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Lazzari’s Sports Roundup

Bob Lazzari — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 22:50:22 +0000

The “Unwatchable NBA” Update: In a game played in Charlotte last week, the Bobcats dismantled the Heat 104-65; Miami shot a putrid 22-for-76 from the floor (29%). The topper? This included the Heat shooting a pathetic 2-for-23 (9%) from three-pt. range. Yes–somewhere, Steve Kerr is weeping, folks…….TRIVIA QUESTION: The lowly 1990-1991 Miami Heat–who finished 24-58 under coach Ron Rothstein–were led in scoring by a former Big East player. Can you name this individual? Answer to follow…….ITEM: Following a year in which he won 12 games for the Phillies, pitcher Joe Blanton signs a 3-year, $24 million dollar extension. Again, at least when it comes to modern-day baseball, mediocrity breeds BUCKS…….Lazzari’s “Lopsided Score of the Week”: In a girls high school basketball game played here in CT last week, Career annihilated North Haven by a score of 78-18. I’m just wondering if the losing coach is a TRUE optimist and complimented the squad on their consistency after the game: yes, they scored nine points in each half……This week in sports history, February 1, 1987: In a marathon NBA contest, the Golden State Warriors beat the New Jersey Nets in FOUR overtimes–150-147–in a game played in Oakland. Golden State was led by Joe Barry Carroll’s 43 points and 24 rebounds; Sleepy Floyd–who set an NBA record by playing 64 minutes–chipped in with 29 points for the Warriors while Chris Mullin added 25. It was the seventh quadruple overtime game in league history and the first in three years…….Can you imagine if singer Courtney Love married contemporary artist Jim Shack? Fans of a popular tune by the B-52’s would surely delight in her full married name of Courtney Love Shack…….Yes, an additional meaning of the word “ugly” should be added to the dictionary immediately–this one related to college basketball: My alma mater, Fordham, is 9-61 against ranked teams since the AP weekly poll started in 1948. Ughhhhhhhh…….I don’t know about you folks, but I want either Wade Phillips or Norv Turner–who both lost recent NFL playoff games but kept their jobs–to purchase my next set of lottery tickets…….Hubie Brown–commenting on ESPN last week about the length of a successful three-point attempt by the Lakers’ Kobe Bryant while he was playing at Madison Square Garden: “That one came from the MEADOWLANDS.”…….As I’ve said before, I consider a Ray Allen jump shot a thing of pure beauty. But Jennifer Aniston and the dress she wore at the recent Golden Globes elevated the word “beauty” to an ENTIRELY different level…….Answer to trivia question: SHERMAN DOUGLAS–a Syracuse product who averaged 18.5 ppg along with 8.5 assists per contest…….Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league infielder Buddy Biancalana–who blows out 50 candles on February 2nd. A native of California, Buddy played a total of six seasons in the “bigs” between 1982 and 1987 as a member of the Royals and Astros–hitting just .205 lifetime in 311 games. Biancalana CAN claim fame to this: he was the starting shortstop for the Royals in all 14 postseason games in 1985–playing errorless ball while helping the team to a World Series victory over the Cardinals. Yes, he MAY have been associated with the famed “Mendoza Line” for his lack of offense, but he can always show off his World Series ring at the local pub. Best wishes, Buddy…….Finally, condolences go out to the family of former college basketball coach Dan Fitzgerald–who died recently in the state of Washington after collapsing in a restaurant; he was 67. He began his coaching career at Archbishop Mitty High School (1969-’71) and was named California’s high school coach of the year in 1970. A San Francisco native, Fitzgerald built Gonzaga into a national power while coaching that program from 1978 to 1997; he compiled a 252-171 record there and also served as the school’s athletic director. At Gonzaga, he recruited John Stockton and took the ‘Zags’ to their first NCAA tournament in 1995. May Dan Fitzgerald rest in peace.

