season this year and was paid approximately $33 million. Folks, that comes out to more than $74,300 PER AT-BAT. Tums, anyone???..........Answer to trivia question: BRETT HULL of the St. Louis Blues--who led the NHL in goals scored each year from 1989-1992 with totals of 72, 86, and 70 respectively..........ITEM: Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson meet on the "Oprah" Show--almost a dozen years after the infamous ear-biting incident during their heavyweight bout. Call it a coincidence, but I noticed right away that Oprah styled her hair that day in a way where her ears were totally hidden/unexposed--thus fending off any possible auricle-consuming attempt by anyone in attendance..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league player Bip Roberts--who blows out 46 candles on October 27th. A versatile infielder/outfielder, Roberts played for six different clubs between 1986 and 1998--the majority of his tenure having been spent as a member of the San Diego Padres. A native of Berkeley, CA, Bip stole 264 bases in his career and batted .294 lifetime; he finished fourth in the NL batting race (.323) in 1992 while with Cincinnati--a year in which he was also named to the NL All-Star squad. Best wishes, Bip..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league pitcher Larry Jansen--who passed away recently in Oregon at the age of 89. Jansen spent nine years in the majors between 1947 and 1956; he pitched for the New York Giants for eight years before ending his career with the Cincinnati Reds. A two-time 20-game winner for the Giants, Jansen is best known for being the winning pitcher in the 1951 playoff game decided by Bobby Thomson’s “Shot Heard ‘Round the World." His career record was 122-89 and he was a two-time NL All-Star. After his playing days were over, Jansen spent many years as a pitching coach for both the Giants and Cubs. May Larry Jansen rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10-17-09

2009-10-14T21:01:00.003-04:00

Terrific cause: Join big league pitcher Craig Breslow and others on Saturday, November 7th at the Omni Hotel in New Haven for the Strike 3 Foundation's First Pitch Celebrity Gala. Proceeds will benefit pediatric cancer research and those in attendance will have the opportunity to meet Andrew Bailey, Jack Cust, Rajai Davis, Shea Ralph, and others; guest speaker will be Nomar Garciaparra. More information can be obtained by visiting www.strike3foundation.org ..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1993-'94 Boston Bruins--who finished second in the NHL's Northeast Division--had three players on the team who scored more than 30 goals apiece. Can you name this talented trio? Answer to follow..........Can you 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 delight in her full married name of Nancy Greene Raine Bowe Trout..........College football: How 'bout Navy annihilating Rice 63-14 last weekend? Speaking of Navy--and water-related vessels in general--I guess Rice's ship never came in during this game. In fact, it appears that the Owls' ship had sunk long before this game even STARTED..........This week in sports history, October 19, 1957: At the Montreal Forum, Maurice Richard of the Canadiens scores the 500th goal of his illustrious career--leading his team to a 3-1 victory over Chicago. "The Rocket's" milestone goal was a 20-foot slapshot at 15:32 of the first period and was scored against Chicago goalie Glenn Hall. The 36-year-old Richard leaped into the arms of teammate Jean Beliveau shortly after the historic goal while more than 14,000 fans at the Forum delivered a long, standing ovation..........I hate to second-guess anyone--especially Red Sox manager Terry Francona--but NO WAY can you walk Torii Hunter to get to a talented, feared hitter like Vladimir Guerrero last weekend in Game 3 of the ALDS; I seriously cringed as soon as the decision was made and was vocal about it to the people viewing it with me. Yes, it ended up sending the Red Sox off to the golf course. Folks, I don't care WHAT the #'s said about Hunter's success vs. Papelbon--or the fact that Guerrero has done little in his career during the postseason. With the bases loaded, it was a 'no-brainer' that the overdue Guerrero--a dead-fastball hitter (and a .321 lifetime hitter)--was going to get a decent pitch to hit. He wasted no time in depositing the FIRST PITCH into center-field, and the Angels AND Guerrero finally had the "monkey" off their backs. Bottom line? I want Torii Hunter beating me in that situation rather than one Vlad Guerrero.........Speaking of the Red Sox: Just thinking that if catcher Jason Varitek and DH David Ortiz had aged HALF as well as actress Diane Lane has over the past few years, Boston would have won the AL East this season by 5 games or more..........Answer to trivia question: CAM NEELY (50 goals), ADAM OATES (32), and BRYAN SMOLINSKI (31)..........How 'bout Cleveland Browns QB Derek Anderson last Sunday vs. Buffalo? He played the ENTIRE game--completing 2-of-17 passes for 23 yards (ughhhh--that's NOT a misprint, my friends)--and his team WINS. This reminds me of the loud, obnoxious, smelly kid in high school who'd show up at dances halfway through and leave with the prettiest girl..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA center Brad Daugherty--who blows out 44 candles on October 19th. The seven-footer--who played at North Carolina--spent his entire career with the Cleveland Cavaliers between 1986 and 1994; sadly, his career was cut short at the tender age of 28 due to recurrent back problems. Daugherty averaged an impressive 19 points and 9.5 rebounds per game during his pro career; he was a five-time All-Star and was a unanimous selection to the "All-Time Cleveland Cavalier" team back in 2000. He has done broadcasting work in various capacities for ESPN since his career ended; best wishes, Brad..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NFL offensive lineman Bob Kowalkowski--who died recently in Michigan at the age of 65 following a brief illness. Kowalkowski was a guard for the Detroit Lions from 1966-1976; he started every game for the team during his final five seasons in the Motor City. Kowalkowski was traded to Cleveland in 1977 and would later finish his career playing four games for Coach Bart Starr and the Packers in '77. A tireless worker, Bob was very active in charity work while playing AND in retirement; he founded the "Kowalkowski Open" golf tournament in 1973 with friends in order to help the blind and was also very active with the St. Jude's Children's Hospital. His son, Scott, was signed by the Lions in 1994 and played with the team through 2001; may Bob Kowalkowski rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10-10-09

2009-10-05T23:58:00.001-04:00

Congratulations go out to PGA golfer Kenny Perry--who recently was honored with the 2009 Payne Stewart Award. Celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2009, the Payne Stewart Award is presented annually to a player sharing Stewart's respect for the traditions of the game, his commitment to uphold the game's heritage of charitable support, and his professional/meticulous presentation of himself and the sport through his dress and conduct. As noted in this column before, there is NO finer gentleman in golf--or ANY sport--than one Kenny Perry. Well done, Kenny; you're truly deserving of such recognition...........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1995 AFC Champion Pittsburgh Steelers had two players who rushed for more than 500 yards that season. Can you name these two running backs? Answer to follow..........Do you ever wonder why the Yale Precision Marching Band is not quite like your "ordinary" college marching band? For starters, how 'bout some of the unit's song selections from the first couple of home games this season: "Rock You Like A Hurricane" (Scorpions), "Anyway You Want It" (Journey), and "Paradise City" (Guns N' Roses)..........This week in sports history, October 12, 1967: The great Bob Gibson ends the Red Sox' "Impossible Dream" season--pitching a complete-game three-hitter in Game 7 of the World Series at Fenway Park. The 7-2 St. Louis victory was Gibson's THIRD win of the '67 Fall Classic--easily earning him the Series MVP Award. Altogether, Gibson hurled 27 innings vs. Boston--giving up just 14 hits and striking out 26; he also homered to help his own cause during the Game 7 clinching victory.........I used to think that watching Gale Sayers carry the football was a true thing of beauty--that is, until I recently visited the "Gallery" section of Carmen Electra's website.........While watching the Yale/Lafayette football game last weekend at the Yale Bowl, I noticed that the visiting team had a starting tight end on its roster named Michael Bolton. I was almost hoping that the guy would get tackled by a Yale player, stand up immediately, then break into a few lines of "Back On My Feet Again."..........Dick Graham, a true walking baseball "encyclopedia" from West Haven, recently shared the following story with the "Silver Sluggers" weekly baseball discussion group--which holds its meetings in Derby. As Graham is almost ALWAYS serious whenever he speaks, this truly caught EVERYONE off guard: "One time when Joe Torre was catching, he got hit in the mask by a backswing and broke his nose. While recuperating, he became a third baseman. When his nose had healed, he began catching again but the pitchers noticed that he was squatting two feet back farther than normal. When people asked Torre WHY he was doing that, he simply stated that he was scared of getting hit again. This is when Torre earned his nickname. WHAT nickname is that--you may ask? Chicken Catcher Torre"..........O.K.--picture the scenario: Tennis great Virginia Wade marries Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana, divorces, marries former MLB player U L Washington--divorces again--then marries N.Y. Mets pitcher John Maine. Geography lovers everywhere would surely delight in her full married name of Virginia Montana Washington Maine..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played last weekend in the Midwest, Minnesota-Duluth demolished MSU-Moorhead 76-7; the winning squad held a 41-0 lead after ONE QUARTER and led 55-0 at halftime. Seriously, I don't think I've seen anything THAT ugly since the purple leisure suit one of my friends owned back in the 1970's..........Answer to trivia question: ERRIC PEGRAM (813 yards) and BAM MORRIS (559)..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Andy Beene--who blows out 53 candles on October 13th. Don't get Andy confused with former pitcher Fred Beene; Fred had much more major league success. Andy appeared in just six big league games in 1983 and '84 with the Milwaukee Brewers--pitching only 20.2 career innings. And over that span, Beene gave up a total of 24 earned runs, folks--rendering him with a lifetime ERA of 10.45. Hey--he CAN tell his grandchildren that he DID make the "bigs" and strike out 11 batters during his playing days, right? Best wishes, Andy..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NFL coach Monte Clark--who died recently in Detroit from a bone marrow malignancy associated with lung and liver disease; he was 72. Clark was the offensive line coach for the famed 1972 Miami Dolphins--a team that went 17-0. He went on to be the head coach of the Detroit Lions from 1978-1984--leading the team to back-to-back playoff appearances in '82 and '83. Clark also did some college coaching at Stanford and Cal-Berkeley during the 90's; he became a broadcaster in Michigan when his coaching days came to a close. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Charlotte, three sons, and eight grandchildren; may Monte Clark rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 10-3-09

