When I heard that Joe Paterno would be coaching his Nittany Lions from the box in this afternoon's Rose Bowl, I thought to myself, "isn't that a little unfair?"

Now I know JoePa was coaching from high above during the last several games of the season, but this game is a little different. First of all, he had plenty of time to rest up. Of course, you say he's 82, can't get around as well...yada yada. Second, this is the Rose Bowl...probably one of the biggest/toughest games the old ball coach has ever been in, how could you not be on the sideline?

It seems that if Paterno is in the box he will have a better grasp of what is going on on the field. Having spent time on the field myself...as well as the nosebleeds...I can tell you there is a big difference between the two in the way you see the game. On the field there is no way you can see everything that is happening on the field. So, while Pete Carroll is on the sideline relying on spotters and his coordinators to relay information to him, Paterno will be able to judge things first hand.

I think it will be very interesting to see how the Nittany Lions do against the Trojans, it's probably the bowl match up of the season, and whoever plays mistake free football will definitely be smelling very rosy come tonight.

In the spirit of the New Year, We in the sports office wanted to start off fresh and forget the past year of ups and downs. Please join in and tell us what you want to see happen in the sports world in 2009. Here's what we want:

Lolita (Sports chica): More crying. Who will top T.O. and Brett's tear shedding moments of '08? Seriously though, moments that will make me cry in HAPPINESS! I won't pick any specific teams or championships but if David Tyree has another catch like in the past Super Bowl, I will cry...if Mike Pelfrey pitches a complete game, I could cry (again)--that was a good game...Aug 20. at Shea...with my father in law...hanging out...before September....you get the point! Please, no collapse tears...I can't handle it!

Kaity (Anchor Lady): Sweetie, you've got to be kidding. Me? Sports? LOL

Jim (Anchor Man): I want the Mets to get a new relief pitcher to succeed Aaron Heilman as the next winner of the "Armando Benitez No-Lead-Is-Too-Big-For-This-Bullpen" award. Let's face it.. Any team can win with a strong bullpen. It takes real character to come out on top when your middle relievers are constantly giving up three-run homers.

Mr.G (Mr. G): Knicks playing defense. I don't care if the Knicks win or lose; I just want them to play defense.

Caroline (Sports producer): The Yankees back in the World Series.

Matt L (Sports Producer): For Indiana to return to glory!

Matt E. (Sports Producer): April 15, 2009, 11:00 pm. - As the Yankees wrap up a 3-game series in Tampa on the eve of the FIRST game at the NEW Yankee Stadium (April 16th vs. the Indians), a water-main breaks, flooding the field and seats, forcing the Yanks to play home games at the old Yankee Stadium for the immediate future. Now, while crews work tirelessly to fix the busted pipe and clear damage, additional construction flaws come to light and the city is forced to condemn the building. This of course means that the Yanks will never have officially moved, continue to play in the House That Ruth Built, and eventually realize that leaving the storied building was a huge mistake. Can you tell I hate the new Yankee Stadium??!! (Sidenote: If this were to happen, can this blog entry be submitted as evidence?)

Chris (Sports Producer): Some HOME wins for the Nets and for the Mets to shut up the Phils.

Dave (WPIX editor): Three championships. ("Three?", I ask.) Yes, the Giants, Yankees and Rangers. ("Wow?") What? That's not too much to ask for.

Bob (the Director): To have the sports economy reflect what is going on in this economic climate...ticket prices...

Remember when Stephon Marbury went to the Knicks/Lakers game last month in LA and watched the game from the stands?

That night he told reporters his days with the Knicks were numbered and “the team I’m going to go to, a lot of people will be SHOCKED.”

You weren’t alone if you thought that was just Steph being Steph…CRAZY, that is. But apparently, Starbury wasn’t kiddin’.

Reports are out today that the Celtics – THAT’S RIGHT – the Celtics…defending champs….the definition of team chemistry….want Marbury to help bolster a depleted bench (OHHHHHHHHHHH Baby...imagine if they get the deal done by Sunday. Celtics vs. Knicks at MSG).

Where to begin??

We went to the Garden before the Knicks game with the Pacers to get some players’ thoughts on the Stephon Marbury-to-Boston rumors (check out our blog post below for more).

While most of the players were tight-lipped, as I’m sure you can imagine, Q-Richardson and Tim Thomas offered some insights.

Believe it or not, every player we talked to told us the story was NEWS TO THEM!! Apparently there’s no internet access in the MSG locker rooms.

