Bleacher Report - Articles by Justin Wilkie

Cubs, Dempster, Closing in on a Four-Year Deal

Justin Wilkie — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 06:27:53 -0500

Acording to a baseball official that has knowledge of the negotiations between the Chicago Cubs and Ryan Dempster, the two sides are closing in on finalizing a four-year deal worth $52 million.

The official spoke Tuesday on the condition of anonymity with the AP saying that the two sides were close and that the fact the Cubs had not made any announcement yet.

Dempster was 17-6, with a 2.96 ERA last season with the Cubs. He was the Cubs' closer from 2005-07, getting 87 saves in 102 chances.

Dempster returned as a starter in 2008, a role in which he had with the Florida Marlins and Cincinnati Reds from 1998 to 2003.

“We are still talking seriously about it,” Dempster’s agent, Craig Landis, said in an e-mail late Monday, adding Tuesday the sides had not yet reached an agreement.

Dempster was 14-3 last season at home. He pitched great during the regular season at home, but his worst outing at home, was during the opening round of the playoffs against the Dodgers.

Dempster went just 4 2/3 innings in Game One of the NLDS against the Dodgers. He threw 109 pitches, giving up four runs on four hits, and matching a career-high in walks with seven. He also gave up a grand-slam to James Loney.

On the first day of spring training last February, Dempster said he thought that the Cubs had a chance to win the World Series this year.

Cubs-Brewers Series Preview: If Cubs Can Sweep, They Win N.L. Central

Justin Wilkie — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:16:51 -0400

The first-place Cubs (90-58) have an eight-game lead on the second place Brewers (83-67) right now, with a huge three-game series starting tonight at Wrigley Field.

The first game features two of the N.L.'s best pitchers, with the Brewers' CC Sabathia (9-0, 1.59 era with the brewers) against possible N.L. Cy Young Candidate Ryan Dempster (15-6, 3.02) of the Cubs.

On Wednesday, the Brewers send Ben Sheets (13-8, 2.97) against the Cubs' Jason Marquis (10-8, 4.36).

Then on Thursday, the Brewers send Manny Parra (10-8, 4.28) against Rich Harden (5-1, 1.65 since joining the Cubs from the A's).

The Cubs are coming into the series with the Brewers after beating the Astros in two straight in Milwaukee. Those two games were moved to "Wrigley North," as it is called, because of the damages done from Hurricane Ike.

The Cubs had two strong pitching performances from Carlos Zambrano, who threw the first Cubs No-Hitter since Milt Pappas did it in 1972, and Ted Lilly himself pitched a one-hitter against the Astros on Monday afternoon.

The Brewers are coming into the series after getting swept by the Phillies in four straight over the weekend and have also lost 11 of 14 this month so far. The Phillies moved into a share of the lead in the wild card with the sweep of the Brewers.

The Brewers then decided, with the way the team was playing lately, that they needed to fire Manager Ned Yost on Monday afternoon, replacing him with third-base coach Dale Svuem for the remainder of the season.

If the Cubs were able to sweep the Brewers this week at Wrigley, they then can clinch their second-straight N.L. Central Division title. The Cubs' magic number right now is six, going into Tuesday night's action.

This is going to be some great action from Wrigley between the Cubs and the Brewers.

The Brewers' leaders

OF Ryan Braun .290-35-97

1B Prince Fielder .265-30-87

SS J.J. Hardy .278-24-70

OF Corey Hart .276-20-83

Pitchers

CC Sabathia 9-0, 1.59 ERA and 102 K's

Ben Sheets 13-8, 2.97 ERA and 155 K's

Manny Parra 10-8, 4.28 ERA and 141 K's

Salomon Torres 6-5, 2.68 ERA with 27 saves

The Cubs' Leaders

1B Derrek Lee .294-19-86

OF Alfonso Soriano .289-28-71-19

C Geovany Soto .288-22-83

2B Mark DeRosa .282-20-83

3B Aramis Ramirez .280-24-105

Pitchers

Ryan Dempster 15-6, 3.02 ERA and 173 K's

Carlos Zambrano 14-5, 3.41 ERA and 127 K's

Ted Lilly 15-9, 4.13 ERA and 175 K's

Rich Harden 5-1, 1.65 ERA and 78 K's

Kerry Wood 4-4, 3.45 ERA with 30 saves

Obama: White Sox Fan, Cub Fans "Not Serious"

Justin Wilkie — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:15:28 -0400

Democratic Presidential hopeful Barack Obama is a White Sox fan, but in a recent interview with ESPN he took things a little further. Obama joked about the stereotype of Cub fans, who have been described as partying people-watchers instead of serious fans.

"You go to Wrigley Field, you have a beer, beautiful people up there," Obama said, according to ESPN transcripts. "People aren't watching the game. It's not serious. White Sox, that's baseball."

The interview with Obama took place last Wednesday in Greensboro, N.C., and aired on SportsCenter Monday night. Here are some of the excerpts of Obama's comments to ESPN's Stuart Scott:

Favorite Athlete: "My favorite player when I was a kid was Dr. J. He had those old Nets shorts with the socks up to here."

If he had to pick an athlete as VP: "I'm a Chicago guy, so I'm thinking Walter Payton. 'Sweetness.' That guy had durability—he could block as well as run."

Baseball's steroid hearings: "I'd like to see the baseball commissioner handle this without Congress involved. We've got a lot of stuff on our plate."

Who he'd root for in a Cubs-Sox World Series: "Oh that's easy. White Sox...You go to Wrigley Field, you have a beer, beautiful people up there. People aren't watching the game. It's not serious. White Sox, that's baseball. Southside."

Obama should go to Wrigley Field and see that Cubs fans are very passionate about their team. The Cubs sell out every game no matter if they are winning or losing. Cubs fans do pay attention to the game.

Hey, it has been since 1908 that the Cubs have won their last World Series, but that does not mean that Cub fans only go to the games to drink and people watch.

Look at the White Sox, they are also in first place this year and they can't even sellout every game.

Mr. Obama, I am asking you to please come to a game at Wrigley Field and stay there for the whole game and then tell me that Cub fans don't pay attention at all to the team.

Spike O'Dell Radio Show, WGN Radio Chicago; Tuesday April 22

Justin Wilkie — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:48:08 -0400

Hey everyone I just want to let everyone know that I am going to be on the Spike O'Dell radio show this morning at 8:10 A.M. CST on WGN-720 AM. Talking about getting autographs. I was featured in a article in the Chicago Sun-Times last friday. We are going to be talking about how I have been collecting autographs for the last 22 years.

