Top Sports Stories (Oct 02, 2012)

Europe hails Ryder Cup ‘Miracle of Medinah’ LONDON – Not even the family of Seve Ballesteros could have imagined a Ryder Cup finish quite like this. It was after midnight in Spain when a European team inspired by the "spirit of Seve" and captained by his close friend Jose Maria Olazabal … Boston Herald • October 02, 2012, 1:50 AM (PST)

USA Today

Steven Pienaar retires from international football JOHANNESBURG (AP) -South Africa captain Steven Pienaar has retired from international football only three months before his country hosts the African Cup. The Everton midfielder’s decision was announced by the South African Football Association on … CNN Sports Illustrated • October 02, 2012, 5:25 AM (PST)

sowetanlive.co.za

Bell: A lot of NFL craziness jammed into four weeks What exactly have we learned one month into the NFL’s 93rd season? Well, for one thing, it’s quite obvious that just because a team was dominant last season, it doesn’t automatically carry over and guarantee that they will be bullies the following year… Indianapolis Star • October 01, 2012, 8:35 PM (PST)

Tigers clinch AL Central title with late surge KANSAS CITY, Mo. – There could have been some infighting when the Detroit Tigers were languishing below .500 midway through the season, or even when they trailed the Chicago White Sox deep into September. This was the team, after all, that won the AL … Boston Herald • October 02, 2012, 4:13 AM (PST)

Continued: Rangers lose opener at playoff-bound Oakland, must wait another day to try for AL West crown OAKLAND, Calif. – The Texas Rangers are already in the playoffs, and they like their chances to win the AL West. Two games left, one win needed against Oakland. "We’re upbeat in here. We’re not worried about anything," catcher Mike Napoli … Minneapolis Star Tribune • October 01, 2012, 11:56 PM (PST)

Mets to keep coaching staff intact MIAMI – The Mets yesterday eliminated "coaching staff" as a potential area for improvement heading to next season. Manager Terry Collins said all six members of this year’s staff will be asked to return for 2013, and aren’t viewed as part of the … New York Post • October 01, 2012, 11:20 PM (PST)

South Africa must be more clinical against All Blacks: Meyer The Springboks preserved their unbeaten home record with a 31-8 defeat of Australia on Saturday and Meyer said they would have to up their game to have any chance against the undefeated All Blacks this Saturday in Soweto. "We were clinical at … YAHOO! • October 01, 2012, 10:37 PM (PST)

Cleveland Plain Dealer

Red-hot Cano sparks Yankees’ rout of Red Sox How hot is Robinson Cano? About as hot as a hitter can be. Cano sparked the Yankees’ nine-run second inning Monday, starting the inning with a solo homer, then adding a two-run double after the team had already batted around. The Yankees won the game, … New York Daily News • October 02, 2012, 12:46 AM (PST)

ESPN

No lingering concerns for Harvin While talking about the Vikings’ recent success, Percy Harvin might have shed some light on what had him upset during the team’s mandatory minicamp in June. Remember the drama? Harvin went from saying he was unhappy, to requesting a trade to saying … Minneapolis Star Tribune • October 01, 2012, 10:58 PM (PST)

MLive.com

Rex Ryan says it’s ‘not the right time’ to bench Mark Sanchez and use Tim Tebow as NY Jets starting quarterback The clock is certainly ticking on Mark Sanchez, but Rex Ryan isn’t ready to pull the plug on the young quarterback just yet. One day after Sanchez flopped in a humiliating 34-0 loss to the 49ers, Ryan revealed that he won’t replace him with Tim Tebow … New York Daily News • October 02, 2012, 1:43 AM (PST)

Top Sports Stories (Sep 23, 2012)

Impact struggle to 0-0 draw against Sporting KC SEATTLE – Sporting KC goalkeeper Jimmy Nielsen punched away Matteo Ferrari’s header in added time as Montreal struggled to a 0-0 draw Saturday to keep the Impact in the MLS playoff hunt. Montreal picked up its first point in three games since ending … Boston Herald • September 23, 2012, 5:28 AM (PST)

CBC

Brandt Snedeker makes a push for FedEx Cup ATLANTA – Brandt Snedeker gave himself the opportunity he wanted in the FedEx Cup. He also has the company he expected. Snedeker played one of his best rounds this year at just the right time Saturday, making a collection of tough putts and relying on … Boston Herald • September 23, 2012, 5:28 AM (PST)