Here’s what the guys had to say.

Credit TheSmokingGun.com for this one. We all know that NBA Great Charles Barkley was stopped the other day in Scottsdale, Arizona for driving under the influence of alcohol. Barkley, always the straight shooter, didn't try to lie to the police. In the written report, police say Barkley admitted to having a couple of drinks. Ah, but his admissions didn't stop there.

No, that's not a misprint. The Knicks beat the Celtics by 12 at the Garden Sunday night.

Wilson Chandler scored a career-high 31 points and Al Harrington chipped in 30 to help the Knicks snap an 8-game losing streak against the defending champs.

Wasn't it just a year ago when the Celts beat the Knicks by about 60??

Anyway, if you're still having a tough time believing that the Knicks ACTUALLY routed the champs, we have the postgame reaction to prove it. Take a listen to Harrington, D-Lee and Chris Duhon.

PHOTOS: Knicks Upset Celtics, 100-88

Or at least it should. The Giants and Eagles will face each other this Sunday for the third time this season. The Giants know the Eagles and the Eagles Know the Giants. They split the two regular season games with the road team winning both games. The Eagles were the only team to beat the Giants at home this season. I think the running game (especially Brian Westbrook) will decide the winner.

New Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira poses on the field at the new Yankee Stadium after finalizing his eight-year, $180 million contract with the team. (Photo by Jason DeCrow / January 6, 2009)

The Yankees free agent shopping spree continues. So long Jason Giambi (who WFAN's Steve Somers mockingly calls The Sultan of Shot) is soon to be back where the steroids began-in Oakland. Hello, Mark Teixeira. "Tex" will wear Giambi's number 25 because his favorite player growing up, Don Mattingly, is one of a legion of Yankees with their number rerired. Donnie Baseball wore number 23.

Turns out Jets owner Woody Johnson has taken the team's 40 years of futility to a new level. Woody needed less than 24 hours to fire Eric Mangini after the Jets late season collapse. He quickly claimed he and GM Mike Tannenbaum would work tirelessly to hire a new coach. But while other owners are flying candidates into town or flying out themselves to interview potential new hires, Woody was on vacation out of the country. That stupidity may have cost him the best guy on the board, Bill Cowher.

His bright smile says it all. Mark Teixeira is really happy to be here. It showed from the moment he put on his new pinstripes and as he walked onto the field at the New Yankee Stadium. The construction crews yelled out, one saying, "Mark, way to go". A fist pump followed and more flashbulbs. He turned it on for the cameras but in genuine way. Mark definitely knows who he is talking to (ooohhh the big bad media!). Hopefully he will be the same come mid-season whether things are going well or not for the team and himself. I think so...but take a listen to his press conference and tell me what you think.

Lolita Lopez for The Huddle

So there I was last Sunday night after watching the Eagles beat the Vikings in the NFC Wild Card playoffs. I turn on MSG to learn that the Knicks had beaten the champion Celtics! First thought: The Celts' Big 3 of Garnett, Pierce and Allen missed the flight to New York City OR they had all eaten at a restaurant threatened with closure by the NYC Health Department. But no, the Knicks REALLY did win. Coach Mike D'Antoni hoped the win was something to build on. Sadly, the foundation held for less than 48 hours.

Thursday night's BCS title game between Florida and Oklahoma offers an excellent matchup, featuring two Heisman quarterbacks in Tim Tebow and Sam Bradford. But will the winner really be the national champion? When will the NCAA finally create a fair playoff system? At least four other teams deserved the number one seed just as much as Florida.

(Deep breath….) Deceptive-style runner, graduated from DeMatha High June 1997, Villanova University graduate class of 2001, holds 1 NCAA record, for all-purpose yards in a career, former nickname “The Mule” (ok, that one’s NOT true), one of many pro-athletes to come out of Washington D.C., and one HELL of a model American (Exhale…..).

Now that you’re guaranteed NOT to confuse the Eagles’ Pro Bowl running back with former (fictional) Dolphins kicker Ray Finkle, let’s talk about the key player in Sunday’s divisional playoff game (that being Westbrook…you still with me?).

I wish I could say with total certainty that Florida will be the national champions after they blow Oklahoma out of the water. Sadly, even with all my Florida bias, I can't say that. The total chaos that is college football has left way too much wiggle room for Utah and Texas to make great cases for a share of the title.

Utah, after their upset win over Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, finished the season undefeated, and are the only team in the top 25 with an unblemished record.