I am also going to talk about the site on the show. I am going to get a plug to promote it and try to get more people aware that the site is out there to be read.

Thanks,

Justin Wilkie

Arena Football: Week Four Power Poll

Justin Wilkie — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:02:11 -0400

Well with three weeks already done in the 2008 Arena Football season, the attendance is now at an all-time high. The average attendance for the first three weeks of games is 13,254 fans per game.

The average passes up the previous record set in 2005 of 12,919. The week three average of the 2008 season was 12,914 fans per game, making it the second-highest average ever for a Week 3.

The Philadelphia Soul posted the highest attendance figure in Week 3 with 16,102 fans for their game against division rival New York Dragons. In the inaugural "Battle of the Buckeye State" game, the Columbus Destroyers hosted 15,946 fans for their home opener against new intra-state rival, the Cleveland Gladiators.

WEEK 4 POWER POLL

1) Philadelphia Soul (3-0, LW: 1)

Week 3 Result: W 63-42 over #9 New York

Week 4 Game: At #9 Los Angeles, March 20, 10:30 P.M. ET

( TV - CSN Philadelphia - Live; Sirius Radio, Channel 130)

Injury News- QB Tony Graziani suffered a strained left MCL, in the game against New York. He is out three to four weeks with the injury, which he suffered on a late hit by Dragons Lineman John Nix. QB Matt D'Orazio will start against Los Angeles on Thursday.

Week 3 ADT Defensive Player of the Week- DL Gabe Nyenhuis

Home Record: 2-0 Road Record: 1-0 Home Atendance Average: 16,985

2) Dallas Desperados (3-0, LW: 2)

Week 3 Result: W 51-40 over #7 Colorado

Week 4 Game: At #5 San Jose, March 22, 10:30 P.M. ET

( TV - FSN Southwest - Live)

Week 3 Ironman of the Week- WR/DB Will Pettis

Home Record: 2-0 Road Record: 1-0 Home Attendance Average: 12,504

3) Cleveland Gladiators (3-0, LW: 5)

Week 3 Result: W 59-57 over #15 Columbus

Week 4 Game: At #6 New Orleans, March 21, 8:30 P.M. ET

Home Record: 2-0 Road Record: 1-0 Home Attendance Average: 16,078

4) Chicago Rush (2-1, LW: 6)

Week 3 Result: W 64-35 over #13 Grand Rapids

Week 4 Game: Hosts #9 Colorado, March 22, 8:00 P.M. ET

( TV - Comcast SportsNet Chicago - Live, AFL NET; Sirius Radio, Channel 130)

Home Record: 1-1 Road Record: 1-0 Home Attendance Average: 15,730

5) San Jose SaberCats (2-1, LW: 8)

Week 3 Result: W 63-43 over #11 Arizona

Week 4 Game: Hosts #2 Dallas, March 22, 10:30 P.M. ET

( TV - FSN Bay Area - 3/23 at 12:30 P.M. PT)

Home Record: 1-0 Road Record: 1-1 Home Attendance Average: 13,625

6) New Orleans Voodoo (2-1, LW: 10)

Week 3 Result: W 76-55 over #4 Tampa Bay

Week 4 Game: Hosts #3 Cleveland, March 21, 8:30 P.M. ET

Home Record: 2-0 Road Record: 0-1 Home Attendance Average: 13,026

7) Los Angeles Avengers (2-1, LW: 3)

Week 3 Result: L 34-54 to #12 Georgia

Week 4 Game: Hosts #1 Philadelphia, March 20, 10:30 P.M. ET

( TV - FSN Prime Ticket - Delay at 10 P.M. PT; Sirius Radio, Channel 130)

Home Record: 1-0 Road Record: 1-1 Home Attendance Average: 13,209

8) Tampa Bay Storm (2-1, LW: 4)

Week 3 Result: L 55-76 to #10 New Orleans

Week 4 Game: Bye Week

Home Record: 1-0 Road Record: 1-1 Home Attendance Average: 18,194

9) Colorado Crush (1-1, LW: 7)

Week 3 Result: L 40-51 to #2 Dallas

Week 4 Game: At #4 Chicago, March 22, 8:00 P.M. ET

( TV - FSN Rocky Mountain - Live, AFL NET; Sirius Radio, Channel 130)

Home Record: 1-0 Road Record: 0-1 Home Attendance Average: 9,265

10) Georgia Force (1-2, LW: 12)

Week 3 Result: W 58-34 over #3 Los Angeles

Week 4 Game: At #11 Orlando, March 22, 7:30 P.M. ET

( TV - CSS -Live, AFL NET)

Week 3 Offensive Player of the Week - QB Chris Greisen

Home Record: 1-1 Road Record: 0-1 Home Attendance Average: 10,190

11) Orlando Predators (1-2, LW: 17)

Week 3 Result: W 69-61 over #14 Utah

Week 4 Game: Hosts #10 Georgia, March 22, 7:30 P.M. ET

( TV - CSS - Live, AFL NET)

Home Record: 1-0 Road Record: 0-2 Home Attendance Average: 11,861

12) New York Dragons (1-2, LW: 9)

Week 3 Result: L 42-63 to #1 Philadelphia

Week 4 Game: At #13 Arizona, March 21, 10:00 P.M. ET

Home Record: 1-0 Road Record: 0-2 Home Attendance Average: 10,542

13) Arizona Rattlers (1-2, LW: 11)

Week 3 Result: L 43-63 to #8 San Jose

Week 4 Game: At #12 New York, March 21, 10:00 P.M. ET

Home Record: 0-1 Road Record: 1-1 Home Attendance Average: 11,532

14) Kansas City Brigade (0-2, LW: 16)

Week 3 Result: Bye Week

Week 4 Game: Hosts #15 Grand Rapids, March 24, 8:00 P.M. ET

Home Record: 0-1 Road Record: 0-1 Home Attendance Average: 13,356

15) Grand Rapids Rampage (0-2, LW: 13)

Week 3 Result: L 35-64 to #6 Chicago

Week 4 Game: At #14 Kansas City, March 24, 8:00 P.M. ET

Home Record: 0-2 Road Record: 0-0 Home Attendance Average: 8,213

16) Utah Blaze (0-3, LW: 14)