2009-09-29T10:33:00.001-04:00

I was just thinking that aging DOES have its benefits. Though the sports world we experience on a daily basis still attracts great interest from people of ALL ages, I DO feel sorry for those sports aficionados born within the past three decades or so. Why? Because if you were born after 1980........

* you didn't get to see the great Walter Payton carry the football in his prime--"Sweetness" personified
* you missed out on seeing MLB pitchers like Bob Gibson, Jim Palmer, Tom Seaver and Steve Carlton perform magic WITHOUT pitch counts
* you didn't get to see Rick Barry and Calvin Murphy shoot free throws
* you know nothing about the intensity of one Dick Butkus
* you missed seeing Dwight Gooden dazzle hitters in his rookie year of 1984--and follow that up with a "year for the ages" in 1985
* you have no recollection of the "No-Name Defense" and the "Purple People Eaters"
* you never got to read a Dick Young sports column
* you never heard Howard Cosell and "Dandy" Don Meredith together on "Monday Night Football"
* you missed out on seeing an NL player like George Foster hit 50 HRs with NO questions asked
* you didn't see Roberto Duran fight as a lightweight during his prime
* you don't recall an era when most sports autographs were FREE
* you probably didn't see Wayne Gretzky play for the Edmonton Oilers
* you weren't able to see "Pistol" Pete Maravich dribble a basketball, shoot a basketball, or do ANYTHING with a basketball
* you didn't see Johnny Bench catch a baseball game
* you never saw a football player like George Blanda
* you never got to see WHY Pete Rose became known as "Charlie Hustle"
* you grew up in an era when the "police blotter" was (still is!) a regular feature of the sports page
* you missed seeing the aforementioned "Pistol Pete" score 68 points vs. the Knicks and defensive whiz Walt Frazier back in '77--BEFORE there was a three-point line
* you didn't experience the "Miracle on Ice" in 1980
* you've probably paid more for a current Yankees yearbook than yours truly paid for a week's worth of Yankee Stadium bleacher seats in the early 80's
* a good part of your following of baseball has been in the "Steroid Era"--giving you a false sense of player accomplishments
* you haven't seen a perfect football season--i.e. the 1972 Miami Dolphins
* you never saw guys like McEnroe and Borg play tennis in their primes--or play EACH OTHER
* you weren't able to see a young Steve Busby pitch in the 1970's--before an injury cut short one of the promising careers of all-time
* you missed out on a time when "Fan Appreciation Nights" had meaning
* you've never seen regular three-inning saves
* you didn't get a chance to see the 1985 Chicago Bears play defense
* you didn't see George Brett flirt with .400 in 1980
* you grew up in an era where greed was commonplace (still is!), acceptable, and EVERYWHERE
* you didn't see Vida Blue pitch in 1971
* you didn't see Mark "The Bird" Fidrych pitch in 1976
* you've become used to an era where staying up past 11:30 PM to watch an east coast game is commonplace
* the "Thrilla in Manila" has little meaning to you
* you can't relate to why people were glued to their sets while watching "Wide World of Sports" during the 70's
* you have no recollection of the "pine tar incident"
* you didn't see the "Big Red Machine"
* you couldn't enjoy nicknames like "Blue Moon", "Catfish", "Sparky", or "Tug"
* you never saw Joe Namath throw a football--bad knees or NOT
* you never saw an old ABA game
* you--perhaps as a young parent--have been faced with the decision of attending a professional sporting event IN LIEU OF going on a family vacation
* you might have to Google the name "Bruce Jenner"
* you don't recall a coherent Muhammad Ali
* you don't know who "Wild" Bill Hagy is
* you didn't see stars such as Julius Erving, George Gervin, George McGinnis, and Nate "Tiny" Archibald play basketball
* you missed out on "The Mad Hungarian's" antics
* you never witnessed Ray Guy punting a football
* you've witnessed "shock sports journalism" to the max--and very few legitimate sports JOURNALISTS
* you weren't privy to the speed and power of one RB named Earl Campbell
* you can't relate to bringing $10 to a Yankee game and having the time of your life
* you never saw Pele play soccer
* you've attended very few--if ANY--MLB doubleheaders that WEREN'T day/night ones
* the song "We Are Family" has no sports-connection to you
* two-hour baseball games are foreign to you
* you've never seen a Bert Blyleven curveball

Yeah--maybe getting older isn't that bad after all.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9-26-09

2009-09-21T21:07:00.001-04:00

I was listening to an interview on WFAN last week as host Mike Francesa was talking to N.Y. Yankees superstar Mark Teixeira. While talking about his home field, the first baseman actually urged listeners who hadn't been there yet to make it a point to visit the new Yankee Stadium. My first reaction/thoughts: Easy for YOU to say, Mark, when you're earning more than $22 million per season. Perhaps if you and some of your teammates were forced to "get by" on, say, ONLY $6-7 million per season, then more people out there actually COULD visit the new shrine in the Bronx..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1983 Houston Astros hit only 97 home runs as a team. Can you name the club's HR leader that year (an infielder) who hit a total of just 20? Answer to follow..........Just HOW good was the pitching in the American League back in 1985? Fathom this: Bert Blyleven, who pitched for both Minnesota and Cleveland that year, led the league in games started (37), complete games (24), innings pitched (293.2), and shutouts (5)--but finished THIRD in the Cy Young Award voting behind Bret Saberhagen and Ron Guidry..........This week in sports history, September 28, 1988: In San Diego, pitcher Orel Hershiser of the Los Angeles Dodgers extends his consecutive scoreless-innings streak to 59--breaking the 20-year record of former Dodger hurler Don Drysdale. Hershiser entered the game vs. the Padres needing nine more shutout innings to tie Drysdale's mark; he would proceed to shut out San Diego for TEN innings before leaving the game--a pitcher's battle that was ultimately won by the Padres in 16 innings. Over the course of Hershiser's remarkable streak, he threw an impressive FIVE shutouts--blanking Atlanta twice, Cincinnati, Houston, and San Francisco..........Just thinking: If singer/songwriter Neneh Cherry ever married Yankees pitcher Phil Coke, soft drink lovers everywhere would delight in her full married name of Neneh Cherry Coke..........ITEM: Cleveland Cavaliers guard Delonte West is arrested for speeding while carrying a loaded shotgun and two loaded handguns on a motorcycle. Funny, before this, I always considered West a playmaker--NOT a "gunner"..........A suggestion to the football people at the University of New Haven: The next time you're politely invited to appear on a cable talk show in order to promote your resurrected program, please have the decency to SHOW UP. Is it me--or didn't most of us learn a LONG time ago to NOT bite the hand that feeds?..........Yours truly's idea of the PERFECT sports-themed day: A morning tennis date with Gabriela Sabatini--followed by a mid-afternoon golf round with Natalie Gulbis--ending with a candlelit dinner with NESN's Heidi Watney. Yeah--maybe in another lifetime, right?..........I don't know about you, but I miss hearing Marv Albert pronouncing the name of former Jets running back Nuu Faaola.......... Answer to trivia question: Shortstop DICKIE THON--who hit 20 of his lifetime 71 home runs that season for manager Bob Lillis' third-place club..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Charlie Kerfeld--who blows out 46 candles on September 28th. A native of Missouri who had a reputation as a "free spirit," Kerfeld became a household name while pitching in relief for the Astros in 1986--a year in which he went 11-2 while giving up just 71 hits in 93.2 innings. However, various health problems limited his success thereafter as he went on to spend just four total seasons in the "bigs." Yes, folks, Charlie Kerfeld would be done as a major league pitcher by the tender age of 27. In his post-playing days, Kerfeld has done some minor league managing and front office work for the Phillies; best wishes, Charlie..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former tennis great Jack Kramer--who died of cancer recently in Los Angeles at the age of 88. Kramer, who was the #1 player in the world for much of the late 1940's, won the Wimbledon singles title in 1947 and the U.S. Championships in '46 and '47. He also won seven Grand Slam titles in doubles before being forced to retire in 1954 due to an arthritic back. After his playing days ended, Kramer became one of the sport's greatest ambassadors; he was the founder of the ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) and was heavily involved in the Los Angeles Tennis Open for many years--serving as its tournament chairman and director. An avid horse racing aficionado, Kramer could often be seen at the Del Mar race track watching his own horses run; he owned more than 100 over the years. Predeceased by his wife Gloria in 2008, Kramer is survived by five sons and eight grandchildren. May the great Jack Kramer rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9-19-09