Stuff

Notre Dame 4-0 after beating Michigan No crazy comebacks this year by Michigan against Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish didn’t let Denard Robinson and the Wolverines even get into the end zone. Manti Te’o had two interceptions as the 11th-ranked Fighting Irish picked off five Michigan passes… San Francisco Gate • September 23, 2012, 2:01 AM (PST)

ESPN

Dusty Baker in Reds’ minds for clincher General manager Walt Jocketty hit the "send" button on his cell phone right at the final out, informing manager Dusty Baker that the Reds’ championship celebration was on. The only thing missing as the Reds beat the Dodgers 6-0 in Cincinnati … San Francisco Gate • September 23, 2012, 12:13 AM (PST)

CBS News

Extra, extra: O’s win again When a game goes into extra innings, the Orioles have been almost unbeatable. When Jim Thome comes up in a big situation, his teammates are confident he will deliver. Thome did that yesterday, at Fenway Park doubling in the go-ahead run in a 9-6 win in… New York Post • September 22, 2012, 11:45 PM (PST)

AL East race stays tight, Reds clinch and NL Cy Young battle Fireworks and champagne in Cincinnati. A September classic in the Bronx. For the Orioles another — what else? — extra-inning win. A dramatic comeback by the world champs at Wrigley Field. Yes, it was another wild September day in baseball. 1. … CNN Sports Illustrated • September 23, 2012, 2:22 AM (PST)

San Diego Padres lose 8-4 to San Francisco as Giants clinch NL West title Scutaro’s two-run single in the fourth chased Werner (2-2). Now, Bochy can rest his regulars and prepare his playoff rotation – but don’t count on it. San Francisco is still eying the best record in the National League if it can catch Washington and … Washington Post • September 22, 2012, 10:48 PM (PST)

Warner Brothers NHL ‘All Access’ DVD Go behind the scenes in the NHL®. Players, music, plays, hits, goals, saves, etc. – all with insights from the NHL’s® key players and personalities. A great behind-the-scenes view that will entertain the hockey fan in your life … NHL.com • September 23, 2012, 1:47 AM (PST)

Sporting News

NY Giants’ Jerry Reese makes patience with lesser-known players pay off The angry mob is never far from Jerry Reese’s door, no matter how many Super Bowl trophies are out in his lobby. If there’s one thing he’s learned in his 5½ years as general manager of the Giants it’s that fans, by nature, are impatient. The last … New York Daily News • September 23, 2012, 2:08 AM (PST)

CNN Sports Illustrated

Top Sports Stories (Sep 20, 2012)

NHL cancels preseason schedule through September, Alex Ovechkin leads exodus of locked-out players heading overseas Let the games begin ? to disappear. On day four of the latest NHL lockout, the league cancelled its preseason schedule through the end of September – play was set to begin Sept. 23 – cutting the Rangers’ exhibition slate in half from six to three games… New York Daily News • September 20, 2012, 12:31 AM (PST)

CBS News

NFL Scoring Sets Record as Vegas Adjusts to Replacement Referees National Football League scoring has reached a record because of pass-happy offenses and slow- starting defenses. A less obvious reason may be the league’s replacement officials. With the regular officials locked out in a labor dispute, the backups … Bloomberg • September 19, 2012, 9:18 PM (PST)

ESPN

MLB: San Francisco 7, Colorado 1 SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 20 (UPI) — Pablo Sandoval’s three-run homer in the first inning Wednesday started San Francisco on its way to a third straight victory — 7-1 over Colorado. The Giants maintained a nine-game lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers in … United Press International • September 19, 2012, 10:37 PM (PST)

Five Cuts: Pettitte’s return, agony for A’s and more Medlen magic Rain on the East Coast led to a pair of doubleheaders on Wednesday, accelerating the day’s playoff implications. The Dodgers split one of them, with the Nationals, delaying the first clinching celebration in Washington since 1933 and keeping L.A., … CNN Sports Illustrated • September 20, 2012, 12:24 AM (PST)

USA Today

Manning’s game face is on, and Texans aren’t even in Denver yet Peyton Manning had no more answers for the media Wednesday than he did for the Atlanta Falcons’ defense when confronted with the question on all of our minds, probably even his. Two days after throwing three interceptions in the first quarter… Houston Chronicle • September 19, 2012, 2:44 PM (PST)