Week 3 Result: L 61-69 to #17 Orlando

Week 4 Game: Hosts #17 Columbus, March 21, 9:00 P.M. ET

( TV - KJZZ - Live, AFL NET)

Home Record: 0-1 Road Record: 0-2 Home Attendance Average: 15,106

17) Columbus Destroyers (0-3, LW: 15)

Week 3 Result: L 57-59 to #5 Cleveland

Week 4 Game: At #16 Utah, March 21, 9:00 P.M. ET

( TV - Columbus Sports Net - Live, AFL NET)

Home Record: 0-1 Road Record: 0-2 Home Attendance: 15,946

AFL NET Games are on Arenafootball.com

Arena Football: Week 3 Power Poll

Justin Wilkie — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 20:15:07 -0400

Week Three Arena Football Power Poll

1) Philadelphia Soul (2-0) (LW: 2)

Week 2 Result: W 60-49 over Chicago

Team Leaders

QB Tony Graziani: 36-54-528-14-0

WR Chris Jackson: 15-204-7

FB/LB Clifton Smith: 8-12-2

DL Gabe Nyenhuis: 2 Sacks

DB Mike Brown: 2 INT

Week 3 game: Hosts No.9, New York, March 16, 2 P.M. ET

(CSN PHILADELPHIA – Same Day Delay, 7 P.M)

2) Dallas Desperados (2-0) (LW: 3)Week 2 Result: W 46-36 over ColumbusTeam LeadersQB Clint Dolezel: 27-38-283-7-1WR Marcus Nash: 15-177-5FB/LB Josh White: 16-43-0FB/LB Duke Pettijohn: 1 SackDL Colston Weatherington: 1 SackDB Bobby Perry: 1 INTWR/DB Jermaine Jones: 1 INT

Week 3 Game: Hosts No. 6, Colorado, March 17, 8 P.M. ET

(ESPN2 HD, ESPN360.COM, Announcers Bob Wischusen and Shaun King)3) Los Angeles Avengers (2-0) (LW: 4)Week 2 Result: W 65-33 over ArizonaTeam LeadersQB Sonny Cumbie: 38-67-535-14-3WR Timon Marshall: 15-235-5FB/LB Lonnie Ford: 6-13-1DL Ken Jones: 1.5 SacksWR/DB Eddie Canonico: 2 INTDB Damen Wheeler: 2 INTWeek 3 Game: AT No. 12, Georgia, March 15, 7 P.M. ET4) Tampa Bay Storm (2-0) (LW: 5)Week 2 Result: W 69-48 over GeorgiaTeam LeadersQB Brett Dietz: 39-59-385-9-1WR Sedrick Robinson: 11-90-3FB/LB Torrance Marshall: 8-7-4DL Kelvin Kinney: 1 SackDB Traco Rachal: 2 INTWeek 3 Game: AT No. 10, New Orleans, March 16, 3 P.M. ET5) Cleveland Gladiators (2-0) (LW: 8)Week 2 Result: W 66-63 over UtahTeam LeadersQB Raymond Philyaw: 43-62-540-11-1WR Robert Redd: 13-183-4FB/LB Marlion Jackson: 14-66-2DL Joe Minucci: 3 SacksWR/DB Sakeen Wright: 2 INTWeek 3 Ironman of the Week: WR/DB Robert Redd

Week 3 Game: Hosts No. 15, Columbus, March 15, 7 P.M. ET

(AFLNET, ESPN360.COM, SPORTSTIME OHIO)6) Chicago Rush (1-1) (LW: 1)Week 2 Result: L 60-49 to PhiladelphiaTeam LeadersQB Sherdrick Bonner: 41-71-567-12-3WR Damian Harrell: 15-232-5FB/LB Dan Alexander: 9-30-2DL James Baron: 2 SacksDB Dennison Robinson: 2 INTWeek 3 Game: AT No. 13, Grand Rapids, March 14, 7 P.M. ET7) Colorado Crush (1-0) (LW: 6)Week 2 Result: BYE WEEKTeam LeadersQB John Dutton: 25-38-259-6-1WR Ben Nelson: 9-98-3QB John Dutton: 1-4-0

Week 3 Game: AT No. 2, Dallas, March 17, 8 P.M. ET

(ESPN2 HD, ESPN360.COM, Announcers: Bob Wischusen and Shaun King)8) San Jose SaberCats (1-1) (LW: 9)Week 2 Result: W 66-58 over Grand RapidsTeam LeadersQB Mark Grieb: 57-82-581-11-3WR James Roe: 21-195-3FB/LB Frank Carter: 8-11-1DL Ronald Jones: 1 SackDB Clevan Thomas: 2 INT

Week 3 Game: Hosts No. 11, Arizona, March 15, 10:30 P.M. ET

(FSN BAY AREA – Delay, 3/16 at 11:30 A.M. PT)9) New York Dragons (1-1) (LW: 16)Week 2 Result: W 50-47 over Kansas CityTeam LeadersQB Rohan Davey: 43-67-481-11-3WR Jason Willis: 13-140-4QB Rohan Davey: 6-28-0FB/LB Idris Price: 1 SackDB Levy Brown: 3 INTWeek 3 ADT Defensive Player of the Week: DB Levy Brown

Week 3 Game: AT No. 1, Philadelphia, March 16, 2 P.M. ET

(MSG PLUS- SDD, 6:30 P.M. ET)10) New Orleans Voodoo (1-1) (LW: 17)Week 2 Result: W 54-53 over OrlandoTeam LeadersQB Danny Wimprine: 31-49-395-7-0WR Wendall Williams: 10-150-1FB James Lynch: 3-7-0LB Michale Spicer: 1 SackLB Henry Bryant: 1 SackDB Calvin Spears: 2 INTWeek 3 Offensive Player of the Week: QB Danny WimprineWeek 3 Game: Hosts No. 4, Tampa Bay, March 16, 3 P.M. ET11) Arizona Rattlers (1-1) (LW: 7)Week 2 Result: L 33-65 to Los AngelesTeam LeadersQB Lang Campbell: 35-57-379-9-2WR/DB Kevin Nickerson: 15-217-3FB/LB Asi Faoa: 5-8-1DL Wendall Gaines: 3 SacksDB Isaiah Trufant: 1 INTDB Chris McKenzie: 1 INT

