Sloppy Yankees fall to Red Sox

Yankees vs Red Sox Post Game Recap 7/7 Game 2

The Yankees fell to the Red Sox in the second game of the double header, losing 9-5 as errors killed them.

Phil Hughes didn’t have his best stuff in the second game of the double header on Saturday, but sloppy fielding from the Yankees didn’t help either. Hughes allowed 10 hits, one walk resulting in five runs, three of which were earned in 5.1 innings. Hughes picked up his 7^th loss of the season as a result.

Boone Logan’s troubles continued, as he allowed one hit and two walks resulting in an earned run. This makes it four straight appearances for Boone allowing at least one run.

Cory Wade was back in the Yankees bullpen for the double header and picked up where he left off before he left. Wade allowed three hits, three runs, two of which were earned in 0.2 innings. Wade, who was pitching great in the first two months of the season, now sees his ERA at 5.94 for the year.

Mark Teixeira, back in a more normal spot in the lineup instead of batting 2nd, hit a three-run homerun in the 1^st inning for his 15^th homerun of the season.

Andruw Jones, who hit 2 homeruns in the first game of the double header, went 1-4 with another homerun, his 10^th of the season, in the night cap. Jones also made a great diving catch as well, flashing the abilities that led to 10 gold gloves as the Braves centerfielder earlier in his career.

Russell Martin was finally able to snap his 0-30 slump, going 1-2 with a walk and a double. He will now look to carry this into tomorrow night and the remainder of the season to get his average above .200.

Eric Chavez, who would pinch hit for Darnell McDonald, hit his 7^th homerun of the season in the 9^th inning. It was his second at bat of the night.

The Yankees will be playing the final game of the series against the Red Sox on ESPN for Sunday Night Baseball as Ivan Nova (9-3, 4.05) will face Jon Lester (5-5, 4.33).

Mets Bounce Back Against Cubs Behind Gee

Final Score: Chicago Cubs: 1 New York Mets: 3

The Mets were able to build off of their momentum in the 9^th inning last night and translate that effort into a hard fought 3-1 victory this afternoon over the Cubs.

Dillon Gee pitched outstanding for the Mets this afternoon, tying his career high outing going eight innings.  The last time Gee went eight innings was against the Pittsburgh Pirates June 10th, 2011.

Gee took a scoreless outing into the sixth inning, where he surrendered his only run on a single by David DeJesus.  Gee’s stat line for the game was eight innings pitched, seven hits, no walks and four strikeouts.  Gee will get a lengthy rest, as he is not scheduled to start again until either July 15^th or July 17^th because of the All-Star game.

Gee’s effort did not go to waste as he was backed up by long balls from the Mets offense.

Jordany Valdespin knocked a homerun into right centerfield, almost the exact same spot as his homerun in Friday night’s game.   Valdespin has shown some power with the Mets this season, as he now has four homeruns in only 67 at bats and producing 14 RBI’s.  Since being called backup, his approach at the plate has also looked much better, as he is now earning more playing time and at-bats.

The other runs for the Mets were courtesy of a two-run homerun off the bat of Ike Davis.  It was Davis’s 12^th homerun of the season, tying him with Lucas Duda and Scott Hairston for the team lead. 

Every Met in the lineup today was able to get a hit except catcher Josh Thole and Gee.  

The Mets also made some history today, starting an all homegrown lineup for the 4^th time in franchise history and the second time this season.  The first two occurrences were in a September series in 1971 against Pittsburgh, and the one this season came with the same starting lineup, just with Jon Niese pitching on April 26^th. 

Next up for the Mets is the last game before the All-Star break against the Cubs.  Jon Niese (7-3 3.35 ERA) will take the mound for the Mets as they look to end the first half on a strong note against Cubs starting pitcher Ryan Dempster (3-3 2.11 ERA) who is making his return off the disabled list.  With a win tomorrow afternoon, the Mets can get a season-high eight games over .500.

Yankees win first game in Double Header

Yankees vs Red Sox Post Game Recap 7/7 Game 1

Yankees were able to win the first game of Saturdays double header with the Red Sox by a score of 6-1

Freddy Garcia was great on Saturday afternoon in picking up his 3^rd win of the season going 6.2 innings allowing 6 hits 2 walks and only giving up 1 run while striking out 5 as his return to the rotation has been very good so far filling in for the Yankees injured starters.

Yankees bullpen was great in closing out the game as Cody Eppley went a scoreless 1.1 innings only allowing a walk, and Chad Qualls was able to pitch a scoreless 9^th in the non save situation.

Derek Jeter had a big day at the plate going 3-5 and scoring a run as he was able to extend his hitting streak up to 6 games.

Robinson Cano was also able to extend his hitting streak to 13 games as Cano went 1-4 with a run scored and was hit by a pitch.

Nick Swisher was able to get the Yankees offense started with a bang in the first inning hitting a 3 run homerun in the 1^st inning for his 13^th of the season as Swisher went 2-3 with 2 walks 3 RBIs and scored a run in the game.