2009-09-14T21:35:00.000-04:00

Hmmm, so I see that the lovely Charlize Theron recently graced the September issue of Vogue. No offense, New York fans, but she's a LOT easier on the eyes than the photo of the N.Y. Giants defensive front that appeared on the cover of the 8/31 issue of the Sporting News ..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1985 Toronto Blue Jays had four players on the squad who stole more than 20 bases apiece that season. Can you name these four men? Answer to follow.........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..........This week in sports history, September 21, 1985: A hungry Michael Spinks ends Larry Holmes' seven-year reign as heavyweight champion--winning a unanimous 15-round decision in Las Vegas. Holmes was attempting to tie the great Rocky Marciano's string of 49 straight victories but could only muster weak jabs against Spinks--the light-heavyweight title-holder. With the victory, Spinks was able to claim the crown that his brother Leon had held briefly back in 1978..........Anyone else out there who develops that "Mylanta stomach ache"/sick feeling in his/her gut--along with a rise in blood pressure--whenever the term "pitch count" comes up on MLB telecasts?..........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played in Louisiana last weekend, Southern rolled over Central State 68-0; the losing squad was held to just 44 total yards while Southern scored at least two TD's in each quarter. Sheesh, and I thought the Michael Jackson/Lisa Marie Presley marriage/fiasco was a mismatch!..........ITEM: Former Patriots defensive lineman Richard Seymour says he's "excited" to join the Oakland Raiders--and finally reports to the league's worst team over the past six years. Sure, Richard, that's like yours truly saying that I'm "excited" when the VISA, American Express, and car insurance bills all arrive on the same day..........Call me crazy and/or misguided, but I think all major league teams should be required to display a huge neon sign in front of their ballparks that reads, "NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR FINANCIAL RUIN; OPEN PURSES AND WALLETS AT YOUR OWN RISK"..........Answer to trivia question: LLOYD MOSEBY (37), DAMASO GARCIA (28), JESSE BARFIELD (22), and GEORGE BELL (21)..........In the mood to see some terrific, memorable photos? The NY Daily News has put together a gallery of "Sports All-Time Greatest Upsets." Check out these excellent shots by visiting http://tinyurl.com/le6sxs ..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Mark Guthrie--who blows out 44 candles on September 25th. In a 15-year career that lasted from 1989-2003, Guthrie pitched for a total of TEN different teams--but the majority of his time was spent as a member of the Twins and Dodgers. Used mainly as a reliever during his career, the Buffalo native's best two seasons were arguably/strangely his LAST two. As a member of the Mets and Cubs in '02 and '03, Guthrie appeared in a total of 133 games during that span and posted ERA's of 2.44 and 2.74 respectively. Mark Guthrie compiled a lifetime record of 51-54 while appearing in a total of 765 major league games; best wishes, Mark..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Lynchburg (VA) College soccer coach Bill Shellenberger--who died recently at the age of 88. Having played at Penn State during his own college days, Shellenberger took over the Lynchburg program in 1954 and went on to compile a record of 371-167-48 before retiring in 1989. The first collegiate soccer coach to win 300 games, he was a member of the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame--the first soccer personality ever to be inducted. Shellenberger is survived by a son, Hank, a daughter, Ginny, and a grandson; rest in peace, "Coach."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9-12-09

2009-09-07T15:52:00.004-04:00

Just came across a picture of the lovely Christie Brinkley as she attended the U.S. Open in Flushing Meadows last week. One thing's for sure: If yours truly was there and able to make the acquaintance of this stunning beauty, the term "love match" would have taken on an ENTIRELY different meaning..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1979 Minnesota Twins, who finished 82-80 under manager Gene Mauch, had two regulars in their lineup who hit over .300--one an infielder and the other an outfielder. Can you name these two players? Answer to follow...........Lazzari's "Lopsided Score of the Week": In a college football game played last week in the midwest, Southeast Missouri State annihilated Quincy 72-3. When I first read this score, I thought of the former TV series "Quincy" where Jack Klugman played a medical examiner--which is what the losing team may have been in need of after such a life-less performance..........A couple of great publications:Baseball in New Haven and Yale Football --both authored by Sam Rubin, who works in the sports publicity department at Yale. Sam recently told me that both books are available at amazon.com as well as barnesandnoble.com; if people are interested in autographed copies of these books, they can contact Sam Rubin directly by emailing him at sam.rubin@yale.edu.......... This week in sports history, September 15, 1971: Americans sweep at the U.S. Open for the first time in 16 years as Billie Jean King and Stan Smith capture singles titles at Forest Hills. King, who had won her first U.S. title back in 1967, disposed of Rosemary Casals rather easily--winning 6-4, 7-6. The second-seeded Smith--who had won the tournament as an amateur in 1969--came back to beat Jan Kodes of Czechoslovakia 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 before a crowd of close to 13,000 at the West Side Tennis Club..........Sometimes, I think many of us would prefer sports announcers to speak in very plain terms; after all, it IS only baseball. Example: Last week, I heard N.Y. Mets announcer Howie Rose say that Rockies outfielder Ryan Spilborghs "took a circuitous route to the ball." Translation? The guy botched the play, Howie..........O.K.--here goes: 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..........ITEM: Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor shows support for disgraced pro QB Michael Vick during last week's game vs. Navy--displaying the name "Vick" on the eyeblack sticker under his left eye. Truthfully, folks, I don't know what to say--other than relay my concerns about the mindset of some young individuals in our society along with the lack of rational thinking EVERYWHERE these days.......... Answer to trivia question: Second baseman ROB WILFONG (.313) and centerfielder KEN LANDREAUX (.305)..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Doug Simons--who blows out 43 candles on September 15th. A native of Bakersfield, CA, Simons pitched only TWO years in the majors--1991 with the Mets and '92 with the Expos--and experienced very little success. In fact, his tenure with Montreal wasn't pretty AT ALL. Appearing in just seven games for a total of 5.1 innings with the Expos, Simons allowed 15 hits and 14 earned runs. Yes, folks, Doug Simons ended the 1992 campaign with an ERA of 23.63. Hey--they all can't be Jeff Reardon, right? Best wishes, Doug..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NFL running back John Stephens--who died recently in Louisiana in a single-vehicle accident when his pickup truck veered off a highway; he was 43. Stephens was named the 1988 Offensive Rookie of the Year when he rushed for 1,168 yards for New England and was named to the Pro Bowl. He played a total of six NFL seasons--also spending time with Green Bay, Atlanta and Kansas City before retiring with 3,440 career yards and 18 touchdowns. As a college player at Northwestern State, Stephens broke the school's career rushing record previously set by Joe Delaney--who would also play for the Kansas City Chiefs. John was also the first recipient of the NFL's Gale Sayers Humanitarian Citation due to his terrific work on behalf of the Roxbury (MA) Comprehensive Community Health Center. May John Stephens rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 9-5-09

2009-09-01T12:39:00.003-04:00

The "Not-So-Lazy" Days Of Summer

Yes--as the current summer fades away and the hot, scorching days come to a halt, I reflect upon my own summer vacations as a kid from long ago; yes, though "Father Time" has left his mark, certain memories still remain vivid. It was the 70's: no video games/computers to corrupt our minds, no iPods to play our favorite tunes, no legitimate excuses to stay indoors and become nuisances to others. So we spent time outdoors--a LOTTA time, in fact--and the baseball field was our daily destination.