Denver Post

Giants defense must step up to help Manning CHARLOTTE, N.C. – What already loomed as a Giants-Against-the-World primetime showdown Thursday night has tilted heavily in favor of the world. Hakeem Nicks (foot) Wednesday unexpectedly joined the conga line of Battered Blue that already included … New York Post • September 20, 2012, 1:00 AM (PST)

New York Times

Royals have White Sox’s number The Kansas City Royals will not win the American League Central this year. They won’t even come close. However, Kansas City will have a major say on whether the Detroit Tigers or Chicago White Sox win the division. The Royals wrap up a three-game … YAHOO! • September 19, 2012, 11:56 PM (PST)

SEC looks and is good, just not top to bottom The mighty Southeastern Conference has six schools in the Top 25, with Alabama and LSU atop the rankings and the toast of college football once again. An impressive eight SEC teams have managed to break into the Top 25 this season. But while it seems … YAHOO! • September 19, 2012, 6:48 PM (PST)

Politico.com

Whicker: USC’s Kiffin reacting to the heat? USC’s defense can’t always get off the field in a hurry, but Lane Kiffin can. When asked about a player’s participation in practice three days before USC plays Cal on Saturday, Kiffin adjourned his Wednesday press gathering in 28 seconds flat. He even … NBCNews.com • September 19, 2012, 10:15 PM (PST)

ESPN

Pats officially add Branch, Winslow The New England Patriots made it official on Wednesday and added wide receiver Deion Branch and tight end Kellen Winslow. Branch was among the Patriots’ final cuts in August. He caught 51 passes for 702 yards with five touchdowns in 15 games last … Baltimore Sun • September 20, 2012, 1:29 AM (PST)

Boston Herald

Top Sports Stories (Sep 18, 2012)

Pirates play into the early morning after long rain delay Kevin Correia pitched seven innings of two-hit ball and Starling Marte hit a two-run triple to lead the Pittsburgh Pirates past the Chicago Cubs 3-0 Monday night in a game that was delayed more than 3 1/2 hours by rain. The first pitch was thrown at … NBCNews.com • September 18, 2012, 5:13 AM (PST)

CNS News

NHL clubs facing cold realities of labor dispute NEW YORK – With no labor negotiations Monday and no imminent resolution to the dispute that led the NHL to lock players out late Saturday, teams began tightening their economic belts by laying off some employees and reducing the hours and wages of … Los Angeles Times • September 18, 2012, 12:27 AM (PST)

New York Times

Orioles pound out 15 hits in 10-4 win over the Mariners SEATTLE -In recent years, the Orioleshave experienced plenty of these games in September, when a contender demolishes and demoralizes an overmatched also-ran playing out the string. Almost exclusively, though, the Orioles were on the wrong end of those… Baltimore Sun • September 18, 2012, 1:38 AM (PST)

New York Times

White Sox rally past Tigers, boost AL Central lead to three games CHICAGO — Alex Rios went barreling into second base with a hard slide that teammate Gordon Beckham said might be the biggest play of the season for the White Sox as they try to win the AL Central. "That’s a situation where every second baseman … CBS Sports • September 18, 2012, 12:27 AM (PST)

ESPN

‘Sunday Night Football’: Stingy 49ers defense denies Detroit in 27-19 win SAN FRANCISCO – Alex Smith had rallied his team for a late victory against the Lions last fall at Ford Field, and had no intention of cutting it close this time on his home turf. Eleven months later Smith and his Niners were dominant with the football … Indianapolis Star • September 17, 2012, 10:54 PM (PST)

Replacement officials taking heat One official was pulled from duty because he’s a fan. Another negated a touchdown without ever throwing a penalty flag. Several others had difficulty with basic rules. Upon further review, the NFL’s replacement officials came up short in Week 2. … CNN Sports Illustrated • September 18, 2012, 1:31 AM (PST)

Washington Post

Clay Matthews’ start in context Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews has opened the season with six sacks in his first two games, and for whatever reason the national reaction has fallen somewhere near "ho-hum." Why? As you surely know, this isn’t the first time … ESPN • September 18, 2012, 1:02 AM (PST)