Andruw Jones went back to back with Swisher in the 1^st inning for his 8^th homerun of the season and then hit his 9^th homerun of the season in the 4^th inning.

Mark Teixeira saw himself in the second spot of the order for the first time since 2003 and was unable to follow up his great game last night with another one today going 0-4 with 2 strikeouts

Jayson Nix got the start at shortstop giving Jeter the day off from the field and was able to his his 3^rd homerun of the season following Jones in the 4^th inning.

Yankees will be playing 2^nd game of the double header at 7pm with Phil Hughes (9-6, 4.29) facing Felix Doubront (8-4, 4.42).

Landry Fields and Toronto Raptors Verbally Agree to Contract

Landry Fields Verbally Agrees to Contract with Toronto Raptors

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New York Knicks restricted free agent shooting guard Landry Fields has verbally agreed to a three year $20 million dollar contract with the Toronto Raptors.  He cannot sign the contract until July 11^th, which is the first day NBA players can sign contracts. 

The Knicks will have three days to match the offer on Fields once he signs.  Heading into the off-season, the main priorities for the Knicks were to re-sign Landry Fields, Jeremy Lin, Steve Novak and J.R. Smith.  Fields current offer from the Raptors at approximately $6.7 million annually is not what the Knicks were expecting to pay for Fields, so there is a very good chance his contract will not be matched as the Knicks need to match offers for Jeremy Lin. 

Since Carmelo Anthony has come on board, Fields has not been the same player, seeing his numbers sink like a rock since Anthony’s arrival.  Fields shooting numbers were the most glaring decrease, as his 3 point shooting percentage dropped from 39.3% to 25.6% and his free throw percentage went from 76.9% to 56.2%.  His overall shooting percentage dropped as well, from 49.7% to 46.0%.

Fields is a player who best fits in a system where he can play off the ball and use his intangibles.  He is a strong rebounder for a shooting guard and is capable of playing above average defense, especially when he moves to small forward.

It seemed at first that the Raptors only gave Fields this offer sheet to deter the Knicks from using him as a trade piece in a sign-and-trade for Steve Nash; but with Nash heading to the Los Angeles Lakers the offer seems to stay standing.  The Knicks had wished to bring Fields back on their own terms, but will likely let him walk and look elsewhere.  Look for them to step up their efforts in re-signing J.R. Smith or looking outside the organization at players like O.J. Mayo or DeShawn Stevenson.

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Yankees Win Shootout in Boston

Yankees vs Red Sox Post Game Recap 7/6

The Yankees were able to win the shootout in Fenway, taking the first game of the series with the Red Sox winning by a score of 10-8

Hiroki Kuroda struggled for the Yankees starting on Friday night. In 5.2 innings he allowed seven runs, six of which were earned, on 10 hits and one walk. Kuroda, who pitched great in the month of June having a 1.98 ERA, did not fair as well in his first start in July.

Rafael Soriano was able to pick up his first four-out save since 2007 and looked great doing so. He did not allow a base runner and got out of a jam in the 8^th inning for his 20^th save of the year.

Derek Jeter,who is starting to heat up again it seems, went 2-5 with a run scored on Friday getting his hitting streak up to five games.

Curtis Granderson was a great table setter for the middle of the order going 2-4 with a walk and scoring 3 runs from the two hole.

Alex Rodriguez had a big night, going 3-4 and stealing two bases, giving him nine steals for the season. He scored two runs and had an RBI as well.

Robinson Cano was able to extend his hitting streak to 12 games with his 24^th double of the season in the 2^nd inning, going 1-4 with a walk and run scored with an RBI.

Mark Teixeira may have had the best night of any Yankee hitter going 2-4 with 2 runs 4 RBIs. His big hit of the night for the Yankees was with a triple in the 7^th inning, scoring two runners and giving the Yankees the lead at the time.

Nick Swisher and Russell Martin missed out on the hit parade tonight, as they both went hitless, going a combined 0-7. Swisher struck out three times.

The Yankees will be playing a day-night double header in Boston on Saturday with Freddy Garcia (2-2, 5.94) facing Franklin Morales (1-1, 2.51) in the early game and Phil Hughes (9-6, 4.29) squaring off with Felix Doubront (8-4, 4.42) in the night game.

Mets Comeback Falls Short, Lose to Cubs 7/6

Final Score: Chicago Cubs: 8 New York Mets: 7

The Mets mounted a valiant comeback tonight at Citi Field, but in the end were not able to finish it, falling to the lowly Cubs 8-7.

Starting pitcher Johan Santana had a rough outing, giving up seven earned runs on a career high tying 13 hits in only 4 2/3 innings.  He was able to strike out six Cubs without walking a batter.  Santana may have also suffered an ankle injury in the 5^th inning when he was unable to corral a toss from first baseman Justin Turner and was stepped on by Reed Johnson.

Three of the 13 hits that Santana surrendered were homeruns, giving up one to Cubs right fielder Reed Johnson to lead off the game then homeruns to Anthony Rizzo and Jeff Baker in the 5^th before being taken out of the game.  In Santana’s previous three starts he had allowed only two earned runs in 20 innings.

