Former Astros scout dies at 95

It is announced that Stan Benjamin, a former scout for the Houston Astros, passed away last Thursday at the age of 95.
Benjamin joined the Astros in 1965 and worked in the organization for nearly 40 years as a scout at the amateur and professional levels. His duties included serving as a Major League scout covering the American League East clubs for several seasons. He also served as Houston's amateur scouting supervisor for the Northeast section of the country.

"Stan was a vital cog in the Astros organization," said Astros president of baseball operations Tal Smith. "He was a keen judge of talent and had great personal associations throughout the game as a result of his long career as a player, high school coach, college basketball official and scout," Smith added. "All of us who knew Stan will have great memories of him."

Nationals sign veteran southpaw Guardado to Minors deal

The Nationals announced that they have agreed to terms with reliever Eddie Guardado on a Minor League deal with an invite to big league Spring Training. The club have been interested in Guardado since the Winter Meetings. According to a baseball source, team scouts told general manager Mike Rizzo that Guardado would be a big help to the club. During his 17 seasons in the big leagues, he has played in 908 games and saved 187 of them in his mlb jersey. He is best known for his years as the Twins' closer. His best season was in 2002, when he saved 45 games.

Guardado is one of three relievers acquired by the Nationals this offseason. The club traded for right-hander Brian Bruney on Dec. 7 and agreed to term with former Pirates closer Matt Capps on Christmas Eve.

Decker is named to lead Fresno Grizzlies

Former Major League catcher Steve Decker has been named manager of the Giants' Triple-A affiliate Fresno Grizzlies.
Decker, who is considered a managerial candidate for the Major Leagues will be joined in Fresno by beating coach Ken Joyce, pitching coach Pat Rice and trainer Anthony Reyes. Decker has progressed quickly through the Giants farm system, having managed at Salem-Keizer in 2005, Class A San Jose in 2008 and Double-A Connecticut in 2009, where he reached the Eastern League finals. He previously served as Triple-A batting coach.

Decker played seven seasons in the Major Leagues, four as the catcher in the giants jersey. Joyce takes over for Hensley Muelens, who was promoted to Major League batting coach. Rice returns as pitching coach for a second season. He previously spent 13 seasons in the Seattle system.

Juan Uribe will return to Giants

According to FoxSports.com, the utility infielder is close to returning to the Giants. Uribe has been testing the free-agent market after playing in San Francisco through a one-year deal worth a little over $1 million. In 122 games he batted .289 with 16 home runs and 55 RBIs. It marked Uribe's highest average since hitting .283 with the White Sox in 2004 in the white sox jersey

Uribe was the starting shortstop for the 2005 World Series champion White Sox as one of the best defensive players in the American League at his position. He played 44 games at third base last year, 41 at shortstop and 38 at second base.

Predators' Dan Ellis will appear on NHL Live!

It is reported that Nashville Predators goaltender Dan Ellis will be among the guests on NHL Live! on Monday, scheduled from noon-2 p.m. on NHL Network and NHL.com and broadcast on XM Radio. Ellis, who is a former second-round pick of the Dallas Stars, is 6-5-1 with a 2.77 goals-against average for the Predators this season.

Also scheduled to appear to speak with co-hosts Rob Simpson and E.J. Hradek are TSN analyst Bob McKenzie and CBC color commentator Craig Simpson. NHL Live! is broadcast from the NHL Store Powered By Reebok in New York City.

Dodgers and White Sox complete Juan Pierre deal

The Dodgers acquired right-handed pitchers John Ely and Jon Link from the Chicago White Sox to complete Juan Pierre trade. Ely was a starter for Double-A Birmingham in 2009 with a league-leading 125 strikeouts in 156 innings. He is known as an adequate fastball and is considered to be a fifth-starter candidate. He was a third-round pick in 2007. Link saved 13 games at Triple-A in 2009, when he was striking out 66 but walking 27 in 56 1/3 innings in his white sox jersey. He is known as a hard thrower who has come across troubles for most of his seven professional seasons.

Juan Pierre has two years remaining on his contract of which the Dodgers will pay $10.5 million and the White Sox paying $8 million. The basic purpose of the deal for the Dodgers was to provide some payroll relief to obtain a starting pitcher.

Philles add Ross Gload to bench

It is reported that Ross Gload has passed his physical in Philadelphia to finalize a two-year contract with the Phillies. And it is said that he will make $1 million in 2010 and $1.6 million in 2011. Gload hit six home runs and 30 RBIs in 125 games last season with the Florida Marlins. He becomes the final piece on a Phillies bench that includes infielder Greg Dobbs, outfielder Ben Francisco, catcher Brian Schneider and infielder Juan Castro.3.

Gload is a career .300 pinch-hitter, which is the highest average for any active pinch-hitter with 140. Now Gload, who hits left-handed, is known as a fine defensive first basemen, but he can also play the outfield. Now it is time for us to put on the phillies jerseys and support him.

Padres give invitation to Denorfia

The Padres announced that they signed outfielder Chris Denorfia to a Minor League contract with an invitation to Spring Training. Denorfia has a .279 batting average in 208 Major League at-bats with Cincinnati and Oakland. Last season, Denorfia spent most of the season with the Oakland's Triple-A Sacramento affiliate, hitting .271 with nine home runs and 15 stolen bases. Denorfia got 120 at-bats with the Reds during the 2006 season in the reds jersey.

The Padres like Denorfia's versatility and that he can play all three outfield positions. There will be plenty of competition for jobs in the outfield in Spring Training. If there is nothing else, the addition of Denorfia will give Padres outfield depth in Triple-A Portland.

Statement regarding Ducks Henry and Susan Samueli

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman issued the following statement on Dec.9: "On December 9, 2009, U.S. District Court Judge Cormac J. Carney vacated the single charge that was pending against Dr. Henry Samueli, indicating that no law had been violated. We are delighted that the Samueli good name has now been cleared. In retrospect, it is regrettable and unfortunate that the circumstances at that time caused the Samuelis and the Anaheim Ducks to endure any suspension. We were pleased to welcome the Samuelis back to the NHL when the suspension was lifted this past November 12."

This statement comes after U.S. District Court proceedings this week in California, where Judge Carney stated that Henry Samueli had not made a materially false statement during his testimony before the SEC.