ESPN

US reaches end of Davis Cup road in loss to Spain The U.S. reached the end of the road in its Davis Cup run. The Americans couldn’t overcome Spain’s superiority on clay, falling to the defending champions when David Ferrer beat John Isner 6-7 (3), 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 Sunday to secure an insurmountable 3-1 … FOXSports.com • September 17, 2012, 8:27 AM (PST)

Boston Herald

Villanueva stresses importance of education TORONTO — Carlos Villanueva can empathize with the Dominican Republic youth who feel they are trapped on an island with little hope and no way out. He was one of them, too, and like a number of the impoverished kids who inhabit the Hispanic country, … Toronto Blue Jays • September 18, 2012, 12:27 AM (PST)

Top Sports Stories (Sep 16, 2012)

NHL Locks Out Its Players The clock struck midnight, and the NHL turned into another sports league closed for business. Unable to reach agreement on a new labor deal, the National Hockey League locked out its players at 12:01 a.m. Sunday, the third major pro sport to impose a … NBCNews.com • September 16, 2012, 4:39 AM (PST)

Boston Globe

Golson, Irish show pluck in beating Spartans Everett Golson threw a touchdown pass and ran for a score in the first half to help No. 20 Notre Dame beat No. 10 Michigan State, 20-3, Saturday night in East Lansing, Mich. The Fighting Irish (3-0) snapped a six-game losing streak against ranked teams… Boston Globe • September 16, 2012, 2:09 AM (PST)

Sporting News

No names, less misery for Red Sox TORONTO – So this is what it’s like to play out the string. It really has been such a long time. A decade, at least. There’s a rhythm to the baseball season, and at this time of year we’re supposed to be ramping up for everything that really matters. … Boston Herald • September 16, 2012, 3:21 AM (PST)

Super Nova burns Rays as Yankees regain AL East lead (Reuters) – The New York Yankees took sole possession of top spot in the American League East with a win over Tampa Bay on Saturday, while Oakland’s win over Baltimore moved the A’s within striking distance of Texas in the AL West. In the AL Central, … YAHOO! • September 15, 2012, 10:49 PM (PST)

CNN Sports Illustrated

Jay Cutler’s antics aren’t among Bears’ problems Here should have been the list of concerns at Halas Hall over the weekend: No. 1: Linebacker Brian Urlacher playing old, soft and slow, almost looking tentative with a knee injury. No. 2: The offensive line, which needs help from tight ends and running… Chicago Sun-Times • September 15, 2012, 6:24 PM (PST)

Denver Post

Middle Tennessee 48, Memphis 30 Logan Kilgore threw two touchdown passes and the Middle Tennessee defense forced four Memphis turnovers in a 48-30 win on Saturday night. Kilgore, who was 22 of 30 for 253 yards, opened the scoring with a 12-yard toss to Christian Collis. The Blue … FOXSports.com • September 15, 2012, 7:57 PM (PST)

Sporting News

Utah staves off No. 25 BYU 24-21 SALT LAKE CITY (AP) – Riley Nelson converted a long fourth-down conversion in the final minute and hoped his Cougars were destined for another improbable comeback. But just like two years ago, BYU saw its hopes of winning in Salt Lake City dashed by a … Boston Globe • September 16, 2012, 1:12 AM (PST)

Examiner

Victory by Bryan brothers keeps hope alive for US The Bryan brothers delivered as expected Saturday. That just leaves John Isner to perform the unexpected Sunday against defending champion Spain for the United States to reach the Davis Cup final. Mike and Bob Bryan won their doubles match against … Boston Globe • September 16, 2012, 2:09 AM (PST)

Seattle Post Intelligencer

UConn holds on to beat Maryland A defensive struggle through the first three quarters turned into a down-to-the wire finish between UConn and Maryland in the "Edsall Bowl" on Saturday afternoon. After getting the ball back with 3:29 left, Hills made a few nice passes, … ESPN • September 15, 2012, 12:40 PM (PST)

USA Today

Top Sports Stories (Sep 15, 2012)

Notre Dame’s is an Irish economy that’s doing fine NEW YORK (MarketWatch) – It must be nice to be Notre Dame. Its Fighting Irish football team last won the national championship in 1988. They are 0-3 in Bowl Championship Series bowl games and haven’t been relevant in the title chase in years. But they … Marketwatch • September 15, 2012, 3:58 AM (PST)

