From College to the Pros...

By: Ben Raby

WASHINGTON- Andy Roddick may have won last year's Legg Mason Tennis Classic, but John Isner came away the big winner... and we're not just talking about his 6' 9" frame. Isner reached the Legg Mason final in just his second career ATP tournament. The former Georgia Bulldog wasn't even two months out of college.

But Isner's powerful serve produced 144 aces in DC last year, as the Legg Mason played host to his coming-out party. Not bad for a guy who just eight weeks earlier was playing in the NCAA Singles Final.

Isner lost in the '07 NCAAs to Virginia's Somdev Devvarm in a three-set championship match. Devvarm would go on to defend his NCAA title in 2008, part of an impressive 44-1 season.

But now Devvarm is a pro, and like Isner a year ago, he's hoping to make some noise on the ATP Tour with a strong week here in Washington.

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And that got started today with a first round win over American wild-card Taylor Dent. Devvarm advanced to the second round with a 7-6, 2-6, 6-1 win, his first career ATP victory.

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"It was bound to happen sooner or later," said Devvarman, who also acknowledged the parralels between his Legg Mason debut and Isner's a year ago.

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"We've both gotten our educations, we both went to big football and basketball schools, both did the whole tailgating thing," Devvarman said. "But I had such a great time in college I wouldn't trade it for anything. Now we're just like any other college students who go on to get jobs. Our job just happens to be playing tennis."

Legg Mason Tennis Preview

By: Ben Raby

WASHINGTON- Grand Slam champions Andy Roddick and Marat Safin headline the 40th edition of the Legg Mason Tennis Classic which kicks off today from Rock Creek Park.

Roddick is the defending champion and is looking to become the tournament's second four-time winner (Andre Agassi won five titles here in the 1990s).

While many of the ATP's big names are in Beijing this week, the 32-man field in DC includes seven of the world's top-50 players. In addition to Roddick (#9) and Safin (#44), other notables includes former world #2 Tommy Hass (now ranked 40th), and American Mardy Fish (#43).

Roddick is the tournament's top-seed with 19-year-old Jaun Martin Del Potro seeded second. The two met in yesterday's ATP final in Los Angeles with Del Potro winning in straight sets. As the top seeds here in Washington, Roddick and Del Potro are on opposite sides of the draw meaning a second straight championship match could take place on Sunday.

Ten Americans are in the main draw including 2007 finalist John Isner. The 6'9" Isner relies on a powerful serve that produced 144 aces at last year's Legg Mason, a record for a non-Grand Slam event.

Isner takes on 8th-seeded Marcel Granollers of Spain in today's featured night match on center court. Roddick isn't expected to play until Tuesday night.

New Looked Nats

By: Ben Raby

WASHINGTON- With the trade deadline passed and the Nationals' 38-70 record ranking last in the Majors, the Nats are officially looking towards 2009.

For the proof just look at tonight's anticipated lineup, where Alberto Gonzalez and Emilio Bonaficio (right) are likely to occupy the Nats' middle infield. Both will be making their National debuts.

Gonzalez has played 40 career big-league games, while Bonaficio has appeared in 19. Both were acquired within the past week, the shortstop Gonzalez coming from the Yankees system for minor league pitcher Johnny Nunez, while second baseman Bonaficio arrived from Arizona for closer John Rauch.

Bonaficio spent a week with Triple-A Columbus but is expected to stay in Washington for the remainder of 2008. The plan is to groom him to become the team's Opening Day second baseman next season.

Elijah Dukes (left) also returns to the lineup tonight after a stint on the DL. So with three players set to join or re-join the Nats active roster, some additional shuffling was needed.

It came as little surprise then when second baseman Felipe Lopez as well as veteran catchers Paul Lo Duca and Johnny Estrada were all released.

Fans will get their first chance to see Gonzalez and Bonaficio tonight from Nationals Park, as the Nats open a three-game series with Cincinnati. The Nationals have lost nine-straight, tying their season-high. Odalis Perez (3-8, 4.38 ERA) starts for Washington, while the Reds send out Homer Bailey (0-4, 6.52 ERA).

1983 World Seires Champs: 25 Years Later

By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- "Turn Back the Clock Night" here at Camden Yards where the Orioles are honoring the 1983 World Series champions.

Twenty-two members of the '83 O's made it to Baltimore tonight, as well as General Manager Hank Peters and coach Jimmy Williams.

The Orioles (the current ones) came out wearing their throw-back jerseys complete with the tri-colored cartoon bird hat. Their opponent tonight, the Toronto Blue Jays did their part sporting their 1980s power blue road uniforms.

In addition, upper deck seats tonight at Camden Yards went for $5.50, the same admission price charged in 1983 at Memorial Stadium.

But the best reason to come out the park tonight was to see and hear from the '83 O's. About 40 minutes before tonight's pre-game ceremonies, players from the 1983 team spoke to the media.

A common theme among the players was the impact a disappointing finish to the 1982 season had on the '83 campaign.

The 1982 Orioles finished the season 94-68, one-game back of the eventual AL champion Brewers. Baltimore hosted Miliwaukee for the final four-game series of the season, but after the Orioles took the first three games, the Brewers won the finale, earning them the East division title.

"It was the most exciting series I was ever a part of," said Cal Ripken Jr. "The excitement of seeing the fans come to the stadium with the brooms, and then the disappointment watching the celebration on our field. I remember sitting in the clubhouse thinking about where we could have made up that one other game over the course of the season.

"For me personally" said Ken Singleton, "that last game in '82 I think was the most disappointing loss I was ever apart of. I know when we came to Spring Training the next year there was a lot of determination on the team."

Ripken and pitcher Mike Flanagan agreed that there was a business-like sense to that 1983 Spring Training.

"We had a tendancy to lose games early," Flanagan said, "but that year I think we wanted to get ahead early. We didn't want our season coming down to the final weekend."

Flanagan, who joked that the O's really could have used the wild-card in the early 80s, felt the team had played well enough the previous few seasons and was on the cusp of something special.

"In '78 I think we win 94 games, in '79 we win 102 games, in '80 we win 100 games and in '82 we win 94 games and go home."

There was also the 1979 World Series collapse, where the Orioles gave up a 3-1 series lead, before losing in seven to the Pirates.

But it all seemed to come together in 1983. Ripken Jr. enjoyed an MVP season hitting .318 with 27 home runs and 102 RBI. His teammate Eddie Murray finished second in the MVP vote.

"I was traded to the Orioles the day before the deadline," said Tito Landrum, "but these guys were very family oriented. There was a family presence when I got there and they took me in right away."

The Orioles eventually won the AL East with a 98-64 record, six games ahead of Detroit. They beat the White Sox 3-1 in the ALCS, before completing the championship run with a 4-1 World Series win over the Phillies.

"We felt we had a bunch of ball players in our clubhouse," said first base coach Jimmy Williams, "who played hard and had fun. And I think when '83 ended the consensus among the coaches was that the players we had that year were the greatest ball players they had ever been connected with. They were just an outstanding bunch of guys."

FINAL: Orioles 8 - Blue Jays 3

By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- A day after sitting out the series finale against Detroit with an ankle injury, Orioles' center fielder Adam Jones played a huge role in the O's series opener against Toronto.

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Jones went 2-4 on the night, hitting his sixth home run of the season, scoring twice, and driving in a pair leading the Orioles to an 8-3 win over the Blue Jays.

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"He was determined to play tonight," said Orioles Manager Dave Trembley. "He's 22-years-old, and I think he's got a great mind-set. Other than his ability and his tools and everything, this guy's got his head on right."

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Jones ran the bases prior to batting practice, and was given clearance by team doctors to play. Boy did it pay off.

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Ramon Hernandez also homered for the Orioles, connecting on his tenth of the season.

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Radhames Liz improves to 4-2 with the win, while Toronto starter Jesse Litsch drops to 8-7. Litsch is now 1-6 in his last seven decisions.

