Since his signing in late February, Jonathan Vilma has been held back by the New Orleans Saints. Come September, they're going to turn the linebacker loose.

After two years of captivity in New York, that's precisely what Vilma needs. After watching their defense keep them out of the playoffs last season, having Vilma roam the field might be exactly what the Saints need.

Nobody's really seen a glimpse of it yet because the Saints were extremely cautious with Vilma throughout the offseason. Coming off knee surgery, the Saints severely limited Vilma's work in team drills during organized team activities and minicamp.

But Vilma's expected to be completely healthy for the start of training camp in late July. He'll take his spot at middle linebacker and the Saints are hoping he'll become the heart of their new-look defense.

That will be a nice change for Vilma, who spent the last two seasons looking and feeling out of place in the 3-4 defensive scheme the Jets went to when coach Eric Mangini took over in 2006. In a 4-3 scheme the two years prior to that, Vilma was viewed as one of the NFL's best young linebackers.

In New Orleans' 4-3 system, Vilma could be a perfect fit.

"I look at it as a new start, a new beginning,'' Vilma told the New Orleans media a few weeks ago. "I think it's an ideal situation. You come in and they obviously want me to play a leadership role and a starting role and being in a defense that I'm comfortable with and just being able to go.''

(espn.com)

The news hit Texans fans and Fantasy owners hard when in mid-May, Houston head coach Gary Kubiak announced that Andre Johnson's left knee needed arthroscopic surgery. The star wide receiver wasn't comfortable with how his knee was feeling during a minicamp session and the club opted to clean it out.

About two weeks later, Johnson stood up in front of fans during the team's All-Access event and proclaimed himself ready for 2008.
"If you are worried about my knee, my knee is doing fine," Johnson said. "But we are really excited about this season and hopefully we have a lot of great things to come."

Everyone from team doctors to coaches say that Johnson won't miss a single snap at training camp this summer, but the knee problem underscores what seems to be the only weakness in Johnson's game.

At 6-foot-3 and over 220 pounds, Johnson is the proverbial prototype NFL wide receiver. He's got incredible hands. He has great speed for a guy his size. He can jump with the best of them. He can play against press coverage just as well as zone schemes. And there isn't a down and distance that Johnson isn't qualified to be on the field for.

The only knock is that when he plays hurt, his stats disappear. Some players can play through significant injuries and not lose a beat. Johnson can't do it. In 2005, for example, Johnson was plagued by shoulder and calf injuries. Though he started 13 games, he posted his worst yards-per-catch average (10.9) with just two touchdowns and a career-low four grabs for 20 or more yards.

The Texans learned their lesson after that. When Johnson went down with the left knee injury (which is still lingering), he sat for seven consecutive games. Once he was deemed healthy, he was back on the field and his numbers were incredible.

In the nine games Johnson played in 2007, he scored in seven of them for eight total touchdowns. Of those nine games, he caught passes from QB Matt Schaub in four of them (Schaub was hurt in a fifth game). In those four games with Schaub, Johnson averaged 5.7 catches for 104.7 yards (three 120-yard games) with four total touchdowns. Though he continued to score with backup QB Sage Rosenfels under center, Johnson's yardage totals dipped (86.4 average in five games).

Like Johnson, Schaub also got nicked up in his first year as the Texans' starting quarterback. A concussion sidelined him for a short stint in the first half of the season and a left shoulder dislocation ended his '07 campaign four games early. And like Johnson, Schaub's numbers were off without him (236.6 yards per in games with 15-plus pass attempts, two touchdowns) than with him (250.3 yards per in four games, seven touchdowns).

Johnson told CBSSports.com in April that he's been working with Schaub to get his timing down with him and that he should be fine.

"He got banged up this past season," Johnson said of his QB. "I was too, but we're all just looking forward to this season and trying to be better than we were last year."

For the Texans to be better than they were in '07, two things need to happen: They need to stay healthy, and they need to make some noise in the ultra-competitive AFC South.

"We're in a tough division with some great teams, and it's going to be a big test for us," Johnson said. "But it was a big test just for us to get to .500. We took that step, and we're just going to try keep taking steps."

The good news for Johnson and the Texans is that none of their three AFC South rivals dramatically improved their secondaries. Drayton Florence signing with Jacksonville was the only significant signing -- none of them even drafted a defensive back high.

So with the division's defenses standing pat against the pass, Johnson knows what people -- fans and Fantasy owners alike -- will expect from him. Thinking he'll top 100 catches and 1,200 yards isn't crazy … so long as you also remember that Johnson could be absent for your lineup due to injuries.

"Expectations are always high. That's how you have to come into the season," Johnson said. "We're just going to do everything we can to achieve our goals."

(fantasynews.sportsline.com)

The Chicago Sun-Times reports Bears WR Devin Hester made as much progress as anyone in the 10-week offseason program, a good sign for an offense desperate for a gamebreaker. His role was extremely limited at this time last year, and now it seems he's everywhere. "It helped out a lot for me as far as the mental part," Hester said. "I feel like I came out and did a pretty good job and got a lot of things accomplished as far as just the knowledge of the game and trying to get the timing right."

(ffmastermind.com)

Student athletes are often reminded that it's a good idea not to neglect your studies; making it to the big leagues is a rare occurrence, so it's always good to have a backup plan. Brian Barton obviously took this advice very seriously. With a degree in aerospace engineering, Barton was a fairly unique college player in that he focused on his academics as much or even more than his sports career. It certainly had a bearing on his recruitment potential; when he eventually signed with the Cleveland Indians, the deal included a hefty payment toward his school loans.

Barton was signed in 2004, but as he'd stayed in school in order to get his degree, he didn't see any actual play time that season. In 2005, he spent most of his time in single-A, with a move to the double-A franchise in 2006. Though he eventually made it as far as the triple-A Buffalo Bisons, the Indians didn't bring him to the big show in 2007, which left him open for a Rule 5 pick. He was chosen tenth, by the St. Louis Cardinals.