Brodeur appears in NHL Hour

Martin Brodeur will be the guest on Thursday's NHL Hour with Commissioner Gary Bettman which can be heard on NHL.com and Sirius XM Radio at 3 p.m. ET. Broderu tied Terry Sawchuk at the top of all-time list. His next chance to own the record himself comes Friday against the Florida Panthers.

Earlier this season, Brodeur set the all-time mark and last season broke Patrick Roy's all-time wins record. He's also four games away from passing Roy to become the all-time leader in games played by a goalie. The NHL Hour With Gary Bettman encourages fans to call in with questions for the Commissioner.

Burke meets with five NHL GMs

Toronto Maple Leafs GM Burke, who is also the GM for Team USA, met with the five other NHL GMs who make up the selection committee. Burke is confident about the majority of America's 23-man roster is in place, with the 2010 Olympic Games just two months away. But there are still decisions to be made. "Canada can be wrong on three or four players and it's not going to change their team." Burke told The Globe and Mail in Toronto.

Team USA's roster will be named at Fenway Park on Jan .1 during the Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic. Many fans believe Canada will win the gold medal on home ice. "Every time in this tournament will be bet on Canada and Russia," Burke said. "No one is betting on us and that's okay. But we're there to win."

Center fielder expressed desire to remain in the team

It is reported that both outfielder Marlon Byrd and catcher Ivan Rodriguez have turned down the Rangers' offer with Rodriguez agreeing to a two-year deal with the Nationals. The Rangers is in the hope of being able to re-sign Byrd to be their starting center fielder, and Byrd says that he wants to stay with the team. "We'll leave that one open," general manager Jon Daniels said. "We're in the same spot with Marlon. He's getting a sense of what the market is."

Also club officials are looking at other options and investigating the possibility of signing a veteran catcher to go along with Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Taylor Teagarden.

Giants sign Pena to Minors deal

It is reported that the Giants have signed Tony Pena Jr. to a Minor League contract, adding that Pena would earn a base salary of $650,000 if he spends all of the 2010 season in the Majors. Pena, who is the son of former All-Star catcher Tony Pena, was once viewed as the Royals' shortstop of the future, but he compiled just a .228 batting average in four big league seasons in Atlanta and Kansas City. Then he became a right-handed reliever for part of the 2009 season striking out 18 and walking six in 19 1/3 innings.

Pena became a free agent after the season and is now pitching for Aguilas of the Dominican Winter League. Well we will not see him playing in giants jersey for a period of time.

Garko becomes a free agent

The Giants announced that they refused to tender first baseman Ryan Garko a 2010 contract. Garko was expected to be a run producer after the Giants obtained him from Cleveland for Minor League left-hander Scott Barnes on July 27. He hit .235 with two home runs, 12 RBIs.

Economics can account for Garko's leaving. He was eligible for salary arbitration, which would have guaranteed him a significant pay increase from his 2009 base salary. San Francisco faces arbitration cases with two-time Cy Young Award-winning right-hander Tim Lincecum and closer Brian Wilson, who are guaranteed astronomical raises. Left-hander Jonathan Sanchez and right-hander Brandon Medders also are arbitration-eligible. In addition, the Giants' pursuit of free-agent first basemen Nick Johnson and Adam LaRoche demonstrates that Garko would have occupied a subordinate role.
Now Garko has to take off his giants jersey and have a rest for a while.

Coyotes' Jovanovski is suspended two games

The National Hockey League announced that Phoenix Coyotes defenseman Jovanovski has been suspended for two games without pay, due to an incident in NHL game against the Minnesota Wild on December 7. Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement and based on his average annual salary, Jovanovski will forfeit $67,357.52. The money goes to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.

Jovanovski delivered a blow to Minnesota's Andrew Ebbett and penalty was assessed on the play. Jovanovski will miss Thursday's game at Los Angeles and Dec. 12 against San Jose Sharks. He will be eligible to return on Dec. 14 at Detroit in his coyotes jersey.

Capitals claim Chris Bourque off waivers

According to the Washington Capitals, the team have claimed forward Chris Bourque off waivers from the Pittsburgh Penguins and assigned him to the AHL's Hershey Bears. Bourque returns to the Washington organization after recording 3 assists in 20 games this season for the Penguins in pittsburgh penguins jersey.

Bourque was the Capitals’ second-round choice in the 2004 Entry Draft and has scored 1 goal in 12 career games with Washington. He has played four seasons with the Bears and helped Hershey win the Calder Cup in 2006 and 2009. Last season, he scored 21 goals and 52 assists in 69 games in the Hershey scoring race with 73 points. Bourque tallied five goals and 16 assists in 22 playoff games.

Cam Ward is not in the injured list

President and General Manager of the Carolina Hurricanes Jim Rutherford announced that the team has activated Cam Ward from the long-term injured list. Ward has missed the Hurricanes' last 13 games after being cut on his leg by a skate on Nov. 7. He is eligible to play in his carolina hurricanes jersey at New Jersey on Dec. 9.

Now he is in his fifth NHL season, and has compiled a 122-86-21 record in 239 regular-season games with the Hurricanes. Ward is the franchise's all-time leader in playoff wins and he captured the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2006 as the Most Valuable Player. The Hurricanes drafted Ward in the first round in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.

Tate breaks his jaw in ATV accident

The Padres confirmed that their first-round Draft pick in 2009, No. 3 overall pick Donavan Tate, broke his jaw in an all-terrain-vehicle accident last weekend. The Padres said that Tate will be ready for the start of Spring Training.

Tate received the largest signing bonus in franchise history, but had his jaw broken following the accident. He signed with the team on Aug. 17, and has yet to make his professional debut, as he was sidelined with a sports hernia. He had the surgery to repair the hernia on Oct. 7. It seems that he will put on his pirates jersey after a few weeks.

Yankees manager appears in Manhattan for charity

Yankees manager Joe Girardi is expected to make a public appearance at a Chipotle Mexican Grill location in Manhattan to raise funds for his Catch 25 Foundation. The World Series-winning capitain will be at the Chipotle restaurant at 25 West 45th Street from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each donation goes to support the mission of Catch 25. The donation also gives customers a chance between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. for Girardi autographed items, including a No. 27 yankees jersey.