Lazzari’s Sports Roundup – 1/28/10

Bob Lazzari — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:59:33 +0000

Without question, the performance by Arizona Cardinals QB Kurt Warner in the recent playoff game vs. Green Bay was one of the most impressive in postseason history. Here’s why: The man had MORE TD passes (5) than INCOMPLETIONS (4). Final numbers: 29/33 for 379 yards and NO interceptions; simply phenomenal………TRIVIA QUESTION: The lowly 1987-’88 Los Angeles Clippers–who finished 17-65 under coach Gene Shue–were led in scoring by a former N.Y. Knicks player. Can you name this individual? Answer to follow……….For some reason, I’m still having WAY too much fun pronouncing the full name of Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Igor Olshansky……….Of all the quotes made about baseball’s “Steroid Era,” former player Jack Clark’s recent words to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch were by far the best. After calling guys like A-Rod, Palmeiro, Clemens, Bonds, and Sosa “fakes” and “phonies,” Clark added this gem: “They should all be in the Hall of Shame; they can afford to build it.”……….Yeah, Brett Favre played well during the Vikes’ thrashing of Dallas last weekend, but I still believe the highlight of that game was Sidney Rice’s body-bumping of the Vikings mascot after his first TD catch……….Lazzari’s “Lopsided Score of the Week”: In a girls high school basketball game played here in CT last week, Windham Tech annihilated University 61-12; the winning squad outscored its overmatched opponent 29-2 in the second half of this fiasco. Interesting to note is that victorious Windham Tech was only 5-5 coming into the game, but perhaps more noteworthy is that lowly University had actually WON two games previously. My first thought was perhaps they had included two pre-season intra-squad scrimmages in their overall win total……….This week in sports history, January 26, 1980: At a track meet in Auckland, New Zealand, 21-year-old American Mary Decker runs away from the pack while lowering the world record in the women’s mile to 4:21.7. Decker, who had won gold at the previous summer’s Pan Am games, was 100 meters ahead of her nearest competitor with 100 meters to go; Linden Wilde of New Zealand finished a distant second in 4:36.6. In this race, Decker broke the previous record of 4:22–which was set by Natalia Maracescu of Romania in 1979……….Good line by Westwood One’s James Lofton after punches were thrown by players during last weekend’s Saints/Cardinals game: “Larry Holmes would have been proud”……….A main difference between Division I and Division III basketball? This: After last weekend’s loss to Eastern CT, Southern Maine (Div. III) basketball coach Karl Henrikson possessed a lifetime record of 55-117–and still has a JOB……….Answer to trivia question: MIKE WOODSON–who averaged 18 points per game while also shooting an impressive 87% from the free throw line……….Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA guard Tom Henderson–who blows out 58 candles on January 26th. A graduate of DeWitt Clinton High School in the Bronx who attended Hawaii, Henderson played nine years in the league between 1974 and 1983 as a member of the Hawks, Bullets, and Rockets–averaging 9.4 ppg for his career. Henderson accumulated 6,088 points in his career along with 3,136 assists; he was a member of the ‘77-’78 Bullets squad that captured the NBA title. Best wishes, Tom……….Finally, condolences go out to the family of College Hall of Fame golf coach Karl Tucker–who passed away recently due to complications stemming from congestive heart failure; he was 83. Tucker was hired to lead the Brigham Young golf program in 1961; from 1969 through 1991, his teams won 19 conference championships and had 17 Top 10 finishes in the NCAA Golf Championships. A few of the many fine players who benefited from Tucker’s coaching expertise included Johnny Miller, Keith Clearwater, Mike Weir and Bobby Clampett; he coached 69 All-Americans. Tucker has been recognized as one of the founding fathers of modern collegiate golf–along with late USC golf coach Stan Wood, Dave Williams of the University of Houston, and Jess Haddock of Wake Forest. Above all else, Karl Tucker was considered a true gentleman to those who were fortunate enough to know him. He is survived by his wife, Joanne, and four children; may Mr. Tucker rest in peace

Lazzari’s Sports Roundup – 12/27/09

Bob Lazzari — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 14:53:08 +0000