Barton made the 40-man roster for 2008, and made his major league debut - finally - on April 1st, singling in his first at-bat for the Cards. His season started out well, but his part-time outfielder position has put a crimp in his development, and his numbers haven't quite been as good as the season has progressed. Fans and management alike hope Barton finds his groove soon and returns to his previous production.

(talkstlouissports.com)

Ray Lewis has reportedly bought into new Ravens coach John Harbaugh's more demanding offseason approach.
Lewis, entering a contract year, knows the only team he's going to get a big extension from is the Ravens, so he'd better buy in. Lewis also needs to stay healthy, and perhaps the more intensive program will help him do that.

Sources tell me that the most pivotal Raven in terms of being a team bellwether -- middle linebacker Ray Lewis -- has fully signed on to Harbaugh's program and has embraced Baltimore's culture change in all ways. If nothing else, Lewis is no dummy. He's seeking one more huge contract before retirement beckons, and he knows he has no shot of getting it from the Ravens -- or anyone else -- if he doesn't play ball and play it well this season.

"Ray wants the whole world to see who the real Ray Lewis really is,'' a Ravens source said. "The perception of him out there, it isn't right. Ray is totally in line with things here this year and has grabbed onto it as his own.''

(cnnsi.com)

Coach Mike Holmgren indicated at the Seahawks' last minicamp that CB Kelly Jennings is no lock to return as a starter in 2008.
"Marcus Trufant will be one corner," Holmgren said. "Then we have a bunch of guys battling that are playing very well at the other corner." 2007 second-round pick Josh Wilson and Jordan Babineaux may be threats to Jennings.

(rotoworld.com)

MILWAUKEE -- Ryan Braun continues to climb up the ladder in National League All Star voting results.

With the top three outfielders elected to starting spots, Braun is in fourth place after ranking 10th just two weeks ago.

Braun trails Ken Griffey Jr. -- currently in third place -- by less than 200,000 votes. Alfonso Soriano and Kosuke Fukudome are ranked first and second among outfielders, respectively. Last week, Braun was sixth in voting.

His teammates Prince Fielder, Rickie Weeks, Bill Hall, Jason Kendall, Corey Hart have all now ranked among the league leaders at their respective positions.

None of those four players were ranked on the leader board last week.

To help get out the vote, the Brewers are offering fans the opportunity to win a suite for a Brewers game, whichincludes a special visit to the suite by Braun and J.J. Hardy.

Fans are encouraged to vote via paper ballot at Miller Park at the All-Star Polling District set up during Brewers home games along the first base concourse. To be eligible for the sweepstakes, fans can visit the Polling District through June 21, or go to brewers.com through the conclusion of the online voting process on July 2.

Everyone that votes 25 times or more at either the Polling District or at brewers.com during these specified time frames will be eligible for the suite prizes.

The winner of each package will receive a private suite with 12 tickets and ballpark fare. The selected recipients will also have the opportunity to meet Braun and Hardy as they will make a special appearance in the suite. All entrants must be 21 or older to be eligible for the sweepstakes.

In addition, with every 10 ballots turned in to the All-Star Polling District through June 21, fans will receive one prize ticket that will enter them in a drawing for the opportunity to win a Brewers autographed baseball or autographed jersey.

A drawing will be held during every home game through June 21 and the winning ticket will be announced during the game.

(wisn.com)

THAT PAT BURRELL'S career with the Phillies tends to be greeted with shrugs and what-ifs is pretty much a given at this point. In his ninth season now, there seems little chance of that changing. Opinions are formed, attitudes hardened. In this town, a made-up mind is a terrible thing to face.

Yet the numbers beckon, if anyone is willing to listen.

Since 2000, when Burrell broke in with the Phillies, there are only 23 players who have hit at least 200 homers and driven in at least 750 runs. He is one of them. Alex Rodriguez, Jim Thome, Manny Ramirez, Albert Pujols, Pat Burrell - all on the same chart.

Surprised, right?

That he is one of the top two-dozen power hitters of this era is unquestioned. History surely will view Burrell that way. The reply will come back that more was expected of the first pick of the 1998 draft - and, well, fine.

But if you look at the players who made their major league debut in 2000, Burrell is so clearly the premier slugger of that class that it isn't even arguable. His 236 homers are 70 more than the guy behind him on the table, Aubrey Huff. His 788 RBI are 193 more than Huff. Again, it is not close.

Yet the feeling you get is that of a person shouting into a brisk wind, the words swallowed up, gone.

"You have to look at it this way," Burrell was saying yesterday, sitting in a little runway next to the Phillies' dugout at Citizens Bank Park.

"Here in Philadelphia, we're pretty fortunate," he said. "There are guys like Jimmy Rollins and Ryan Howard and Chase Utley on this team - not just stars but superstars. So, for me, I'm just trying to go out there and do everything I can to help us win.

"When you look at the big picture, when a guy like Howard hits 50 home runs a year, year after year, it's tough to look at a guy who hits 30 and say, 'He's doing a great job.' That's just realistic with the kind of team this is."

Burrell is all about matter-of-fact. He always has been. He cultivates neither media people nor attention. If you can find him, he will answer the questions - but you do have to find him first. That is unlikely to change.

But sitting there yesterday, holding a piece of paper containing that list of sluggers since 2000, the list on which he figures significantly, it was clear that Burrell himself was at least a little bit surprised about part of it, too.

"There's a lot of guys I admire," he said, scanning the list, his eyes running up and down. Then, he stopped.

"I mean, Chipper Jones," Burrell said. "He's having an incredible year. He's had what I consider to be a great career. And he's got 12 more homers and 30-something more RBIs ... I wouldn't have thought that. I wouldn't have thought I was that close.

"I mean, all of these guys are great players. 'Thomes,' I had a chance to play with. [Jason] Giambi, A-Rod, these guys' numbers are incredible."

For years, it seems, Burrell has been tied to twin anvils as far as the people of this town are concerned: his huge contract for one, and his disastrous 2003 season for another. That one season, especially - when Burrell hit only .209 - seems unshakeable in the public consciousness. Even as he has built from that, and really taken off in the last 12 calendar months, the past remains predominant somehow.