Catch 25 was formed to raise awareness and find treatments and cures for Alzheimer's, cancer and infertility. It also provides scholarships and financial aid to those people who struggle with these diseases and serve children and adults who may not have the financial and emotional support they want.

Avalanche acquire Foote and Hendricks

The Colorado Avalanche announced that the team has acquired defenseman Adam Foote and forward Matt Hendricks from the injured reserve list. Both of them will be available in the game against the Minnesota Wild at Pepsi Center.
Foote has missed the last five games after suffering the injury on Nov. 17 at Calgary. Hendricks has missed the last six games due to a groin injury. He was placed on Nov. 19. Hendricks has two goals in 15 games this year in the nhl jersey.

The team also announced that the club has placed defenseman Kyle Cumiskey on IR and claimed defenseman Tom Preissing on waivers.

Gustavsson will undergo procedure this weekend

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced on Thursday that goaltender Jonas Gustavsson will undergo a heart procedure this weekend. The first procedure took place on September 15, 2009 during the training camp. The determination was made after he was examined several days ago by medical specialists.

Gustavsson played the first period in Tuesday's game at Montreal in toronto maple leafs jersey. Defenceman Carl Gunnarsson sustained a hyper-extended left elbow in the game against Buffalo Sabres. He is expected to be out of the lineup for about six weeks.

Oilers sign junior goalie as backup

The Edmonton Oilers announced that goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin will sit out Saturday's game against Chicago and have signed junior goaltender Torrie Jung, serving as Jeff Deslauriers' backup against the Blackhawks. Khabibulin will miss the game as a precaution as he continues to deal with a injured back. He last played in Monday's 3-2 shootout loss at Columbus Blue Jackets in edmonton oilers jersey.

Jung is in his second season with the Western Hockey League’s Edmonton Oil Kings after two seasons with the Kelowna Rockets. He has appeared in 20 games with the Oil Kings in 2009-10. He was originally selected by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the seventh round in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

Yankees refuse option for Mitre

Last week, the Yankees declined their $1.25 million option for Sergio Mitre, who didn't make New York's postseason roster, is still under control of Major League service time. Mitre underwent elbow ligament replacement surgery in July 2008 and agreed to a Minor League contract with New York in November. Then he played in the first 50 games while serving a suspension because of testing positive for a banned substance under Major League Baseball's Drug Policy.

Mitre joined the Yankees in late July and and played in 12 games including 9 starts in yankees jersey. Totally he has played in 90 career games with three different teams.

Dave Jauss will become Mets' bench coach

Dave Jauss, a former bench coach for the Orioles and Dodgers, will be hired by the Mets for the same position. An announcement is expected to be made on Wednesday or Thursday. Jauss left his recent position as Baltimore bench last month after two seasons. And he was the bench coach for Grady Little with the Dodgers from 2006-07, he spent 10 previous seasons with the Red Sox in various positions, serving as first-base coach, Minor League field coordinator, director of player development and Major League advance scout.

Actually Jauss has a history with Mets manager Jerry Manuel, who was the Minor League field coordinator for the Montreal Expos when Jauss got his first position as a Minor League manager in 1988. Sandy Alomar Jr., a catching instructor was named first-base coach by the Indians on Tuesday.

Sabres General Manager will appear on NHL Hour

According to the report, Buffalo Sabres general manager Darcy Regier will be the guest on Thursday's NHL Hour With Commissioner Gary Bettman on Sirius XM Radio at about 3 p.m. ET. Regier became general manager of the Sabres in 1997 and he is the longest-serving general manager in franchise history.

The show encourages hockey fans to call in with questions for the Commissioner. NHL Hour with Commissioner Gary Bettman now broadcasts live on Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. ET on NHL Home Ice and on Sirius Channel 208 and NHL.com.

Ryan Smyth left game with upper body injury

It is said that Kings forward Ryan Smyth suffered an upper body injury during the Los Angeles Kings and Florida Panthers game on Monday night and he did not return to the game. Smyth ranks second in the team in points, goals and assists in 22 games in his first season in Los Angeles Kings.

The veteran forward was acquired from Colorado Avalanche in exchange for Kyle Quincey, Tom Preissing. He was a fifth-round pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft on July 3. And when will he come back to the ice in his los angeles kings jersey again?

Ilya Kovalchuk scores victory goal

After missing six games and nearly three weeks with a broken bone in his right foot, Kovalchuk was in the lineup on Thursday night for the Thrashers’ game against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden and scored the go-ahead goal in the second period. He also had an assist on Rich Peverley's and added another on Maxim Afinogenov's empty-netter for a three-point night.

The Thrashers said on Thursday night that they would wait to see how he felt during the warmup. He had been expected to be out for another week. But now he was on the ice for the warmup and in the lineup wearing his thrashers jersey.

Colin Campbell will appear in NHL Hour

It is reported that NHL Senior Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Colin Campbell will be the guest on NHL Hour With Commissioner Gary Bettman today on SIRIUS XM Radio at 3 p.m. Campbell will disscuss the issues that were talked about during the NHL General Managers meetings this week in Toronto.

NHL Hour with Commissioner Gary Bettman now broadcasts live on Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. ET on NHL Home Ice and NHL.com. The show will re-air on SIRIUS XM Radio, with shows available for download via podcast on NHL.com.

Foote and Moulson will appear on NHL Live!

It is reported that Veteran defenseman Adam Foote and New York Islanders newcomer Matt Moulson will appear on Monday on NHL Live! TSN commentator Bob McKenzie will also join co-hosts between 12 to 2 p.m. on NHL Network and NHL.com.

Foote has played in more than 1,000 career games for the Quebec Nordiques, Colorado Avalanche and Columbus Blue Jackets. He won Stanley Cups with the Avalanche in 1996 and 2001. Moulson, who had 29 games of NHL experience with the Los Angeles Kings, now has been on the Islanders' top line along with No. 1 draft pick John Tavares. He leads New York with seven goals in the islanders jersey.

Strasburg is scratched from Rising Stars

The Nationals announced on Friday that Stephen Strasburg has been scratched from his scheduled start on Saturday,
The right-hander is suffering from a muscle strain in his neck, and the club said the move was "for precautionary reasons." He is currently recovering as day-to-day.