Texas, on the other hand, had a miraculous win in the Fiesta Bowl over Ohio State. The Longhorns believe they will own a share of the national title if Oklahoma wins, because they beat the Sooners by 10 points earlier in the season; they share the same record at 12-1.

It's sad that we need to have this debate every year.

Playoff system, playoff system...PLAYOFF SYSTEM!!!

No matter how many times you say it, and however logical it sounds, the BCS never changes.

Another year another controversy, it's always been hit or miss with the title game. With rumors swarming that even the coaches won't vote unanimously for the BCS title winner, there is no telling who they will crown champion, or co-champion come Friday morning. I mean what does it even mean if you're labeled co-champion anyways?? If Utah or Texas gets a share of the title, it's not like the BCS is going to fork over a second crystal football.

Sadly, the debate continues, and there is no answer in the foreseeable future, all we can do is hope the football gods (BCS executives) make up their mind soon.

GIANTS....EAGLES....PLAYOFFS!...the PIX sports team breaks down this weekend's match up...Will Eli and the offense show up? Or will Justin Tuck and the Big Blue D have to get things done?

Although Eli has been a pillar of stability this season, my philosophy is that defense wins championships. So, I'm going to rely on the Giants D to shut down Brian Westbrook, and send the Giants on to the NFC Championship game.

But, could the Eagles fly in and dash the Giants dreams of Super Bowl repeat glory? If Brian Westbrook has another 100+ yard game like he did in week 14, is it possible for the Big Blue offense to keep up?

Odds are, with a big snow storm headed our way for game time, that both teams will turn to the run game. It'll be Westbrook vs. Brandon Jacobs, and at home, with the season on the line...I don't see how the Eagles defense will be able to stop the big man.

My Prediction: Giants 17 - Eagles 14

Chris' Prediction: Brandon Jacobs will have a huge game and the defense will slow down Westbrook. The weather will be a factor. That's why it will be important for Jacobs to run well, because the passing game will most likely not be there. Without Plaxico Burress in the lineup, the Giants should focus on their big bruising back. The Giants will have a chip on their shoulder because the Eagles just beat them in Week 14.

Giants 23 - Eagles 17

Lolita's Prediction: Once again, the Giants find themselves being doubted and they will thrive AGAIN! The Eagles' string of wins, Brian Westbrook's rushing performances, Donovan McNabb finally acting like the quarterback he has always been...BLAH BLAH to me. The Giants are great in the underdog role and will pull out the win. Eli stay focused; Brandon keep pummeling the defense like Man O' Arms, and Big Blue "D": Be a brick wall...

Giants 20 - Philadelphia 14

Apparently saying a couple of Spanish words in my sportscasts has become a popular issue on the radio...at least on WOR Radio 710. Yesterday, I was a guest on "The Steve Malzberg Show". Steve invited me to discuss why I occasionally throw out a Spanish phrase or two and how this came about. I invite you to listen to the show because the comments made, well... I won't do them justice!

In a nutshell, it all began about three years ago. David Ortiz (I believe) hit a monster homerun, and I threw out a "Pa la calle" ("to the street"). Based on the "moment", I reacted to the homerun leaving the park. And, I liked it! It made me feel like I was exerting some of my own personality during the segment. I appreciate the fact that I can have a little fun with sports . As a news reporter, this is not such an easy thing to do.

So, it stuck! Now each sport has its own trademark Spanish line. Steve, respectfully (thank you), questioned the use of these words and added that for some listeners, "it doesn't sit right". Steve's argument is that my use of Spanish phrases can be interpreted as yet another way the U.S. is "in danger of losing its language and culture". I must disagree! It's simply a reaction to a play or a homerun or a goal or a dunk. The words are spoken at appropriate times, when the action justifies an emotional response. Think of it as you, sitting at home, watching the Mets, and Carlos Beltran hits a bomb. You might yell, "Hell ya!" My reaction is in Spanish. As a Puerto Rican, born on the island, with most of her family still on the island, sometimes my thoughts are in my native tongue. However, growing up in the states, my parents (both educators) pushed me to learn English and be as much a part of this society as any "true blood American". Having this balance is the way I have succeeded from elementary school to Harvard University and beyond . However, "Spanish" and the ideals of my own culture have never waned. It is an excellent blend of both worlds that has been instrumental in my personal and professional successes.