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One of the Orioles smaller crowds of the season came out for this one, with announced attendance of 12,772 from Camden Yards. Keep in mind, this four-game series pits the bottom two teams in the AL East. The Baltimore win actually puts the Orioles back in fourth place, half a game ahead of Toronto.

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These teams meet again Tuesday night at 7:05 with Garrett Olsen (6-5) getting the start for Baltimore, and Shaun Marcum (5-4) going for Toronto.

Pre-Game: Orioles vs. Blue Jays

By: Ben Raby

BALTIMORE- A hot and muggy day at Camden Yards where the Orioles (47-50) are just finishing up batting practice as they prepare to face the Toronto Blue Jays. Tonight's game is the first of four against Toronto as the Orioles continue an 11-game homestand which sees them at 2-2 after a weekend split with Detroit.

Tough to sell this series as a must-watch, but if the O's want to climb out of last place in the AL East, there's no better opponent than the Jays. Toronto is fourth in the division, half a game up on Baltimore. If you can't jump four spots in one day, may as well start with the team right above you.

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Radhames Liz (3-2, 7.57 ERA) gets the start for the Orioles, while the Jays send out Jesse Litsch (8-6, 4.16 ERA). Liz is coming off his worst career start, giving up eight runs and six hits in 2 1/3 innings in a 12-1 loss to Boston.

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"Other teams take advantage when he's not getting his fastball in the zone," said Manager Dave Trembley. "When he starts throwing away from the zone and falls behind in the count, he's forced to throw down the middle. At this level you don't get away with that. You want the opposite- establish the zone then start throwing away from the plate."

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Trembley added that their has been discussion about throwing Liz out of the bullpen. Trembley said that O's Bullpen Coach Alan Dunn has compared Liz to Cubs all-star reliever Carlos Marmol.

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"It seems the longer he pitches, the more his delivery gets out of whack. A shoter outing could improve his control."

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In his defense though, Trembley noted that Liz hasn't exactly played in the most hospitable stadiums, having thrown at Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. Great for a fan, not so much for an inexperienced visiting pitcher. This just in actually: Liz has never actually pitched at Yankee Stadium... guess Trembley tried to slip that one by us. Credit to MASN reporter Amber Theoharis for catching on.

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As for Toronto starter Jesse Litsch, after a 7-1 start to the season the 23-year-old righthander has lost five of his last six decisions.

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"He throws a lot of strikes," Trembley said. "A lot of balls over the plate, so we should have our chances."

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Starting Lineups:

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BALTIMORE ORIOLES (48-50, 5th AL East):

1. 2B: Brian Roberts
2. CF: Adam Jones
3. RF: Nick Markekis
4. DH: Aubrey Huff
5. 3B: Melvin Mora
6. LF: Luke Scott
7. C: Ramon Hernandez
8. 1B: Kevin Millar
9. SS: Brandon Fahey

TORONTO BLUE JAYS (47-50, 4th AL East):

1. RF: Joe Inglett
2. 2B: Marco Scutaro
3. CF: Alex Rios
4. 1B: Lyle Overbay
5. C: Rod Barajas
6. DH: Matt Stairs
7. 3B: Scott Rolen
8. LF: Adam Lind
9. SS: David Eckstein

Fans Turn Out for Day One of Camp

By: Ben Raby
ASHBURN, VA.- For those who aren't quite sure if Washington is a 'Redskin Town,' Sunday's first day of training camp should serve as an eye opener. More than 6,000 fans turned out for the 'Skins first 8:30 a.m. practice, some showing up 2.5 hours earlier.

"It was packed," said Katie Nothie of Montgomery County, MD. "We got here pretty early so we managed to get right up along the fence, but I looked back and it was just a sea of people. Obviously people are really excited about Jim Zorn and everything that's been going on."

Zorn said yesterday that his morning practices will typical run in the 2:15-2:30 range, but today's first time on the field went just over 90 minutes with the temperature in the high 80s.

But not even the hot weather could keep these fans from supporting the burgandy and gold.

"It's a great vibe and a lot of fun," said Jeff Zimmerman of Vienna, VA., who spent the morning at Redskin Park with his 11-year-old daughter Nora. Both were wearing matching Clinton Portis jerseys. "The players are real good about signing autographs and are very friendly. The secret is having [daughter Nora] squeeze through the crowds right up to the front."

Beth and Bob Ridpath of Fredericksburg, VA. brought grandson Sam out to camp for his birthday present.

"I think you really can identify the players when you see guys like [Antwaan] Randle El up close," Beth said. "Rock Cartwright signed [Sam's] book and when he watches him on TV now, our grandson is really going to identify with it."

Fans were kept behind bike racks, but select players signed autographs for up to 45 minutes after practice including Santana Moss. Redskin merchandise tents were also crowded with packs of fans throughout the morning.

(Photo Credit: www.washingtontimes.com)

News & Notes: Redskins Training Camp Eve

By: Ben Raby
ASHBURN, VA.-The Redskins are officially the first NFL team to open training camp in 2008, as players checked in this afternoon at Redskin Park in Northern Virginia.

The Redskins will hold their first two-a-day tomorrow morning at 8:30, with a second practice to follow in the afternoon. Coach Jim Zorn said today that morning practices will typically last between 2:15-2:30, while afternoon sessions will be more in the 1:40 range. All morning practices through July 28 are free and open to thepublic.

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The 'Skins are the first team to open training camp thanks to an early start to their pre-season schedule. The Redskins will play five pre-season games, one more than most teams. That's because Washington will take the field in the annual Hall-of-Fame Game in just two weeks, on Aug. 3 against the Colts from Canton, Ohio.

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"Not really," Zorn said when asked if he's looking forward to an extra pre-season game. "The thing I appreciate more about a fifth pre-season game is that it's a special [HOF] game, it's the only game going on at that time and it honors a tremendous history of hall of famers. So that's what I'm excited about."

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Linebacker London Fletcher, entering his second season in Washington, isn't thrilled about the lengthy training camp and pre-season, but says it's just the cards the 'Skins have been dealt.

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"No sense complaining about it," Fletcher said. "We've got five weeks of camp, five pre-season games and you have to make the most of it. If you go about it and complain about why you're at work, I think you miss a great opportunity to get better. I look at us as getting a head start on everybody else and being able to improve ourselves."

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The extra week of camp plus the fifth pre-season game at least gives Coach Zorn some extra time to work on the his West Coast offense he's brining with him from Seattle. Zorn worked in a West Coast system as the Seahawks quarterback's coach (2001-07) under Mike Holmgren.

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"The innovations I have brought will be some things from Seattle," Zorn said. "But any differences in the offense will be subtle. Hopefully you'll see the tempo go fast because I like to go fast."

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And that suits wide-receiver Antwaan Randle-El just fine.

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"I wouldn't expect more flash or trick plays," Randle-El said, "but without trying to toot our horns or put any kind of big expectations [on us] I think we'll really get a chance to get the balls in our hands a little more often. I think it's something we've always wanted to do, but we should be able to do it a little more this year."

Redskins Sign 2nd Round Pick Davis

By: Ben Raby
ASHBURN VA.- On the first day players reported to Redskins training camp, the team took care of one final piece of off-season business. The 'Skins announced today that they have agreed to terms with secound-round pick (48th overall) Fred Davis.

"It's really exciting." Davis said. "I'm just ready to finally get out there and to finally be a Redskin and to start camp that's the best thing, so I'm really appreciative."

Davis' four-year deal worth $3.5 million means the Redskins have signed or agreed to terms with all 10 of their draft picks heading into camp.

"It's not only important for us," said new Head Coach Jim Zorn, "but it's important for those guys to start on day one with the rest of the team to get a flavor of the energy that 's going to be created. I think it creates a great atmosphere if we all start on right on the first day and go forward."

"My plan was definately to get it done before camp started," Davis said. "I didn't want to lose a chane to get out and play and play early. I want to learn everything, so I thought getting in early would be the smartest thing."

Davis played tight-end at Southern California, where he was named the team's co-MVP last season. Davis started 28 of 48 games at USC and set school records for tight ends in receptions (117), yards (1,408) and touchdowns (13).