Strasburg, who was the No.1 overall pick in the 2009 First-Year Player Draft, was scheduled to start for the East Division team in the Rising Stars Game of the Arizona Fall League. Right-hander Drew Storen was also selected for the club. There is no word about when his next AFL season will come. Angels prospect and right-hander Tommy Mendoza will start in Strasburg's place.

Defenseman Wisniewski is suspended for two games

The National Hockey League announced on Monday.that Anaheim Ducks defenseman James Wisniewski has been suspended for two games without pay, for giving a blow to the head of Phoenix Coyotes forward Shane Doan on Oct. 31.
The incident occurred at the first period of that game.

According to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement and his average annual salary, Wisniewski will forfeit $28,497.40, whice goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund. He will miss games on Tuesday against Pittsburgh and Thurday's against Nashville Predators. He will be eligible to return on Saturday against Phoenix Coyotes. Hope he will show up in Saturday's game in his anaheim ducks jersey.

The sale of Coyotes franchise to NHL is a success

U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Redfield T. Baum confirmed that he has approved the sale of the Phoenix Coyotes on Monday, transferring ownership to the NHL. The agreement was reached last Monday during a recess in court proceedings. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly stressed the following statement:

"We are pleased and very encouraged by today's developments in court. Now that approval of the proposed sale has been entered by the Court, the National Hockey League will work to close the transaction quickly and assume full control of the Coyotes' business operations. The League also will engage immediately in a process to identify -- and expedite sale of the franchise to -- new ownership that is committed to the Club's long-term success in the Phoenix/Glendale area. We do not intend to comment publicly on that process. The NHL thanks Coyotes fans for their continued support of the franchise and hopes that today's developments will provide fans further reason to embrace the Coyotes in order to ensure the team's long-term future in Arizona."

Dobbs and Lidge return to the team

It is reported that A prankster boarded up Greg Dobbs' locker with cardboard and yellow caution tape at Citizens Bank Park because Dobbs had been out of hospital with flu-like symptoms. The cardboard and tape were removed because Dobbs had rejoined the team. "I feel good," Dobbs said before Game 3 of the World Series. "I'm ready to go."

The flu has run through the Phillies' clubhouse. Right-hander Tyler Walker, who is not on the postseason roster, missed time recently because of an illness. He rejoined the team on Friday. Closer Brad Lidge worked out Friday, but went home during the team's workout on the field because of an illness. Lidge, who did not want to say much about his sickness, said he feels better and is available to pitch. Pedro Martinez, who pitched Game 2 on Thursday, also said he felt sick in the days leading up to his start. It is so regrettable that fans can not see those players in the phillies jerseys playing on the field for a while.

Ranger ‘s forward Gaborik will miss the game against the Wild

Now it is confirmed that New York Rangers forward Marian Gaborik will not play in the game against the Minnesota Wild. Rangers coach John Tortorella announced that Gaborik injured his lower-body and would not play.

This season Gaborik leads the team in his new york rangers jersey with 10 goals and 8 assists. He suffered the injury Monday in a 5-2 win over the Phoenix Coyotes. "It would be great, but I'm not going to be stupid to go when I won't be able to feel good," said Gaborik. "We'll see how it is in the morning." "It doesn't feel great, but it feels better. It's not that serious. I have to make sure I do the right thing and treat and take it day by day."

Sidney Crosby will participate in Olympic Torch Relay

It is reported that Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby will carry the Olympic Torch in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay on Nov. 18 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. "I am honored and thrilled to have the opportunity to carry the Olympic Flame in my home province of Nova Scotia," Crosby said. "The torch relay will pass through so many communities and hands on the way to Vancouver and I'm privileged to be part of that special group as the Olympic Flame makes its way to Vancouver for the 2010 Winter Games."+

Crosby, originally from Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, will be one of 12,000 torchbearers taking the Olympic Flame 45,000 kilometers across Canada. Crosby was selected because of his outstanding achievements in hockey and his passion for his home country. Now Crosby “takes off” his Penguins jersey and “put on” the Team Canada jersey.

Avalanche’s Budaj has got H1N1 flu

According to a published report in the Denver Post, Colorado Avalanche backup goaltender Peter Budaj has been diagnosed with the H1N1 virus. "We've taken the necessary steps, the necessary precautions, to keep him away from the guys at the right time," coach Joe Sacco told the media. "Hopefully, he'll be joining us on this trip."

Budaj was set to start in goal last Friday against the Hurricanes. But he became ill on Thursday afternoon with flu-like symptoms and was scratched. From the first sign of Budaj's illness last week, the team was concerned it might be H1N1 flu. "We're always cautious," Sacco said. "With Peter, once he came down with those flu-like symptoms, we did the right thing by keeping him away. We'll do whatever we can to make sure our guys stay healthy." Hope he will come back to the ice in the avalanche jersey soon.

Albert Pujols will undergo right elbow surgery

The Cardinals confirmed on Tuesday that the first baseman Albert Pujols will undergo arthroscopic debridement surgery on his right elbow. The surgery, which will remove bone chips in Pujols' elbow, is going to be performed by team physician George Paletta and Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham.

Pujols (in cardinals jersey), coming off a season during which he hit .327 with 47 home runs, is expected to be fully recovered by the start of Spring Training in February next year. This will be the second surgery for Pujols. He had nerve transposition on the same elbow last October. There is a chance that he may still need Tommy John elbow ligament replacement surgery in his career.

Phillies Pitcher left NLCS due to the shoulder strain

According to a report, the Phillies have not decided on their World Series roster, Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Brett Myers is a great consideration. The club said they will not make their roster decision until the American League Championship Series is over and whether their opponent will be the Yankees or Angels.

Myers (in phillies jersey) had a spot on the Phillies' roster for their Division Series before leaving off the NLCS roster, which was attributed to a strained lateral muscle on his throwing shoulder. However, he threw a simulated game on Tuesday and appeared to be recovered. Finally the decision on whether Meyers will be selected or not could depend on whether it will carry 11 or 12 pitchers on its roster. It is certain that Cliff Lee will start Game 1 of the World Series with Cole Hamels and Pedro Martinez to follow accordingly. Other starters, Joe Blanton and J.A. Happ , will likely begin the series in the Phillies' bullpen.