Hockey world bracing for lockout as clock ticks down (Reuters) – National Hockey League (NHL) fans were bracing for another winter without hockey while players were looking for places to ride out the impending labor dispute as the clock ticked towards another lockout on Friday. An ominous silence hung … YAHOO! • September 15, 2012, 3:15 AM (PST)

New York Post

Packers put the Bears in their place GREEN BAY, Wis. — Yes, the Green Bay Packers were miffed in the days and hours leading up to Thursday night’s divisional showdown with the Chicago Bears. No, it had little to do with Bears quarterback Jay Cutler’s challenge to their defensive backs. … ESPN • September 15, 2012, 4:48 AM (PST)

Struggling Sabathia loses third straight decision CC Sabathia takes pride in being the unquestioned ace of the Yankees’ pitching staff, but his answer was telling when asked Friday for his thoughts about injured starters Ivan Nova (shoulder) and Andy Pettitte (ankle) returning to the rotation in games… CBS Sports • September 15, 2012, 1:42 AM (PST)

ESPN

Wild-card races still open, just not for White Sox or Tigers Look on the bright side, White Sox fans: The Biblical drizzle that postponed Thursday night’s game against the Detroit Tigers and had you channel-surfing to find the Bears (hoo, boy) means the Sox will miss Justin Verlander. Max Scherzer, too. Doug … Chicago Sun-Times • September 14, 2012, 11:11 PM (PST)

UConn’s Jim Calhoun retires STORRS, Conn. — As Jim Calhoun stood in his office at Gampel Pavilion, waiting for his final news conference as Connecticut’s basketball coach, Pat Calhoun turned to her husband and gave him one final piece of advice. "Don’t change your mind,… ESPN • September 14, 2012, 8:17 AM (PST)

USA Today

Rivalry between No. 25 BYU, Utah still heated SALT LAKE CITY (AP) – The infusion of cash from joining the Pac-12 Conference has led to a construction zone around Utah’s football offices. One might say the team itself is undergoing as major a renovation as well after just two games. The Utes (1-1) … CNN Sports Illustrated • September 15, 2012, 2:39 AM (PST)

ksl.com

Marlins Rookie Turner Shuts Down Reds 4-0 MIAMI — The Cincinnati Reds got their first look at the Miami Marlins’ new ballpark Friday night. They’re still trying to find home plate. The Reds’ push toward the playoffs was slowed by rookie Jacob Turner, who earned his first National … NBCNews.com • September 15, 2012, 2:46 AM (PST)

Washington Post

Who’s the Orioles’ MVP? There’s no shortage of candidates OAKLAND – Orioles manager Buck Showalter likes to say his 2012 Orioles are a "sum of the parts" team, one that doesn’t have anyone that really stands out, but plenty of players that help the club win. "Ooh, I don’t know what to say on … Baltimore Sun • September 15, 2012, 3:36 AM (PST)

USA Today

NL GAME OF THE DAY / Dodgers 8, Cardinals 5 In the third inning, the Dodgers were down 4-1 and looked as though they’d drop further behind in not only the NL West, but the wild-card race as well. But in the sixth, Luis Cruz (No. 47, right) greeted St. Louis reliever Edwin Mujica with a … San Francisco Gate • September 15, 2012, 12:23 AM (PST)

Top Sports Stories (Aug 29, 2012)

Tyler Hamilton book now set for Sept. 5 release Tyler Hamilton’s tell-all book about Lance Armstrong and doping in cycling will be released two weeks earlier than originally planned. ”The Secret Race: Inside the Hidden World of the Tour de France: Doping, Cover-ups, and Winning at All Costs,” is … FOXSports.com • August 28, 2012, 9:30 PM (PST)

Denver Post

Bobby V on using Aceves in save situation: ‘There wasn’t much choice ANAHEIM, Calif. – Bobby Valentine wanted to make one thing clear: Do not misconstrue his decision Tuesday night to use Alfredo Aceves for a six-out save as a referendum on the level of confidence he has in the embattled right-hander. "There wasn’t much… Boston Herald • August 29, 2012, 1:26 AM (PST)

Boston Herald

Mike Moustakas powers Royals past Tigers 9-8 KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Mike Moustakas had a difficult road trip, then had to face Justin Verlander when the Kansas City Royals kicked off a 10-game homestand on Tuesday night. Not exactly a recipe for a big performance, but the young slugger sure delivered… Boston Herald • August 29, 2012, 3:13 AM (PST)