Yes, I admit...the use of these phrases has become "my thing", but I don't think this takes away from the sincerity of their use. I have always been true to what I do and work tirelessly to put together accurate, informative and entertaining sportscasts. Trust me, it's not just the players who feel pressure to be appreciated and accepted by the New York, New Jersey sports fan base. I implore you to get past one or two words and REALLY listen to those 3 minutes or so of Lolita's Lineup. You might smile, laugh, say "oh I didn't know that" or simply appreciate the fact that I showed you those much needed highlights (because you were stuck at a lame dinner and couldn't watch the game. We've all been there!) Thanks for the support and keep watching...Adios amigos, Lolita Lopez

So, since broadcast rules wouldn't allow us to show highlights of the National Championship game last night, we decided to take things into our own hands. We couldn't find a 240 pound superhuman quarterback, but come on this is TV, we are allowed to bend the rules a little

Video after the jump. Enjoy!.

PHOTOS: EAGLES DEFEAT GIANTS, 23-11

Alright... so my prediction of a Giants win over the Eagles didn't exactly pan out. But now that I look at it... The Giants season was "shot" on November 28th when Plaxico Burress' gun went off in his sweat pants at the Latin Quarter. Yes, hindsight is 20/20 but the Giants were a completely different team without Plax in the lineup. I knew his absence would be a factor, but I have to admit that I thought the Giants had enough to overcome his loss. They obviously did not.

Just when you thought the New York Knicks couldn't get anymore bad publicity, the New York Post reports center Eddy Curry has been slapped with a shocking sexual harassment lawsuit by his former driver.

New York Knicks center Eddy Curry said he is "shocked" by the lawsuit, which alleges sexual harrassment and racial discrimination. (Newsday / J. Conrad Williams Jr)

According to court papers filed in Manhattan Federal court Monday, chauffeur David Kuchinsky claims the Knicks reserve center attempted to solicit gay sex from him on a number of occasions. Read all the shocking allegations after the jump.

Like most baseball fans, I get excited when when the Hall of Fame voting comes around. No other sport brings such anticipation come Hall of Fame time.. You don't see NFL fans jumping around going, "Which offensive linemen are heading to Canton this year?"

Yesterday, Rickey Henderson and Jim Rice were named. But it's the circumatances surrounding their elections that ticks me off. The result: A problem that must be fixed.

Now that the Giants and Jets are done til next September and there is still about a month until pitchers and catchers report... And then still another 3 months until the baseball regular season... What captures your sports fancy? What are you paying attention to?

We're only weeks away fronm the start of spring training, and it is AWESOME to know that the Mets are leaning towards NOT allowing Johan Santana to pitch in the World Baseball Classic in March. After acquiring K-Rod and Putz, the Mets have been too darn quiet. Thank the Lord that they seem to understand that Santana is needed between April and October. The Classic looks like a great thing, but only because baseball doesn't approach marketing the game here in the U.S. Having this tournament during spring training is also pretty stupid.

The first half of the 2008-09 NBA season is nearly over and the league's hottest team is none other than the Cleveland Cavaliers. They've won by convincing margins and accumulated an Eastern Conference best 30-6 record. And they have yet to lose at home.

News out of Islanders camp is that goalie Rick DiPietro will likely sit out the rest of the season with an injured EVERYTHING. On the bright side, Ricky’s absence will fast track the Isles towards the worst record in the NHL and the #1 pick in the draft (where they will probably bungle that decision, too).

Given the Isles decade-and-a-half commitment to DiPietro and the stunning lack of productivity they’ve gotten from their investment, we got to thinking; who are some OTHER tremendously disappointing New York athletes of recent memory.

The following list is hardly comprehensive and merely scratches the surface of New York crap-dom. So check it out, and feel free to add to it as you see fit.

Now that I've thrown out an opinion on the World Baseball Classic, it's time to remind the Mets what I said a while back after they signed Francisco Rodriguez and J.J. Putz: Omar Minaya, there is still plenty of work to do. Go get busy.

This Sunday marks the REAL end of the football season. TThe AFC and NFC Championship games, what the NFL calls 'Championship Sunday', is the last staple of NFL football for about 8 months. The Super Bowl, with all the over hype, 7 hours of pregame, halftime show and analysis of stupid commercials is all about everything BUT the game. The Pro Bowl. Please. The NFL has the most useless of the 4 North American All Star games.

CHECK OUT THE PIX NEWS AT TEN PICKS AFTER THE BREAK

Now that the Ravens are done for the year, looks like the Jets will tab Baltimore's defensive coordiantor Rex Ryan to be Gang Green's 8th coach in 16 years. Before I list a few positives, let's list what the Jets, most notably owner Woody Johnson did NOT do during their coaching search.