Three NHL games on show for Monday

On Monday, at 7 pm the New York Rangers will host the San Jose Sharks at Madison Square Garden. These Rangers jerseys won their seventh straight on Saturday against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Rookie defenseman Del Zotto scored his third goal of the season in the victory. Meawhile Sharks got back against the New York Islanders on Saturday.

The Dallas Stars aim for their second straight win as they host the Los Angeles Kings at 8:30 p.m. In the final game of the night, the Vancouver Canucks face the Edmonton Oilers at Rexall Place in a Northwest Division showdown. Mikael Samuelsson broke the Canucks against Minnesota at GM Place on Saturday.

Frolov will come back to Kings' lineup

On Monday Frolov (in kings jersey) was a healthy scratch for the Kings game against the Dallas Stars. Two days earlier in the game against Columbus Blue Jackets, Frolov made a great fight which led to a Blue Jacket goal in the first period.

Frolov was back on the ice at practice with new linemates on Wednesday. Frolov practiced on the Kings second line with center Michal Handzus and right winger Dustin Brown. After the practice Murray said that Frolov was back in the lineup, and made sure to leave the door open for Frolov to wait for his returning.

Maple Leafs lose Van Ryn due to knee surgery

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Mike Van Ryn told reporters Friday he will be having re-alignment knee surgery on Oct. 22. His recovery time will be six months. The procedure is called an osteotomy, in which the bone is cut and the knee is realigned. Steve Yzerman underwent a similar procedure in 2002 and returned to the Red Wings, but was not as effective a player.

Van Ryn has not yet played this whole season. He missed the final 16 games last season with a torn MCL in his left knee. He has been suffering injuries throughout his NHL career.

Dodgers Stadium becomes a national institute

After Game 1 of the National League Championship Series, Dodgers( dodgers jerseys )Stadium has become the No. 1 site for playoff games in National League history. Dodger Stadium has now hosted 107 postseason games, one more than the old Busch Stadium.

The original Yankee( yankees jerseys )Stadium is No. 1 with 322 postseason games. Dodger Stadium, with Game 1 on Thursday, has now hosted 41 League Championship Series games which passes the Coliseum for fourth. Old Yankee Stadium had 62 LCS games, Fenway Park had 52 and old Busch Stadium hosted 46. The first postseason game was held on Oct. 5, 1963 at Dodger Stadium, which was in Game 3 of the World Series.

Bettman hosts Lester Patrick Tribute on NHL Hour

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman will host a tribute to Hockey Hall of Famer Lester Patrick on the NHL Hour. Bettman's guests will be two of Lester's grandsons, Dick Patrick, president of the Washington Capitals, and Craig Patrick, a former NHL player who was an assistant coach with the 1980 U.S. "Miracle on Ice" team and built the Pittsburgh Penguins' 1991 and 1992 Stanley Cup championship teams.

Lester Patrick influenced hockey field and is regarded as one of the architects of the sport. He served as the first general manager and coach of the New York Rangers( Rangers jerseys ), leading the team to two Stanley Cup championships. The Lester Patrick Trophy, awarded annually for service to hockey in the United States, will be presented on Oct. 21 to Hall of Fame center Mark Messier, New York Rangers goaltender Mike Richter and Detroit Red Wings executive Jim Devellano.

Shawn Chacon was arrested

Authorities told The Associated Press that former Major Leaguer Shawn Chacon was arrested Monday night on charges related to unpaid gambling markers in Nevada. Chacon was arrested at a Colorado bowling alley and put in the Weld County Jail. On Friday, It is reported that Chacon faced a felony charge for owing the Las Vegas hotel Caesars Palace $150,000 .

Chacon, who attended high school in Greeley, pitched eight seasons in the Major Leagues, debuting in 2001 with the Rockies. He played for 4 teams and was an All-Star in 2003. He last pitched in the big leagues with the Astros in 2008.

Sharks' forward is suspended for one game

The National Hockey League announced that San Jose Sharks forward Brad Staubitz has been suspended for one game without pay because of making excessive physical contact in NHL game against the Los Angeles Kings on October 6. Staubitz was assessed a minor penalty for charging Kings player Davis Drewiske on the play.

Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement and based on his average annual salary, Staubitz will forfeit $2,590.67. And the money goes to the Players' Emergency Assistance Fund.
Staubitz will miss tonight's game against Columbus and will be eligible to return next week against Minnesota.

Marlins' two coaches will return next week

The Marlins announced pitching coach Mark Wiley and first-base/infield coach Andy Fox would not be retained On Tuesday. Bench coach Carlos Tosca, hitting coach Jim Presley and bullpen coordinator Pierre Arsenault all agreed to return next season and serve under manager Fredi Gonzalez, who was also guaranteed to return this week.

The Marlins also released right-hander Scott Proctor and Dave Davidson. Proctor signed a one-year, $750,000 deal with Florida this offseason but never pitched an inning in 09 season. Davidson, claimed off waivers by the Pirates in April, made just 13 Minor League appearances and pitched one big league inning this season because of shoulder issues.

Flyers sign Betts to a one-year contract

The Philadelphia Flyers signed center Blair Betts to a one-year contract. In addition, the Flyers promoted goalie Michael Teslak and defenseman Marc-Andre Bourdon from the AHL's Adirondack Phantoms. "I'm relieved," Betts said. "Throughout training camp I was pretty confident that something was going to happen. I would have rather it happened sooner than later, but nonetheless I think we made the right decision to come here."

Betts was invited to Flyers training camp after scoring 6 goals and 4 assists and 16 penalty minutes in 81 games with the New York Rangers in 2008-09. He spent a total of four seasons with the Rangers, scoring 25 goals and 15 assists in 304 regular-season games. Over parts of seven seasons with the Calgary Flames and Rangers, Betts has 28 goals and 20 assists and is considered an excellent defensive forward.

Kenji Johjima was injured and had to leave the field

Mariners catcher Kenji Johjima was hit by a pitch in the first inning of Wednesday night's game and had to leave the game for a pinch-hitter in the second inning. After several minutes of treatment from the team's medical staff, Johjima went to first base and finally advanced to third base. He caught the top of the second inning, but rookie Adam Moore batted for Johjima in the bottom of the inning.