Reed Johnson and Anthony Rizzo each had four hits for the Cubs, leading the offensive push for the team. 

The bullpen again was able to pitch well for the Mets, giving up only one run in four innings.  They were able to keep the game within reach for the offense to mount almost mount an improbable comeback.

In the 9^th inning, the Mets were able to get things going against Cubs closer Carlos Marmol.  After striking out Kirk Nieuwenhuis to start the inning, Marmol surrendered a homerun to pinch hitter Jordany Valdespin.  He then would walk the next three batters in Ruben Tejada, Daniel Murphy and David Wright to load the bases.  Ike Davis pinch hit for Scott Hairston and was able to deliver a two-RBI single.  Lucas Duda was up next and ripped a hard line drive up the middle but it was snagged by Marmol who doubled Davis off first base, ending the Mets comeback.

Duda was able to get the Mets scoring started earlier in the game, blasting his 12^th homerun of the season in the 2^nd inning off Cubs starter Travis Wood. 

Justin Turner also hit the ball well for the Mets tonight, getting a career high tying four hits in the game, knocking in an RBI with a single in the 8^th inning. 

The Mets record this season against left-handed pitchers drops to 12-20 after Wells was able to get the quality start tonight.

The Mets and Cubs will get back at it tomorrow afternoon at 4:15 P.M. ET.  Dillon Gee (5-7 4.34 ERA) will toe the rubber for the Mets against former Notre Dame wide receiver and Cubs starter Jeff Samardzija (6-7 4.77 ERA).

Mets Win Series Against Phillies in Dramatic Fashion

Final Score: Philadelphia Phillies: 5 New York Mets: 6

In very dramatic fashion, the Mets were able to knock off the Phillies tonight 6-5 thanks to a David Wright walk off.  This was a win that even Yankee fans could smile at, as Jonathan Papelbon imploded in the 9^th inning blowing his second save of the season and suffering his third loss.

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 David Wright had a big night for the Mets, finishing it off with a walk off single in the 9^th inning.  Wright finished the night 3-5, including a two run homerun in the 5^th inning off Phillies starting pitcher Cole Hamels.  Wright had his first RBI on a single in the 3^rd inning and his fourth on the walk off.

Daniel Murphy continues to swing a hot bat, going 2-5 and knocking in the game tying RBI in the 9^th inning.

Ruben Tejada also continued his hot hitting at the plate, going 1-4 and scoring a run.

Scott Hairston also continues to slaughter left handed pitching.  Hairston knocked out his 12^th homerun of the year and ninth against a lefty.  It was his fifth career homerun against Cole Hamels.

R.A. Dickey did not have his best performance on the mound tonight, but the Mets offense was able to bail him out and take him off the hook.  Dickey finished the night tossing seven innings, giving up a career high tying 11 hits in the process and five earned runs.  He also struck out seven Phillies compared to one walk.  

Another bright spot for the Mets tonight was their bullpen.  After imploding Wednesday afternoon, they were able to hold the Phillies scoreless in the 8^th and 9^th innings. 

Next up for the Amazin’s is a series against the Chicago Cubs at Citi Field.  The first game of the series Friday night will pit the Mets Johan Santana (6-4 2.76) against the Cubs Travis Wood (3-3 3.05 ERA). 

Reggie Evans to land with Nets

thenolookpass.com

Reggie Evans to land with Nets

The Brooklyn Nets were able to get Forward Reggie Evans from the Clippers in a sign and trade deal sending, a 2nd round pick to the Clippers for Evans.

The Nets signed Evans to a three year $5 million dollar deal. The trade was consummated using the $3 million dollar trade exception, giving them a tough player down low to help fill out their roster.

Evans last year with the Clippers averaged 1.9 pts and 4.9 rebs in 56 games in the regular season. In 11 games in the post season, Evans saw his averages jump up to 3.0 pts and 7.3 rebs per game, as he played a big role in Clippers beating the Grizzles in the 1st round.

The Nets will definitely have Evans in the rotation as he is a great rebounder. Whether he is needed to start or not will depend on the rest of the Nets off-season as they pursue Dwight Howard and other free agents.

Jason Kidd Chooses Knicks over Mavs

Jason Kidd to Sign with Knicks

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In what is thought to be quite a turn of events, point guard Jason Kidd will be joining the New York Knicks.

Kidd, formerly of the Dallas Mavericks, was thought to be heavily considering re-signing with the team.  In fact, as of this morning, the news was that Kidd had actually agreed to three year $9 million contract and that the Knicks were now putting their focus on Raymond Felton.

But as quickly as that news started to spread, Kidd had a change of heart and decided to become a Knick.  After being outbid by the Lakers for Steve Nash, the Knicks needed to make a move and adding Kidd was a great pickup.  The Knicks gave Kidd the same contract, signing him for three years and $9 million.