Week 3 Game: AT No. 8, San Jose, March 15, 10:30 P.M. ET

(FSN ARIZONA – SDD AT 10:30 P.M. PT)12) Georgia Force (0-2) (LW: 11)Week 2 Result: L 48-69 to Tampa BayTeam LeadersQB Chris Greisen: 55-82-668-10-3WR Troy Bergeron: 21-268-3QB Troy Greisen: 5-6-2DL Earnest Allen: 1 SackDB David Crocker: 1 INTWeek 3 Game: Hosts No. 3, Los Angeles, March 15, 7 P.M. ET13) Grand Rapids Rampage (0-1) (LW: 10)Week 2 Result: L 58-66 to San JoseTeam LeadersQB Adrian McPherson: 17-30-228-4-0WR Kenny Higgins: 7-144-3QB Adrian McPherson: 9-41-2Week 3 Game: Hosts No. 6, Chicago, March 15, 7 P.M. ET14) Utah Blaze (0-2) (LW: 13)Week 2 Result: L 63-66 to ClevelandTeam LeadersQB Joe Germaine: 48-69-610-13-3WR Aaron Boone: 17-177-3FB/LB Rodney Filer: 2-10-0DL E.J. Burt: 1 SackDL Chris Janek: 1 SackDB Reggie Doster: 1 INTWeek 3 Game: AT No. 17, Orlando, March 14, 7:30 P.M. ET15) Columbus Destroyers (0-2) (LW: 12)Week 2 Result: L 36-46 to DallasTeam LeadersQB Matt Nagy: 47-77-427-8-1WR Derek Lee: 19-219-6FB Harold Wells: 10-26-3DL Prentice Purnell: 1 SackDB Nate Coggins: 1 INT

Week 3 Game: Hosts No. 5, Cleveland, March 15, 7 P.M. ET

(COLUMBUS SPORTS NETWORK)16) Kansas City Brigade (0-2) (LW: 14) Week 2 Result: L 47-50 to New YorkTeam LeadersQB John Fitzgerald: 47-77-534-9-4WR Mike Horacek: 11-195-5QB John Fitzgerald: 10-18-5DB Will Holder: 1 INTDB Jerald Brown: 1 INTNext Game: March 24, Grand Rapids, 8 P.M. ET17) Orlando Predators (0-2) (LW: 15)Week 2 Result: L 53-54 to New OrleansTeam LeadersQB Shane Stafford: 60-87-644-12-2WR Ron Johnson: 19-144-0WR T.T. Toliver: 3-17-0DL B.J. Cohen: 1 SackWeek 3 Game: Hosts No. 14, Utah, March 14, 7:30 P.M. ET

Red Sox Place Curt Schilling On 60-Day DL

Justin Wilkie — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 06:04:30 -0400

The Boston Red Sox have placed pitcher Curt Schilling on the 60-day DL.

Schilling, who is battling right-shoulder problems, has been only doing indoor exercises so far in spring training.

The Red Sox have no timetable for when the 41-year old Schilling is to start and begin a throwing program, it all depends on his shoulder responds to everything.

The best chance for Schilling to hopefully return to the Red Sox is by the All-Star break.

Schilling is going to be traveling with the Red Sox next week, when the team head's to Tokyo, as they prepare to open the 2008 season against the Oakland A's.

The reason the Red Sox made the move now, is so that they could make room for right-handed reliever Lincoln Holdzkom, who was brought back the organization as a free-agent.

Holdzkom, was picked-up by the Phillies in December in the Rule 5 Draft. However, the Phillies decided to over him back to the Red Sox.

But Holdzkom opted for free agency instead, as was his right to do so, and the Red Sox signed him to a Major League deal. He did report to Red Sox earlier today.

Holdzkom split the 2007 season between Double-A Portland (4-1, 3.47 ERA) and Triple-A Pawtucket (1-0, 1.59 ERA).

Arena Football: Week Two Power Poll Rankings

Justin Wilkie — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 06:38:21 -0500

Week 2 Power Poll Rankings

1) Chicago Rush ( 1-0, 1-0 in Conference, Last Week Ranking: 2)

Week 1 result: W 70-47 over San Jose

QB Sherdrick Bonner: 14-24 for 261 yards, 6 TD–1 INT

WR Damian Harrell: 5 receptions for 128 yards and 2 TD

Week 2 Game: March 9th vs Philadelphia, 1:00 PM EST, ESPN2/ESPN2HD

2) Philadelphia Soul (1-0, 1-0, LWR: 4)

Week 1 result: W 77-56 over Orlando

QB Tony Graziani: 15-22 for 257 yards, 9 TD–0 INT

WR Larry Brackins: 6 receptions for 133 yards and 3 TD

Week 2 game: March 9th at Chicago, 1:00 PM EST, ESPN2/ESPN2HD

3) Dallas Desperados (1-0, 1-0, LWR: 3)

Week 1 result: W 51-41 over Georgia

QB Clint Dolezel: 27-38 for 283 yards, 7 TD–1 INT

WR Anthony Armstrong: 11 receptions for 135 yards and 2 TD

Week 2 game: March 7th vs. Colorado, 8:30 PM EST

4) Los Angeles Avengers (1-0, 0-0, LWR: 5)

Week 1 result: W 59-42 over New Orleans

QB Sonnie Crumbie: 23-38 for 268 yards, 7 TD–3 INT

WR Timon Marshall: 9 receptions for 116 yards and 3TD

Week 2 game: March 10th at Arizona, 11:00 PM EST, ESPN2/ESPN2HD

5) Tampa Bay Storm (1-0, 0-0, LWR: 6)

Week 1 result: W 51-49 over Kansas City

QB Bret Dietz: 18-25 for 193 yards, 2 TD–0 INT

WR Terrill Shaw: 6 receptions for 87 yards

Week 2 game: March 7th vs. Georgia, 7:30 PM EST

6) Colorado Crush (1-0, 0-0, LWR: 7)

Week 1 result: W 50-47 over Columbus

QB John Dutton: 25-38 for 259 yards, 6 TD–1 INT

WR Ben Nelson: 9 receptions for 98 yards and 3 TD

Week 2 game: BYE WEEK

7) Arizona Rattlers (1-0, 1-0, LWR: 15)