Learning from one of the NFL's best tight ends in Washington shouldn't hurt.

"It's definately great to be alongside [Chris] Cooley. He's one of the best tight ends in the league so learning from should help me a lot. Just being with him may be the best thing that could have happened to me."

A players meeting was held this afternoon at the Redskins training facility, with the first practice set for 8:30 tomorrow morning.

FINAL: Orioles 7 - Tigers 4

By: Ben Raby

BALTIMORE- The Tigers had 14 hits compared to Baltimore's nine, but the Orioles' hits proved bigger. Baltimore finished the night with four home runs, including a pair from Luke Scott, as the O's beat the Tigers 7-4 before 29,111 at Camden Yards.

Scott now has 16 home runs on the season, while Melvin Mora hit his 13th, and Aubrey Huff his career-high 19th.

Detroit's Ivan Rodriguez homered for the fifth time this season, part of an impressive 4-4 night at the plate.

"When you get 14 hits you're supposed to have more than four runs," Tigers Manager Jim Leyland said post-game. "[Armando] Galaraga pitched well enough to win the game with the amount of hits we had, we just didn't capitalize."

The Tigers also left nine men on base, compared to five by the Orioles.

"I guess it's more important to hit the long ball than to get more hits," said Tigers left fielder Matt Joyce. "They killed us with the long ball."

Jeremy Guthrie was finally given some run support tonight, and he needed it early on. Guthrie improves to 6-7 on the season despite giving up 12 hits and four earned runs in a little over six innings.

"Those of us that haven been around Guthrie," said Orioles Manager Dave Trembley, "and I think I said this four or five starts ago, he's a lot better pitcher than his record would indicate."

Leyland agrees: "He's real good. He's got a very good arm, he's an aggressive kid, you can tell he likes to be out there, he's a bulldog. Good fastball, good breaking ball and he comes right at you."

Armando Galarage took the loss for the Tigers dropping to 7-4 on the season. George Sherrill picked up his 29th save.

Game three of this four-game weekend series goes tomorrow night from Camden Yards with Nate Robertson (6-8, 5.26) starting for the Tigers, and Daniel Cabrera (6-5, 4.33) taking the mound for the Orioles.

Pre-Game: Orioles - Tigers

By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- About an hour away from tonight's first pitch between the Tigers (48-47) and Orioles (45-49) here on a hot and humid evening at Camden Yards.

Baltimore is looking to bounce back from last night's 6-5 loss to Detroit that dropped the O's four games below .500 for the first time all season. The Orioles have now lost nine of 11 and they've fallen further in the American League East basement, now 1.5 games back of fourth place Toronto. The Orioles have lost nine straight one-run games. Manager Dave Trembley held a closed-door team meeting prior to O's batting practice today.

The Tigers meanwhile are back above .500 despite a disastrous 0-7 start to the season. Detroit has been trying to creep its way back in the AL Central race where they now sit 6.5 games back of first-place Chicago.

The Orioles send Jeremy Guthrie to the hill (5-7, 3.49 ERA) while Detroit counters with rookie Armando Galaraga (7-3, 3.27 ERA)

Starting Lineups:

Baltimore Orioles (45-49):

1. 2B: Brian Roberts
2. CF: Adam Jones
3. RF: Nick Markekis
4. DH: Aubrey Huff
5. 1B: Kevin Millar
6. 3B: Melvin Mora
7. LF: Luke Scott
8. C: Ramon Hernandez
9. SS: Brandon Fahey

Detroit Tigers (48-47):

1. CF: Curtis Granderson
2. 2B: Placido Polanco
3. LF: Matt Joyce
4. RF: Magglio Ordonez
5. 1B: Miguel Cabrera
6. DH: Marcus Thames
7. C: Ivan Rodriguez
8. SS: Edgar Renteria
9. 3B: Brandon Inge

First Place Nationals... Really

By: Ben Raby
Woodbridge, VA: As the Washington Nationals return from the All-Star break 24 games below .500, they can at least say that things are going well within the farm system.

Through July 17, the Columbus Clippers (AAA) were just three games out of first place, the Harrisburg Senators (AA) had the Eastern League's third best record, and the Vermont Lake Monsters (A-Short Season) led the New York Penn League's Stedlar Division.

And then there are the Carolina League's Potomac Nationals (Advanced Single-A) who have already clinched a playoff berth with their first half division title. With a 6-2 win over the Lynchburg Hillcats tonight from Richard Pfitzner Stadium, the P-Nats improved their overall record to 57-39 (15-11 second half).

And making the Nationals record even more impressive is how they've done it- with 56 different players. Sure player turnover is inevitable in the minor leagues but the Potomac Nationals may be setting a new standard. The Nats lead the Carolina League in player transactions, but no matter who Manager Randy Knorr puts in his lineup, his players seem to respond.

"When I first got here managing," Knorr said, "we were still feeling the effects of being part of the Montreal [Expos] system. They didn't spend a lot of money on draft picks. I think over the last few years our scouting department has had that ability to get guys and sign them, and I think as a result we have better athletes and better players throughout the organization."

Since April 10, the P-Nats have spent only two days where they were not in or had a share of first place. Not bad for a club that has just one starter remaining from its Opening Day five-man rotation. Jordan Zimmermann (above) Jhonny Nunez, Cory VanAllen, and Adrian Alaniz have all been called up to Double-A Harrisburg.

"The best part of my day," Knorr said, "is when we can move a player up to the next level. And everyday we send somebody it's a great day for our staff and we welcome the new players because it's a challenge and it lets us know what's in the system."

With so many Potomac Nationals earning promotions, the door has opened for others within the organization. Pitcher Jeff Mendel is one such example filling a starting spot with the P-Nats after beginning the season in Hagerstown. Mendel hasn't looked out of place since his June call up, going 4-2 with a 2.83 ERA.

"It just seems as soon as one guy goes up, another guys comes in and gets the job done," said Anthony Oppermann, the P-Nats radio voice.

"It's weird because every week our lineup changes," Mendel said. And not only are the faces changing week-to-week, but so too is the team's identity.

"In the last two weeks we've gone from being a power team leading the league in home runs and RBIs and now we're more of a small ball team, bunting and running out groundballs."

But that type of identity change can't be considered much of a surprise with five recent call-ups having left Potomac with a combined 48 home runs and 171 RBIs. To put that in perspective, the P-Nats as a team had 88 total home runs at the time of the fifth promotion.

Matt Rogelstad (above), Edgardo Baez, Marvin Lowrance, and Bill Rhinehart are all up with Double-A Harrisburg, while Leonard Davis had reached Triple-A Columbus.

So with all the heavy hitting to go along with one of the Carolina League's best pitching staffs, it's no wonder the P-Nats clinched the first-half division title with a 42-28 record. The division win means regardless of how the Nationals do the rest of the season, they are playoff bound. Yes, the Nationals are heading to the playoffs.

"What's so strange about [all the player turnover]," Mendel said, "is that the team that clinched the playoffs, isn't going to be the same team that actually shows up for the playoffs. It's definately a strange thing. You don't get used to the team before it changes."

McEnroe Disappoints, Kastles Don't

By: Ben Raby
WASHINGTON- The Washington Kastles overcame an early 10-2 deficit and beat John McEnroe's New York Sportimes 18-17 in World Team Tennis action from Kastles Stadium at CityCenter DC.

The Sportimes (7-2) cruised to identical 5-1 wins in mixed doubles and women's singles just in time for McEnroe, 49, to take the court for his singles match against 22-year-old Scott Oudsema. But that's when this WTT match started to turn.

Oudsema used an over-powering serve to beat McEnroe 5-2, and get the Kastles (5-3) back in the match. McEnroe meanwhile would say afterward that he was never really into the match himself.

"I wish I had played better," he said. "It's hard to get as into it when you're playing like crap."

McEnroe and partner Brian Wilson then dropped a 5-4 set to Oudsema and Justin Gimelstob and suddenly the Kastles had all the momentum heading into the final event of the night, women's doubles.