Five or six of us would make the daily trek to the Emmett O'Brien baseball field a bit after noon; a couple of bats (including my Dad's coveted fungo), a bucket of balls, and our well-oiled baseball gloves would accompany us each day. Oh--refreshments, too, as I recall carrying a gallon jug of water on occasion--half-filled with ice--and/or the 64-ounce bottle of cola that Pepsi used to call "The Boss." Heat concerns? Nah--the hotter the better as we knew that a cooling dip in Tom's swimming pool (sometimes Joe's, too) would comfort us just a few hours later. We'd walk down Bruns Road on the way to the field and see the usual cast of neighborhood characters, i.e. Mrs. M. on her knees weeding dandelions or Mr. G. meticulously trimming his hedges. We'd cross the vacant tennis courts that led to the field and often be greeted by the smell of freshly-mowed grass; yeah, there was no better aroma come summertime. It was time to have fun, boys.

We never played organized games at O'Brien Tech due to the amount of kids involved; it was strictly fly ball shagging which we all grew to love. We'd all take turns being the batter (the dreaded job) for about 30 minutes apiece while the others dispersed in the outfield--some playing deep, some shallow. I always loved to play deep, especially if Tom (a weightlifter) was hitting the balls; boy, he could hit some towering blasts that were so fun to chase--some of them caught while leaning up against the rusting, chain link outfield fence. There was another kind of "shagging," too, when balls would go OVER the fence; it was then that we all took turns retrieving them while watching the balls roll down the hill toward the neighboring backyards at the bottom of a gully. Funny, though--I never remember anyone complaining while doing the "home run shagging." Bottom line? Perhaps we all realized there were only so many baseballs to go around. No baseballs, no more shagging. And none of us wore batting gloves, either, and I wonder to this day how our hands didn't bleed/blister badly with each of us hitting about 200 "fungoes" per day. On second thought, maybe they DID--but we were having way too much fun to complain about any slight discomfort we may have been experiencing at the time.

Looking back, I guess the real fun--at least for yours truly--came from making those nice running catches and acquiring the feeling that I could catch ANY ball that was in my vicinity. I remember that uplifting feeling of "mastering the sky" being SO powerful. Yeah, how cool; I had reached a point where I was catching those "high fly balls" that Bob Murphy talked about on Mets telecasts. What a terrific feeling-- being able to "read" the ball once it left the bat; I guess running down a few hundred fly balls per week DID come with a payoff. To this day, even when I catch/judge a fly ball while COACHING baseball, I think back to those many special summer days spent at O'Brien--ones that continue to resonate with joy.

Toward the end of our three-hour-or-so daily "celebration," we'd all move to the infield for some ground ball practice; yeah, as the hitter, there would now be a sense of relief: it was SO much easier smacking a few grounders than cranking fly balls for 30 minutes. And I recall the infield being SO dry and dusty by around three or four o'clock--and how on windy days the swirling dirt would actually turn to mud on our glistening, sweaty bodies. We'd then remind ourselves that the swimming pool would soon provide some welcomed relief--and also get us "clean" before dinner time. After everyone took their turn hitting grounders, we'd then pack it up for the day--disposing of used bottles/cups and taking inventory of our beat-up baseballs. And if we were missing one or two, Joe would always be there to remind us, "Don't worry, guys--we'll find them tomorrow." And we usually did.

After our soothing swim time, we'd then eat dinner with our families and congregate once again a few hours later to grab a soda at the nearby Hardee's. We'd pack ourselves into Joe's Dad's '66 Barracuda and soon be "toasting" to another "not-so-lazy" day spent doing what we loved. The best part? Knowing that we'd be doing it ALL OVER again the next day.

Yep, as another summer soon comes to an abrupt end, some memories will just keep on goin'.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8-29-09

2009-08-25T22:59:00.002-04:00

How 'bout 13-year-old Luke Ramirez of the Chula Vista, CA baseball team--who slugged two MONSTROUS home runs in the LL World Series last weekend vs. the Kentucky team? Rumor has it that Ramirez met with agent Scott Boras shortly after the game and will soon demand the following from his parents: an extension of his bedtime from 9 to 10PM, delivery of the newest Xbox games to his bedroom within 24 hours of their release to the general public, and a 500% increase in his weekly allowance..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The lowly 1991 Houston Astros--who finished 65-97 under manager Art Howe--had only ONE full-time starting pitcher with an above-.500 record. Can you name this former hurler? Answer to follow..........My good buddy Abe Knaster's "Gem of the Week": As far as sports are concerned, if practice makes perfect--and NOBODY's perfect--then WHY practice?..........Folks, I'm fed up with these idiotic people/"do-gooders" (let me translate that--"enablers") who say Plaxico Burress was too harshly punished for his recent gun possession charge. Just TWO years for carrying a LOADED, UNLICENSED gun in a public place--especially in New York City?? The guy should be doing more celebratory dances now than he ever did in any end zone. I also heard that Plax's wife is a lawyer. Ummm--nothing personal, Mrs. Plax, but I have to question the judgment of an attorney who obviously was once attracted to a clueless, rule-breaking, non-team oriented, cocky street-thug who's always thought he was above the law. Yes, my friends, just the kind of legal counsel I'd want representing me!..........This week in sports history, September 1, 1983: Frenchman Thierry Vigneron sets a world pole vault record--clearing 19 feet, 1 1/2 inches at the Golden Gala track and field meet at Rome's Olympic Stadium. After missing on his first two attempts, Vigneron finally broke the record of 19 feet, 1 inch--set by his fellow Frenchman Pierre Quinon just five days earlier in West Germany..........Count WFAN's Mike Francesa among those who believe that dolts like the aforementioned Burress will never "get it." His remarks during a monologue last week: "What we DO learn in life is that some people NEVER learn."..........A guy from Pittsburgh told me last week that he considers "Cash For Clunkers" to be the money he's spent this year to watch his hometown Pirates play baseball. I still say that it's a term for the cash put out by anyone who's purchased a boxed DVD set of Madonna's movies over the past 20 years or so..........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..........On an all-sports radio station last week, I heard sultry Carmen Electra doing a commercial for a cruise line. My first reaction was, "Why RADIO?" I say that if Ms. Electra does a similar TV spot--complete with the stunning beauty decked out in cruise-themed garb--the company sells at least TEN times as many cruises as it does over the radio airwaves..........Answer to trivia question: PETE HARNISCH--who went 12-9 for the sixth-place Astros that year..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league outfielder Von Hayes--who blows out 51 candles on August 31st. A native of Stockton, CA, Hayes played 12 years in the 'bigs" between 1981 and 1992 for the Indians, Phillies, and Angels--hitting .267 lifetime. Nicknamed Von "Purple" Hayes by ESPN's Chris Berman, Hayes' best year came in 1986 while with the Phillies--a season in which he led the National League in doubles (46) and runs scored (107) while hitting .305. In 1985, Hayes became the first player in MLB history to hit two home runs in the first inning of a baseball game--doing it vs. the Mets. An All-Star in 1989, Hayes became a minor league manager once his playing days were over; best wishes, Von..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former Louisiana Tech basketball player Lavelle Felton--who recently died from a gunshot wound he suffered while leaving a Milwaukee gas station; he was just 29. Felton averaged 13.7 points and 5.1 rebounds per game for Tech in 2002-2003; he then spent time with a Turkish team before playing in Greece and France. Last season, Felton played for Paderborn--a team in Germany--and helped his team reach the playoffs. At the time of his death, his agent had been negotiating with several teams interested in signing Lavelle for next season. Yes, another young man taken away from us WAY before his time; rest in peace, Lavelle.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8-22-09