Kidd will bring a lot to the Knicks that they have been lacking.  He brings championship caliber leadership and is a highly respected veteran around the NBA.  He adds size to a Knicks backcourt; being a bigger body he should be able to play with any other guard on the Knicks roster.  Also, Kidd will aid the Knicks in the rebounding game, an area in which they struggled at times with this past season. 

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Kidd also would be an outstanding mentor for Jeremy Lin if the Knicks are able to bring him back.  Kidd knows a lot about the game of basketball and has been able to change the type of player he is as he has aged.  He has a plethora of knowledge that he would have no problem sharing with Lin, as Kidd enjoys taking on younger players and mentoring them.  Don’t forget that the Knicks also have another young guard in Iman Shumpert who could learn a thing or two from Kidd as well. 

A reason for the change of heart for Kidd, one that is not basketball related, has not been talked about much.  That reason is an opportunity to be closer to his kids.  After going through an ugly divorce earlier in his career, he now has a possibility to make up for lost time with his children, being a short distance away instead of halfway across the United States.

Mets Pitching Implodes Late, Falls to Phillies 7/4

Final Score: Philadelphia Phillies: 9 New York Mets: 2

Everything was going swimmingly for the Mets through six innings.  They held a 2-0 lead over the division rival Phillies and had a strong outing being put together by starting pitcher Chris Young. 

But as quickly as you can blink an eye, the Phillies were leading, tacking on three runs in each of the last three innings of the game, leading to a 9-2 Phillies victory.  The win gave Cliff Lee his first victory of the season, moving his record to 1-5 overall.

The need for bullpen help reared its ugly head again this afternoon, as the Mets were unable to keep the Phillies at bay once Chris Young had to leave the game.  Young pitched seven innings, the first six of which were shutout innings.  He finished the game with totals of five hits, no walks and three earned runs while striking out three.

Young was going strong until the 7^th inning came around, even with a low pitch count.  One reason for the implosion could be because of how Young pitches.  Throwing his fastball in the mid-to-low 80’s, Young depends on spot on precision as the game goes on.  The first time through lineups, Young holds hitters to a .176 batting average.  That number increases as the game goes on, as Young’s batting average against rises to .281 the second time through and .368 the third time through.

The bullpen made the end result look a lot worse than the game actually was, as they surrendered six runs in the final two innings.  Adding arms to that bullpen has to be at the top of the list for the Mets heading to the non-waiver trade deadline July 31^st.

The Mets did have some bright spots this afternoon in Scott Hairston and Ruben Tejada.

Hairston continued his torrid pace against left handed pitching, launching a solo homerun in the 4^th inning off Cliff Lee.  Hairston is now batting .306 with eight homeruns this season against left handed pitching. 

Tejada was able to continue his outstanding hitting since coming off the disabled list.  In 10 games, Tejada is hitting .395 after going 2-4 this afternoon and .331 overall on the season.

Next up for the Mets is the series finale against the Phillies on Thursday night.  The pitching match-up is a stellar one, as All-Stars R.A. Dickey (12-1 2.15 ERA) and Cole Hamels (10-4 3.08 ERA) will face-off for the Mets and Phillies respectively.

Yankees Post Game Recap 7/4

Yankees vs Rays Post Game Recap 7/4

The Yanks were able to avoid the sweep in Tampa Bay beating the Rays 4-3 and snapping their losing streak at Tropicana Field.

The Yankees got exactly what they hoped from starter David Phelps who went 4 1/3 innings on his 75-80 pitch limit heading into the game, and only allowed one run on two hits and three walks while striking out eight batters.

Cody Eppley had a very good appearance out of the bullpen going 1 2/3 innings only allowing one hit and striking out three.

Boone Logan had a rough seventh inning after the Yankees tied it in the top half. Logan gave up a two-run home run to Carlos Pena.

David Robertson was able to pitch a scoreless eighth inning picking up two strike outs getting the hold for Rafael Soriano who was able to pick up his 19^th save of the season against his former team in the ninth.

The Yankees offense was shut down for the first four innings of the game before Robinson Cano was able to get a base hit off David Price to extend his hitting streak to 11 games, and give the Yankees their first hit. Cano would also add a huge two-run single in the eighth inning scoring Eric Chavez and Curtis Granderson to give the Yankees a late lead. Cano reached 50 RBI for the season with the two-run single

Mark Teixeira was able to get the Yankees into the scoring column with a solo shot in the seventh inning off Price for his 14^th home run of the season.

Russell Martin went 0 for 4 again on Wednesday making it 0 for his last 27 at bats, and with Stewart hitting well he has certainly earned some more at bats with Martin playing this bad.

The Yankees will be off on Thursday before starting a series with the Red Sox as Hiroki Kuroda (8-7, 3.17) will face Josh Beckett (4-7, 4.06).

Philadelphia Phillies vs. New York Mets Post Game Recap 7-3

Final Score: Philadelphia Phillies: 1 New York Mets: 11

The Mets opened up their homestand on a very positive note, hammering the Phillies Tuesday night 11-1.  Even with centerfielder Kirk Nieuwenhuis being scratched before game time because of a hand contusion, the Mets were still able to let it rip on offense.