Boston Herald

Woods, McIlroy battling for PGA player of year Ernie Els finished up at The Barclays and hung around Long Island for a golf tournament equally important to him. The PGA of America has a points-based award for player of the year, and it looks as if it is coming down to Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods. … Abc Local Web • August 28, 2012, 4:08 PM (PST)

Boston Herald

U.S. Ryder Cup team captain Davis Love looks to match European team after Jose Maria Olazabal makes his captain’s picks Captain Jose Maria Olazabal completed the European Ryder Cup roster with his two captain’s picks Monday and, as expected, added Ian Poulter and Nicolas Colsaerts. The 32-year-old will be on the only rookie on the 12-man squad and the first-ever Belgian… New York Daily News • August 28, 2012, 7:11 AM (PST)

New York Daily News

Matches go by the book, and quickly, at US Open NEW YORK – Over the first two days of the U.S. Open, the world’s largest tennis stadium turned into the world’s biggest bore. There were 10 matches in 23,000-seat Arthur Ashe Stadium, all of them decided in straight sets. There were 24 sets, only three… Boston Herald • August 29, 2012, 2:52 AM (PST)

Boston Herald

Athletics shut out Indians again 7-0 CLEVELAND (AP) – Tommy Milone and the entire Oakland pitching staff have plenty of nothing as far as the Cleveland Indians are concerned. The Athletics continued to pile up zeroes as Milone and three relievers shut out Cleveland for the third straight … NJ.com • August 28, 2012, 10:41 PM (PST)

Molina avoids serious injury in collision at plate Besides the Pittsburgh Pirates blasting the Cardinals 9-0 Tuesday night, St. Louis lost catcher Yadier Molina when he was plowed into by Pittsburgh second baseman Josh Harrison in the second inning as Harrison tried unsuccessfully to score on a single … YAHOO! • August 29, 2012, 1:40 AM (PST)

New York Daily News

Bills cut Vince Young, acquire Tarvaris Jackson Vince Young was too inconsistent to win the Buffalo Bills’ backup quarterback job, so now the team is giving Tarvaris Jackson a shot. The Bills shuffled backup quarterbacks Monday by completing a deal to acquire Jackson in a trade with Seattle. They … Baltimore Sun • August 28, 2012, 10:49 PM (PST)

Los Angeles Times

Top Sports Stories (Aug 28, 2012)

Ortiz to have PRP injection Four days after being activated from the disabled list, David Ortiz was sent back Monday because of lingering soreness in his strained right Achilles’ tendon, which forced him to miss 35 games. Ortiz said he expected to undergo a platelet-rich plasma … Boston Globe • August 28, 2012, 2:53 AM (PST)

USA Today

What is Lance Armstrong’s legacy now? Last week Lance Armstrong said he will stop fighting allegations that he used banned substances during his career atop the cycling world. The surrender did not include an admission of guilt, but rather a statement that "enough is enough, " as Armstrong… Washington Post • August 27, 2012, 2:14 PM (PST)

Washington Post

Timely win turns Watney’s season around Two wins and six other top-10 finishes in 2011 put Nick Watney atop the points list and made him the man to catch as the PGA Tour’s playoff season began a year ago. Any momentum disappeared, though, in the four-tournament postseason, Watney quickly … Boston Globe • August 28, 2012, 2:10 AM (PST)

USA Today

Out of money, Detroit cuts back, fights back Reuters Abandoned buildings abound in Detroit, which has lost much of its population and many of its dreams. But the city refuses to give up. DETROIT (MarketWatch) – Drive the 5.4 miles along Michigan Avenue from downtown Detroit to Dearborn and it’s … Yahoo Finance • August 28, 2012, 3:07 AM (PST)

Marketwatch

Rocket plans to stay grounded for now LORIS, S.C. – Roger Clemens said Monday he doesn’t have any more pitching performances planned – at the moment. "Not at this point," Clemens said after his opening round in the Golf.com World Amateur Handicap Championship. "That could change in a … Houston Chronicle • August 27, 2012, 7:29 PM (PST)

