MLB - Yankees on the run to acquire Santana

 

Even though most big names are already taken, there are still a few options GM’s are likely to consider for their teams, this is the case of left-handed starting pitcher Johan Santana who’s possible next home is going to be the New York Yankees.

Santana who holds a 93-44 record with a 3.22 ERA in eight major league seasons, is expecting a juicy contract with a possible extension if he gets signed by the New Yorkers.

Whoever gets him could be the favorite to win the East and The Yankees are not Santana’s only option, the Red Sox have also set their eyes on the two-time Cy Young award winner, but negotiations with the team from the Bronx are far more advanced and it’s quite possible that a trade is going to take place, The Twins would like to acquire one of the “Big Three” pitchers from The Yankees (possibly Phil Hughes) and Melky Cabrera , JoseTabata completing the list of transfers.

Yankees senior vice presidents Hank Steinbrenner have stated that discussions are ongoing but he said that it is too early to give the trade as a fact.

"I don't want to get into that at this point, as far as what they want, what we're willing to give and all that," he said. "It's preliminary right now." Steinbrenner said.

For now these are all just rumors (but strong ones), the truth will be revealed next week when the MLB’s Winter Meetings takes place at the Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee, and Brian Cashman (Yankees General Manager) is ready for an early celebration.

Jackson stays with the Lakers

 

Phil Jackson just signed a two-year $24 million extension to his three-year, $30 million contract, the 62 year old veteran and member of the Hall of Fame, was hesitant to sign due to health complications, he has undergone through two hip replacements since October 2006,in fact, he put off his decision of coming back twice before meeting with Lakers owner Jerry Buss.

"This offer was extended to me last year, and I promised Dr. Buss that I would let them know before the end of the season whether I would continue on," Jackson said.

Jackson has one of the brightest careers in NBA coaching, he have earned nine championship rings, 6 with the Bulls and 3 with the Lakers and his career playoff record is 179-77.

"He's a Championship Coach, he's got a lot of insight, a lot of wisdom. His record speaks for itself." forward Lamar Odom said.

Jackson is trying to bring the Lakers back to a glorious era and he has stated that the rumors of his departure linked to the fact that Kobe Byant, the player he once called “uncouchable” wanted to be traded, were only that, rumors.

Even Kobe praised Jackson’s decision:

"I think it's great. He's clearly, in my opinion, the greatest coach of all time, so when you can lock him in, that's always a great thing." Bryant said after the Lakers' 127-99 victory.

Hopefully Bryant and Jackson will leave their egos on the side for the team’s benefit and use their ambition to win the Lakers a few more titles together.

USA – Russia, a run for the David Cup title

 

The owner of one of the most prestigious titles in the world of Professional Tennis will have a name this Saturday, December 1^st, when the US team and the Russians face each other and dispute this year’s trophy.

The Americans, lead by Patrick McEnroe and team mate Andy Roddick are looking to end with a 12 year drought, even though they have 31 Davis Cup titles, this is the longest span recorded without titles for the Red and Blue team.

"This has been such a big goal for us as a team. So yes, there is pressure." Said McEnroe

The Russians have suffered of off-field difficulties, like Nikolay Davydenko, and allegations of Match-Fixing involving him. They were also charged of contaminating Tommy Hass’s food at the Davis Cup semifinals held in Moscow, Russia. The reds won the competition, and after investigations from the The International Tennis Federation (ITF), no evidence was found to support the poisoning allegations.

It seems like this Tournament’s finals are going to take place under special conditions, both teams are trying to bring back their reputation, like the Americans, they would kill for a title, and the Russians would like to wipe their faces and re-affirm as champions , leaving the Game-Betting issues buried deep down the ground.