"That's got something to do with it,'' Burrell said, evenly. "People who play the game for a long time, they do have bad years - some worse than others. Mine was terrible. I think I hit 21 homers that year and I don't remember any of them. I couldn't tell you one of them because it was that difficult of a year ...

"But it made me a better player. To look back and see where I have come from there, it's a world of difference.''

A lot of the change has been physical - for example, Burrell's struggle with a bum foot has been underplayed through the years. But it is more than that. He always has been an early-to-the-ballpark guy, but he says his conditioning is the best it has ever been.

"I'm in better shape now than since I was probably 22," said Burrell, who is 31. "I think I'm playing better now than I ever have, just my understanding of the game, my approach to hitting, when and what and situations. I don't know how long I'm going to play but I really do feel like, at this time, I'm playing my best.

"I really do think I'd like to play 5 more years. After that, I don't know - health becomes such a concern. You look at Chipper Jones and he's just constantly having problems now. The name of the game, really when you get past 30, is taking care of yourself. Part of the game gets easier in some ways. The hardest thing can be staying healthy.

"But in the last few years, winning has meant so much to me. Playing here and getting a chance to be a part of the change, it has been so fulfilling. I realize now what these other teams have been doing. It's the only way to play, to have this chance to win ... This organization has gone out and done everything it can to help us to win. Now it's up to the players. Everything is here."

As everyone knows, Burrell will be a free agent after this season. The notion that they would re-sign him was once scoffed at as an impossibility. Maybe it still is. Maybe this team will conclude that it simply cannot commit so many of its dollars to offense. Maybe.

"I'd love to stay," Burrell said. "If they would want me to come back, I'd love to come back. But I've been around a long time and I understand that it's a business. They're going to determine the needs they need to fulfill and I might be a piece that doesn't fit. I understand that. But if I had the chance, I would stay - no doubt."

If Burrell doesn't stay, no one can pretend that it will be simple to patch the hole. All right, maybe you can pretend. But anyone with eyes and a willingness to use them can see the truth.
 
Pat's on top
Players who made their major league debuts in 2000 and have more than 100 home runs and 300 RBI. Totals do not include last night's games:
1. PAT BURRELL 236 HR, 788 RBI
2. Aubrey Huff 166 HR, 595 RBI
3. Joe Crede 122 HR, 408 RBI
4. Jimmy Rollins 120 HR, 510 RBI
5. Pedro Feliz 117 HR, 449 RBI
6. Morgan Ensberg 110 HR, 347 RBI
7. Michael Young 109 HR, 603 RBI
8. Eric Byrnes 101 HR, 365 RBI
 
Power numbers
Players who since 2000 have more than 200 home runs and 750 RBI. Totals do not include last night's games:
1. Alex Rodriguez 382 HR, 1,077 RBI
2. Jim Thome 324 HR, 852 RBI
3. Manny Ramirez 307 HR, 971 RBI
4. Albert Pujols 298 HR, 903 RBI
5. Carlos Delgado 291 HR, 939 RBI
6. Andruw Jones 290 HR, 867 RBI
7. Vladimir Guerrero 283 HR, 931 RBI
8. Lance Berkman 274 HR, 897 RBI
9. Jason Giambi 273 HR, 802 RBI
10. David Ortiz 269 HR, 871 RBI
11. Richie Sexson 261 HR, 779 RBI
12. Paul Konerko 253 HR, 815 RBI
13. Carlos Lee 251 HR, 869 RBI
14. Chipper Jones 248 HR, 819 RBI
15. Gary Sheffield 247 HR, 781 RBI
16. Todd Helton 245 HR, 892 RBI
17. PAT BURRELL 236 HR, 788 RBI
18. Miguel Tejada 233 HR, 935 RBI
19. Aramis Ramirez 226 HR, 784 RBI
20. Carlos Beltran 224 HR, 807 RBI
21. Luis Gonzalez 218 HR, 758 RBI
22. Jeff Kent 212 HR, 821 RBI
23. Magglio Ordonez 209 HR, 841 RBI

(philly.com)

The speedy wide receiver could have really helped himself with an outstanding mini camp, and he got a lot of reps with Plaxico Burress holding out.  The bad news is Moss dropped several very catchable balls, a few of which were right in his bread basket with no defender near him.  The good news is he also had a beautiful deep touchdown pass from Jared Lorenzen and a few other outstanding catches.  Moss continues to be an enigma, and it will be interesting to see if he can make any plays when the team (finally) gets in pads.

(mvn.com)

The rookie safety has been very impressive so far in camp.  He has shown that he is picking up the playbook very quickly and made a few beautiful plays in coverage.  By all accounts, Phillips played great while defending the deep ball, has shown great closing speed, and he could be ready to start at free safety from day one.

(mvn.com)

The releases make room for rookie contract signings, and also allowed the team to pick up Miami Hurricane OG Derrick Morse, who attended the team's rookie tryouts in April. Morse is 6'4", 325 and recorded middling numbers during workouts. While his numbers aren't impressive, Morse is a plugger who was solid for Miami throughout his career.

Adding Morse presumably gives the Browns more training camp bodies at offensive guard, where the team has had to deal with the injury to RG Ryan Tucker and the release of LeCharles Bentley. Last year's starting RG, Seth McKinney, has been working largely as a backup center, which made the Browns thin at the position during mini-camp.

(cle.scout.com)

Offensively, there’s concerns about the Chicago Bears’ line, quarterback, receivers and running back. That covers everything, pretty much, except tight end.

If the team has one fortified position, that would be veteran Desmond Clark and second-year Greg Olsen.

They don’t like to be thought of as any different from anyone else, though.

“We’re still going out there trying to compete,” Olsen said. “To help the offense out and make each other better, and bring whatever we can to the offense.

“I think we all look at it that we’re all out there together, the whole offense.”

Clark arrived in 2003 after being leaving Miami as an unrestricted free agent. He says it’s a good thing people aren’t expecting much from the revamped receiving corps.

“They’ve gotten a lot of negative publicity because they’re unknown,” he said. “The way they’re working, they could come out and surprise a lot of people this year.

“We’re probably in the best position we can be in — nobody is expecting us to do anything. It gives you something more than your own motivation when you get outside motivation.”