"I blew it," McEnroe said. "I feel bad for the team because we were winning so big, and then it was just close enough where [the Kastles] had hope. So you feel bad. I feel bad for them."

Sure enough with the capacity crowd of 2,200 rallying behind the home side, the Kastles doubles tandem of Mashona Washington and Sacha Jones earned a 5-1 win, forcing a super tiebreaker to decide the match with the score tied at 17.

"That's maybe where a home team can come in," said McEnroe. "They get you going a little more, and at the same time, we got flat. I think we just figured we were going to win."

The Kastles took the super tiebreaker 7-5, winning the match 18-17. With the win Washington pulls within a game-and-a-half of the first place Sportimes. The Kastles visit Boston on Thursday, and host defending champion Sacramento Friday night from Kastles Stadium. (Photo credit: Allen Clark, http://www.offwingphoto.com/)

John McEnroe at Kastles Stadium

By: Ben Raby
WASHINGTON- About an hour before John McEnroe took the court for tonight's World Team Tennis event at Kastles Stadium, the seven-time grand slam champion rolled into a hotel ball room looking more like a little kid than a father of five.

McEnroe arrived wearing a tennis bag strapped on his back (picture a school bag), and an over-sized red baseball cap. He may as well have been walking to the school bus for the first day of kindergarten. But once McEnroe settled into the room to meet with reporters, he removed the baseball cap, revealing a head of thining and greying hair. The 49-year-old did in fact look the part after all, and he spoke like it too.

"The difficult part is bouncing back day after day," McEnroe said of playing competetive tennis 29 years after his first grand slam win. He even suggested his eighth season of World Team Tennis may be his last.

"I'm not going to say I'm absolutely not going to play any team tennis or any events," McEnroe said, "but I'm certainly going to take a good hard look and give myself an easier time and a better chance to have my body respond."

McEnroe confirmed that he is the second oldest player in the league behind only Martina Navratilova. "I think she's got 15 or 20 years on me," he said.

The former world number-one is in DC for the New York Sportimes (7-1) match against the Washington Kastles (4-3). McEnroe will play singles against the Kastles' Scott Oudsema. McEnroe's seventh and final grand slam singles title came nearly two years before Oudsema was even born. He will also team up with Brian Wilson in doubles action against Oudsema and Justin Gimelstob.

Like Serena Williams a week ago, McEnroe comes to Washington still thinking about Wimbledon. "It made for an incredible spectacle," McEnroe said of the Men's Final between Federer and Nadal. "I don't want to say I expect, but I would certainly hope that this will be a big boost for the men's game. The two guys were on the cover of Sports Illustrated and that says something."

Washington Wizards Summer Camp

By: Ben Raby
WASHINGTON- The Washington Wizards head west next week for the 2008 Las Vegas Summer League. Fifteen Wizards prospects and unsigned free agents are practicing at the Verizon Center this weekend, with a 12-man roster to be finalized by Sunday.

Among those already under contract with the club are 'young vets' Andray Blatche, Dominic McGuire, and Nick Young.

"This really is for our young veterans," said team President Ernie Grunfeld. "It's about them getting used to playing with one another and improving as we go along. Those guys shouldn't be nervous, they have a few years under their belt, and we want to know how they match up against some of the other young players in the league."

Young (above) played in 75 games last season including two starts. The Wizards 2007 first-round pick averaged 7.5 points in just over 15 minutes a game in his rookie season, but says that he's hoping for more floor time next season with Roger Mason Jr. having signed in San Anotnio.

Newly acquired Wizard Dee Brown also sees Mason's departure as an opportunity in Washington. The Wizards have extended an offer sheet to the restricted free agent, and Grunfeld confirmed today that the Utah Jazz, Brown's former team, will not match the offer. Brown will also be on the Wizards' Summer League roster.

"I'm going to come into games," Brown said, "and change up the pace and try to defend some of the smaller guards in the league. I'm just looking to play my role, whatever Coach [Eddie Jordan] asks."

The Illinois grad played in 49 games with Utah in 2006-07, before spending last year in Turkey. Brown says he was better off starting against "good competition" in Europe than riding the bench in the NBA. He says his overall game is better and his shooting much improved.

"He gives us a different look at the point guard position" Grunfeld said. " He's quick and high energy and that's something we missed last year."

This year's first-round pick JaVale McGee will get his first taste of pro ball in the Summer League. McGee said much of the instruction he's received so far has touched on running down the floor, rebounding and defending.

There is also some local flavor to the Wizards Summer Camp with unsigned free agents John Wallace (Georgetown) and Will Thomas (George Mason) hoping to secure one of the final 12 roster spots.

"It's very cool," Wallace said, "you grow up watching this team play, so to be behind the scenes now and to practice and work with the coaching staff is a pretty nice experience."

Wallace has been accepted into Georgetown's Law School, but says he'll give this basketball thing a shot while he can.

And a familiar face was back on the court as veteran center Etan Thomas took part in his first organized practice since last September. Thomas missed all of last season after undergoing heart surgery.

"Etan looked good," Grunfeld said. "It was good having him back. He's been around the past two months working out, but today was really one of the first times he's gone out there and had contact, and he was really effective."

The Wizards will play five games in the Las Vegas Summer League from July 14-20.

Introducing Jose Theodore

By: Ben Raby

ARLINGTON, VA.- It's funny how things sometimes work out in professional sports. Sometime during the 2005-06 NHL season Canadiens goalie Jose Theodore (below) lost his edge. The confidence and competetive fire that helped him win league MVP four years earlier was gone. Theodore would eventually lose his starting job, replaced by a guy Caps fans came to know last Spring- Christobal Huet.

Well, two years after Huet replaced Theodore in Montreal, Theodore is now replacing Huet here in Washington. Talk about a case of what goes around, comes around. The 31-year-old Theodore was formally introduced today at the Kettler Capitals Iceplex, having signed a two-year, $9 million deal with the Caps on last week's first day of free agency.

"Watching [the Caps] the past couple of years," said Theodore, "I saw them progress so well. When I saw things weren't getting done with Christobal, I knew there was going to be an opening, so I didn't want to sign to quick in Denver."

Theodore had been with the Colorado Avalanche since March 2006, convienantly playing his best hockey in the months leading up to free agency. Theodore was 28-21-3 with Colorado last season with a 2.44 goals against average. More importantly he led the Avalanche to the conference semi-finals, a round the Caps haven't reached since 1998.

"He's been there," said Coach Bruce Budreau. "He's been to the top of the mountain. He won the Hart, he won the Vezina (both in 2002). He's been in the playoffs, he's won playoff rounds, so he brings the experience. He's been the number-one goalie in very pressure cooked situations, so he can deal with a lot of things."

Theodore said part of the appeal to signing in Washington was the chance to have a certain "best player in the world," as his teammate. And the Capitals wide open, offense-first system, doesn't seem to phaze the netminder either.

"It just means for more highlight saves for me," he said.

Fedorov Signing Imminent

By: Ben Raby
ARLINGTON, VA.- Capitals General Manager George McPhee has confirmed that a one-year, $4 million deal with Sergei Fedorov is all but complete. A few "administrative details" still have to be finalized, but the 38-year-old will be back in Washington for at least one more season.

The Capitals acquired Fedorov at last season's trade deadline, and players and management alike were particularly impressed with the Russian's leadership and experience.

"He showed us how to be calm and patient," said Caps forward Brooks Laich, "and how to handle winning and losing. He's seen it all in his career, and I know I watched him with hawk-eyes last year.

Fedorov played 18 regular-season games with the Caps last season, scoring twice and picking up 11 assists. He also had five points in seven playoff games.

"It's the one thing I hadn't thought that much about when I traded for Sergei," McPhee said of Fedorov's experience. "I saw the ability on the ice and didn't think that much of the leadership factor, although I should have.

"The way that our players talked about him in our season ending meetings made it clear that this was a guy we had to bring back."

Brooks Laich Re-signs with Caps

By: Ben Raby
ARLINGTON, VA: The Capitals continue to solidify their roster for next season, resigning restircted free agent Brooks Laich today to a three-year deal, worth $6.2 million.