Johjima went into the game with 9 home runs and 22 RBIs. It is the second time he had to leave the game against the Athletics prematurely. He suffered a broken left big toe on May 25 this year in a home plate collision with Oakland infielder Adam Kennedy. Totally he has missed 26 games.

Devils removed Ilkka Pikkarainen

New Jersey Devils General Manager Lou Lamoriello removed right wing Ilkka Pikkarainen from injured reserve today. He will be making his first NHL start against the Atlantic Division rival New York Rangers on Monday at 7 p.m. In order to make room for Pikkarainen, Brendan Shanahan, who has parted with the Devils last week, was moved to the team's non-roster list.

Pikkarainen was drafted in the seventh round in 2002 and played three seasons with the Devils' American Hockey League affiliate. He then returned to Finland and over the next three seasons before returning to the Devils he averaged 16 goals, 30 points and 129 penalty minutes.

Pujols sets a new record

This year Albert Pujols may not win his second Gold Glove Award, but he set a new defensive record on Sunday afternoon. With a toss to pitcher Joel Pineiro in the fifth inning against the Brewers, Pujols set a Major League record in a season by a first baseman. He set the National League record seven days earlier in Denver. It is Pujols' 185th assist of the year, which overpasses a record set by Bill Buckner in 1985 with the Red Sox.

The slugger has had a strong defensive year in some respects, however, he also had some difficulties sometimes. Pujols won a Gold Glove at first base in 2006.

Dave King is out of hospital

Dave King, who was hired recently by the Phoenix Coyotes as an assistant coach, now has been released from a Seattle-area hospital after undergoing a battery of tests. Coyotes spokesperson Sergey Kocharov said King was not feeling well before a preseason game Tuesday night between the Coyotes and Tampa Bay Lightning in Everett.

Kocharov said King was released from the hospital Wednesday and has returned to Phoenix. He missed Wednesday's game against the Lightning in Loveland, but is expected to come back to the team at practice on Thursday.

Yanks achieve new record

According to STATS, Alex Rodriguez's two-run shot off the Red Sox's Jon Lester on Friday was the Yankees' 127th homer at home this season, breaking their previous record which was made at Yankee Stadium in both 2004 and 2005.

Five home games remain for the Yankees this season, two games against the Red Sox and three against the Royals. The Yankees are also in reach of their all-time club record of 242 home runs, which also set in 2004. Rodriguez, who has missed five weeks recovering from right hip surgery earlier this season, ranks second on the Yankees with 28 home runs, 18 of them at home. Johnny Damon and Derek Jeter have combined to hit 29 of their 41 homers at Yankee Stadium.

Blackhawks play will be watched on NHL.com

Hockey fans can see the Chicago Blackhawks against HC Davos in Zurich today at NHL.com, starting at 2:15 p.m. The Blackhawks are playing Davos today in an exhibition game. These exhibitions represent the last appearance before they meet the Florida Panthers Friday in their 2009-10 season opener in Helsinki.

Chicago Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville told NHL.com's Shawn Roarke that playing against an unknown opponent on a larger ice surface less than 72 hours after travelling to another continent will not affect his team. "I think this team we're playing tonight is a pretty good hockey team," Quenneville said. "They are fast and they can make plays. We expect some time in our end and we expect some challenges."

Tomko has finished for the season

It was reported on Monday that the right-hander Brett Tomko was declared to have finished for the season. He signed a Minor League deal after being released by the Yankees in August. Although he went 4-1 with a 2.95 ERA in six starts with Oakland, he hasn't pitched since earning his 100th career victory against the Rangers on Aug. 14.

Tomko told media on Tuesday that an MRI had revealed a pinched nerve in his right shoulder, which caused discomfort and numbness throughout his arm. "Tomko will not pitch again this season, that's for sure," A's manager Bob Geren said before the opener series against Texas at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum.

Two Minor League players are suspended

Major League Baseball announced that two Minor Leaguers from the Rockies' organization -- first baseman Brent Bowman and outfielder Shane Lowe -- were suspended for 50 games each on Tuesday after testing positive for the use of amphetamines.

The suspensions came under the sponsion of Minor League Drug and Treatment Program and will be served from the 2010 season.

The oldest former Yankee passes away

The 99-year-old Lonny Frey, who is thought to have been the oldest living Yankee in the world, passed away on Sunday at his home. His special old Yankees jersey must be a precious jewel for his fans.

Frey played 15 years of professional baseball, including two seasons with the Yankees in 1947-48.
He was a second baseman and shortstop, playing in three World Series. Frey also played for the Brooklyn Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds and New York Giants. He was a career hitter in 1,535 Major League games. After Frey's passing, Tommy Henrich, who is 96, is regarded as the oldest living Yankee.

Mark Teahen rejoins Royals

The outfielder Mark Teahen rejoined the Royals after traveling to Kansas City for an evaluation of lower back tightness. He wasn't in the starting lineup against the Tigers last week. "It was just muscle spasms, so it was a positive report for us," manager Trey Hillman said. "He's available, but he's going to stay inside and do some work today. We've got him available for the game if we need him."

He left the club before Sunday at Cleveland. "It just kind of tightened up on me before that Saturday game when I was taking ground balls like normal,"Teahen said. "So I just went and made sure there was nothing crazy wrong with it, which there wasn't. I've had issues with my back in the past and it's something I've just got to continually stay on, I'm available. I'm sure we'll try to be smart with it, but I can do more or less whatever."

Hedican retires from National Hockey League

Bret Hedican, who has won the 2006 Stanley Cup with the Carolina Hurricanes and played 17 seasons in the NHL, announced his retirement on Wednesday. He had 6 points in 51 games for the Anaheim Ducks last season, and totally 1,000 NHL games.

In 1,039 games with the Blues, Canucks, Panthers, Hurricanes and Ducks, Hedican had 55 goals and 294 points. Hedican also played for the U.S. at the 1992 Winter Olympics. He was a 10th-round pick of the St. Louis Blues in the 1988 Entry Draft, getting 26 points in 108 Stanley Cup Playoff games. His last playoff show came with the Hurricanes, when he had 2 goals 11 points and a plus-6 rating.

A's Tomko is sent to shelf

After picking up his 100th career victory with a five-hit shutout against the Rangers, A's right-hander Brett Tomko appeared in the visitors' club before batting practice on Tuesday. Some people assumed that perhaps he was using the prop as an excuse for appearing a bit late. In fact Tomko woke up with discomfort in his arm, and then got checked by a local doctor who discovered he has a pinched nerve. "He'll be out for a while," A's manager Bob Geren said.