Bernard Berrian and Muhsin Muhammad are gone, leaving as free agents to Minnesota and Carolina, respectively. Brandon Lloyd and Marty Booker were brought in and Earl Bennett was drafted out of Vanderbilt to join holdovers Devin Hester, Rashied Davis and Mark Bradley.

“Brandon Lloyd is probably one of the smoothest receivers since I’ve been in the league, and I’ve played with some smooth receivers,” Clark said. “The way he runs routes, he doesn’t break stride. He’s been so impressive. Marty Booker’s been Steady Eddy; you know what you’re going to get. He runs good routes and catches the ball.

“Devin and Rashied, those are guys who could be big-time playmakers. When we get Mark back from injury (knee), hopefully he’s right there with the rest of them.”

Olsen downplays the differences between Clark and himself, as Olsen appears to line up in more spots than Clark at the team’s current organized team activities that end this week at Halas Hall.

“Des lines up all over the place, too,” Olsen said. “That’s the goal. It helps the offense to be able to move guys around at different positions. So every time you break the huddle, they don’t think he’s going to be on the line with his hand on the ground.

“The more formations you can line up in, the more personnel groups you can do.”

(rrstar.com)

Antrel Rolle never became the cornerback Arizona envisioned when the franchise made him the eighth player chosen in the 2005 draft. That doesn't necessarily mean Rolle is a bust.

Rolle flashed his talent last season when he picked off three passes in a game against Cincinnati. Coaches are optimistic Rolle can make a successful transition to free safety.

If that happens, the Cardinals could field a highly talented secondary featuring Rolle, Pro Bowl strong safety Adrian Wilson and rookie cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, the 16th player chosen in 2008.

(espn.com)

The countdown is on for James Jones.

The Trail Blazers' small forward has until June 25, the day before the NBA draft, to decide whether or not to exercise a $3.2 million player option that would keep him in Portland for at least one more season. If he opts out, Jones would become a free agent.

Reached by phone Monday in Miami, Jones said was still weighing his options and did not plan on making a decision until the NBA Finals conclude and his deadline approaches.

"I was a finance major in college and in business you don't make decisions until you absolutely have to," Jones said. "I'll wait all the way up to the 25th to make a decision."

Jones said there are "many factors" involved in his decision, but he did not elaborate on what those factors were. It would seem that Jones is wrestling the prospect of landing a long-term deal against his strong desire to remain in Portland.

At the end of the Blazers' season, Jones said he loved playing in Portland, liked the direction the organization was headed and felt comfortable with his role on the team. On the court, Jones was among the NBA's three-point shooting percentage leaders for most of the season and drew regular praise from coach Nate McMillan because of the experience and "know-how" he brought to the game. Jones averaged 8.0 points and 2.8 rebounds and shot 44.4 percent from three-point range last season.

Off the court, Jones developed into an important leader in the locker room, offering a positive and calming presence on the league's youngest team.

However, he also played with a balky left knee throughout the season that limited him to 58 games. After taking an extended break this offseason, Jones said on Monday that he resumed physical and basketball activities (riding a bike, running, shooting and jumping) about three weeks ago and that his knee "felt good."

The Blazers traded for Jones on draft day last season and he said the team's promise and potential for success in the future make it an alluring team. He even mentioned that he would like to retire as a Blazer.

"It's about growth," Jones said. "The pieces are there for every player on the team to grow in some aspect of basketball. The mentality in this game, the goal, is to play a long time and be successful. And to do that you have to grow. Portland definitely provides a spot for extreme growth. We'll see. Hopefully, I can retire in the black and red."

But even if Jones exercises his player option that is not a guarantee. General Manager Kevin Pritchard would not comment on Jones' contract status or on the possibility of signing the 6-foot-8 forward to a multi-year deal. Those decisions, Pritchard said, would be addressed after Jones informs the team about his option.

Pritchard did, however, credit Jones' experience and leadership abilities.

"You always look at that," Pritchard said. "On the court, this is what he brought to the team. In life in general, you have to kind of have some life experiences. He's been around the league and he's been with some good teams. There's a lot of value in that.

If Jones opts out, he likely would do so to pursue a multi-year contract.

"I've been thinking about it and it's hard to say," Jones said. "Of course, I want the security of a long-term deal. But I've also experienced something in Portland that I haven't in other places. It's one of those things where I'd like to have long-term security but there are so many other factors involved and I can't say which one will tip my decision."

Jones has nine days remaining before he must decide his future with the Blazers and it appears he will use all nine days to make up his mind.

"I'll wait to the 11th hour; suspense will build," Jones said, laughing. "At the end of the day, I'm confident everything is going to work out.

(blog.oregonlive.com)

It was another night at the office for Phillies’ left fielder Pat Burrell. A 2 for 2 effort with a pair of walks, reaching base all four times and raising his on-base percentage to .433, 4th best in the National League. Alright, maybe that 12th career triple was somewhat out of the ordinary, but the message has been sent. Pat Burrell needs to be re-signed, and it needs to be done as soon as possible.

When people talk about having three consecutive MVPs in Philadelphia, the talk usually heads towards second baseman Chase Utley. But we cannot forget the season that Burrell has had. To date, Burrell is hitting .289 with 18 homeruns and 47 RBI. His 1.047 OPS is good enough for 4th best in the National League, best amongst outfielders. With Alfonso Soriano injured, Burrell could even get his shot at his first All-Star appearance next month. He deserves it.

After the 2002 season, Burrell was given a 6-year contract worth $50 million. It didn’t help his case that 2003 was his worst season in the Majors. But what Burrell has brought to the Phillies day in and day out is a work ethic and a passion to play in Philadelphia. He has stated numerous times in interviews that Citizens Bank Park is the place to be in the summertime. He loves the big crowds, the support from the fans, and the city itself. Ever since that fateful 2003 season, Burrell has been a model of consistency. Now, in the final year of his contract, Burrell has eclipsed his numbers from the past few seasons. His slugging percentage is at .614, up from the numbers (.504, .502, .502) he has posted in his past three seasons. His OPS+ is at 167, after a season in which it was 127. And, possibly most importantly, Charlie Manuel is pulling him out of games for defensive purposes less often. He could easily get 60-70 more at bats than he did last season.