Laich is coming off his best season in the NHL, with career highs in goals (21), assists (16) and points (37). The deal comes one year after Laich went through arbitration, an experience he said today "is not fun." That's why Laich says he's particularly pleased with how well the team dealt with this year's negotiations.

"I'm impressed with how the organization handled it," Laich said via conference call from his home in Regina, Saskatchewan. "I'm really happy with the numbers."

Laich acknowledged the re-signings of Mike Green and Matt Bradley, and the acquisition of goalie Jose Theodore.

"(General Manager) George (McPhee) has had a big summer," Laich said. "I'm excited to be back because for the first time I think there's a real feeling we can win everyday.

-

"If (Michael) Nylander and (Chris) Clark can stay healthy, this team should be even better than last year."

Serena Williams' DC Debut:

By: Ben Raby
WASHINGTON- Serena Williams woke up this morning at her part-time home in Paris. Nearly 20 hours later, there she was signing autographs in downtown Washington, following her 2008 World Team Tennis debut. Talk about a long day.

Williams flew from Paris to DC, with a lay over in London. She says she slept for most of the seven-hour trans-Atlantic flight and that's probably a good thing. Once the fifth-ranked women's tennis player touched ground in Washington, it was all business.

Shortly after her arrival, Williams helped run a tennis clinic for about 50 kids. She then spoke to the media and to the Kastles' VIP guests. And then it was off to the main event: the first ever Washington Kastles home match.

It would be a stretch to suggest that Williams played like a Wimbledon finalist on this night, but nobody in the sold-out crowd of 2,200 seemed to mind. They came for the "Serena Show," and the fact that this was a 'team' effort didn't really seem to matter.

Serena participated in three events- mixed doubles, women's doubles, and singles. She dropped the mixed doubles match with Justin Gimelstob, before teaming up with Mashona Washington to win women's doubles. Then she took seven of ten games against Marie-Eve Pelletier in the final event of the night.

In the end the crowd saw what they wanted. Serena was probably photographed thousands of times during her DC stay, and despite the Kastles 22-19 loss to the Boston Lobsters, Washington's WTT home debut should be considered a success.

Williams will now play three road matches with the Kastles. Washington is now 2-1 on the season. It will be interesting to see what type of crowd shows up Friday night to Kastles Stadium when the main attraction is Robby Ginepri.

Hockey in July: Capitals Rookie Camp

By: Ben Raby
ARLINGTON, VA.- Washington Capitals coach Bruce Budreau (right) says times sure have changed. Back in the day he says, July 7, meant the middle of drinking season. Sure the Caps bench boss said it with a chuckle, but his point was understood. Things are different in 2008 and coaching hockey is now a 12-month operation, with maybe one week for an off-season.

The NHL's Coach of the Year was in fact back on the ice today, running two practices for Washington's top prospects at the Kettler Capitals Iceplex.

The Capitals Development Camp kicked off today and runs through Saturday when the team will hold its Summer Fan Fest. All practices this week are free and open to the public.

Among the top-rated prospects on hand this week are Washington's past four first-round picks. Karl Alzner ('07) is coming off his best season of Canadian Junior hockey where he was named the Canadian Hockey League's Defenseman of the Year. Alzner also won a gold medal as a member of Canada's World Junior team last Christmas. The Caps' first-round pick at this year's draft, John Carlson, is also taking part in this week's camp.

More details plus comments from players and coaches will be made available on the WTOP Sports Blog throughout the week.

Introducing Your Washington Kastles...

By: Ben Raby
WASHINGTON- Washington Mayor Adrian Fenty says that with yesterday's Wimbledon classic fresh in everyone's mind, there isn't a better time for a little tennis in DC.

Enter the Washington Kastles, DC's entry in the World Team Tennis league. The WTT is made up of 11 teams that will play a 14-match schedule over the first three weeks of July. Each team is made up of male and female players with big names in this year's competition including John McEnroe, Anna Kournikova and Serena Williams.

The Kastles were formally introduced at a lunchtime reception today at their new downtown home court, situated at 11th and H Streets NW. Mayor Fenty and Councilman Jack Evans had pushed for the downtown court and both participated in the ceremonial opening rally.

The main event this week comes at Washington's home opener tomorrow night. That's when Serena Williams makes her WTT debut as a member of the Kastles. The Wimbledon finalist is expected to arrive in DC Tuesday morning and help run an afternoon clinic for children. She'll then suit up for the Kastles 7:00 match against the Boston Lobsters.

Team founder Mark Ein is placing great emphasis on what this team hopes to do for Washington's tennis community. Clinics will take place throughout July and the first 1200 participants, 16-and-under, will receive a free tennis racquet courtesy Advantage. Ein spoke today of the difference tennis made in the lives of the Williams sisters, and said he hopes these clinics can make a positive impact on kids in the DC area.



In addition to Serena Williams, the Washington Kastles roster is made up of Justin Gimelstob, Scott Oudsema, Mashona Washington, and Sacha Jones. Thomas Blake is the team's coach.

The Kastles season actually began with a pair of road matches last weekend. Washington earned wins in Philadelphia and Delaware to open the season 2-0.

US Hoops Under-18s in Washington

By: Ben Raby
WASHINGTON- Some of the country's best high school basketball players have been working out at the Verizon Center for almost a week, and they'll remain in town through Thursday. It's all part of training camp for USA Basketball's Under-18 National Team as they prepare for the FIBA Americas U18 Championships to be held later this month in Argentina.

The Americans are led by Davidson head coach Bob McKillop and assistants John Thompson III (Georgetown) and Anthony Grant (Virginia Commonwealth). The roster is made up mostly of high school graduates who will be making their collegiate debuts this fall. There are also a handful of players still a year away from the college game. Safe to say though, you can expect to see most of these players in the NBA within the next two-three years.

Camp began last week with 18 players, all born in 1990 or later. Fourteen players remain, with two more cuts expected by week's end. Hollis Thompson (6'6", 180), who has verbally committed to Georgetown for Fall 2009, is among those already sent packing.

As for those players competing for one of the final 12 roster spots, point guard Kemba Walker (6'1", 172) has earned immediate praise from both Coaches McKillop and Thompson. Walker is off to UCONN this fall, and has already established himself as the Americans' on-floor leader.

Among the big-men fighting for spots on the US team is a future Dukie and a number of future Tar Heels. Center Mason Plumlee (6'10", 205) is off to Duke in 2009, where he can probably expect some battles against twins David and Travis Wear (verbally committed to North Carolina for Fall 2009). Also verbally committed to UNC in 2009, is guard Leslie McDonald (6'4", 193). No surprise then that Tar Heel coach Roy Williams was in attendance at today's practice.

The US U18 team flies to Argentina on Thursday, with the FIBA American tournament scheduled for July 14-18. The US is coming off a dissapointing bronze medal finish last year in Venezuela.

Kids Day on the WTOP Sports Blog

By: Ben Raby
With the Nationals and Orioles both off on Monday, we're provided an opportunity to look outside the box and shift our focus to the teams and athletes that don't always make the front pages.

Today specifically, it gives us a chance to write about some young athletes that could be on those front pages in the not-too-distant future. That's why we're calling this "Kids Day," with updates later in the day from the U.S. U18 Basketball team (training this week at the Verizon Center), from Capitals Development Camp (which opens today and runs through Saturday), and from the Potomac Nationals (home tonight against the Salem Avalanche).

The idea will be to introduce these future stars who will be mastering their crafts this week in the Washington area.

FINAL: Silver Stars 83 - Mystics 75

By: Ben Raby
WASHINGTON- The Mystics (6-11) have now lost three straight and nine of 13, falling 83-75 this afternoon to San Antonio (12-6) before an announced crowd of 10,439 at the Verizon Center.

Becky Hammon's free throw shooting in the final minute kept Washington from making a serious comeback threat. Hammon was a perfect 10-10 from the line, part of her game-high 28 points. Along with Sophia Young (23 points) and Ann Wauters (18 points), San Antonio's big-three combined for 83% of the team's offense.