Tomko is absolutely out of the game for Sunday in Oakland against the Indians. Geren said Dana Eveland is an option to replace Tomko. Tomko joined in the A's in August.

Hunter goes distance in Rangers' win

Rangers manager Ron Washington talked before Sunday's opener of a scheduled doubleheader about the importance of avoiding a mental tailspin with the wet Texas weather seemingly halting the team's momentum. The Rangers followed Washington's lead, swatting three home runs to back rookie right-hander Tommy Hunter's complete-game effort in a 7-2 victory over Seattle at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.

Hunter collected his first complete game, improving his record to 8-3. Hunter is the second Rangers rookie to throw a complete game at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.

Glenn Healy resigns from NHL Players Association

Glenn Healy resigned from the National Hockey League Players Association last week, and after three days Executive Director Paul Kelly was fired. Healy said his credibility was destroyed by a report and comments by Interim Executive Director Ian Penny, including criticism of Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux.

"Based on what occurred in the Executive Board Meeting in Chicago, including the presentations made, all of which were accepted and endorsed by the Executive Board, my reputation and credibility with the players has been irreparably harmed and compromised. I can no longer continue to move forward believing that I have the trust of the players."said in Hearly's resignation letter. Healy played 14 NHL seasons with four different teams, and worked as a broadcaster before joining the Association in 2008.

Bruce may not come back to Reds

Although Jay Bruce had three hits for Triple-A Louisville last week, Cincinnati manager Dusty Baker is not definitely sure that Bruce is going to join the Reds' lineup again. After breaking his right wrist in New York, Bruce missed two months playing. The outfielder will rejoin the team in Colorado during a four-game series.

Before Bruce was injured, he had suffered a difficult season. He had 18 homers and 41 Run Batted Ins in 83 games, but his batting was just 207. The catcher Ryan Hanigan had three hits and scored twice that day and was 5-for-12 with a double in his first three games. Now Hanigan is eligible to come off the disabled list several days ago, so is Burce. Fans are looking forward to seeing him playing on the field again in his Reds jersey.

Ducks term with veteran defenseman Eminger

It is reported that veteran defenseman Steve Eminger has agreed to a two-year deal with the Anaheim Ducks. He was selected in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft by the Washington Capitals. He spent five seasons with the Capitals collecting five goals and 26 points in 71 games. "Being only 25 years old, we expect him to continue improving as a player and make a solid contribution this season."said Ducks Executive Vice President and General Manager Bob Murray.

Totally Eminger has 11 goals and 69 points in 283 regular-season games. He also scored a goal for the Capitals during the 2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs. "He's a guy everyone likes and a good player. Any time you have a chance to get a defenseman that's 25 and has played 300 games, you try to get them," said Ducks Senior Vice President of Hockey Operations David McNab.

Nathan McIver will remain in Canucks

The President and General Manager Mike Gillis of Vancouver Canucks announced last month that the team have re-signed defenseman Nathan McIver. McIver splits the 2008-09 season between the Anaheim Ducks and Vancouver Canucks. In 18 NHL games with Anaheim Ducks, McIver collected 1 assist and 36 penalty minutes. In addition, in other 28 games with the American Hockey League affiliate--Manitoba Moose, McIver also had 2 assists and 59 penalty minutes. This defenseman was originally drafted by the Canucks in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.

National Hockey League

The league was founded in 1917 in Montreal, Quebec, and its predecessor organization is the National Hockey Association which was founded in 1909. It started with four teams and now composed of 30 teams, 24 of which are located in the United States and 6 in Canada. The NHL attracts many highly skilled players from all over the world. Nowadays the league has a larger number of players from about 20 different countries. Canadians constitut over half of the players because both the sport and the league originated from Canada. Many American and European players have increased in the past 25 years, because the NHL continue to expand into the United States.

Sergei Shirokov joins in Canucks

Vancouver Canucks President and General Manager Mike Gillis announced last week that the team has signed right wing Sergei Shirokov. He is a native of Moscow, being drafted by the Vancouver Canucks in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.

Shirokov recorded 41 points in 56 games with the KHL in 2008. He has also appeared in two World Junior Championships as a member of Russian team in 2005 and 2006. Shirokov registered 13 points in 12 games over two seasons.

Prospal and Messier come to Rangers

It is reported that the New York Rangers will acquire Mark Messier as a special assistant to President and General Manager Glen Sather and forward Vaclav Prospal."I couldn't be more thrilled with the opportunity to move back to New York with my family, to learn from Glen and to work for the Rangers," Said Messier.

Prospal had signed the Tampa Bay Lightning earlier this summer. He played for Rangers and scored 19 goals and 26 assists last year.

Artyukhin becomes a member of Ducks

On Aug,13 Anaheim Ducks announced that the National Hockey League has acquired right wing Evgeny Artyukhin from Tampa Bay Lightning. He was originally selected by Tampa Bay in the third round of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft, and played two seasons with the Lightning. In 145 career NHL games, Artyukhin has collected 33 points with 241 PIM. He has also appeared in 102 career American Hockey League contests.

Artyukhin appeared in his second NHL season with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2008-09. He set career highs in goals, appearances and penalty minutes.

Sabres add Cody McCormick

Buffalo Sabres General Manager Darcy Regier announced the team have agreed to add unrestricted free agent center Cody McCormick to a one-year contract. McCormick was selected by Colorado in the Fifth Round of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft.

McCormick collected 12 points and 92 penalty minutes in 55 regular season games last season with Colorado Avalanche. He is a native of London appearing in 190 NHL games, collecting 30 points and 250 penalty minutes with Colorado. Now fans are going to put on the Sabres jerseys to support him.

Kyle Wellwood remains in Vancouver Canucks

Vancouver Canucks General Manager Mike Gillis announced today the center Kyle Wellwood would remain in the team. In 263 NHL regular season games with Vancouver and Toronto, Wellwood has got 135 points and 18 penalty minutes.

Wellwood recorded 27 points in 74 games in 2008-09 with Vancouver. He finished career highs for 18 goals , 10 play goals and 3 goals in a single season. He also added six points in ten playoff games.Now fans can see him playing on the ice in his Canucks jersey.