I truly believe that if Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden had aged HALF as well as actress Jane Seymour has, the Seminoles would have gone 10-2 this season instead of 6-6……….TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1991-’92 New York Rangers had FIVE players on the squad who scored 30 or more goals apiece. How many of these players can you name? Answer to follow……….ITEM: In ‘09, Florida Marlins pitcher Ricky Nolasco pitched LESS innings than the year before, won LESS games than he did in ‘08, and his ERA rose from 3.52 to 5.06 over that two-year stretch. The topper? Nolasco gets a $1.8 million RAISE–recently agreeing to a one-year contract. As I’ve said on many occasions, we’re ALL in the wrong business, folks……….Lazzari’s “Lopsided Score of the Week”: In a women’s college basketball game played last weekend, Southeastern Louisiana pummeled Millsaps 113-53; the winning squad outscored its winless opponent 63-26 in the second half of this laugher. If I’m the coach of the losing team, I simply utter three comforting words to my girls after the game: “HOLIDAY BREAK, ANYONE?”……….Can you imagine if LPGA golfer Catriona Matthew married former Michigan wrestler Steve Luke, divorced, married Univ. of Cincinnati chemistry professor Jim Mark–divorced again–then married former MLB pitcher Tommy John? Gospel followers would truly delight in her full married name of Catriona Matthew Luke Mark John……….This week in sports history, December 29, 1963: Chicago Bears QB Billy Wade runs for a pair of touchdowns–leading his team to a 14-10 victory over the N.Y. Giants in the NFL championship game played at Wrigley Field. The Giants’ title hopes took a major hit in the second quarter after quarterback Y.A. Tittle sprained his knee following a 14-yard TD pass to Frank Gifford; Tittle–who threw for 36 touchdowns during the regular season–ended up throwing FIVE interceptions on the day. Wade scored on runs of one and two yards in a game played in bitterly cold temperatures………..Gotta love Mike Stevens of the WDRC/102.9 (Hartford) morning show; when reporting last week that Tiger Woods was named PGA player of the year, Stevens added that Woods should also be deemed as the “juggler of the year”……….Answer to trivia question: MIKE GARTNER (40), TONY AMONTE (35), MARK MESSIER (35), SERGEI NEMCHINOV (30), and DARREN TURCOTTE (30)……….Congratulations go out to Kyle Penney of Columbia (CT)–who was recently named co-captain of the Southern CT State University baseball team (along with Branford’s Ed Bethke). I had the pleasure of coaching Penney (who attended Windham High) at the middle school level–a kid who simply worked hard and led by example. Above all, Penney has also been a solid STUDENT down through the years, too; best of luck Kyle……….Happy birthday wishes go out to former NBA player Sean Higgins–who blows out 41 candles on December 30th. Having played at Michigan, Higgins was selected by the San Antonio Spurs in the second round (54th overall) of the 1990 NBA draft and played a total of six seasons in the league. The amazing thing about Mr. Higgins? He played for a total of SIX teams during his short, six year career–spending time with San Antonio, Orlando, Golden State, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Portland. Yes, the man should have landed a luggage contract during his playing days, right? One of the highlights of his modest career came as member of the 76ers during the ‘95-’96 season when he made 35-of-37 free throws for a sizzling percentage of .946. All told, Higgins played in a total of 220 NBA games; he is currently the basketball coach for Edmonds Community College in Edmonds, Washington. Best wishes, Sean……….Finally, condolences go out to the family of a friend and former coach of mine–Rich Grande of Derby, CT–who passed away recently at the age of 59. A multi-talented individual, Rich was mayor of Derby for three terms from 1986-’91; he also possessed a degree in education and worked as a respiratory therapist for over 30 years. One thing I’ll always remember about Mr. Grande is the unmatched love he had for kids; he coached at the youth level in both basketball and football and would always don a Santa Claus outfit when the occasion arose. Yeah, he was one of those guys you’d never forget if you were ever fortunate enough to cross paths with him; some mutual friends have called Grande the “ultimate nice guy.” Oh, how true. I guess I’d sum up his legacy by offering this: If you ever spent time talking with one Richard Grande, he didn’t make you feel like a friend; no, he made you feel like a BROTHER. My sincere condolences to his wife Mary Ann and the entire Grande family; in baseball terms, the “angels” just added a terrific bat to their lineup. Rest in peace, Rich.

Lazzari’s Sports Roundup – 12-19-09

Joe McDonald — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 16:42:57 +0000

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 – 11/25/09

Bob Lazzari — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:49:13 +0000

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 – 11/11/09

Joe McDonald — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:28:13 +0000

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 – 9/4/09

Bob Lazzari — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 00:15:08 +0000

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 – 8/27/09

Bob Lazzari — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:30:46 +0000

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 – 8/20/09

Bob Lazzari — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:43:45 +0000

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 – 7/29/09

Joe McDonald — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 17:18:05 +0000

*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 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 fans” 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 as much as possible and insist that he frequents the nearest Waffle House instead……….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.”