As for the Mystics, they showed charcater coming all the way back from a 13-point third quarter deficit to take a second half lead at 61-60. But Washington missed far too many layups and putbacks that need to be made by winning basketball teams. Monique Currie shot just 1-11, including 0-3 on three point attempts.

Alana Beard had just two points at halftime, but finished the game with a team-high 20. Former Maryland Terp Crystal Langhorne had a career-high 17 points and didn't look out of place in her fourth career WNBA start.

The Mystics are back at the Verizon Center Tuesday night at 7:05 against the Indiana Fever (9-8).

GAME BLOG: MYSTICS VS. SILVER STARS

4th Quarter 0:33: Silver Stars 79 - Mystics 73
By: Ben Raby
WASHINGTON- Silver Stars guard Becky Hammon has just made a pair of free throws to put San Antonio up by six with 33 seconds left to play. Hammon is 8-8 from the foul line on the afternoon and has a game-high 26 points.

Alana Beard leads Washington with 20 points, while former Maryland Terp Crystal Langhorne has a career high 15 points.

4th Quarter 4:51: Silver Stars 65 - Mystics 61
The Mystics trail again by four points, but they're making San Antonio work every trip down the floor. Washington took its first lead since early in the second quarter, when a pair of Monique Currie free throws put the Mystics ahead 61-60. But Silver Stars guard Becky Hammon has scored five straight points to put San Antonio back in front.

Hammon now leads the Silver Stars with 19 points, while Ann Wauters has 18. Alana Beard, after scoring just two points in the first half, has a team-high 17 for the Mystics. Beard has been the catalyst for the Washington comeback.

End 3rd Quarter: Silver Stars 57 - Mystics 53
At least the Mystics are trying to make things interesting. Just when it seemed this game was getting out of reach, with the Silver Stars leading by 13, Washington decided to play more aggresively, taking the ball to the basket, and even applying full court pressure.

That game plan has helped the Mystics climb back in this one, cutting San Antonio's lead to as little as two points. Alana Beard has finally gotten back on the scoring sheet with nine points in the quarter's final five minutes. Beard now has 11 points in the game, one behind Taj McWilliams-Franklin's team-high 12 points. Ann Wauters continues to lead San Anotonio with 16 points. Could be an interesting fourth quarter...

3rd Quarter 5:26: Silver Stars 50 - Mystics 37
The Silver Stars have opened up the game's biggest lead, thanks to a balanced attack (four different players have scored this half) combined with poor shooting by the Mystics.

Washington could really use leading scorer Alana Beard (19.1 ppg), who has been limited to just one first quarter bucket.

Mystics coach Tree Rollins has just called a timeout.

Halftime: Silver Stars 36 - Mystics 28
The Mystics will start the second half down by eight, their largest deficit of the afternoon. The Silver Stars outscored Washington 23-11 in the second quarter, thanks in big part to inside players Ann Wauters (13 points) and Ruth Riley (six points).

Crystal Langhorne and Taj McWilliams-Franklin have six points apiece to lead the Mystics.

2nd Quarter 2:03: Silver Stars 29 - Mystics 24
So much for the Mystics strong start to this afternoon's game. San Antonio has regained the lead and seem to be in control of the game. Washington led by as many as eight early in the second quarter, but the Silver Stars used a 16-2 run to jump back in front.

San Antonio center Ann Wauters had nine of game-high 13 points during that run. Between Wauters and Ruth Riley (six points), San Antonio's inside game is proving tough to defend for the smaller Mystics.

2nd Quarter 7:58: Mystics 21 - Silver Stars 20
The Mystics opened the second quarter with two quick baskets by Crystal Langhorne and Taj McWilliams-Franklin to take their biggest lead of the day, 21-13.

That prompted San Anotonia Coach Dan Hughes to call a timeout, and the Silver Stars have since gone on a 7-0 run to cut Washington's lead to one.

End 1st Quarter: Mystics 17 - Silver Stars 13
A Chrystal Langhorne putback at the buzzer gives the Mystics a 17-13 lead after one quarter at the Verizon Center.

Langhorne leads the Mystics with four points. She also has a team-high four rebounds. The Mystics scoring was pretty well balanced with seven different players ending the quarter with at least two points.

Sophia Young leads San Antonio with seven points.

The Mystics trailed 2-0 early on, but used a 7-0 to gain control of the game. They have led ever since.

WNBA Pre-Game: Mystics vs. Silver Stars

By: Ben Raby
WASHINGTON- The Washington Mystics are back at the Verizon Center this afternoon following a 1-2 west coast road trip. The Mystics (6-10) have lost eight of their last 12 overall, and things don't get any easier as they host the Western Conference leading San Antonio Silver Stars (11-6). While the Mystics have struggled of late, San Antonio has won eight of its last ten.

Not only are the teams heading in opposite directions, but this matchup just doesn't bode well for Washington. The Mystics' 70.1 points per game are last in the WNBA, while the Silver Stars defense is second best, giving up 70.7 points per game.

Today's game is nationally televised, airing on ABC at 1:00. Terry Gannon and Doris Burke have the call, while Rebecca Lobo is the sideline reporter.

Today's Starting Lineups:

Washington Mystics:
F: #25 Monique Currie
F: #11 Taj McWilliams-Franklin
C: #1 Crystal Langhorne
G: #32 Nikki Blue
G: #20 Alana Beard

San Antonio Silver Stars:
F: #7 Erin Buescher
F: #33 Sophia Young
C: #12 Ann Wauters
G: #25 Becky Hammon
G: #30 Helen Darling

FINAL: Rangers 5 - Orioles 3

By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- If Rangers Manager Ron Washington had it his way the best hitter on his team would be starting this year's all-star game. Ian Kinsler showed again tonight why he may be the American League's best second baseman in the Rangers (45-43) 5-3 win over the Orioles (44-42) at Camden Yards.

"I don't think there's any second baseman having as good a first half as Kins[ler]," Washington said. "It's not just hitting home runs, but it's driving in runs, scoring runs, stealing bags. He's been doing everything."

And tonight 'everything' meant a 2-3 night at the plate highlighted by a 2-run homer in the top of the sixth that proved to be the game winner. The 355-foot shot off Oriole reliever Lance Cormier gave Texas a 4-3 lead they would not give back.

"He fell behind 3-0," Kinsler said of Cormier, "and that allowed me to swing more aggresively. I was trying to hit the ball out of the park, or at least do some damage either get myself to second, score one and tie it up, or hit it out of the park."

Kinsler also doubled on the first pitch of the game, extending his hitting streak to 17 games. He then came around to score in that first inning as the Rangers took an early 1-0 lead on Orioles starter Brian Burres. Kinsler is now hitting .328 on the season, best in the AL. Hard to believe that the AL's best hitter (Kinsler) and the AL's RBI leader and number-two home run man (Josh Hamilton) a) play for the same third place team and b) make less than a combined $1.1 million.

Hamilton is expected to be named a starter to the AL all-star team when results from fan voting are released tomorrow night, but Kinsley could only get in as a reserve. Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia is expected to win the fan balloting for his position.

"If I had a vote," said Rangers starting pitcher Scott Feldman, "he'd obviously be my [all-star starter]. But the fans come into play and Boston has a lot of fans, but [Kinsler] deserves that starting spot."

Thanks to Kinsley's 14th home run of the season, Feldman improved to 3-3 on the season. Cormier drops to 1-3 for the Orioles. C.J. Wilson pitched a perfect ninth to earn his 20th save of the season.

Offensively for the Orioles, Nick Markekis extended his hitting streak to 13 games, while Aubrey Huff had a miserable night going 0-4 with four groundouts.

Baltimore drops to 3-3 on its current seven game homestand. The O's and Rangers close out their weekend series tomorrow at Camden Yards, with Radhames Liz (3-0, 5.46 ERA) for Baltimore, and Kevin Millwood (5-4, 4.90 ERA) for Texas, the expected starters in that one. First pitch is at 1:35.