Week 1 result: W 63-62 over Utah

QB Lang Campbell: 31-47 for 319 yards, 8 TD–1 INT

WR Trandon Harvey: 8 receptions for 102 yards and 2 TD

Week 2 game: March 10th vs. Los Angeles, 11:00 PM EST, ESPN2/ESPN2HD

8) Cleveland Gladiators (1-0, 1-0, LWR: 14)

Week 1 result: W 61-49 over New York

QB Raymond Philyaw: 18-23 for 240 yards, 5 TD–1 INT

WR Otis Arney: 7 receptions for 101 yards and 2 TD

Week 2 game: March 9th vs. Utah, 12:30 PM EST

9) San Jose SaberCats (0-1, 0-1, LWR: 1)

Week 1 result: L 70-47 to Chicago

QB Mark Grieb: 35-46 for 353 yards, 5 TD–3 INT

WR James Roe: 12 receptions for 114 yards and 1 TD

WR Cleannord Saintil: 10 receptions for 129 yards and 2 TD

Week 2 game: March 10th at Grand Rapids, 7:00 PM EST

10) Grand Rapids Rampage ( 0-0, 0-0, LWR: 13)

Week 1: BYE WEEK

Week 2 game: March 10th vs. San Jose, 7:00 PM EST

11) Georgia Force ( 0-1, 0-1, LWR: 8)

Week 1 result: L 51-41 to Dallas

QB Chris Greisen: 25-40 for 349 yards, 5 TD–1 INT

WR Brent Holmes: 8 receptions for 156 yards and 3 TD

WR Troy Bergeron: 9 receptions for 130 yards and 1 TD

Week 2 game: March 7th at Tampa Bay, 7:30 PM EST

12) Columbus Destroyers ( 0-1, 0-0 LWR: 9)

Week 1 result: L 50-47 to Colorado

QB Matt Nagy: 26-45 for 225 yards, 4 TD–0 INT

WR Derek Lee: 11 receptions for 95 yards and 3 TD

Week 2 game: March 7th at Dallas, 8:30 PM EST

13) Utah Blaze (0-1, 0-1, LWR; 10)

Week 1 result: L 63-62 to Arizona

QB Joe Germaine: 19-31 for 236 yards, 5 TD–1 INT

WR Huey Whittaker: 3 receptions for 83 yards and 2 TD

Week 2 game: March 9th at Cleveland, 12:30 PM EST

14) Kansas City Brigade (0-1, 0-0, LWR: 12)

Week 1 result: L 51-49 to Tampa Bay

QB John Fitzgerald: 25-40 for 296 yards, 5 TD–2 INT

WR Mike Horacek: 7 receptions for 149 yards and 3 TD

Week 2 game: March 9th at New York, 3:00 PM EST

15) Orlando Predators (0-1, 0-1, LWR: 11)

Week 1 result: L 77-56 to Philadelphia

QB Shane Stafford: 31-45 for 323 yards, 8 TD–0 INT

WR T.T. Toliver: 9 receptions for 116 yards and 3 TD

Week 2 game: March 9th at New Orleans, 3:00 PM EST

16) New York Dragons (0-1, 0-1, LWR: 17)

Week 1 result: L 61-49 to Cleveland

QB Rohan Davey: 21-30 for 249 yards, 5 TD–1 INT

WR Kevin Swayne: 10 receptions for 130 yards and 3 TD

Week 2 game: March 9th vs. Kansas City, 3:00 PM EST

17) New Orleans VooDoo ( 0-1, 0-1, LWR: 16)

Week 1 result: L 59-42 to Los Angeles.

QB Steve Bellisari: 20-38 210 yards, 3 TD–3 INT

WR B.J. Barre: 7 receptions for 98 yards and 2 TD

Week 2 game: March 9th vs. Orlando, 3:00 PM EST

Arena Football Week 1 Recap

Justin Wilkie — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 15:03:50 -0500

Week 1 of the 2008 season in the Arena Football League is now in the books.

The AFL's attendance for the first week was the highest total ever for an eight-game Week 1 in league history. The average attendance was up 10 percent from last year's opening week games. It was also the second highest Week 1 total in league history—111,829.

The average for those games was 13,979. The overall attendance total exceeded the first week of games of the 2003 season, which was 104,247. That was the previous total for an eight-game inaugural week.

The Philadelphia Soul had the highest attendance with 17,869 fans against the Orlando Predators. The Cleveland Gladiators drew the second most fans with 17,391 in their inaugural game at home against the New York Dragons.

The Los Angeles Avengers (1-0) defeated the New Orleans VooDoo (0-1) 59-42. In that game DB Damien Wheeler earned the ADT Defensive Player of the Week. Wheeler registered two tackles, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery for a touchdown, one interception, and four passes defensed in the win.

The Dallas Desperados (1-0) defeated the Gorgia Force (0-1) 51-41 on Saturday in a game that was televised nationally on ABC. During the game, Dallas lost quarterback Clint Dolezel to a shoulder injury.

The Philadelphia Soul (1-0), who are celebrating their fifth year in the league, defeated the Orlando Predators (0-1) 77-56. QB Tony Graziani was 15-22 for 257 yards passing. He threw a franchise-high nine touchdowns and no interceptions, earning him the Offensive Player of the Week.

The Cleveland Gladiators (1-0) made their debut, relocating from Las Vegas, to defeat the New York Dragons (0-1) at home 61-49.

The Colorado Crush (1-0) defeated the Columbus Destroyers (0-1) 50-47 in their home opener.

The Tampa Bay Storm (1-0) defeated the Kansas City Brigade (0-1) 51-49. The Brigade lost their opening in the new Sprint Center. They previously at Kemper Arena.

The Arizona Rattlers (1-0)—whose owner has made a promise to fans that if the Rattlers don't make the playoff's this year all fans will get a full refund on their tickets—defeated the Utah Blaze (0-1) 63-62.

The game of the week, televised on ESPN2 Monday night, featured the previous two ArenaBowl Champions. The 2007 ArenaBowl Champion San Jose SaberCats traveled to Chicago to play the 2006 ArenaBowl Champion Chicago Rush.

It was the first time that the last two ArenaBowl Champs started a season off against each other.

In that game WR/LB DEJUAN ALFONZO earned the Ironman of the Week. Alfonzo posted one rush for two yards on offense, along with a key offensive fumble recovery for a touchdown, as the Chicago Rush (1-0) defeated the defending ArenaBowl XXI Champion San Jose SaberCats (0-1), 70-47.