After having a great June, going 3-1 with a 1.89 ERA, Jon Niese started July off on just as strong a note.

For a second start in a row, Jon Niese was handed a huge lead and was able to protect it.

Niese threw eight innings of one run ball, allowing only three hits and two walks.  He also added three strikeouts, with his only blemish coming off the bat of Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz, who hit a solo homerun leading off the 2^nd inning.

The Mets offense got off to an even faster start, scoring in the first inning off Vance Worley, who entered the game with a 2.92 ERA but did not leave with one as low.  A David Wright groundball scored Daniel Murphy after he tripled, which was a start to another outstanding hitting night for Murphy.  It was Wright’s 51^st RBI of the season, and he would get RBI’s 52, 53 and 54 in the 6^th inning, launching his 10^th homerun of the season off Phillies reliever Brian Sanches.

Murphy would add two doubles and a single to his night’s totals, also knocking in another four RBI’s tonight, bringing his season total to 42.  Murphy also had a highlight play at second base, making a leaping grab on a line drive.

Niese would help his own cause in the 2^nd inning, knocking in two Mets with a single.  The inning could have been blown open even more if not for Josh Thole and Ruben Tejada both being thrown out on the base paths. 

Ruben Tejada was thrown out at home, but continued his torrid pace at the plate.  Tejada went 3-5, knocking in one RBI and scoring twice.  His average now sits at .326 with a .377 on base percentage, a big reason why the Mets have been successful because Tejada has been setting the table in front of the middle of the order.

Next up for the Mets and Phillies is a 4^th of July matinee with the first pitch scheduled for 1:10 P.M. ET. Chris Young (2-1 3.30 ERA) will take the mound for the Mets against the Phillies’ Cliff Lee (0-5 4.13 ERA).

Yankees Post Game Recap 7/3

Yankees vs Rays Post Game Recap 7/3

The Yankees woes in Tampa Bay continue as they lost to the Rays again in Tropicana Field 7-4

Ivan Nova didn’t have a great game against the Rays, giving up seven hits and two walks resulting in six runs; three of which were earned due to a questionable error on Russell Martin at the plate. Nova  struck out five in his six innings of work on Tuesday night.

Chad Qualls second appearance for the Yankees wasn’t as good as his first. In 1.2 innings, he allowed three hits and one earned run.

For the second straight game, the Yankees were able to get to Rays pitching in the first inning for runs. A lead off double by Derek Jeter was followed by a double by Granderson, scoring Jeter for the first run of the game.

Robinson Cano was able to get his hitting streak up to 10 games in the 1^st inning as well, hitting a base hit to score Granderson.

Dewayne Wise got the start in left field and hit his 3^rd home run of the season in the 3^rd inning.

Eric Chavez, filling in for Mark Teixeira at 1^st base, was able to knock in his 16^th RBI of the season, scoring Raul Ibanez in the 4^th inning.

Russell Martin continued to struggle, going 0-4 on Tuesday night. With Chris Stewart playing well in the back up role, it maybe time for Girardi to give Stewart some more playing time.

The Yankees and Ray will be playing a early game at 3:10 on the 4^th of July as David Phelps (1-3, 3.16) will face Rays ace David Price (11-4, 2.92).

Deron Williams to stay with Nets

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Deron Williams to stay with Nets

The Nets got great news on Tuesday, as superstar Point Guard Deron Williams will be staying with the Nets as they make their move from New Jersey to Brooklyn.

Williams will be getting the 5 year $100 million dollar max deal from the Nets. This deal is $25 million dollars more than the Dallas Mavericks were able to offer, as the Mavericks offer was only able to be 4 years at $75 million.

Williams had another great season last year despite very little help on the court. Williams averaged 21pts, 8.7ast, 3.3reb and 1.2stl per game.

Joe Johnson was acquired by the Nets on Monday, as the Nets have hopes that him and Williams will be the best back court in basketball and lead them to the playoffs.

The Nets still hold out hope that they can get Dwight Howard on the team as well with a trade. This Johnson trade also means that a Jason Kidd return seems unlikely. It was said he wanted to be a backup for Williams wherever Williams decided to go.

Now that Williams is signed, it would appear all focus will move to trying to trade a package featuring Brook Lopez, Marshon Brooks, and a bunch of future 1^st round draft picks to the Magic for Howard to establish a big 3 in Brooklyn.

Islanders Make Moves in Free Agency

Islanders Open Up Free Agency: Boyes and Carkner

The Islanders opened up the start of the NHL free-agency period by signing Brad Boyes and Matt Carkner to deals today. 

Brad Boyes RW Shoots R:

Boyes inked a one a year, $1 million dollar deal. A winger and former 40 goal scorer will look for a comeback year, while the Islanders look to keep catching lightning in a bottle with their garbage bin shopping routine.

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Boyes hasn’t scored 20 goals in a season for the last four years. It is easy to see him slotting with John Tavares and Matt Moulson on the first line if the Islanders don’t land any big name free agents. The Islanders hope Boyes will put up Pierre-Alexandre Parenteau like numbers, as PA signed with Avalanche this past week.