2009-08-17T21:29:00.003-04:00

Column reader/contributor Abe Knaster of New York chimes in once again on his hometown team: "After much debate, Michael Jackson's final resting place was finally revealed. He was buried alongside the 2009 New York Mets." Abe also pointed out that Jose Guillen of the K.C. Royals recently sustained a torn knee ligament while putting on a shin guard--which automatically makes the outfielder very attractive to the Mets this coming off-season..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1982 Houston Astros--who finished fifth in the National League West--hit a total of only 74 home runs as a team. Can you name the team's top two home run hitters that season--who had totals of just 13 and 12? Answer to follow..........Yes, when someone like yours truly experiences a "not-so-good" day, there's always nesn.com/heidi to fall back on..........A caller on WFAN last weekend said disgraced QB Michael Vick should find employment OUTSIDE the NFL--that he is "educated" and could locate alternative work. Host Steve Somers' response: "What is he educated IN--learning how to kill animals?".......... Speaking of NESN: Love him or hate him, Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley lays it all on the line during telecasts. During the 8/12 game vs. Detroit, "Eck" compared Tigers pitcher Zach Miner to former Red Sox hurler Bob Stanley due to the fact that Miner pitched both as a starter and a reliever in the same week; the term "rubber arm" was mentioned. The conversation turned to Eckersley comparing the modern pitcher to the one of years ago; he referred to the era of when Stanley pitched as "the days when saves were SAVES and men were MEN"..........This week in sports history, August 25, 1922: In the highest-scoring game in major league history, the Chicago Cubs outscore the Philadelphia Phillies 26-23 in a game played at windy Wrigley Field. The slugfest featured a total of 51 hits--27 by Chicago and 24 by Philly--with the Cubs having led 25-5 at one point. Philadelphia made a gallant comeback--scoring 14 runs in the final two innings--but ultimately fell short. Chicago was led by Cliff Heathcote with five hits, and were also propelled by a pair of homers off the bat of Hack Miller in a game that lasted approximately three hours..........One of the most fun-to-pronounce names in the Eastern League this season: OF/DH Deik Scram of the Erie SeaWolves..........Answer to trivia question: Second baseman PHIL GARNER (13) and catcher ALAN ASHBY (12)..........With all due respect to Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith and some of my media colleagues, Omar Vizquel is the best fielding SS I have ever seen; he just didn't do flips in the infield or win a championship in order to further his cause..........Pardon me for not fully understanding the phrase/concept, but does this "Cash For Clunkers" refer to the money spent by fans to watch the aforementioned New York Mets play?..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league infielder Webster Garrison--who blows out 44 candles on August 24th. A native of Louisiana, Garrison appeared in just five big league games during his short-lived career--playing first and second base for the Oakland A's in 1996. Perhaps the reason why Webster won't be collecting a major league pension is that he went 0-for-9 in those five games; yes, folks, Webster Garrison hit .000 lifetime. However, he CAN tell his grandchildren that he DID walk once during his MLB tenure--thus resulting in a lifetime on-base percentage of .100. Hey--they all can't be Rickey Henderson, right? Best wishes, Webster..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former college basketball coach/player Dick Holub--who died recently in Arizona at the age of 87. As a player, Holub was a member of LIU's 1941 NIT Championship team--leading the Blackbirds to a 25-2 record that season. Holub served in the Air Force during World War II and went on to play a season for the Knicks in the Basketball Association of America--the predecessor to the NBA. Dick Holub would become the first basketball coach at Fairleigh Dickinson--where he compiled a 233-167 record from 1949-1966. He also taught English at FDU and later became an academic advisor to the athletic department at UCONN. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Eileen, four daughters, and two sons; rest in peace, "Coach."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8-15-09

2009-08-09T18:17:00.002-04:00

Lazzari's "Cheap Win of the Week" (and it doesn't get much cheaper!): Undoubtedly goes to the Yankees' Joba Chamberlain, who labored through the minimum 5 innings last week vs. Boston--giving up a pair of homers, walking SEVEN, and allowing four earned runs. However, like many of his New York predecessors, he benefits from the team's potent offense--picking up the "W" during a 13-6 Yankee rout..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1984 Philadelphia Phillies--who finished at exactly .500 under manager Paul Owens--had two players on the squad who combined to steal 120 bases. Can you name these two gentlemen? Answer to follow..........I'm sorry, folks, but if N.Y. Giants QB Eli Manning is worth $16 million per season, then yours truly is at the top of actress Sharon Stone's cell phone contact list--with a STAR next to his name..........A year or two after I first inquired about it, I'm STILL wondering if PGA golfer Boo Weekley has a cousin named Applaud Monthly..........**ATTENTION PARENTS: Take your kids out to one (or more) of the three remaining "Sundae Fundae Rundae" promotions at Dodd Stadium in Norwich this summer. In addition to seeing some great baseball being played by the first-place Connecticut Defenders, kids get to run the bases after the game and receive FREE ice cream--sponsored by Edy's. The three upcoming "Fundae" dates are 8/16, 8/23, and 9/6--with all games starting at 1:05..........This week in sports history, August 17, 1933: Lou Gehrig of the New York Yankees makes baseball history--playing in his 1,308th consecutive game vs. the St. Louis Browns to break Everett Scott's major league record. The "Iron Horse's" streak had begun on June 1, 1925; play was stopped after the first inning of the game as Gehrig was presented with a silver statue by American League President Will Harridge. The Browns ultimately put a damper on this special occasion--beating the Yankees 7-6 in 10 innings in a game played at Sportsman's Park in St. Louis..........Hilarious moment: I was having coffee at a local breakfast joint recently while watching the news on the overhead TV. The CNN anchor proceeds to report that David Ortiz of the Red Sox had tested positive for a PED a few years back. Immediately, about 4 or 5 of us male patrons--unplanned and IN UNISON--sarcastically yelled out, "NOOOOOOOOO!!!" (in "you don't say!" fashion). Following another 20 seconds or so of collective laughter among us, we all finished our coffee/breakfasts and went our separate ways. Yes, you had to be there, folks..........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..........Once again, gotta love Steve Somers of WFAN Radio in New York--one of my "faves" in the business. When asked recently about the early-season home run barrage at the new Yankee Stadium, he referred to the building as "The House That Someone Who Flunked Out Of Engineering School Built"..........ITEM: The aforementioned David Ortiz--addressing a positive drug test-- says he was "a little bit careless back in the days when I was buying supplements." Pardon me, David, but what constitutes "a little bit careless" when purchasing supplements is when one buys a Met-Rx Bar when they really wanted to purchase a PowerBar instead..........Answer to trivia question: JUAN SAMUEL (72) and VON HAYES (48)..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league infielder Charles Henry "Bucky" Guth--who blows out 62 candles on August 18th. Bucky Guth is a member of that unique fraternity of big league players who hit .000 lifetime in the "bigs." Yes, as a shortstop, Guth came to bat just three times in 1972 while playing with the Minnesota Twins--going hitless. However, he CAN tell his grandchildren that he DID score one run in the majors--and fielded all four of the balls hit to him cleanly; yes, folks, Bucky Guth is in the MLB record book with a lifetime fielding percentage of 1.000. Best wishes for many more birthdays to come, Bucky..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league pitcher Carlton Willey--who died recently of complications from lung cancer at the age of 78. Willey pitched eight seasons for the Braves and Mets between 1958 and 1965--winning 38 games in his career. A native of Maine whose career would be interrupted by a two-year stint in the Army, Willey won a career high 9 games for the Braves during his rookie year of 1958--pitching to an impressive ERA of 2.70 while hurling four shutouts. On the flip side, he was also known for his hitting futility; Willey hit just .099 for his career including a 1-for-54 season (.019) in 1961 while with Milwaukee. Appearing in the 1958 World Series vs. the Yankees, Willey pitched a scoreless inning in Game 5. After his career ended, Willey worked at a variety of jobs--including spending some time as a scout for the Philadelphia Phillies; may Carlton Willey rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8-8-09