There is a slight problem here, however. Phillies general manager Pat Gillick has stated numerous times in the past months that 2008 is his final season in baseball. Therefore, the future is uncertain, and Gillick rarely negotiates contracts in-season. The Phillies will have two big decisions in the off-season regarding contracts with Burrell and closer Brad Lidge being free agents. Not to mention another possible arbitration situation with Ryan Howard and the prospects of having to pay Cole Hamels. This could get very expensive for the Phillies. But winning franchises find ways to pay their players, and the Phillies need to lock up their talent that they own. They don’t have a better opportunity to do just that than they do with Burrell. A first round pick in 1998, Burrell has lived up to his expectations even though there have been times where we’ve wanted to give up on him.

It may not be easy. As far as we know, there haven’t been any discussions between Burrell and Phillies management. He makes $14 million this season, and strangely, seems to be hitting his prime at age 31. It would appear Burrell has at least two above-average seasons left in him, maybe three. The Phillies should offer a three-year contract to Burrell as soon as possible. Frontload it, and give him the same salary he’s making this year in 2009. Make him comfortable to be a Phillie. After all, they owe it to him. He’s paid his dues, lost fans, regained them, and propelled himself into a stratosphere worthy of another contract. So whether it be Pat Gillick, Ruben Amaro, Jr., or an outsider, the deed must be done. The Phillies need Pat Burrell, and Pat Burrell needs the Phillies.

(mvn.com)

PHILADELPHIA - When Phillies outfielder Pat Burrell heard the topic of conversation, he immediately was struck with an air of seriousness, suggesting the dialogue be moved to the solitude of a back room next to the Philadelphia clubhouse.

“I was going to call him when I heard,” Burrell said before he helped the Phillies defeat the Red Sox [team stats], 8-2, last night at Citizens Bank Park. Burrell was 2-for-2 with a pair of walks to move his batting average up to .289.

Burrell had an urge to reach out to Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz [stats], and the impetus was the torn tendon sheath in Ortiz’ left wrist, which is the same injury Burrell once experienced.

Ortiz, who had his cast removed yesterday, avoided season-risking surgery just as Burrell did with the same injury.

“That was the best thing I ever did,” Burrell said of not having the surgery. “When I heard (Ortiz) might have surgery because of the torn sheath, I was actually going to call Terry (Francona) and tell him that it might be worth a second opinion. But everybody is different, and it might not be my place.”

For Burrell, however, the wrist he injured on a check swing in San Diego on Aug. 3, 2004 serves as his lead hand when batting, unlike the left-handed-hitting Ortiz. Still, the Phillies player might serve as the best example when it comes to understanding what lays ahead for the Red Sox slugger.

Burrell was sent home from San Diego after finishing out that 2004 game against the Padres and returned to the lineup on Sept. 3, when he hit a home run against the Mets. Burrell was able to come back from the injury in just less than five weeks. He ended up hitting six home runs in September.

It was almost a recovery that took a completely different turn, down a surgical path Burrell was hoping Ortiz wouldn’t jump into lightly.

“I was going to have surgery, but two nights before I was taking a shower, during which I was supposed to be wearing this (splint), but just forgot,” Burrell explained. “I was supposed to be showering with one hand, but I ended up not doing it and didn’t feel any pain. So I went to have a doctor look at it again the next day.”

The physician Burrell recommended was Dr. Thomas Graham, who performed similar surgeries on former Orioles outfielder Jay Gibbons and is consulting the Sox on Ortiz. The diagnosis was it would be best if Burrell didn’t have the surgery.

“I’m friends with Jay, and his advice was to play with it as long as you can because he ended up having multiple surgeries and never really had the same feeling,” Burrell said. “It’s a situation where I was told if I could tolerate it everything would be OK.”

Burrell has gone on to hit 115 home runs since returning from the injury, but he still cautions that it might be an imperfect condition that Ortiz simply has to get used to.

“I think what happened to me was with time, the body accepts that that was what it was going to be like,” he said. “For me it was a really good decision (not to have surgery).”

(bostonherald.com)

After going undrafted in the NFL Draft, the former Miami Hurricane has signed a contract with the Cleveland Browns.

NBC2 Sports Director Chris Long confirmed through emails with Morse’s sister that he received an offer Friday which he accepted.

He will leave for Cleveland on Sunday to go through two weeks of offseason workouts. He also expects to be with the Browns for training camp in August.

Morse worked out for the Browns and Giants in the weeks following the draft.

(nbc-2.com)

10. Jon Beason, Carolina Panthers: It didn't take long for Carolina's 2007 first-round pick to shift from the weak side to the middle, but it'll probably take much longer for anyone to move him out of that spot. Beason ranked third in the league in total tackles last season and tied for second in solo stops. He made eight or more solo tackles in a game eight times and got his hands on seven passes, picking off one. Losing Kris Jenkins and Mike Rucker up front might leave more blockers for Beason to sift through, but he has the tools to remain among the league's tackle leaders. 

12. Jonathan Vilma, New Orleans Saints: Perhaps no Jet was as negatively affected by the hiring of head coach Eric Mangini as much as Vilma. At 230 pounds, Vilma is the lightest starting middle linebacker in the league (at least until rookie Jordon Dizon officially enters the lineup), and that fact is even more pronounced in a 3-4 defense. Such a scheme creates more traffic in the middle and allows more guards to get to the linebacker level. Vilma had trouble moving through the extra bodies to make his usual number of plays. As if that weren't bad enough, knee surgery ended his 2007 at midyear. If his knee is ready and holds up this year in the Saints' 4-3 scheme, Vilma — who led the league in tackles in 2005 — could outperform this ranking. 

13. D.J. Williams, Denver Broncos: It has to be kind of tough being D.J. Williams. You come into the league and perform quite well as a rookie starter on the weak side. So, of course, the team brings back Ian Gold and shifts you to the strong side. Two years later, the team pulls the plug on middle starter Al Wilson and decides that you'd fit in well there. Despite some natural confusion in the new role, you rank second in the league in tackles in 2007. Obviously, it's then time for you to return to the weak side. Williams' new old role could well be the best spot for him. Although he's bound to face fewer tackle chances than in the middle, he could make more big plays (sacks, interceptions). At the very least, maybe he can finally settle into one role. 