Matt Carkner D Shoots R:

Carkner landed himself a 3 year $4.5 million dollar contract. Carkner will add size to what is a small defensive unit the Islanders currently have. Carkner is an enforcer and will see time on the team’s third defense unit.

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Carkner will join Lubomir Visnovsky as the newest defense to join the Islanders this off-season.

Written by Joseph Thompson

Yankees Post Game Recap 7/2

Yankees vs Rays Post Game Recap 7/2

Final Score: Rays 4 Yankees 3

Freddy Garcia was able to give the Yankees a good start in his return to the rotation as he went 5 1/3 innings allowing five hits two runs and struck out four in a no decision. The long ball was the only problem for Garcia in Mondays game as he gave up solo homeruns to B.J Upton and Carlos Pena.

Boone Logan and David Robertson both struggled in the 7^th inning allowing a walk, a hit, and two runs to score, one of which was unearned due to a error by Mark Teixeira trying to get the final two outs of the seventh.

Chad Qualls was able to have a successful debut for the Yankees, after coming over from the Phillies, getting a strikeout and fly out against the two batters he faced.

Mark Teixeira got the Yankees offense going early with a RBI double in the first inning scoring Derek Jeter.

Robinson Cano would keep his hitting streak going early with a RBI base hit in the first inning scoring Teixeira and giving the Yanks a early 2-0 lead.

The Yankees were able to manufacture a run in the seventh inning, something that has been eluding them in recent games. Curtis Granderson hit a sac fly to score Chris Stewart who walked to lead off the inning, and with a wild pitch and Jeter moving him to third base, he was able to tag from third to score.

Chris Stewart is certainly earning some playing time with Russell Martin battling back issues and a sub .200 batting average. Stewart went 1 for 2 with a walk scored a run on Monday and is batting .270 for the season.

Yankees will be playing the second game of the series against the Rays Tuesday as Ivan Nova (9-2, 4.03) will face James Shields (7-5, 4.04).

Nets to acquire Joe Johnson

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With many rumors flying around the last few days about a trade between the Nets and Hawks for All-Star guard Joe Johnson, it is confirmed that the two teams have reached a agreement to send Johnson to Brooklyn.

The trade sends Johnson to the Nets for Jordan Farmar, Anthony Morrow, Johan Petro, Jordan Williams, DeShawn Stevenson, and the Houston Rockets lottery protected 1^st round draft pick.

Joe Johnson was handed a huge 6 year $119 million contract two years ago by the Atlanta Hawks and has not lived up to it, and it is considered by many to be a very bad contract. Johnson is now 31 and has 4 years and almost $90 million left on the deal.

The Nets still believe that Deron Williams is resigning and that him and Johnson will become one of the best back court duos in the NBA. With this trade, the Nets are also covering themselves to a certain degree that if Williams does in fact leave, they do have an All-Star to market for the move to Brooklyn, and can try to make a run at Steve Nash or maybe Jeremy Lin.

If Williams resigns, with the trade for Joe Johnson and his contract, it would seem extremely unlikely that Dwight Howard will get his wish to be playing for Brooklyn as the Nets wouldn’t be able to pay him.

The Nets starting lineup is looking good if they get their players to sign as it would be Deron Williams, Joe Johnson, Gerald Wallace, Mirza Teletovic, and Brook Lopez, but it all depends on if they are able to sign Williams and restricted free agent Lopez. If they can, the Nets should definitely be a playoff team but them challenging Miami still seems a ways off.

New York Mets vs Los Angeles Dodgers Post Game Recap 7-1

Final Score: New York Mets: 3 Los Angeles Dodgers: 8

The Mets were unable to pull of the sweep of the Dodgers, falling 8-3 on Sunday Night Baseball. Sloppy fielding and poor play overall played a part in the squandering of a 2-0 early lead.  Behind a strong performance from All-Star and reigning MVP Clayton Kershaw and three Mets errors, the Dodgers salvaged the last game of the series.

Errors by second baseman Ronny Cedeno and first baseman Justin Turner led to the first two Dodger runs to tie the score.  The Dodgers, who had been shut out in five of their last six games, will take runs in any way possible. 

The next inning, the Dodgers were able to manufacture another run, giving them their first lead in 66 innings before Juan Rivera touched home plate in the 6^th inning on a James Loney groundout.

The Mets were only trailing by one run at that point, but more sloppy play in the 7^th inning blew the game open making it a laugher.  Miguel Batista entered the game with one out after relievers Ramon Ramirez and Justin Hampson loaded the bases.

Batista was able to cause a come-backer, but catcher Mike Nickeas missed the ball and was charged with an error. Instead of having an inning ending double play, the Mets deficit was expanded.  The Dodgers would add two more runs before the inning ended, making for an 8-3 lead.

Overall, the Mets finished their road trip 4-3, a good record when you consider how poorly the trip had started.  The Mets can be confident in themselves heading back to Queens for a series against the Philadelphia Phillies and Miami Marlins heading into the All-Star break.