2009-08-02T22:58:00.001-04:00

Paul Ferrante--a local baseball stadium historian--recently chimed in on the new Yankee Stadium: "Surely, it's a shrine to the Yankees--but it's also a shrine to EXCESS"..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1983 Kansas City Royals had three players on the team who stole more than 25 bases apiece. Can you name these three individuals? Answer to follow..........Newly-acquired N.Y. Mets outfielder Jeff Francoeur recently told the New York Post that his favorite actress is Charlize Theron. Two things: 1) This guy just became my favorite athlete in New York. 2) There is absolutely NOTHING wrong with his eyesight..........GM Charlie Dowd and the Connecticut Defenders continue to give fans a huge "bang for their buck." Senior citizens can truly benefit from the many promotions at Dodd Stadium as there are three "Senior Citizen Wednesdays" remaining this season (8/12, 8/26, and 9/2). Fans 55 and older can purchase tickets for just $3 and are allowed to participate in "Seniors Stroll The Bases" following the game. More info can be obtained by visiting the Defenders' website at www.ctdefenders.com ..........This week in sports history, August 10, 1980: The great Jack Nicklaus wins his fifth PGA Championship--shooting a final round 69 at the Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, New York. It was the 19th major tournament win in the "Golden Bear's" fabulous career and his 68th career victory overall. His four-round total of 274 was SEVEN shots better than runner-up Andy Bean--making for the largest margin of victory in the history of the tournament..........I still think my favorite Chris Berman nickname of all-time is the one given to former outfielder Bernard "Innocent Until Proven" Gilkey..........Newly-enshrined Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson was named after famed singer Ricky Nelson; the former player's full name is Rickey Nelson Henley Henderson. Ah, that now seems to be very appropriate seeing that this "Travelin' Man" played for a whopping NINE different teams over his long, storied career..........Speaking of well-traveled men, how 'bout Todd Donovan of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (AA Eastern League)--who's played for SEVEN different organizations (Padres, Dodgers, Indians, Orioles, Rangers, A's and Blue Jays) over the past decade or so? If THIS guy doesn't deserve a lucrative endorsement deal from American Tourister or Samsonite, then NO ONE does..........I had the pleasure of interviewing former MLB outfielder Carlos May on "Monday Night Sports Talk" recently--a man who lost his thumb back in 1969 while serving in the Marine Reserves. Luckily, May was able to adjust socially and proceeded to enjoy a fairly productive baseball career thereafter--both here and in Japan. However, it's become very clear that many individuals who've served in Operation Iraqi/Enduring Freedom--including some athletes not as talented as Mr. May--are struggling mightily these days. Enter the VOIEF (Veterans of Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom), founded by Kurt Schwab--a fine organization that helps men/women who have fought for our country transition/cope after returning home. More info about donating to this terrific cause/organization can be obtained by visiting www.voief.org or by emailing Mr. Schwab at kschwab@voief.org ..........Great point made by Tim McCarver during last week's Yankees/White Sox game on FOX--talking about pitching success: "Even at its highest level, baseball remains a simple game: STRIKE ONE"..........Answer to trivia question: WILLIE WILSON (59), UL WASHINGTON (40), and JOHN WATHAN (28)..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league first baseman George Canale--who blows out 44 candles on August 11th. Don't remember this native of Memphis? You're forgiven. Canale played just three years in the "bigs" with Milwaukee from 1989-'91--appearing in only 44 games--and he surely didn't make Brewers fans forget about Cecil Cooper. In 73 career at-bats, Canale tallied just 12 hits--thus resulting in a lifetime batting average of just .164. I guess an optimist points out that four of Canale's 12 lifetime hits were home runs--a terrific ratio--and that he also walked a dozen times during his short major league tenure. Best wishes, George..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league relief pitcher Luis Quintana--who died recently in West Palm Beach, FL; it was determined that Quintana died of natural causes after being found in his car after it crashed. Quintana appeared in a total of 22 games in 1974 and '75 for the California Angels--going 2-3 with an ERA of 5.03. A native of Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, Quintana was originally signed by the S.F. Giants back in 1971 as an amateur free agent; he was 57 years old at the time of his death. May Luis Quintana rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 8-1-09

2009-07-28T00:24:00.001-04:00

Another gem 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. Keep 'em coming, Abe.........TRIVIA QUESTION: The lowly 1989 Detroit Tigers, who won just 59 games, were led in home runs by second baseman Lou Whitaker--who hit a career-high of 28. Can you name the outfielder who had the next highest total of round-trippers for Detroit that season? Answer to follow..........Nice gesture by Bank of America--who recently joined the Connecticut Defenders Community CARES Program. Through this program, corporate partners of the Defenders purchase blocks of seats that are distributed to individuals, families, and non-profit organizations who would otherwise not be able to attend games at Dodd Stadium in Norwich. Due to the generosity of the team and its partners, approximately 20 premium seats are made available for each game. For more information on how to become a partner in the Defenders Community CARES Program or to reserve tickets, contact Jessica Schineller, Director of Community Relations/Promotions at (860)-887-7962 ext. 16 or email her at jschineller@ctdefenders.com.......... This week in sports history, August 4, 1932: The great Babe Didrickson earns her second gold medal at the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles--clocking a world-record time of 11.7 seconds in the 80-meter hurdles. Didrickson narrowly beat fellow American Evelyn Hall--outstretching her by about a half-inch at the finish line. Earlier, Didrickson had set a world record in the javelin throw--thus adding to her growing reputation as the best female athlete in the world..........Question: Now that Jessica Simpson has split up with Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo, do you think she'd be interested in an aging, bald, broke, arthritic sports columnist anytime soon?..........Speaking of the CT Defenders, great job by GM Charlie Dowd and his staff--honoring all veterans/current enlistees during "Military Appreciation Night" last week vs. New Britain at Dodd Stadium. The pre-game ceremony--which paid great homage to those who've sacrificed for our freedom--included a parade around the stadium by flag-toting motorcycle riders. Great job, Defenders--and a great crowd (7,163), to boot.........These days, when I hear those famed words "the luckiest man on the face of the earth," I not only think of the great Lou Gehrig. No, I also think of ex-hockey player Ron Duguay--who just happens to be married to the former supermodel/still-current beauty Kim Alexis..........Am I mistaken--or wasn't David Price of the Tampa Bay Rays supposed to be the next coming of Johan Santana by now?..........Answer to trivia question: FRED LYNN--who finished with a modest total of only 11 home runs for Sparky Anderson's last-place Detroit club..........I say put a new wing in baseball's Hall of Fame for anyone who played in the "Steroid Era"--and have customers gain admittance by placing used needles/syringes outside its entrance..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league first baseman Sid Bream--who blows out 49 candles on August 3rd. A native of Carlisle, PA, Bream spent his entire 12-year career in the National League between 1983 and 1994 as a member of the Dodgers, Pirates, Braves, and Astros--hitting .264 lifetime. His best year came in 1986 while with Pittsburgh--a year in which he hit 16 home runs and drove in 77 runs. Though he had the reputation of being an extremely slow runner, Bream will forever be remembered for scoring the winning run in Game 7 of the 1992 NLCS vs. his old Pittsburgh team--propelling the Braves to the World Series. Bream was also the 1990 recipient of the Hutch Reward--given to a player who exemplifies a fighting spirit and desire to win. Since his playing days ended, Bream has done a fair amount of motivational speaking; best wishes, Sid..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former NFL player Pio Sagapolutele--who passed away back in June of a brain aneurysm at the age of 39. Born in American Samoa, Sagapolutele played for the Browns, Patriots, and Saints during his seven-year career--tallying seven career sacks and 89 solo tackles. He was the starting defensive tackle for the Patriots in Super Bowl XXXI, but a variety of injuries forced Sagapolutele to retire prematurely in 1999. A tremendous citizen off the field, Pio was also known for running football camps for underprivileged kids in California and Hawaii. He leaves a wife, Yvonne, and three children; may Pio Sagapolutele rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 7-25-09