25. Ray Lewis, Baltimore Ravens: This might seem low on the list for Lewis, but the Ravens leader has played a full 16-game schedule just once in the past six seasons. At 33, Lewis can still get it done, though. His solo tackles were on pace for the low-to-mid 90s in each of the past two seasons, had he not missed two games in each. He's just a year removed from a career-high five sacks and has picked off two passes in two straight years. Nevertheless, durability is a worthwhile concern, as is the fact that he made five or fewer solo tackles in eight of 14 games in 2007. 

The New York Giants' turbulent offseason got another jolt this week when disgruntled tight end Jeremy Shockey and general manager Jerry Reese got into a shouting match at the team's minicamp, according to New York-area media reports.

The Bergen (N.J.) Record first reported that the shouting match between Shockey and Reese took place. A team source confirmed there was an argument between Shockey and Reese, although when it occurred was not clear, the New York Daily News reported.

Although the genesis of the disagreement is unknown, Shockey said last week he was unhappy the Giants made him sit in co-owner Steve Tisch's luxury box instead of letting him stay on the field during Super Bowl XLII. He also said the Giants spread rumors he wanted a trade.
Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Shockey's mental state hasn't gotten much better during the three-day minicamp, which finished Friday at Giants Stadium.

Shockey attended each day of the minicamp, but did not follow Coughlin's order to join the team on the practice field, though all of the other injured Giants were out there, according to the Daily News.

"There is an issue, but it is not something that would prevent him from working," Coughlin told the Record.

Drew Rosenhaus, Shockey's agent, was at Giants Stadium on Friday. He was asked if Shockey wanted to remain on the Giants' roster.

"I don't specifically have a way to address that at this time because Jeremy's been very adamant about avoiding any public discussion about a situation," Rosenhaus said, according to the New York-area media reports.

"The best thing I can say about Jeremy's situation is that we are talking to the team about some of the issues that exist and we hope to get that resolved."

(espn.com)

S Kenny Phillips has had by all accounts a great camp. Phillips has been particularly impressive in his coverage of the deep ball, and had a couple of acrobatic interceptions this camp - coordinator Steve Spagnuolo joked "They might want to move him to receiver". Reporters have been raving about Phillips' closing speed. I think it's safe to say Phillips has his mind set on winning a starting safety spot prior to the start of the regular season.

Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo confirmed today that your challenge of S Kenny Phillips' INT from yesterday was successful. "He caught it, yeah he caught it. It was a legitimate catch and then roll and then get up," Spags said. "When you put that thing in and watch it on tape, it's amazing how far he came from when the ball was in the air. That was a legitimate play. That was a great catch. They might want to move him to receiver."

(blog.nj.com)

The quarterback position is solidified, at starter and backup, but the news out of minicamp is less encouraging:

Ken Dorsey is currently the Browns’ most consistently accurate quarterback on the roster. Unfortunately for the team, the Miami product is entrenched as the third-string quarterback and his trait does not appear to be rubbing off on the team’s first or second choice at the position.

Well, common sense dictates that Romeo Crennel should name Dorsey as the starter. Okay, that’s a tad reactionary, and it’s June; there’s plenty of time to work out the kinks. Derek Anderson did struggle with accuracy last season, but it’s going to take more than a few early-season interceptions to see Dorsey on the field. Brady Quinn, however, could be a different story.

(footballgab.com)

TAMPA — There once was a first-round draft pick nicknamed "Showtime," a cornerback who competed for a starting spot as a rookie on a Bruce Allen-run team.

Phillip Buchanon may joke that it seems like ages ago when he delivered big plays in three starts for the AFC champion Raiders in 2002.

Today, Buchanon, 27, in the final year of his Bucs contract, finds a flashy first-rounder, Aqib Talib, among the defensive backs vying for time at the spot where he had a career high in tackles in '07 for general manager Allen's current team.

Buchanon, the incumbent at left corner opposite Ronde Barber, was far from bothered by the Bucs bolstering the competition. "It's a business," he said.

And he hopes as he and the Bucs discuss a contract extension, his play does most of his talking.

"They drafted a corner because they felt that was a need," Buchanon said. "I'm just going to go out and do my thing, try to make some splash plays."

"Splash plays" is a buzz phrase for defensive backs coach Raheem Morris. And a game-breaking ability to turn turnovers into touchdowns was what stood out about Talib, an All-American from Kansas. And though Buchanon impressed the coaching staff last season with his steady play while starting 13 games for injured Brian Kelly, Morris says it's those special plays he's seeking from the six-year veteran.

Buchanon knows he can improve his play recognition and welcomes competition from Talib, Sammy Davis and free-agent pickup Eugene Wilson.

Defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin said on draft day that with the offenses in the NFC South, a team can never have enough corners and that Talib could easily spend time as a nickel corner, depending on how he picks up the system.

Talib said that learning the playbook, which is "five times bigger" than at Kansas, has been one of his biggest adjustments.
"I'm getting there," Talib said. "I'm a lot better than two weeks ago when I started with it."

Bucs coach Jon Gruden said Talib is a good young player.

"With young players, I don't want to say anything too early. He's got talent," Gruden said. "But Buchanon was a No. 1 draft pick. So was Sammy Davis. And those guys played good for us last season. So (Talib is) in a competitive situation. Eugene Wilson has (played) in three Super Bowls. But (Talib) does have talent."

Gruden says Talib is going to be "the face of the franchise." Buchanon is helping Talib learn the ropes, tapping into his experience, especially for game preparation. Buchanon, a Fort Myers native, said his show-up-and-play mentality from his college days at Miami has been transformed into an insatiable appetite for film study and grasping schemes.

Buchanon "is always searching for an edge," Morris said. "He's a film junkie. He's doing a great job at that and has made a lot of progress."