After an off day on Monday, the Mets will be back at it Tuesday against the Phillies. Jon Niese (6-3 3.55 ERA) is expected to take the mound for the Mets against Vance Worley (4-4 2.92 ERA) of the Phillies. 

Rangers, Islanders Make Moves on First Day of Free Agency

The New York Rangers and New York Islanders wasted no time re-signing and signing on the first day of free agency.

The New York Islanders added to their defense, and signed Matt Carkner from Ottawa. Carkner signed a three-year deal worth $4.5 million. Carkner is a hated foe of the Islanders cross-town rival New York Rangers when he went after Rangers forward Brian Boyle during their first round playoff series last season. Carkner is not known for his offensive ability, but known more for his physical play. The Islanders also signed Brad Boyes from Buffalo. Boyes and the Islanders agreed on a one year contract worth $1 million.

The Islanders also lost two players to free agency. P.A Parenteau signed a four-year deal with the Colorado Avalanche, reportedly worth $16 million. Micheal Haley left the Islanders, but did not leave New York. Haley signed with the New York Rangers on Sunday afternoon.

The New York Rangers had a busy day restructuring their roster as well. The Rangers re-signed defenseman Stu Bickel, and also signed veteran big man Arron Asham, which leads to the news most Ranger fans did not want to hear. Fan favorite Brandon Prust signed a four-year deal with the Montreal Canadiens. The Rangers also lost another big man in John Scott, who signed with the Buffalo Sabres. The Rangers also added former New York Islander Micheal Haley.

The Rangers have still shown interest in Rick Nash of Columbus, among other big name free agents still on the market.

More to follow as free agency will heat up over the next week.

Yankees Post-game Recap 7/1

Yankees vs. White Sox Post Game Recap 7/1

The New York Yankees beat the Chicago White Sox Sunday afternoon, and were able to salvage a series split with Chicago.

After a tough first inning, giving up two runs, Phil Hughes was able to settle down and give the Yankees another great start. Hughes went eight innings, allowed six hits, one walk and two first innings runs while striking out eight batters for his ninth win of the season.

Rafael Soriano came in and closed the door on the White Sox, striking out two batters, for his 18th save of the season.

Eric Chavez, getting the start for Alex Rodriguez at third base, was able to get the Yankees offense started with a two run homerun. It was his 6th homerun of the season and scored Raul Ibanez in the 2nd inning.

Robinson Cano, on the day he was named starting second baseman for the American League, continued his red hot hitting June into July, and belted his 20th homerun of the season. It was a two run blast scoring Mark Teixeira in the third inning.

Derek Jeter went 1 for 5 in Sunday’s game, seeing his batting average drop under the .300 mark to .299 as his June woes have hurt the captain’s batting average.

Russell Martin's struggles continued, going 0 for 4, as his average continues to head away from the Mendoza line sporting a .186 average now.

The Yankees will be heading down to Florida to face the Tampa Bay Rays on Monday, as Freddy Garcia (2-2, 6.39) will be starting for the Yankees against Matt Moore (4-5, 4.19).

New York Mets Sending Two Players to All-Star Game

The MLB All-Star rosters were announced today, and the New York Mets will be represented by two players in Kansas City for the game.

Third baseman David Wright and starting pitcher R.A. Dickey will be making the trip for the Mets. This is Wright’s sixth All-Star selection and Dickey’s first.

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Wright will be a reserve on the team, considered an upset by some not to be the starter ahead of San Francisco Giants Pablo Sandoval.  Wright held nearly a 465,000 vote lead earlier in the week, which Sandoval closed and eventually won by over 1.6 million votes.  Wright's stats trump Sandoval's across the board because Sandoval spent time on the disabled list with a broken bone in his hand; nonetheless Wright will be backing him up because of the fan vote.

Wright now sits fourth in Mets franchise history for All-Star game appearances, trailing nine appearances for Tom Seaver and seven appearances for both Mike Piazza and Darryl Strawberry. 

R.A. Dickey will be making his first All-Star appearance and deservedly so.  Dickey leads the majors with 12 wins against one loss on the season and has outstanding stats to go along with it including a 2.15 ERA and 116 strikeouts. 

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Dickey has a very good chance of being named the starting pitcher for the NL All-Star team, but that decision will not be announced until the day before the All-Star game festivities begin July 9th.

Yankees send 3 starters to All-Star Game

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Yankees get 3 starters for 2012 All-Star game.

The New York Yankees who are in first place in the A.L East, are leading the division by five games heading into Sunday and will be well represented in the 2012 All-Star game in Kansas City. Robinson Cano, Derek Jeter, and Curtis Granderson will all be starting for the American League and C.C Sabathia was named to the team as well, but probably wont be pitching due to his injured groin.

Robinson Cano, who is the captain for the A.L in the Homerun Derby, will also be the starting second baseman for the A.L. making his 4th All-Star game appearance. Cano is having another great season, hitting .308 with 19 homeruns and 44 RBIs.  He was hot in June, as he hit .340 with 11 homeruns in the month.