On defense, Alfonzo recorded five tackles, one fumble recovery for a touchdown, and one interception. Alfonzo’s recovery of a MARK GRIEB fumble and 20-yard touchdown return came on the third play of the game and gave the Rush an early 14-0 lead. His offensive fumble recovery in San Jose’s end zone with 2:13 remaining complimented his defensive play and gave the Rush a 63-41 lead, sealing the victory.

San Jose SaberCats-Chicago Rush: Bonner, Defense Lead Chicago to Victory Over Defending Champion SaberCats 70-47

Justin Wilkie — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 20:00:20 -0500

Rosemont, IL—The Chicago Rush beat the defending champion San Jose SaberCats 70-47 in front of 15,409 fans at the Allstate Arena. The Rush had some unfinished business to take care of from last season. Head Coach Mike Hohansee's team wanted to start the 2008 season on a positive mark.

The Rush came into the game with some new faces on offense. They wanted to show everyone they could still be very explosive on offense. Veteran quarterback Sherdrick Bonner, playing in his first year with the Rush after 14 years as the starting quarterback for Arizona, wanted to prove that he can make the big plays on offense at 39. He did not disappoint fans at all, throwing six touchdown passes, going 14-of-24 passing for 261 yards with one interception.

The Rush's new-look offense definitely showed some pop with a new trio of receivers in Damian Harrell, Donovan Morgan, and Travis LaTendresse. They were able to totally dominate the defensive backs of San Jose. All three of them each caught two touchdown passes.

The game was close in the first half with the Rush leading the SaberCats at halftime 28-27. The Rush started the game with the new combination of Bonner and Harrell connecting on a 29-yard touchdown. On the next series, when the SaberCats had the ball, quarterback Mark Grieb took the snap from the center, backpedaled, and lost the ball. Dejuan Alfonzo picked it up and returned it 20 yards for a touchdown to give the Rush a quick 14-0 lead.

The SaberCats came back to score three straight touchdowns to take a 21-14 lead.

Then Bonner came right back to throw a 28-yard touchdown pass to rookie Donovan Morgan to tie the game at 21.

The SaberCats got a 25-yard field goal from kicker A.J. Haglund to take a 24-21 lead, but Bonner hit Travis LaTendresse on an eight-yard TD to give the Rush a 28-24 lead.

With no time remaining in the first half the SaberCats got another field goal from Haglund to make the score 28-27.

In the second half the Rush defense made big play after big play. On the first possession of the third quarter Dennison Robinson got an interception and Bonner connected with Harrell on a beautiful 33-yard touchdown pass.

That gave the Rush a 35-27 lead, and they did not look back from there. Jeremy Unertl and Robinson forced a fumble from San Jose wide receiver James Roe after a short catch and Jonathan Ordway recovered it on the SaberCats 23. On the very next play Bonner connected with LaTendresse on a 23-yard TD pass to extend the Rush lead to 15.

The SaberCats came back to score a touchdown on a one-yard TD run by fullback Frank Carter to make the score 42-34 Chicago.

The SaberCats stopped the Rush to get the ball back, but Alfonzo forced Grieb into throwing an ill-advised pass across the field. Alfonzo intercepted the ball on the Rush five-yard line and then returned it 40 yards to the San Jose five. Fullback Dan Alexander then scored a touchdown to extend the Rush lead to 49-34.

The Rush forced San Jose into five turnovers with Robinson, Alfonzo, and Unertl causing most of the damage.

"The three of us have been playing together for a long time," Robinson said. "We know San Jose well and we know they are a smart veteran team. But we also know that receivers in this league are a little looser with the ball early in the season. We made a conscious effort to go for the turnover and try to strip the ball. It worked pretty well."

NOTES

FB Matt Kinsinger suffered a serious left knee injury in the second quarter and did not return. He is out for the season.

Bonner became the third quarterback in AFL history to go over the 41,000-yard mark on a first-quarter TD pass to Harrell.

Harrell went over the 12,000-yard receiving mark on a third quarter TD pass.

Harrell and Morgan both had five receptions; LaTendresse had four receptions.

Robinson led the Rush with 12 tackles; Unertl had 7.5.

Alfonzo had two fumble recoveries for touchdowns. He returned a first quarter Grieb fumble for 20 yards and then he fell on Alexander's fumble in the endzone in the fourth quarter.

Next Games

Chicago hosts Philadelphia on Sunday. San Jose travels to Grand Rapids on Monday.

Arena Football: San Jose SaberCats-Chicago Rush Preview

Justin Wilkie — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 11:43:55 -0500

Rosemont, IL - The defending Arena Football Champion San Jose SaberCats open their season with hopes of defending their title against the Chicago Rush at the Allstate Arena.

The game is a rematch of the 2007 American Conference Championship game. The SaberCats won that game over the Rush and then went on the win ArenaBowl XXI in New Orleans.

The SaberCats are led by QB Mark Grieb and WR James Roe. San Jose return most of the core of the team that won the ArenaBowl last year. The only real key loss from that team is WR Ben Nelson, who signed with Colorado in the offseason.

The Rush are coming into the 2008 season with a new quarterback and wide receiver combo. Gone from the 13-3 team in 2007 are QB Matt D'Orazio, who was released by the team in fear that he had career-threating back surgery, and WR Bobby Sippio, who signed with the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs.

Also gone is FB Bob McMillen, who retired and now is the fullback/linebackers coach for the Rush. The team signed veteran quarterback Sherdrick Bonner, who played for Arizona last year and wide receiver Damian Harrell from division rival Colorado. The team also added fullback's Dan Alexander and Matt Kinsinger.

The combination of Bonner and Harrell could be a very explosive duo. Alexander set and AFL record last year with Nashville by rushing for 41 touchdowns.

The Rush defense retains its core with Jeremy Unertl, Dennison Robinson, Jonathan Ordway, John Moyer, Joe Peters, DeJuan Alfonso, James Sadler and Demetrios Walker.

"We had the best defense in the league," Unertl said. "We held teams to the lowest number of points(719) in league history. Even more important, we lead the league in turnover margin. That's how you get more possessions."

With the defense already strong and knowing the system of Head Coach Mike Hohensee, the big question is how long will it take for the offense to learn and jell as a unit.