Long time boxing fans, especially those in New York and and his native Puerto Rico, will fondly remember Hall of Famer Jose Torres, a 1956 Olympic Silver medalist and former light heavyweight champion. Sadly, 'Chegui' passed away today at age 72. Torres is seen here during his career and with one time heavyweight contender Gerry Cooney.

Torres was known as a tenacious fighter. He stopped Willie Pastrano at the Garden to win the 175 pound title in 1965. Torres lost the light heavy title the following year in a close decision to Dick Tiger. Other notable wins came against Bobo Olson and Benny 'Kid' Paret. He retired in 1969.

But Jose was equally, if not more loved, for his work outside the ring. He became a leader in the Puerto Rucan community. He served as the head of the New York State Athletic Commission and President of the World Boxing Organization. Torres spent many years as a boxing historian and journalist, writing books on Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson in addition to working for ESPN Desportes' boxing telecasts.

Torres 'hometown of Ponce has declared three official days of mourning for Jose. His dignified prescence will be missed, particularly as the sport he loved so much continues its decline of interest in this country.

After so many years of drug abuse and pain, Dwight Eugene Gooden is back. In an interview with Marty Noble on MLB.com, Doc says "I want people to know something good was going to happen" repeating often that he was "good". He implies he is clean of all the drugs and alcohol that made him go from "hot" pitcher to "cold" prison dweller. Gooden will marry for a second time on Saturday to the mother of his four year old son, Dylan. Doc is the father of six children. Monique Moore reportedly met Doc in 1998 and helped him through the tough times. At age 44, he is a little heavier but admittedly: "Happier too. Really happy"

Still, it is hard to think of all the opportunities Doc lost along the way. An NL Rookie of the Year in 1984 with 17 wins, he became the youngest All Star Selection in baseball history at age 19. Up and down went Doc on his rollercoaster: masterful pitching, a series of injuries, and of course the bouts of drug abuse and positive tests for cocaine. Those tests led to suspensions and jail time. His most recent release from prison was 2006. Even so, check out the list of accomplishments: 3 World Series, 4 All Star Selections, a Silver Slugger Award (1992), and a "no hitter" with the Yankees late in his career (1996).

I imagine what could have been and am saddened. But then a smile comes across my face. Doc is good. He says so himself, "I take full responsibility for everything that happened--good and bad." It was great to see him at Shea for that last game and speaking with him, even with the hordes of reporters, I remember the lanky kid I had seen play way back when. At least he has had his moments. Hopefully, now that he's "good", Dwight will have many more off the field.

I first blogged about this back on November 7th... Didn't think it would still be an issue today... But as we are roughly a month away from pitchers and catchers reporting, I will bang the drum again. Bring Manny Ramirez to the Mets!! From what I hear, Omar Minaya is interested in Manny. The Mets should be interested in Manny. Manny will help immensely because the Mets outfield situation is far from settled.

While the Mets continue to sit on their hands regarding an outfielder they KNOW will produce (and I say that knowing I'd rather not having Manny Ramirez) they DID avoid arbitration with Ryan Church and Angel Pagan. Let's hope for the best.

After all, the Mets, from GM Omar Minaya thru the medical staff, totally botched Church's second concussion last May 20th. He was brought back too soon and both Church-and the club-suffered for it.

Meanwhile, Pagan tore his left labrum in L-A a few weeks before Church's concussion, and was never seen again. Pagan was about as visible as Ann Coulter at a Democratic fundraiser.

So, while Michael Young, Adam Dunn, and sadly even Manny are still out there, it appears, particularly with Pagan that the Mets are thinking 'budget' in the wrong spots. Chances are good that Church has finally had enough rest to be healthy. But Pagan, even whwn physically sound, is a reserve outfielder at best.

I know some comments here have said that I must be patient. That's true to a point. Last year, we all knew Johan Santana WOULD be traded by the Twins. So Omar had the chance to put a deal in place and talk contract. For position players, there are only so many teams. Let's hope that Church and Pagan are ready to go come opening day. Let's also pray that Omar and the Wilpons ubderstand that they cannot go another year without a postseason appearance.