Oakland A’s Anderson beats Indians 3-0 CLEVELAND — After all Brett Anderson has been through, Oakland’s left-hander wasn’t going to let a bad call ruin his night. Anderson gave up two hits, one on a questionable call, over seven innings and the Athletics beat the Cleveland Indians 3-0 on … Abc Local Web • August 28, 2012, 12:23 AM (PST)

Abc Local Web

Indians’ offense vanishes during 1-11 skid The Cleveland Indians lost a game and a pitcher Monday night. It’s been that kind of season. Starter Roberto Hernandez had to leave the game after 2 1/3 innings with a sprained right ankle, and the Cleveland offense was held to two hits in a 3-0 loss … YAHOO! • August 28, 2012, 12:37 AM (PST)

NJ.com

Chase clinch scenarios heading to Atlanta With two races remaining the regular season, four drivers have punched their tickets to the 2012 Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. If the 2012 title were contested only among those four drivers, it’d be one heck of a battle. It won’t, of course, leaving… CBS Sports • August 27, 2012, 11:54 PM (PST)

Rapid Reaction: Orioles 4, White Sox 3 Here’s a quick look at the Chicago White Sox’s 4-3 loss to the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards on Monday. What it means: The White Sox lost a ½ game to the Detroit Tigers and now are two games ahead of them in the American League Central. The … ESPN • August 27, 2012, 7:15 PM (PST)

ESPN

Eagles must draw the line on defense PHILADELPHIA – Throughout the preseason, the Eagles’ defensive line has gone after quarterbacks relentlessly, pursuing them from all angles. It is easily the Eagles’ biggest strength on defense. It is also their biggest dilemma with the final roster … Courier-Post • August 28, 2012, 2:25 AM (PST)

Top Sports Stories (Aug 26, 2012)

Observation deck: Steelers-Bills Ben Roethlisberger looked like his old self for the first time this preseason in the Steelers’ 38-7 victory over the Buffalo Bills. It took until the third game of the preseason for it to happen. It also took the Steelers getting backed up to their end… ESPN • August 26, 2012, 3:31 AM (PST)

CBS Sports

Who’ll get Lance Armstrong’s Tour titles? No easy answer PARIS – With Lance Armstrong stripped of his seven Tour de France titles for doping, simple logic might suggest that his runners-up from 1999 to 2005 would just inherit them, right? Not so fast. The doping-dazed sport of cycling has a logic all its own… Boston Herald • August 26, 2012, 3:31 AM (PST)

Washington Post

Transplant gives Red Sox new life This wasn’t a trade, it was an organ transplant. I should know – I’ve had two. After a season of new lows being supplanted by all-time lows being capped off by historic lows, the Red Sox struck a high note in dealing Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford, … Boston Globe • August 26, 2012, 2:27 AM (PST)

New York Post

Angels-Tigers Preview Detroit’s Max Scherzer is pitching with a lot of confidence, and with good reason considering his recent strikeout numbers. Scherzer takes the mound Sunday when the Tigers conclude their series against the Los Angeles Angels, who are likely to be … ESPN • August 25, 2012, 11:42 PM (PST)

Boston Herald

Clemens, 50, returns to mound for Texas independent team SUGAR LAND, Texas – On a hot summer night in what should be the autumn of his days as a big league competitor, Roger Clemens showed he might be ready to spring forward with an improbable comeback. The 50-year-old Rocket took the mound for first time in… New York Post • August 26, 2012, 1:37 AM (PST)

New York Post

Royals’ Abreu comes through in the 12th inning "It was a totally different at-bat," Abreu said. "Padilla was throwing some pitches that I didn’t see well. I was looking for one pitch, but it was hard for me to get it. But I had the opportunity to redeem myself." It was all a … Miami Herald • August 26, 2012, 12:54 AM (PST)

ESPN

Pulis planning late deals Stoke City manager Tony Pulis expects himself to be at the centre of some frenzied transfer business before the window closes next week. Pulis has already added Michael Kightly, Geoff Cameron and Jamie Ness to his squad, and Rangers midfielder Maurice … ESPN Soccernet • August 26, 2012, 1:37 AM (PST)

ESPN Soccernet

Has baseball suffered a drug relapse? Baseball seemed to have cleaned up its act. Players, who once sported cartoonish physiques, were smaller. So were their statistics. But the recent suspensions of Giants star Melky Cabrera and A’s pitcher Bartolo Colon have resurrected feelings of … San Jose Mercury News • August 26, 2012, 12:04 AM (PST)