Make sure to catch the game on ESPN2 and ESPN2HD on Monday night at 9pm ET/6pm PT

Arena Football: Week 1 Power Poll Rankings Part 2

Justin Wilkie — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 11:07:44 -0500

Here is part 2 of the rankings

9) Columbus Destroyers (2007: 7-9)

The Destroyers made a remarkable postseason trip to ArenaBowl XXI, led by QB Matt Nagy. The Destroyers made a significant number of changes this past offseason. Nagy will have a former receiver to throw to this year in the addition of Derek Lee, who was a teammate with Nagy at Georgia. (Week 1 game, March 2nd @ Colorado, 4pm EST)

10) Utah Blaze (2007: 8-8, 2008: 0-1)

QB Joe Germaine will be leading the offense without WR's Siaha Burley (Arizona), Orshawante Bryant (injured in camp) and Ryan Dennard (Chicago). WR Tom Pace will need to step up to help the Blaze contend in the Western Division. The Blaze added DL Dwayne Missouri and DL E.J. Burt in the offseason to help make the defense better. (Week 1 game, March 1st vs. Arizona, 9pm EST) Lost 62-63

11) Orlando Predators (2007: 8-8, 2008:0-1)

This is QB Shane Stafford's second year with the Predators. The Predators are ready to make some noise this year in the Southern Division. But the loss already of WR's Jimmy Fryzel and Jaravus Dudley being released, won't help. The team is going to have to make sure that everyone else is healthy to be able to compete. (Week 1 game, March 1st @ Philadelphia, 7pm EST). Lost 56-77

12) Kansas City Brigade (2007: 10-6, 2008: 0-1)

The Brigade are going to have trouble following up last year's 10-6 campaign, the big reason is the question surrounding QB John Fitzgerald. If Fitzgerald does not perform well, then the Brigade won't have a chance at making the playoffs in 2008. The Brigade did povide him with WR Mike Horacek to go along with WR Charles Frederick (2007 Co-Rookie of the Year). The also added former Defensive Player of the Year DB Jeraid Brown. (Week 1 game, March 1st vs Tampa Bay, 6pm EST) Lost 49 - 51

13) Grand Rapids Rampage (2007: 4-12, 2008: 0-0)

The Rampage did not have a great 2007, but they hope that with all the offseason moves that they did will help. The biggest move that they made was acquiring DB Ahmad Hawkins in the Dispersal Draft. The Rampage has two games in a span of five days against San Jose and Chicago, which could set the tone for them in 2008. If the Rampage can have a good showing against the two teams, it could lead QB Adrian McPherson and the Rampage to the playoffs in 2008. (Week 1 BYE)

14) Cleveland Gladiators (2007: 2-14)

The Gladiators have retooled their roster with the move to Cleveland. They had a really poor showing in their last year in Las Vegas. Look for some powerful play on the offense led by QB Raymond Philyaw and on the Defense they will be led by DL Silas Demary. (Week 1 game, March 3rd vs. New York, 6pm EST)

15) Arizona Rattlers (2007: 4-12, 2008: 1-0)

The Rattlers have made the promise of making the playoffs in 2008. But Rattlers Head Coach decided to go with QB Lang Campbell over QB Jeff Smoker. Whomever the quarterback is for the Rattlers, having WR Siaha Burley should help make the offense better. The fate of the team will be decided right away with three straight games to open the 2008 season against division teams. (Week 1 game, March 1st @ Utah, 9pm EST) Won 63-62

16) New Orleans VooDoo (2007: 5-11, 2008: 0-1)

The VooDoo had some high hopes with the addition of WR Derrick Lewis, but his untimely injury will cause problems for the VooDoo. QB Steve Bellisari will be leading the VooDoo to start the season. But with quite of few gaps on the team, that will be a big problem for Head Coach Mike Neu and the VooDoo this year. (Week 1 game, February 29th @ Los Angeles, 10:30pm EST) Lost 42-59

17) New York Dragons (2007: 5-11)

The Dragons have QB Aaron Garcia healthy, but that won’t matter much as they are in the difficult Eastern Division. The Dragons will most likely finish last in the Eastern Division and in the AFL in 2008. The loss of WR Mike Horacek to Kansas City will hurt Garcia and the Dragons the most. They will have to hope that Wide receivers Kevin Swayne, Damien Groce and Chris Anthony can fill the gap.

Preseason Predictions for 2008:

ArenaBowl XXII Championship- Chicago Rush over Philadelphia Soul

American Conference Championship- Chicago over San Jose

National Conference Championship- Philadelphia over Dallas

Coming on Monday: My Game Day Preview of the San Jose SaberCats / Chicago Rush game at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL

Arena League: 2008 Colorado Crush Preview

Justin Wilkie — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 07:42:21 -0500

Here is part two of my team previews for the Arena Football League: the Colorado Crush (Central Division, 8-8).

Key Additions: WR Ben Nelson (07 team, San Jose), K Clay Rush (Arizona), OL/DL Aaron McConnell (Nashville, dispersal draft), WR Maurice Brown (Nashville, dispersal draft).

Key Losses: WR Damian Harrell (08 team, Chicago), OL/DL Anthony Dunn (Philadelphia)

The Crush are going into the 2008 season having to replace their star WR Damian Harrell who left as a free agent to sign with the division rival Chicago Rush. The Crush went out and signed free agent WR Ben Nelson away from the San Jose Sabercats.

Returning to the helm of the Crush at quarterback is John Dutton. Also returning are WR Willie Quinnie, WR Alonzo Nix, DB Delvin Hughley, and DB Rashad Floyd. Colorado brought back former kicker Clay Rush to the team as well. He was there when team won the ArenaBowl in 2005.

I think Colorado will be a fairly good team this year. With the addition of WRs Nelson and Maurice Brown to go along with Alonzo Nix and Willie Quinnie, they should have some good targets for Dutton to pass to. Nelson should be able to help offset the loss of WR Harrell.

The Crush have some solid defensive backs in Delvin Hughley, Rashad Floyd, and Chris Angel. They also have some tough defensive lineman in Dustin Barno, Chris Snyder, and Kyle Moore-Brown.

My prediction for Colorado this year is 9-7.

Coming up on Monday is a preview of the Grand Rapids Rampage.

Arena League: 2008 Chicago Rush Preview

Justin Wilkie — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 07:08:24 -0500

Here is the first in my series of team by team previews for the Arena Football League. First up is the Chicago Rush (Central Division, 2007 record 12-4, lost in conference finals to San Jose).