The Brooklyn Cyclones (Mets Single-A team) are paying homage to the new president with an Obama-inspired matchup between the "Baracklyn Cyclones" and the Hudson Valley Renegades (Single-A Tampa Bay affiliate) on June 23. The tickets are being sold at a discounted price starting today until this Friday. Get on board and catch a game (see link below). At least this is a baseball outing we can actually afford! Go Cyclones!

http://www.brooklyncyclones.com/
http://www.baracklyncyclones.com/

Rex Perkins of Chandler, Arizona, come on down! You are worthy of an award dedicated to mocking criminal stupidity. If the police allegations are right, Perkins and co worker Ryan Hanlon have some explaining to do. Perkins edged out Hanlon in a close vote.

Seems Perkins and Hanlon hung signs and burned (using diesel fuel) pro Arizona Cardinals slogans onto and into the lawn of a famous resident, Eagles QB Donovan McNabb. Y'all remember that the Cardinals topped Philly 32-25 last Sunday to advance to the Super Bowl. McNabb has an offseason home in Chandler,

As if messing with the lawn wasn't dumb enough, Perkins left a cardboard box that had an address label easily traced back to him. That mistake, combined with the fact he's 9 years older than Hanlon, earns him "The Stupid Burglar Of The Year Award." Sadly, age doesn't gurantee wisdom-just ask O.J. Simpson.

My guess is that Perkins and Hanlon have the combined brain function of Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble, but with a mean streak. Leaving behind a traceable item at the scene of a crime is generally considered a no-no in the Bad Guys Handbook. I'm sure Kevin Federline has more common sense. Taking a co-worker with you to commit a misdemeanor may want you to consider getting new friends once your legal issues are dealt with.

Fortunately, no one was injured, and as far as we can tell, no brain cells were used.

Well he certainly isn't shy! In fact, Rex Ryan is an "in your face", "I call them like I see them" kind of guy and very much the antithesis of Eric Mangini. While Mangini was reserved and careful about his comments, Ryan is already making guarantees. Listen for yourself!

My favorites:
"With all the cameras and all that, I was looking for the new President. I think we will get to meet him in the next couple of years anyway"

"You got the right guy. Again I plan on proving that each week."

"The message to the rest of the league is hey the Jets are coming."

"I expect to be in the Top 5 in the NFL in Defense"

"Ours is a kill philosophy"

"I am not a one hit wonder"

NO, he is not but this is Ryan's first head coaching job. He has been the Ravens Defensive Coordinator for the past nine years and developed one of the most feared defenses in the league (Top 5 in the NFL). He admits feeling betrayed when John Harbaugh was hired as head coach in Baltimore last year. After he "got over himself", Ryan says he realized how he fit into the mix and what he could learn from Harbaugh. Ryan adds he is more prepared to be a head coach now then he was then.

Well let me tell you Rex, Gang Green fans are PREPARED for you! My father-in-law, who only wears Jets sweats and some work slacks and shirts when he has to, is giddy with excitement! So Rex, you have done something already. Now it's time to work on staying true to your words and those of your father. Rex's dad, Buddy Ryan, began his coaching career with the Jets in 1969. We all know what happened that year? And wouldn't that be sweet karma? Dad tells son: "Don't screw it up. This is my team". Fans weigh in...

David Wright hung out with some young Met fans Thursday afternoon at Schneider Children's Hospital in New Hyde Park, Long Island.

Mets third baseman David Wright visits Schneider Children's Hospital in New Hyde Park, N.Y. January 22, 2009. (WPIX)

In addition to signing autographs, posing for pictures and talking Mets baseball with the youngsters, Wright also met with the media.

We caught up Wright one-on-one to get his take on free agency, the Phillies, and how the World Baseball Classic is affecting his pre-season preparation. Check out the interview after the jump.

Long Snapper Zak DeOssie makes it seven Giants going to the Pro Bowl....and a new Linebackers coach is named...Check out the links below:

http://www.giants.com/news/headlines/story.asp?story_id=34889

http://www.giants.com/news/headlines/story.asp?story_id=34898

It seems like Jeff Wilpon has joined Woody Johnson in the "Owners Who Say Dumb Things Club." Wednesday, at Rex Ryan's introduction as Jets coach, Woody said, "We've been preoccupied with building the new stadium and this. (the new training facility) Now we can concentrate on the most important part, that's the team." HUH??? Does that mean that Eric Mangini was a stop gap till all the PSL and Atlantic Health (sponsor of the training center) money started rolling in? Perhaps Johnson should call all the Jets season ticket holders and let them know when reaching a Super Bowl is the top priority. Seriously, even if Woody MEANT such things (and did he EVER BACKTRACK on WFAN yesterday-listen here) the comments surely did not warm the hearts of long suffering Jers fans.