2009-07-20T20:14:00.002-04:00

*ATTENTION PARENTS: One of the best things you can do for your child this summer is to pick up a copy of the book A Glove Of Their Own--winner of the 2009 Benjamin Franklin Children's Book Award. Written by Debbie Moldovan, Keri Conkling, and Lisa Funari-Willever (and illustrated by Lauren Lambiase), it's a story of underprivileged kids' raw love for the game while playing with an inadequate amount of worn-out equipment. The price of this wonderful publication is $15.95; proceeds from each sale will be donated to organizations whose goal is to see less-fortunate kids in this country finally HAVE a glove they can truly call their own. More details about the book along with ordering info can be obtained by visiting www.agloveoftheirown.com ..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last member of the San Francisco Giants to lead the National League in runs scored? HINT: It was NOT Barry Bonds; answer to follow..........Very few happenings in the sports world these days cause me to smile and get goosebumps; 59-year-old Tom Watson's performance at the British Open last weekend DID. If any so-called "sports fan" out there didn't get a lump in his/her throat when the man approached the green on the final hole last Sunday (I also stood up and applauded while watching it on TV), then check your emotional health IMMEDIATELY. You may have come up short in a playoff vs. Stewart Cink, Mr. Watson, but thank you for some memories that one sports columnist will always cherish.........This week in sports history, July 27, 1952: 30-year-old Emil Zatopek does the unthinkable--winning the Olympic marathon in Helsinki after already having won gold in the 5,000 and 10,000 meter races just days before. A major in the Czechoslovakian army, Zatopek completed the marathon in a time of 2:23.3; incredibly, it was more than SIX minutes better than it had ever been run in Olympic competition. With 70,000 people watching and applauding wildly as he entered the stadium tunnel, Zatopek would end up finishing almost a half-mile in front of his closest competitor--Reinaldo Gorno of Argentina..........What a pleasure having Jim Kaat broadcast the Red Sox/Blue Jays games on NESN last week--along with regular play-by-play guy Don Orsillo. During one telecast, Orsillo pointed out the annoying, modern day phenomena of pitch counts--and how pitchers of long ago STRENGTHENED their arms by simply throwing MORE pitches. Kaat agreed--then added, "The arm of a pitcher will RUST out before it WEARS out."..........How 'bout the American League using Jonathan Papelbon, Joe Nathan, and Mariano Rivera over the last three innings to secure another AL victory in the recent All-Star Game? The odds of the NL scoring against those guys were about the same as yours truly dining with Charlize Theron, Jennifer Aniston, and Sharon Stone on consecutive evenings this coming week..........ITEM: Troubled PGA golfer John Daly appears to have found a new soulmate, Anna Cladakis; the woman--employed by Hooters Restaurants--wants to make it clear that she is a marketing director and NOT a waitress at the famed chain. In any case, when you're dating a guy who's had problems with alcohol in the past and has been married a few times, I'd keep him AWAY from Hooters and insist that he frequents the nearest Waffle House as much as possible..........Answer to trivia question: WILL CLARK--who tied for the league lead in runs scored (104) in 1989 with Howard Johnson of the Mets and Chicago's Ryne Sandberg..........Column reader Abe Knaster of New York chimes in with this gem: "If one synchronized swimmer drowns, do the REST of them drown, too?".........Happy birthday wishes go out to former figure skater/TV commentator Peggy Fleming--who blows out 61 candles on July 27th. Fleming won five U.S. titles and three World titles during her illustrious career. But most memorable was her capturing gold at the 1968 Olympics in Grenoble, France--the ONLY gold medal won by the U.S. team during that year's Winter Games. Peggy went on to star in the Ice Follies for years as well as provide expert commentary for ABC Sports. A breast cancer activist/survivor who was diagnosed in 1998, Fleming and her husband now operate a vineyard/winery in California; best wishes, Peggy..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former football coach Dennis Fryzel--who passed away recently of renal cancer in Duluth, GA at the age of 67. Known for his intensity and for being a terrific motivator, Fryzel put together a record of 14-8 at the University of Tampa before that school dropped its football program in the 1970's; he later coached special teams for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and also had coaching stints at Syracuse, Air Force, and Ohio State. He is survived by his wife, Gayle, two daughters, two brothers, and four grandchildren. Rest in peace, "Coach."

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 7-18-09

2009-07-15T23:27:00.002-04:00

Great cause: The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut is proud to announce its 23rd annual Mud Volleyball Tournament on Saturday, August 15, 2009 at Zoar's Pond on Randolph Road in Middletown, Connecticut. The Foundation's catchy motto for this event is that "it's good, clean fun;" proceeds go toward improving the lives of people with epilepsy--along with their families. Registration/further information about this wonderful event can be obtained by contacting The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, 386 Main Street, Middletown, CT 06457-3360. One may also call (800) 899-3745 or find more info online at www.epilepsyfoundation.org/connecticut.......... TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1990 World Series champion Cincinnati Reds had no 100-RBI men on the team, but did have two players on the squad who hit more than 20 home runs. Can you name these gentlemen? Answer to follow ..........Gotta love New York Mets broadcaster Howie Rose, who had the following to say last Sunday after a Reds pitcher struggled mightily in relief--giving up a pair of home runs: "David Weathers--true to his name--had a very 'stormy' 7th inning!"..........This week in sports history, July 21, 1973: "Hammerin'" Hank Aaron of the Braves reaches yet another milestone in his storied baseball career--hitting home run #700 during an 8-4 Atlanta loss vs. Philadelphia. In the game played at Atlanta's Fulton County Stadium, Aaron connected off Phils' left-hander Ken Brett--sending the ball over 400 feet into the left/center-field bleachers. The memorable blast moved Aaron to within 14 homers of Babe Ruth's all-time record of 714..........ITEM: Singer Justin Timberlake makes his first hole-in-one ever--using a 5-iron to card the ace at a course in Los Angeles last week. I'll go on record as saying say that this guy having had girlfriends such as Cameron Diaz, Jessica Biel, and Scarlett Johansson is still a MUCH GREATER accomplishment...........ANOTHER great cause: On October 9th of this year, the annual Ann Liguori Foundation Charity Golf Classic will be held at the Maidstone Club in East Hampton, NY. Held each fall, the tournament has raised well over a million dollars for cancer research and prevention over the years; more information on this tremendous event can be obtained by visiting Ann's website: www.annliguori.com ..........Just thinking: If Seattle Mariners OF Ken Griffey Jr. had aged HALF as well as model/actress Carol Alt has over the past few years, then the Mariners would have a 5 game lead in the AL West right now..........Call me jealous or whatever, but I have a MAJOR problem with the fact that the amount of money that Tiger Woods' two young children have in their bank accounts RIGHT NOW is more dollars than yours truly will earn in his entire LIFETIME..........Answer to trivia question: CHRIS SABO (25) and ERIC DAVIS (24)..........Terrific quote from Connecticut Defenders P.A. announcer Ed Weyant last Sunday after being told that S.F. Giants picher Matt Cain had bruised his arm the day before--and was doubtful for the All-Star game: "I guess Cain isn't 'able', huh?"..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league pitcher Mike Witt--who blows out 49 candles on July 20th. A native of Fullerton, CA, Witt spent 12 years in the majors between 1981 and 1993 as a member of the Angels and Yankees--winning 117 games lifetime. A two-time All-Star while with California, Witt won 15 or more games an impressive four years in a row between 1984-1987. He also fared well in the post-season--having pitched in the ALCS twice with the Angels ('82 and '86) while allowing 15 hits in over 20 innings of work; his lifetime post-season ERA was 3.05. Best wishes, Mike..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former USC/NFL player George Belotti--who passed away a few weeks ago in Arcadia, CA from complications of a stroke. Belotti was an offensive lineman at USC from 1954-1956; he also appeared in the '54 Rose Bowl and the '57 Hula Bowl. Originally an eighth-round pick of the Green Bay Packers, Belotti played center with the Houston Oilers in 1960--when that team won the very first AFL championship; he later played with the San Diego Chargers. He is survived by his wife, Marie, twin daughters, and a granddaughter; may George Belotti rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 7-11-09