Key Additions: QB Sherdrick Bonner (2007 team Arizona), WR Damian Harrell (Colorado), FB/LB Dan Alexander (Nashville), OL/DL Vince Amey (Arizona), WR/DB Ryan Dennard (Utah)

Key Losses: QB Matt D'Orazio (2008 team Philadelphia), WR Bobby Sippio (NFL Kansas City), FB/LB Bob McMillen (Retired, Coach with Rush), DL E.J. Burt (Utah)

The Chicago Rush look to return to the ArenaBowl for the second time in three years with a new quarterback and wide receiver combo of Sherdrick Bonner and Damian Harrell. Bonner is a veteran QB who is no stranger to playing in the ArenaBowl, leading the Arizona Rattlers to Championships in 1994 and 1997. He is only one of three QBs to throw for over 800 touchdowns in AFL history (Clint Dolezel and Andy Kelly are the other two).

WR Damian Harrell takes over as the number one WR for the Rush, replacing Bobby Sippio, who left for the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs. Harrell was the favorite target for Colorado's John Dutton while he was with the Crush. He was named the 2005 Offensive Player of the Year.

FB/LB Dan Alexander steps in to replace FB Bob McMillen as the Rush's fullback. Alexander lead the AFL in rushing last year with a league-leading 426 yards, shattering the AFL record with 41 rushing touchdowns.

The Rush do return a lot of key players from last year's team including OL/DL John Moyer, DB Jeremy Unertl, WR/DB DeJuan Alfonso, WR Rob Mager, K Dan Frantz, and OL/DL John Sikora.

Head Coach Mike Hohensee has lead the Chicago Rush to the playoffs in each of his seven years there, leading them to the 2006 ArenaBowl Championship.

With the additions the Rush have made this offseason, I wouldn't be surprised to see them back in the ArenaBowl this year.

Next up in team previews will be the Colorado Crush on Friday.

Dates of all the upcoming team previews for the 2008 Arena Football Season:

Today-Chicago Rush

Jan.25-Colorado Crush

Jan.28-Grand Rapids Rampage

Jan.30-Kansas City Brigade

Feb. 4-Arizona Rattlers

Feb. 5-Los Angeles Avengers

Feb. 6-San Jose Sabercats

Feb. 7-Utah Blaze

Feb.11-Cleveland Gladiators

Feb.12-Columbus Destroyers

Feb.13-Dallas Desperados

Feb.14-New York Dragons

Feb.15-Philadelphia Soul

Feb.18-Georgia Force

Feb.19-New Orleans VooDoo

Feb.20-Orlando Predators

Feb.21-Tampa Bay Storm

Arena League: 2008 Arena Football Preview

Justin Wilkie — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 11:14:40 -0500

The 2008 Arena Football season is going to be starting soon. Training camps open next week for all teams. This week I am going to be starting a preview on each team in the AFL.

Tomorrow I'll start with the 2007 Central Division Champs Chicago Rush.

Now for the first Rankings of the 2008 season (Team, Division and 07 record)...

1-Chicago Rush(Central Division, 2007 record 12-4)

2-Philadelphia Soul(Eastern Division, 8-8)

3-Cleveland Gladiators(Eastern Division, Former L.V.Gladiators 2-14, in Western Div.)

4-New Orleans VooDoo(Southern Division, 5-11)

5-San Jose Sabercats(Western Dvision, 13-3, 2007 ArenaBowl Champs)

6-Los Angeles Avengers(Western Division, 9-7)

8-Arizona Rattlers(Western Division, 4-12)

9-Colorado Crush(Central Division, 8-8)

10-Dallas Desperados(Eastern Division, 15-1)

11-Georgia Force(Southern Division, 14-2)

12-Columbus Destroyers(Eastern Division, 7-9)

13-Orlando Predators(Southern Division, 8-8)

14-Tampa Bay Storm(Southern Division, 9-7)

15-New York Dragons(Eastern Division, 5-11)

16-Kansas City Brigade(Central Division, 10-6)

17-Grand Rapids Rampage(Central Division, 4-12)

There are two teams no longer in the AFL that were in the league in 2007: Austin Wranglers (went to AF2), who went 4-12, and The Nashville Kats (folded), who went 7-9.

2008 Chicago Cubs Convention

Justin Wilkie — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 08:25:18 -0500

Hello everyone I am Justin Wilkie and this is my first article for the Bleacher Report. I am going to be going to the 23rd annual Cubs convention this weekend and I will have reports on what is going on there. I am going to try and get some interviews with players and coaches to get their opinion of the upcoming 2008 season.

I am also hoping that I can get an interview with Cubs General Manager Jim Hendry to find out how the talks are going with the Baltimore Orioles in regards of a trade for second baseman Brian Roberts.

I will have my day one report of the convention and hopefully a couple of interviews later tonight when I get home from the convention.

Here is a list of what current and former players that are scheduled to attend this weekend's activities:

Ernie Banks	Scott Eyre	Les Lancaster	Carmen Pignatiello	Geovany Soto
Glenn Beckert	Oneri Fleita	Derrek Lee	Lou Piniella	Tim Stoddard
Bob Brenly	Mike Fontenot	Ted Lilly	Dan Plesac	Lester Strode
Bill Buckner	Sam Fuld	Bill Madlock	Mike Quade	Rick Sutcliffe
Randy Bush	Sean Gallagher	Carlos Marmol	Rocky Roquet	Ryan Theriot
Jose Cardenal	Kevin Hart	Sean Marshall	Larry Rothschild	Alan Trammell
Tyler Colvin	Jim Hendry	Matt Murton	Jeff Samardzija	Steve Trout
Doug Dascenzo	Rich Hill	Dave Otto	Ryne Sandberg	Jerome Walton
Jody Davis	Bob Howry	Andy Pafko	Ron Santo	Daryle Ward
Andre Dawson	Pat Hughes	Milt Pappas	Matt Sinatro	Tim Wilken
Ivan DeJesus	Fergie Jenkins	Gerald Perry	Dwight Smith	Billy Williams
Ryan Dempster	Len Kasper	Billy Petrick	Lee Smith	Michael Wuertz
Bob Dernier	Crane Kenney	Felix Pie	Alfonso Soriano	Carlos Zambrano
Mark DeRosa	Dave Kingman