Fast forward: Last night Jeff Wilpon, the Mets' Chief Operating Officer and heir apparent to owner dad Fred, told Bloomberg News that not only are the Mets NOT interested in Manny Ramirez, but "Omar (GM Minaya) and 'the baseball people' haven't brought him up as an option." Wilpon hasn't looked at the shovel he's diggiing with.

It probably won't affect things too much on the field, but the Yankees front office staff has started the move from 'Old' Yankee Stadium to 'New' Yankee Stadium. Even some memorabillia, like the 1977 and 1978 World Series trophies made the trip. Perhaps the baubles will inspire the 2009 edition to win their first title in nine years.

Move over Sid "The Kid" Crosby... The Penguins have another kid on the team. They signed 8 year old Jacob Anderson to a contract. Its true, Anderson is just 8 years old.

So in the end, why’d Andy Pettitte feel the need to make the Yankees and their fans sweat out his inevitable return?

In today’s phone interview with the media, Pettitte said several times that he considered the Yanks as the ONLY place he’d play and that returning to Houston (or going anywhere else) was never an option.

And with the news that Pettitte agreed to a contract worth $5 million guaranteed as opposed to the original $10 million offered after the season, we ask, “what was the point, Andy?”

Monday's Yankees teleconference was supposed to focus around the Yankees and their re-signing of Andy Pettitte.

But inevitably the talk shifted to Joe Torre’s forthcoming book “The Yankee Years,” and allegations (among other things) of a strained relationship between the Skipper and General Manager Brian Cashman.

Cash addressed those claims to the best of his ability (of course, he hasn’t read the book yet). Take a listen.

When asked if he dreams at night about placing Manny Ramirez into his lineup, New York Mets manager Jerry Manuel laughed and grinned. Speaking outside the Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen in Chelsea where he helped unload and deliver food brought in by City Harvest, Manuel said that decision on Manny resides with Omar Minaya and the Mets front office but he clearly has a vested interest.

As Manuel heads into his first spring training at the helm of the Mets he says fundamentals will play a big part on the team. As for his frazzled nerves brought on by the shaky bullpen last year, he can take solace in the fact that Duaner Sanchez, JJ Putz and K-Rod will be around to calm things down late in games.

Manuel says he was inspired by President Barack Obama's success and hopes to encourage the 2009 version of the New York Mets to reach the playoffs and beyond. Hear more from Manuel after the jump.

It's no joke. I certainly wish it was because come on, how much more T.O. do we need? We have seen his antics from the situps in the driveway to the tear-shedding moment after the NFC Divisional playoff in 2008..."he's my quarterback." (Insert throw-up noise here)

According to the VH1 press release (the network will debut the show Summer of 2009), Terrell Owens will be shadowed in the offseason by his publicists AND best friends. The two ladies are more like his "sisters" and will help him find love and get his personal life together. I am trying to be open-minded but come on! You want to be REAL, then let me see you with "real" friends NOT publicists who are ALSO your best friends. Does that even make sense? You pay them for goodness sake! They'll say anything. Is the show scripted? Probably! Note to T.O....even Jim Watkins has friends. (This is a blog war, right?) The release adds, there is a difference between the "media magnet known to the world as 'T.O.'" and the "quiet, sensitive, mild-mannered guy....that's Terrell."

OH PLEASE, there is only one T.O. He is the one who loves attention and is willing to put his personal life (or the fake/true version of) on national TV for ratings. I, for one, am not interested! I know what I will see even before the show goes on-air...an arrogant, boastful,conceited person who is not even interesting. So before I waste more minutes of my life that I will never get back because I am writing this thing, here's my title for the new reality show:

"T.O.: The Biggest Loser"

Check out the release below and do share....Lolita

http://blog.vh1.com/2009-01-26/terrell-owens-has-a-vh1-reality-show/

Turns out Jerry Manuel agrees with me (and a lot of other folks)... I've been saying "Let Manny be Manny in Flushing" since November... The Mets manager is on board with that even if the Mets aren't. With just a couple of weeks before pitchers and catchers report to Port St. Lucie for Spring Training, we caught up with Mets Manager Jerry Manuel as he helped deliver food to a soup kitchen in Manhattan. He spoke about a bunch of subjects... Manny Ramirez, the 2 Mets collapses and the inauguration of President Barack Obama just to name a few. Take a listen as he sums up the state of the Mets.