(tampabay.com)

The NFL decided to follow through on an idea conceived by Michael Irvin before his induction into the Hall of Fame last year, which has the rookies from all 32 teams traveling to Canton, Ohio, this spring.

On Friday, the Cowboys were joined by Philadelphia. Green Bay was supposed to be on hand but weather conditions postponed the Packers' trip.

Here's why Irvin came up with the idea: he was lauding Commissioner Roger Goodell about the get-tough Personal Conduct Policy last August and wanted to giver the younger players a sense of football's history.

"Most of these guys they come from the place I come from," Irvin said he told Goodell. "They don't understand the history of the game. They play the game to get away from their history - poverty, the ghetto. As soon as they are drafted and escape their history, bring them to the Hall and teach them this history and hopefully when they come to that fork in the road, they won't make the bad decisions like I made. They'll make better decisions."

The league is picking up the tab for the teams and there's talk the Rookie Symposium could move to northeast Ohio next year.

(cowboysblog.dallasnews.com)

Roscoe Parrish, who has been primarily a slot receiver for the Bills in three-receiver sets, got extensive work on the outside. That allowed Josh Reed to work more in the slot, a role that fit him the best and was recognized as the season concluded.


(espn.com)

Cornerback Tanard Davis, a late-season pickup in 2007, was cut by the Philadelphia Eagles.

Fun fact:  Davis won a Super Bowl ring with the Colts in 2006 despite spending most of the season on the practice squad, then went to Carolina's practice squad for 2007, from which he was signed by the Eagles the day after Christmas.  He tried to learn how to return punts this year, a task for which much of the local media ridiculed him.  1) I'm not really that cool on dragging down the guys who are just trying to do anything they can to get their shot.  2) If you think returning punts is so easy, go try it sometime.  Regardless, he's gone. 

(igglesblog.com)

WR Sinorice Moss opened the 11-on-11 portion of practice with a well-run 15-yard in...and another dropped ball. Actually, the ball bounced off his hands and he grabbed it as it reached the ground. I'm ruling it incomplete. Once again, feel free to throw the red flag.

(blog.nj.com)

The major piece of the Saints’ rebuilt defense, MLB Jonathan Vilma, told PFW this week that he’s in the final stage of his rehab from surgery last fall to repair a dead piece of bone that became dislodged in his knee, and that the knee held up well through the team’s OTAs and minicamp. “(The knee) feels like (it did) before surgery,” Vilma said. “The only difference is the muscles aren’t used to practicing. It’s been nine months since I’ve been on the field. I just have to get used to the plays again, running and cutting, the defensive and offensive system. I’m just getting acclimated to everything.” The Saints are hopeful that a healthy knee and a return to the 4-3 defensive scheme he’s more comfortable in will be a combination that leads to Vilma performing at the Pro Bowl level he displayed before the Jets hired head coach Eric Mangini and switched to a 3-4 defense in 2006. Vilma said he’s not quite 100 percent yet and he’s not sure when he will be, but thus far the soreness hasn’t been much of a problem for him. “I’m pretty much able to do everything,” he said. “I really need to be cognizant of when I’m trying to push it too hard and, fortunately, I haven’t been in that situation yet. I’m able to do everything. The question is: How much of everything should I be doing?”

(pfw.com)

It doesn't appear that Magic Benton, who rejoined the Firecats at practice three weeks ago, will be on the field anytime soon.

Head coach Kevin Bouis said that he'd like to offer Benton a contract -- and that Benton wants to play again -- but injuries along the offensive line haven't allowed Florida the luxury.

"We haven't done anything with him," Bouis said. "We'd love to get him on the field, but we just don't have the room on the roster right now."

Benton, the most decorated receiver in af2 history, appeared on the cusp of signing with the team after returning to practice for a few days last month.

The Firecats, though, have stuck with the receiving corps of James Panui, Brent Burnside, Matt Burstein, Bruce Gordon, Ethenic Sands and Chris McKinney.

"I think he's itching to play," Bouis said of Benton, the league's all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards and touchdown catches. "He's just being patient right now."

The Firecats play at South Georgia tonight before entering their bye week. They'll then have five games remaining in the regular season.

(naplesnews.com)

Reid and his staff could even decide that some veterans would be better off seeking employment elsewhere. If that's the case, defensive end Jerome McDougle and running back Ryan Moats could be packing their bags soon.

McDougle, the Eagles' first-round draft pick in 2003, is entering the final season of the six-year, $9.5-million contract he signed as a rookie. Most of his first five seasons were a waste, due to a myriad of injuries and a gunshot wound suffered just before he was due to report to training camp in 2005.

The 29-year-old has played in just 33 career games and has three sacks. He missed all of last season with a torn triceps. The addition of veteran free agent Chris Clemons and third-round draft pick Bryan Smith left McDougle as the seventh defensive end behind starters Trent Cole and Juqua Thomas, plus Victor Abiamiri, Clemons, Darren Howard and Smith.

"I don't want to just make the team; I want to make a difference," McDougle said. "I was a first-round pick for a reason. When I'm healthy, I can play with the best of them. The coaches must know that or they would have gotten rid of me a long time ago.

"I feel good right now, and hopefully I can stay that way. If I can, it will be up to me to seize the bull by the horns and take advantage of the opportunity when it comes my way."

(pressofatlanticcity.com)

In his first taste of the big leagues, Chris Perez is showing the St. Louis Cardinals that he's well-suited to be the team's future closer. Perez, 22, has been solid out of the bullpen in a setup role, recording four holds and 11 scoreless outings in his first 13 games. Perez talked with News-Democrat reporter David Wilhelm about his transition to the big leagues, his desire to be the Cardinals' closer and the benefits of being a member of a veteran bullpen.

Q: Is this a best-case scenario for you, considering it's your first trip to the big leagues?
A: You couldn't ask for more. I couldn't ask to be pitching any better. The coaching staff is showing confidence in me, putting me out there in close games. My second outing was a tie game in the ninth. I was able to get through that, and I keep gaining confidence every time out.

Q: Are you treating these hitters as if they're Triple-A or Double-A hitters?
A: That has to be your mindset. I trust my stuff, and so far, I know if I locate it good, not too many people are going to hit it. I'm trying to get ahead of the hitters and put them away, get ground balls and stuff like that and work down in the zone.