2009-07-06T22:12:00.002-04:00

ITEM: American Joey Chestnut wins his third consecutive Nathan's Hot Dog Eating contest--consuming 68 wieners to defeat his archrival Takeru Kobayashi. With some nutritional information in hand, try to fathom this, my friends: That translates to approximately 21,000 calories (not counting the buns), 1,367 grams of fat, 2,380 mg of cholesterol, and 46,512 mg of sodium. I sincerely apologize to any cardiologists out there who read this column regularly--i.e. Dr. David Kramer of California--for the shock value contained in those aforementioned numbers..........TRIVIA QUESTION: Who was the last Chicago Cubs catcher to hit 30 or more home runs in a season? Answer to follow...........One of the great quotes I've come across lately--attributed to former Dodgers star Steve Garvey: "The difference between the old ballplayer and the new ballplayer is the jersey. The old ballplayer cared about the name on the front. The new player cares about the name on the BACK."..........This week in sports history, July 14, 1991: LPGA golfer Meg Mallon wins her second major title in three weeks--shooting a final-round 67 to capture the U.S. Women's Open held at the Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas. Trailing by two shots entering the final round while playing in 98-degree heat, Mallon made birdies on the 14th and 15th holes--propelling her to a two-stroke victory over Pat Bradley. Mallon had won the LPGA championship two weeks before in Bethesda, MD, to claim the first victory in her four-year LPGA career...........Question: Since Red Sox OF Jason Bay has a daughter named Evelyn, will friends be able to call her "E-BAY" in the future--or will they catch heat from the online auction giant?..........On the final day of competition at the recent Travelers Championship played at the TPC in Cromwell, Travelers announced a commitment by the Travelers Foundation to raise the tournament’s total charitable contribution to $1.08 million for 2009; that now puts the tournament’s contribution on equal footing with the champion’s purse. One of the pleasures of attending this event yearly is knowing that the tournament contributes 100 percent of its net proceeds to Connecticut charities--primarily The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp (which assists children suffering from cancer and other serious diseases) and the Greater Hartford Jaycees Foundation. Yes, folks, when you combine great golf with some great causes, EVERYONE wins..........Yet another terrific Wimbledon final--this time between Roger Federer and Andy Roddick--with "King Roger" winning 16-14 in the fifth set. Yes, Mr. Federer now stands alone at the top of the Grand Slam singles list. But the valiant effort by Roddick--and the class he exhibited following the loss--was almost as impressive. Yes--we definitely learned that there IS an "A-ROD" out there TRULY deserving of accolades and applause..........ITEM: Boston Red Sox infielder Kevin Youkilis sees his batting average drop about 60 points between June 1st and July 1st. I can only surmise that "Youk" having to look at lovely sideline reporter Heidi Watney each and every game has FINALLY become a bit of a distraction..........One thing's for sure: When Dr. Phil utters those familiar words "I want you to get excited about your life," he is NOT directing them toward former Red Sox player/recent NESN guest broadcaster Sean Casey..........Answer to trivia question: RICK WILKINS, who hit an even 30 homers for the '93 Cubs--and would never hit more than 14 in a season thereafter..........Speaking of the aforementioned Federer and Roddick: If their performances last Sunday had ANYTHING to do with the fact that they are both newlyweds, then yours truly may be forced to alter his negative opinion on the concept of marriage altogether..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league infielder Vic Rodriguez--who blows out 48 candles on July 14th. There may be a legitimate reason why most fans may not remember Vic: He played just two seasons in the "bigs"--1984 with the Orioles and 1989 with the Twins. However, he truly made the most of it--compiling a .429 lifetime average while banging out 12 hits in 28 career at-bats. As a minor leaguer, he appeared in more than 1,700 games and later became a minor league coach/instructor; best wishes, Vic..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league pitcher Hal Woodeshick--who died recently in Houston at the age of 76. In a career that lasted from 1956-1967, Woodeshick pitched for five teams: Detroit, Cleveland, Washington, Houston, and St. Louis. Used mostly in relief while appearing in 427 games, he accumulated 44 career wins and compiled a lifetime ERA of 3.56. His best year came in 1963 while with Houston--a year in which he won 11 games in relief, pitched to a 1.97 ERA, and gave up only 75 hits in 114 innings; he was also named to the NL All-Star team that season. Woodeshick was also a member of the '67 world championship Cardinals squad and pitched a scoreless inning in the Fall Classic that year vs. Boston. Sadly, Hal Woodeshick had been beset by health problems a long time before his death; may he finally rest in peace.

"Lazzari's Sports Roundup" - - - - 7-4-09

2009-06-30T10:56:00.002-04:00

Out at the Travelers Championship last weekend, I was following the threesome of Joe Durant, Boo Weekley, and Jay Williamson for a few holes. Coming off the 9th green, I witnessed a young girl politely inquire to Weekley, "Boo, may I have your autograph?" Weekley simply stopped and smiled--then offered, "I'll do better than that--how 'bout an autographed ball?" He then signed the ball, flipped it to the glowing youngster, and proceeded to the 10th tee amid an ovation due to his gracious efforts. Yes, some athletes DO get it, folks; talk about a guy with the WRONG nickname, huh? Hooray for you, Boo..........TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1985 Toronto Blue Jays had two pitchers on their staff who had a combined record of 18-0. Can you name this pair of hurlers? Answer to follow..........Speaking of the Travelers, many thanks go out once again to tournament director Nathan Grube, media/marketing manager Anne Marie McLaughlin, and the rest of the staff for their hospitality once again this year. Even when things don't go as smoothly as expected, they are quick to remedy problem situations--and are true pros at what they do..........Just thinking: If former Texas Tech golfer Tracy Stanford married ex-UCONN RB Donald Brown, divorced, married PGA golfer Ken Duke--divorced again--then married Trail Blazers VP Tom Penn, various college grads would truly delight in her full married name of Tracy Stanford Brown Duke Penn..........Yes, I'm sure that most people who know me would venture to say that I'm a true "sports fanatic." But I must admit one thing: When I think of the initials "CD," I don't think of Carroll Dale, Charlie Dressen, Chuck Daly, or Clay Dalrymple. No, for some strange reason, only one name comes to mind these days: CAMERON DIAZ..........This week in sports history, July 6, 1986: Infielder Bob Horner of the Atlanta Braves blasts FOUR home runs; however, his heroics are not enough as his team loses to the Montreal Expos 11-8 at Atlanta's Fulton County Stadium. Horner hit homers in the second, fourth, and fifth innings--all coming off Expos starter Andy McGaffigan; his final blast came off reliever Jeff Reardon in the ninth. Horner became the 11th player to accomplish this rare feat--and the first to do it in a nine-inning game since Willie McCovey back in 1961..........Sad to hear about the death of Dave Poole--one of Yale football's biggest fans--who passed away on Father's Day. Poole worked as an aide to the sports information people at home games, and his unmistakable smile was the official welcoming for many of us over the years once we reached the press box. In fact, I can't remember a time when the "little guy" WASN'T smiling; I'll truly miss our enjoyable conversations before each Yale home game and the sincere passion he brought to the university. Keep smiling above us, Dave..........From the "Every Little Bit Helps" Dept.: KRAFT Singles is teaming up with minor league baseball to take families out to the ballgame this summer. Through September 1, fans can enjoy the “Tuesday Night Tickets” offer at most minor league ballparks nationwide. Simply bring a KRAFT Singles package wrapper to the ballpark box office, buy a ticket, and you'll get another FREE from KRAFT Singles. Yes--a great way to make a family outing a bit more affordable during the remaining weeks of summer..........Answer to trivia question: DENNIS LAMP (11-0) and TOM FILER (7-0)--who combined to go undefeated for Bobby Cox' first-place Toronto club..........As many of you already know, Danbury (CT) native/PGA Tour pro Ken Green was involved in a tragic RV accident down in Mississippi a few weeks back that killed his girlfriend, Jeanne Hodgin, and his brother, Bill Green. Green recently had to have his right leg amputated due to the injuries sustained in the accident and has undergone various other surgeries since that time. The PGA has established a fund in order to ease Green's financial burden; checks can be made out to "Ken Green Trust" and mailed to: Ken Green Trust, P.O. Box 1811, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32004-1811. Get better QUICKLY, Ken..........Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league infielder Tim Nordbrook--who blows out 60 candles on July 7th. A native of Baltimore, Nordbrook played parts of six seasons in the "bigs" between 1974 and 1979; he was a member of five different teams during his short career. One thing's for sure: Nordbrook was NOT known for his hitting. In 169 career at-bats, he tallied just 30 hits for a .178 lifetime average--yes, WELL below the famed "Mendoza Line." However, folks, he can always hang his hat on the fact that he stole four bases in his career--without ever being caught. Best wishes, Tim..........Finally, condolences go out to the family of legendary swimming coach Richard Quick--who died recently in Texas due to brain cancer at the age of 66. Quick was the winner of more major college swimming titles (13) than any other Division I coach; he also was the head coach of U.S. swimming teams in three different Olympics ('88, '96, and 2000). During his tremendous career, Quick had coaching stints at SMU, Iowa State, Auburn, Texas, and Stanford. Some of the champion swimmers he coached were Rowdy Gaines, Summer Sanders, Dara Torres, and Jenny Thompson; Quick was elected to the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 2000. He is survived by his wife, June, two children, a pair of stepchildren, and two grandchildren. Rest in peace, "Coach."