GAME BLOG: ORIOLES VS. RANGERS

FINAL: Rangers 5 - Orioles 3
By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- Texas closer C.J. Wilson struck out the side in a 1-2-3 ninth inning as the Rangers beat the Orioles 5-3, before 19,006 at Camden Yards.

Scott Feldman improves to 3-3 on the season, while Lance Cormier drops to 1-3. Wilson earned his 20th save of the season. Details to follow...

Mid 9th: Rangers 5 - Orioles 3
Last licks for the Orioles as C.J. Wilson comes in for Texas. The Rangers closer is 0-2 with 19 saves on the season and a 4.46 ERA.

Due up for the Orioles: Brandon Fahey (1-3), Brian Roberts (2-3), and Jay Payton (1-4).

Orioles relief pitcher Dennis Sarafte did his part, retiring all five batters he faced, including a 1-2-3 top of the ninth.

Mid 8th: Rangers 5 - Orioles 3
Once again the Orioles have escaped what really could have been a disasturous top of the eighth. Dennis Sarafte entered the game with the bases loaded and nobody out, but got Michael Young to ground into a 6-3 double play. Max Ramirez scored on the play, but the DP put an end to much of the Rangers momentum.

Josh Hamilton then struck out swining, leaving Ramon Vazquez stranded at third. The Rangers have left ten men on base tonight, including six in scoring position.

Greg Aquino pitched one inning, giving up one earned run and three hits. He also walked one.

Eddie Guardado set to take the mound for the Rangers in the last of the eighth.

Top 8th: Rangers 4 - Orioles 3
This one could get ugly real fast. Dave Trembley has just pulled Greg Aquino with the bases loaded and nobody out.

Max Ramirez started the inning with a single and advanced to second on a Ramon Vazquez bunt. Vazquez was also safe at first. A walk to Ian Kinsler has now loaded the bases with Dennis Sarfate coming in to face Michael Young.

Odd that Aquino came out to pitch the eighth considering Jim Johnson was warming up in the O's 'pen and seeing as Aquino had pitched a pretty good seventh inning in his return to the Majors. Maybe could have left it at that and built some confidence. Instead the O's face some trouble here in the top of the eighth.

End 7th: Rangers 4 - Orioles 3
Brian Roberts doubled, and Nick Markekis beat out an infield hit, but both men were left on base, as the Orioles continue to trail the Rangers here at Camden Yards.

Rangers righthander Frank Fransisco had retired 20 straight before Roberts' double. In his last 9 1/3 innings, Fransisco has given up just three hits and one walk.

Aubrey Huff grounded out 4-3 to end the inning. Huff is now 0-4 on the night, with four groundouts.

Eddie Guardado is loosening up in the Texas bullpen.

Mid 7th: Rangers 4 - Orioles 3
Stretch time at Camden Yards where the Orioles continue to trail by one. Frank Fransisco will be the new Rangers pitcher when Brandon Fahey leads off the O's seventh.

Fransisco has retired 19 straight, including three Orioles last night.

Scott Feldman is in line for the win, leaving the game after six innings. He gave up three earned runs, and five hits. He also walked four and hit one batter. Feldman didn't record a strikeout, and threw 93 pitches.

Joe Johnson is warming up in the Orioles bullpen.

End 6th: Rangers 4 - Orioles 3
Pinch hitter Luke Scott just popped out to second base, leaving two men on base as the Orioles came up empty in their half of the sixth.

Scott hit for catcher Guillermo Quiroz who will now be replaced behind the plate by Ramon Hernandez. Hernandez will catch Greg Aquino, just called up from Triple-A Norfolk.

Aquino comes in for Lance Cormier who pitched just 1/3 of an inning, giving up two hits, and one earned run (off Ian Kinsler go-ahead two-run blast.

All Star in the House

By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- Starting lineups for this year's all-star game will be announced tomorrow night, but the New York Post is reporting on its website that Rangers right fielder Josh Hamilton will be among the American League's starting nine. Hamilton leads the AL with 83 RBI and is tied for second with 19 home runs.

According to the report, Hamilton will be joined in the outfield by Manny Ramirez and Ichiro Suzuki. The infield will be made up exclusively of Yankees and Red Sox, with Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter on the left side, and Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis making up the right side. Cleveland pitcher Cliff Lee and Minnesota catcher Joe Mauer round out the AL starters.

The National League starters include Cub teammates Alfonso Soriano and Kosuke Fukudome in the outfield, along with Ken Griffey Jr. Lance Berkman (1B), Chase Utley (2B), Hanley Ramirez (SS) and Chipper Jones (3B) make up the infield.

Arziona's Brandon Webb will start on the mound, pitching to Geovany Soto.

GAME BLOG: ORIOLES VS. RANGERS

Mid 5th: Orioles 3 - Rangers 2
By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- Both starting pitchers seem to have calmed down after shaky starts. Rangers starter Scott Feldman has faced the minimum six batters over the past two innings, while Baltimore's Brian Burres just recorded his first 1-2-3 inning.

Burres though can thank third baseman Melvin Mora who made a pair of spectacular catches on sharply hit liners down the third base line by Milton Bradley and Brandon Boggs.

Orioles continue to lead 3-2 as we head to the bottom of the fifth.

Mid 3rd: Action in O's 'Pen
Brian Burres just threw his first scoreless inning of the game as the Orioles continue to lead the Rangers 3-2. But Texas continues to make solid contact off Burres, and that's promted Dave Trembley to call the bullpen. Lance Cormier is now warming up.

Burres has gone three innings so far, throwing 53 pitches, giving up two runs, seven hits and walking one. The Rangers have left six men on base.

Mid 2nd: Orioles 3 - Rangers 2
Josh Hamilton drove in his Major League leading 83rd run of the season on his second hit of the game, to cut the Orioles lead to one.

German Duran came around to score after he doubled in his first plate appearance of the night.

Hamilton was stranded at first, while Michael Young was left at second. The Rangers have now left five men on base through two innings, just one less than the maximum.

End 1st: Orioles 3 - Rangers 1
For the second straight night the Orioles have erased a first inning deficit, this time taking a 3-1 lead.

Like the Rangers, the O's got to work early. Brian Roberts singled on the first pitch of the inning and Jay Payton singled just two pitches later. Both were driven in on the very next pitch, a hard hit double into right center by Nick Markekis. Markekis has now hit safely in 13 straight games.

Markekis advanced to third on an Aubrey Huff groundout, and eventually scored on an Adam Jones sac fly.

Mid 1st: Rangers 1 - Orioles 0
Rangers second baseman Ian Kinsler wasted little time extending his hitting streak to 17 games. Kinsler doubled to right center on the second pitch of the game. One pitch later Kinsler came around to score on Michael Young's RBI single, giving the Rangers an early 1-0 lead.

If this keeps up though it could be a long night for Orioles starter Brian Burres. He threw 24 first inning pitches giving up the one run and three hits, while walking one. Even two of the outs were well hit balls into the outfield. Baltimore escaped though what could have been a much worse inning as the Rangers left the bases loaded.

The Orioles are wearing their traditional home whites, with orange numbering and black outline. The Rangers are sporting their alternate blue jerseys with white numbering and red outline. Both teams are once again wearing navy blue caps (as are all 30 MLB teams this Fourth of July weekend) in recognition of American Veterans.

Gametime temperature: 83 degrees.

Orioles Roster Move

By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- The Orioles have designated relief pitcher Ryan Bukvich for assignment, and called up righthander Greg Aquino from Triple-A Norfolk.

Bukvich was called up on June 22, but struggled in his four appearances out of the O's bullpen. In 5 1/3 innings, Bukvich gave up four earned runs (6.75 ERA), nine hits, and walked six.

Aquino struggled earlier in the year with Baltimore, posting a 14.21 ERA in six games. But he seems to have regained his form in Norfolk where he was 2-2 with nine saves and a 2.45 ERA. He also struck out 29, while walking just six.

Pre-Game: Orioles vs. Rangers

By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- Just under an hour away from tonight's first pitch at Camden Yards, as the Rangers are completing batting practice.