Q: Are you looking forward to the time when you are the ninth-inning guy? A: I'm just happy being up here right now. "Frankie" (Ryan Franklin) is our closer. He's there for a reason. He's pitching great, and he's got experience. I'm just here to pitch whenever they call me. If that time comes, maybe he's down or something and I'm up, I'm going to try and treat it the same way. You can't put extra pressure on yourself. That's when you start walking people. Hopefully, the day will come. When it does, I'm going to try to do my best.

Q: When your contract was purchased from Memphis, what went through your mind? A: I just thought it was a tremendous opportunity to come here and show them what I can do --whether it was for two weeks or a month or for however long. I wanted to put something good in their mind so if they do send me back down and something else happens, I'll be the first one up again. I just kept that mindset and tried to show them what I can do.

Q: Since you were the closer at Memphis, are you itching to get back into those save situations?
A: I'm just glad to be in the big leagues. The only difference between pitching the eighth inning and ninth inning is you get a save by your name. It's one of my ultimate goals --to be a closer in the big leagues. But as long as I'm here getting experience and pitching and we're winning games, I can't complain.

Q: How have you been able to go out there and maintain a cool head?
A: It's always easy to pitch when you're making good pitches. Luckily, I haven't run into any rough spots yet. My confidence is pretty high right now just because I've been going out and making good pitches. That could all change tomorrow. I could give up a home run or something and you're back to square one. When you're throwing your curveball and slider for strikes, it's easy to pitch.

Q: Do you think one of your keys is your aggressiveness?
A: Hitters can pick up on a guy that's tentative, a guy that's trying to miss the strike zone or trying to nibble. It's a huge advantage to come out firing. Sometimes that borderline pitch that they wouldn't swing at, they'll swing at because they know you're coming at them. It always seems to work that way. If they see you attacking them, they have to swing. It's definitely an advantage. Hitters don't like hitting 0-1 and 0-2, so that's even a bigger advantage if you can attack and throw strikes.

Q: Pitchers often say they want to respect hitters, but not fear them. Is that part of the way you go about it?
A: I don't really look at who the batter is. I look at where they are in the lineup. Obviously, the three, four and five hitters, you can't really make too many mistakes over the plate or they're going to hurt you. The seven, eight, nine guys, you can get away with a little bit more. But I know if I make my pitches, I can get pretty much anybody out. If I stay ahead of the hitters, it makes me even better.

Q: Tony La Russa doesn't talk about whether you'll be the closer here. He talks about when you'll be the closer. It may not be this year. Are you OK with that?
A: I can't complain. I'm in the big leagues at 22. That's something many people don't get the chance to do. I'm just playing every day. I could pitch the fifth inning. I couldn't care less. I'm in the big leagues and our team's winning --and I'm helping them win. Right now, it's great. My ultimate goal is to be the closer. I closed in college (University of Miami) and I closed in the minors. If that comes a month from now, a year from now or two years from now, I'll still be happy to just go out there and play.

Q: Did you see the stadium radar gun register you at 100 mph in your first outing?
A: Yeah, I saw that. I usually throw 94, 95, 96. I can make it up to 97, 98. I don't know about 100. That might have been off. I don't consistently throw there.

Q: What made you ready for this opportunity at such a young age?
A: Spring training. The big-league invite to spring training helped me a lot. Mentally, going up there against big-league hitters. I had some success, I had some failure. You learn from failure. I learned I needed to work on (getting) pitches down in the zone. I also had success, so that told me I could do it.

Q: Troy Percival said recently that you could really help yourself by observing a guy like Russ Springer. Have you been able do that?
A: Russ is great. Frankie's great. We've got (Ron) Villone here. Our whole bullpen's good. They've been talking to me a lot in the outfield, especially Spring Dog (Springer). He tells me I've got great stuff. Just go after (hitters). Even though they're in the big leagues, they still can't hit 98 (mph pitches) that good. ...
I couldn't be in a better bullpen. We've got guys who have won the World Series, been in the playoffs. Russ has played on six different teams. He knows what he's talking about. Twelve, 13 years in the game, he's doing something right. It's good to have those guys in your corner.

Q: Who's your favorite closer?
A: I like Joe Nathan. He doesn't get much recognition up in Minnesota, but he comes right after you and throws strikes and he has good offspeed (pitches). Every year, you look up and he's in the top four in saves. He doesn't show much emotion. He just goes about his business.

Q: You're pretty much doing what Nathan did, right? He was a setup guy, too, before becoming a closer.
A: That's something most closers do. Not too many guys go straight to the closer's role. There's just something about it. Basically, you have to prove to your manager that you can handle it. Another part of that is going through some struggles --having a tough game and coming back the next day. That's something else I have to show I can do --bounce back and have a short memory. That's the hardest part. That's the worst part. Your team battles its butt off, your starting pitcher goes six or seven and you go out there and pitch one inning and give it up. That's the worst, coming back into that locker room after that.

(bnd.com)

SALT LAKE CITY – Charlton Jimerson’s second game after being activated from the disabled list was much better than the first.

Jimerson homered twice, including a first-inning grand slam, to lead the Tacoma Rainiers to a 7-4 victory against Salt Lake on Thursday night.

After striking out in all four at-bats the night before, Jimerson figured that the Bees would pitch to him the same way.

“I was thinking about how I would be judged after the day (Wednesday),” Jimerson said. “Not a lot of people have struck out four times in a game.”

In the four-strikeout game, Jimerson saw a steady stream of curves and sliders. He was thinking about that when he faced Nick Adenhart with the bases loaded and two outs in the first inning.

“There was no reason for them to change their approach after yesterday’s game,” Jimerson said. “I saw another curveball after seeing one for strike one, and I put a good swing on it.”

Jimerson lined a grand slam over the left-field fence, capping a six-run first inning. It was Jimerson’s second grand slam of the season, and the Rainiers’ fourth.

Jimerson added a towering solo homer to left-center in the third, giving Tacoma a 7-1 lead.

(thenewstribune.com)