New York Daily News

Top Rookies Are Even, but Colts Fade When Starters Exit Andrew Luck stepped up in the pocket to avoid the rush, then put a deep ball down the left side into the arms of his fellow rookie T. Y. Hilton for a 31-yard touchdown, wrapping up an 80-yard drive. Robert Griffin III took a high-and-wide shotgun snap … New York Times • August 25, 2012, 11:42 PM (PST)

Top Sports Stories (Aug 25, 2012)

Dodgers, Red Sox near blockbuster BOSTON — The Dodgers and Red Sox are closing in on a deal that would send Adrian Gonzalez, Josh Beckett, Carl Crawford and Nick Punto to Los Angeles, although a few hurdles remain before it’s official, multiple baseball sources said Friday. A highly … ESPN • August 25, 2012, 4:51 AM (PST)

ESPN

Daily poll: Do you agree with ruling that strips Lance Armstrong of his 7 Tour de France titles? In a move that defies everything we know about Lance Armstrong, the cycling legend has given up. Done. Kaput. See ya. Armstrong says he’s tired of trying to prove he did not use performing enhancing drugs when he won seven Tour de France titles. The … NJ.com • August 25, 2012, 2:28 AM (PST)

NJ.com

Eagles Finally Fire on All Cylinders Against Browns: A Fan’s Recap The Philadelphia Eagles were technically 2-0 in the preseason, but it didn’t feel like it. Eagles fans like myself were less encouraged by the wins and more discouraged by Michael Vick’s injuries and the struggles from the rest of the first-team. After… YAHOO! • August 25, 2012, 5:27 AM (PST)

Astros may be interested in Clemens’ comeback, but Rocket reluctant SUGAR LAND – Roger Clemens says his weekend start in the minors shouldn’t be viewed as a prelude to a big league comeback. The 50-year-old Clemens is scheduled to pitch Saturday for the Sugar Land Skeeters against the Bridgeport Bluefish in the … Dallas Morning News • August 25, 2012, 12:12 AM (PST)

New York Post

Mariners-White Sox Preview While the Chicago White Sox’s inexperience in the bullpen could be a concern down the stretch, production from their veteran sluggers is a good reason to be confident. Adam Dunn looks to continue his power surge on Saturday night when the White Sox … YAHOO! • August 25, 2012, 4:01 AM (PST)

ESPN

Tiger Woods battles back pain to pull within three shots of co-leaders Nick Watney and Sergio Garcia At times Friday, it looked as though Tiger Woods was back at Torrey Pines, playing – and winning – on a broken leg. He winced on certain drives. He could barely bend over to tee one up or pick the ball out of the hole. He walked with a limp and … New York Daily News • August 24, 2012, 11:43 PM (PST)

New York Daily News

Inside Pitch Right-hander Joe Kelly stopped the bleeding in the early innings, the Cardinals’ offense inflicted numerous wounds on Cincinnati starter Mat Latos in the sixth and the rest of the bullpen took rookie Kelly’s lead and clamped down on the Reds’ offense … CBS Sports • August 25, 2012, 12:26 AM (PST)

San Francisco Gate

Garcia hitting his stride at Bethpage FARMINGDALE, N.Y. (AP) – For all the disappointment and frustration Nick Watney has felt this year, he realizes that one week can change everything. He only needs to look at the guy playing with him Saturday at The Barclays to realize that. Sergio … NJ.com • August 25, 2012, 1:38 AM (PST)

Federer, Djokovic, Williams sisters highlight Open Somehow, it seemed so easy for so many people to write off Roger Federer. He was past his 30th birthday, they would point out. About 2 1/2 years went by without any additions to his Grand Slam trophy case, the thinking went. First Rafael Nadal, then … CBS Sports • August 24, 2012, 9:13 PM (PST)

Seattle Post Intelligencer

Mark Sanchez outranks Tim Tebow in Madden ’13 When Tim Tebow was traded to the New York Jets in mid-March, general manager Mike Tannenbaum and head coach Rex Ryan made it clear that Tebow came in as the backup and the team’s Wildcat quarterback. The Madden video game franchise concurs. In the … YAHOO! • August 25, 2012, 12:48 AM (PST)