Derek Jeter was named the starting shortstop for the A.L. This will be his 13th All-Star game as the 38 year old Jeter is having a great season leading off for the Yankees. Derek is batting .302 with 7 homeruns 25 RBIs 41 runs scored and has 98 hits on the season.

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Curtis Granderson will be starting in the outfield for the A.L., making his 3rd All-Star game and second straight as a Yankee. Granderson has become one of the better power hitters in the majors since joining the Yankees, as he has 23 homeruns and 46 RBIs, hitting .248 on the season. His 23 homeruns is good for 4th best in the majors only behind Jose Bautista, Josh Hamilton, and Adam Dunn.

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C.C Sabathia, who was recently put on the DL with a groin injury, will be going to his 6th All-Star game; but his injury will probably keep him out until a little bit past the game. Sabathia is 9-3 with a 3.45 ERA and 105 strike outs on the season.

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Wallace to Resign With Nets

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Gerald Wallace to resign with Nets

Sources are saying that the Nets and Gerald Wallace have agreed verbally to a 4 year $40 million deal but can't sign until July 11th. Wallace opted out of the final year of his contract worth 9.5 million, but had always intended to resign with the Nets.

The Nets had to give up their 1st round pick for Wallace in the trade to Portland, which ended up being the 6th pick in the draft. It was a high price, making it really a necessity for the Nets to keep Wallace around to try and provide Deron Williams some appealing pieces; getting Williams to resign as that is the main goal.

Wallace is very injury prone but when healthy is a great defender and made the All Star team in 2010 with the Bobcats. Wallace is now 29, and last season in his time with the Trail Blazers and Nets he averaged 13.8pts, 6.7reb, 2.8ast, and 1.5stl while shooting 45% from the field in 58 games.

Farmar to stay with Nets

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With NBA free agency kicking off, Jordan Farmar exercised his $4.25 million dollar player option to stay with the Brooklyn Nets.

Farmar is coming off a season in which he played in 39 games, starting 5 of them.  He averaged 21.3 minutes a game and scored 10.4 points and 3.3 assists.  Farmar shot 46 % from the field and 44% from 3 point land.

The Nets are beginning to have a log jam at the guard position. Farmar joins Marshon Brooks and Anthony Marrow under contract in addition to the drafting of Tyshawn Taylor in the 2nd round of Thursday's draft.

With the hope that Deron Williams is coming back and the talk of Jason Kidd  following where ever Williams decides to go, it would appear that Farmar maybe used in a trade. The Nets have been linked in conversations for Joe Johnson, Dwight Howard, and Luis Scola to try and give Williams some help.

New York Mets vs. Los Angeles Dodgers Post Game Recap 6-30

Final Score: New York Mets: 5 Los Angeles Dodgers: 0

The Mets ran their winning streak to four games at the expense of the reeling Dodgers with yet another shut out, winning 5-0.  Tonight’s win moved the Mets one game closer to their first ever four game sweep of the Dodgers.

The Dodgers have suffered shutouts in five of the last six games without All-Star hitters Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier in the lineup.  Tonight the Dodgers offense was unable to get anything going because of the stellar performance of Johan Santana.

Santana pitched eight shutout innings, scattering three hits and two walks to go along with three strikeouts.  Santana now has career numbers of 5-0 with a 0.50 ERA against the Dodgers, closing out June with almost as dominant performance as he started it with (Santana threw the first no hitter in Mets franchise history on June 1^st).

The Mets offense tonight was led by Ike Davis. Davis took advantage of the Dodgers intentionally walking David Wright in front of him in the 6^th inning, hitting a three run homerun, his 11^th of the season.  Davis would finish the game 2-4, getting his batting average over the Mendoza line for the second time this season at .203.

Daniel Murphy and Josh Thole both knocked in RBI’s with sacrifice flies in the 2^nd and 5^th innings to round out the offense for the Mets. 

The Mets’ defense struggled in Chicago, but tonight was on point against the Dodgers.  Santana made two stellar plays in the field to help his own cause and were was also helped by David Wright and Daniel Murphy. 

In the 2^nd inning, Murphy ranged to his right to start up a 4-6-3 double play.  It does not seem like much but it is encouraging to see Murphy becoming more comfortable playing 2^nd base as it has been a work in progress for Murphy on defense.  Wright was able to make a barehanded on a bunt attempt in the 4^th inning, throwing out speedster Elian Herrera at first base.

Not everything was great about the Mets as a whole tonight, as Andres Torres struggled on the base paths.  In the first inning, Torres was doubled off first pass on a fly out to right field by Wright. Torres was able to get on base in his next at-bat in the 3^rd inning, but was picked off first base by Dodgers catcher A.J Ellis. 

Next up for the Mets is the 4^th game of their series against the Dodgers on Sunday night baseball.  The only thing between the Mets and a sweep is reigning NL Cy Young award winner Clayton Kershaw (5-4 2.72 ERA).  Dillon Gee (5-6 4.42 ERA) will take the mound for the Mets.