Thanks to this lovely weather and feeling a little under it, I haven't had a chance to write about the Joe Torre book snafu. I don't begrudge Torre the opportunity to WRITE a book. Hey, I'm still waiting for somebody to pick up my WPIX memoirs, but sadly I don't have the name power that Torre does. It's the timing of Joe's penstrokes that bothers me.

Ok, that’s not fair. But still, it was somewhat surprising to see that Seattle dealt the former Mets bullpen blower-uper before he even threw a pitch in the Pacific Northwest.

If you haven’t heard the news, the M’s sent Heilman to the Cubs for Ronny Cedeno and Garrett Olson. This coming only a month or so after Seattle acquired Heilman from the Mets in the JJ Putz deal.

Mariners GM Jack Zduriencik, speaking about the deal, rattled off one of the best lines ever: "We were excited to acquire him, and sorry to trade him." Priceless. Only Heilman.

But this is good news, I suppose, for Aaron.

David Lee was NOT among the seven reserves named to the Eastern Conference All Star team Thursday night. Lee’s omission means the Knicks will be without an all-star representative for the 8th straight year. Yikes!

Here are the East reserves:
Devin Harris – NJ
Paul Pierce – BOS
Chris Bosh – TOR
Joe Johnson – ATL
Danny Granger – IND
Rashard Lewis – ORL
Jameer Nelson – ORL

So was Lee snubbed? To be honest, I really don’t know. There are several arguments FOR and AGAINST Lee’s making the team. After breaking them down, I’m still not sure. Let’s take a look.

Giants running back Brandon Jacobs wants his buddy, Plaxico Burress back on the team! Jacobs insists that the Giants would have been "15 and 1" and quote "we win the Super Bowl" if Plax had played out the season. As we all know, Burress was suspended for the last four games of the regular season after shooting himself in the leg in November. The Giants lost four of their last five games.

The two teammates apparently text and talk often. Jacobs insists that Plax is a "different guy" since the shooting and deserve a fresh start. I don't disagree. Plax is a great athlete and talented football player. Maybe it takes something like this to bring him back to Earth. It's just unfortunate that it takes a self inflicted gunshot wound to make Burress realize that he has to be responsible, not just for himself but for his wife and son, and that he must be grounded at all times. I don't care how much money these professional athletes make, they should always remember it is their job. It's not like I can go around being disorderly in my place of employment or even outside of it. I have a responsibility and really... integrity. I want to be able to look at myself in the mirror each morning. What happened to good old fashion values and playing the sport for the love of the game? Get back to your roots, you know? These Pros get too many free passes.

This being said, I believe in second chances and wish Plax the best. However, Plax's football future will be based in part on the outcome of his legal proceedings on weapons possession charges. The Giants and the NFL will wait to act.

The Giants, however, shouldn't wait to act on Jacobs. The free agent, wants to be back with the team and hopes Big Blue treats him fairly. We know what that means...show me the money! I know Jacobs is often attered and bruised, pummeling into defenders at will. Yet, he brings the team energy and coupled with other backs plus a more diverse throwing game (Plax or no Plax, the Giants just did not react well to losing the WR at the end of the season), Brandon will be an asset.

Let me know what you think....Lolita

Our new President Barack Obama promised change and a hopeful uniting of America. It looks like at least on one issue, the President has his wish. Two members of the House of Representatives, Democrat Dennis Kucinich and Republican Ted Poe, are right on the money (no pun intended) requesting that Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner dissolve the partnership between the Mets and Citigroup over the naming of the club's new home.

In case you didn't notice, what with all the hoopla surrounding commercials, Springsteen and President Obama's pick, there is a somewhat important football game this Sunday. As our good friend in Fairfield would call it: 'The Game With The Roman Numerals', aka The Super Bowl (make that XLIII) is this Sunday night at 6:30. For those of you that care, The Learning Channel starts its pregame coverage at 11 am with "Evolution Of A National Holiday." Here are our picks as the Pittsburgh Steelers are favored to beat the Arizona Cardinals.

I realize that this will not be a popular position but its my opinion and I am entitled. I agree with Brandon Jacobs. If Plaxico Burress is legally able to play next year, I think the Giants should bring him back. The Giants were a completely different team when Plax was out of the lineup. Jacobs even said it. They didn't have their identity and there was no time to really adjust their play calling to compensate for the absence of the 6 foot 5 inch wide receiver. But everyone knows that. The question is: What happens next year?