Another beautiful night for baseball here in downtown Baltimore with clear skies in the forecast, and a game-time temperature likely in the low 80s.

A couple of changes in the Orioles lineup tonight. Brian Roberts returns to the top of the order, after sitting out last night's game with flu-like symptoms. Meanwhile, Ramon Hernandez has the day off after going a solid 5-13 in the cleanup spot the past three games. Guillermo Quiroz will take his spot behind the plate and hit eighth. Luke Scott is also out of tonight's starting lineup, replaced by Jay Payton.

Orioles Lineup:

1. 2B: Brian Roberts
2. LF: Jay Payton
3. RF: Nick Markekis
4. DH: Aubrey Huff
5. 1B: Kevin Millar
6. 3B: Melvin Mora
7. CF: Adam Jones
8. CA: Guillermo Quiroz
9. Brandon Fahey

Rangers Lineup:

1. 2B: Ian Kinsler
2. SS: Michael Young
3. RF: Josh Hamilton
4. DH: Milton Bradley
5. CF: Marlon Byrd
6. LF: Brandon Boggs
7. 1B: Chris Davis
8. CA: Jarrod Saltalmacchia
9. 3B: German Duran

Pitchers: LHP Brian Burres (6-5, 5.09) vs. RHP Scott Feldman (2-3, 4.38)

Preview: Orioles vs. Rangers Game 2

By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- The Orioles (44-41) can guarentee themselves a winning record on their final homestand before the all-star break, should they beat the Rangers (44-43) this evening from Camden Yards. The O's enter tonight's game 3-2 on the seven-game homestand.

Brian Burres (6-5, 5.09 ERA) gets the start for the Orioles, while Scott Feldman (2-3, 4.38 ERA) makes an emergency start for Texas. Eric Hurley was scheduled to start for the Rangers, but Manager Ron Washington confirmed during his post-game scrum last night that Hurley has a sore left hamstring.

This is Feldman's first year as a starter, having spent his first three years in Texas pitching out of the bullpen. His 78 total innings this year nearly double his previous career high of 41 1/3. Suggesting that the Rangers could use a solid outing from the righthanded Feldman may be an understatement. Texas pitchers have giving up 28 runs in their past two games (an 18-7 loss at Yankee Stadium, and last night's 10-4 loss here in Baltimore).

Speaking of the Yankees, an Oriole win today combined with a Yankees loss would give Baltimore sole possesion of third place in the AL East. Both teams enter today nine games back of first place Tampa Bay, and six games back of wild card leading Boston.

For the Rangers, second baseman Ian Kinsler was 2-4 last night and is now hitting .325, best in the American League. Kinsler is on a 16-game hitting and also leads the AL in total bases (190), hits (116), runs (75), multi-hit games (34), and extra-base hits (44). Milton Bradley was also 2-4 at the plate last night, lifting his average to .323, fourth best in the AL.

As for the Orioles, Nick Markekis enters the game on a 12-game hitting streak, while Adam Jones has a hit in eight straight games.

FINAL: Orioles 10 - Rangers 4

By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- The Orioles (44-41) took advantage of an aching Vincente Padilla and scored eight times in the first three innings in a 10-4 win over the Rangers (44-43).

Padilla left the game after 2 2/3 innings, complaining of a neck strain and a bruised thumb. Padilla said after the game that the neck strain was bothering him during his last start, and that the bruised thumb happened on a Freddie Bynum liner in the third. Padilla does not know if he'll be good to make his next start. Rangers manager Ron Washington says he expects Padilla to heal before next Wednesday. X-rays on the thumb came back negative.

As for the Orioles, talk about a team effort. All nine Oriole starters reached base, with only Melvin Mora failing to get a hit. Mora was 0-2, reaching on a walk and a hit by pitch. He also scored twice.

The bottom third of the O's lineup, Kevin Millar, Adam Jones, and Brandon Fahey combined to go 6-11 with six runs, and five RBI.

Jones extended his hitting streak to eight games, while Nick Markekis was 2-5, extending his hitting streak to 12 games.

Freddie Bynum was a last minute replacement in the leadoff spot, filling in for Brian Roberts. Bynum went 1-5, but tied his career high with three RBI. After the game Manager Dave Trembley said that Roberts has the flu and should be back in the lineup as early as tomorrow.

And on the mound for the O's, another impressive start by Jeremy Guthrie, who went 6 1/3 innings, giving up eight hits and four earned runs. Guthrie also struck out six Rangers and walked a pair. Guthrie is now 5-7 on the season.

The Orioles and Rangers meet again tomorrow night from Camden Yards at 7:05, Brian Burress (6-5, 5.09 ERA) getting the start for Baltimore, Scott Feldman (2-3, 4.38) starting for the Rangers.

GAME BLOG: ORIOLES VS. RANGERS

FINAL: Orioles 10 - Rangers 4
By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE- The Orioles have taken game one of their weekend series against the Rangers with a 10-4 win at Camden Yards.

Jeremy Guthrie gets the win to improve to 5-7 on the season, while Vincente Padilla takes the loss to drop to 10-5. The Orioles are now 44-41 on the season. Texas is now 44-43. Details to follow...

End 8th: Orioles 10 - Rangers 4
The Orioles offense finally came back to life scoring twice more in the bottom of the eighth off Rangers relief pitcher Josh Rupe.

Melvin Mora was hit by Rupe's first pitch, and moved to third base on a Kevin Millar double. Mora eventually scored on an Adam Jones RBI single up the middle. Millar would score two batters later when Freddie Bynum grounded into a fielder's choice. It was Bynum's third RBI on the day, tying his career high.

Assuming the Orioles don't come up again, credit goes out to the bottom third of the Baltimore lineup. Millar, Jones and Brandon Fahey combined to go 6-11, with six runs scored, and five RBI.

Orioles righty Dennis Sarfate will be on the hill to start the ninth.

End 7th: Orioles 8 - Rangers 4
Ramon Hernandez doubled in the bottom of the seventh becoming the O's first base runner since the third. Three Ranger pitchers had combined to retire 11 straight Orioles.

It meant very little though, as Luke Scott popped out to right fielder Milton Bradley who then threw Hernandez out at second for the rare 9-6 double play.

With the Hernandez double, Melvin Mora is the only Baltimore starter without a hit today. He is 0-2 with a walk, and due to leadoff the bottom of the eighth.

Jim Johnson is entering the game for the Orioles, set to take the mound for the top of the eighth.

Mid 7th: Orioles 8 - Rangers 4
Stretch time at Camden Yards where the Orioles lead has been cut to four. Jeremy Guthrie left the game after 6 1/3 innings, doing so to a standing ovation from the announced crowd of 21,363.

Guthrie left the game with an 8-2 lead, and two runners still on base. Both scored on a bases loaded single by Milton Bradley as Ryan Bukvich struggled in relief for the O's. Bradley is now 2-4 on the day with three RBI.

This was by far the Rangers most productive inning of the day, sending eight men to the plate.

Guthrie threw 116 pitches, giving up eight hits and four earned runs. He also had six strikeouts and walked two.

End 6th: Orioles 8 - Rangers 1
The Orioles scored in each of the first three innings and it's a good thing they did, as they've gone hitless since.

Warner Madrigal retired all seven batters he faced in relief of starter Vincente Padilla, while righthander Frank Francisco had a 1-2-3 sixth inning.

Jeremy Guthrie remains on the hill for the O's heading into the top of the seventh, but Ryan Bukvich is loosening up in the Baltimore bullpen.

Rangers Starter Vincente Padilla

By: Ben Raby
BALTIMORE - Word has just reached the press box that Rangers starter Vincente Padilla was pulled from the game because of a bruised thumb. X-rays were negative. Just a thought here, but maybe he was pulled because he just wasn't pitching well. Sure the bruised thumb may have contributed, but you give up eight earned runs in 2 2/3 innings, and chances are you're going to be pulled regardless.

Meanwhile, Padilla's replacement, righthander Warner Madrigal, has retired all seven Orioles he's faced.

We're in the top of the sixth, Orioles continue to lead 8-1.