Janis Foligno died of cancer

According to Sudbury Wolves' web site, it is reported that Janis Foligno died of cancer on July,27. She is Sudbury Wolves coach and GM Mike Foligno's wife and Ottawa Senators forward Nick Foligno and Buffalo Sabres Marcus Foligno's mother. The team said funeral arrangements are still being under discussion.

"Janis was a wonderful wife, mother, aunt and friend," said the club. "She was a great person to know, to talk to and to be with. She was a great friend of the game of hockey as well.Janis Foligno will be missed by everyone that knew her."

Recently Hossa is recovering

It is told that recently signed winger of Chicago Blackhawks Marian Hossa is recovering from a shoulder injury which he suffered a lot during the Stanley Cup game between Red Wings. The injury was first reported by the Daily Herald newspaper in suburban Arlington Heights.

After helping the Red Wings reach the Stanley Cup finals, Hossa signed a 12-year contract with the Blackhawks on July 1. Blackhawks hope Hossa will inject more energy to the team.

Colby Armstrong joins in Tharashers

According to Executive Vice President and General Manager of Atlanta Thrashers Don Waddell, the club have agreed to add free agent forward Colby Armstrong.He appeared in all 82 games for the Thrashers last season. The right wing recorded 10 points from March 21 through April 5.


Besides, he has earned 51 points in 100 games over two seasons with the Thrashers. In 281 career NHL games with Pittsburgh and Atlanta, Armstrong has recorded 149 points and one assist in five Stanley Cup Playoff games with Penguins.

Danis joins in Devils

Devils have announced to the media that they have signed goalterder Yann Danis. "Yann Danis is a goaltender with five years' experience on the professional level," said Devils' President Lou Lamoriello. "He will give us depth at that position as we head into training camp."

After spending last season with the New York Islanders,Danis joins the Devils. He appeared in 31 NHL career games, and joined the Islanders as a free agent on July 2, 2008 after four-plus seasons with the Canadiens' organization.

Havlat joined in Minnesota Wild

Martin Havlat is joining the Minnesota Wild now. It is reported that Havlat and the team have agreed to a six-year deal."We are excited to add the speed and scoring of Martin Havlat to our lineup," Fletcher said. "He is a terrific two-way player."

In 81 games with the Blackhawks this season, Havlat scored 29 goals and 48 assists for 77 points. He was originally selected by the Ottawa Senators in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. He had 169 goals and 227 assists for 396 points in 470 career regular-season games with the Senators and Blackhawks. He spent the last three seasons with BlackHawks, and played just 91 games in his first two seasons in Chicago after joining the Blackhawks in 2006.

Maple Leafs acquires Mike Komisarek

The General Manager of Toronto Maple Leafs Brian Burke decided to continue to sign free-agent defenseman Mike Komisarek. It is told that the five-year deal is worth about $22.5 million. "We are extremely pleased to add a player with Mike’s ability and leadership qualities to our lineup," Burke said. "He’s a respected competitor in this League and we know that he will bring his hard-nosed approach to our team on a consistent basis."

In 66 games with Montreal last season Komisarek scored 2 goals and 9 assists for. Komisarek led Montreal with 191 hits and 207 blocked shots. He was voted to the starting lineup of the Eastern Conference for the 2009 NHL All-Star Game. In 361 career NHL games, Komisarek has 12 goals, 46 assists and 58 points with 496 minutes penalties. Maple Leafs also acquired other players such as
Garnet Exelby and Colin from Atlanta Thrashers.

Bettman was invited by the Yankees

In order to check out the Yankee Stadium for the 2010 Olympic game,Commissioner Gray Bettman was invited by the Yankees and toured the new Yankee Stadium.He also told the fans to turn into his radio show "The NHL Hour".

However,Bettman told the media that the National Hockey League had not decided which city was lucky enough to host the celebrating outdoor game on New Year's Day."This was extremely preliminary," Bettman said. "To suggest we're even at the embryonic stage would be an exaggeration."

Shawn Belle sign contract with Canadiens

Defenseman Shawn Belle signed a one-year contract with Canadiens General Manager Bob Gainey for 2009-10 season last Wednesday. Still some finacial terms of the deal weren not known.

Shawn Belle got 13 points with 93 penalty minutes in 60 regular-season AHL games with the Hamilton Bulldogs.He also represented Canada at the World Junior Chamionship and had won the silver medal in 2004 in Finland.The gold medal was achieved in the United States.He is a native of Edmonton,in 9 NHL games,he has got 1 assisting point and a plus-4 rating with Minnesota in 2006.

Gary Roberts is going to retire from NHL

After a 21-year career including 1224 games,910 points and a Stanley Cup title,Linghting's left wing Gary Roberts told the media about his retirement."Today, I am officially announcing my retirement from the National Hockey League," said Roberts. "I am extremely grateful for having had the opportunity to be a part of this great league. The game has been so good to me and I will always be thankful for having had so many years doing what I loved to do."

"Gary has done everything we could have asked or expected of him this year," said Lightning Executive Vice President and General Manager Brian Lawton. "Although we wish things had been better to date for the club, we are extremely grateful to Gary for his contributions both on and off the ice. His leadership, professionalism and guidance will be felt for years because our young players were able to watch, listen and learn from one of the true greats of the game."

The exchange between Fritsche and Reitz

The Wild has acquired Dan Fritsche from the New York Rangers in place of the denfenseman Erik Reitz. This exchange is reported by Minnesota Wild President and General Manager Doug Risebrough. He regards Dan as a versatile player, a determined player and a winning player.And Fritsche has won a Memorial Cup and a World Junior Championship for USA.

This season Fritsche has got 4 points in 16 games with the Rangers, and 67 points and 93 penalty minutes in 222 career NHL games in total. In 2004 he was a member of the USA World Junior team which got the gold medal. In 2005, he played with the Ontario Hockey League and won the Memorial Cup.

Four free agents are added by Thrashers

According to Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell,the Atlanta Thrashers have signed four free agents including Joel Kwiatkowski, Jason Krog, Drew MacIntyre and Peter Mannino.

Kwiatkowski, has appeared in 282 career NHL games with Ottawa, Washington, Florida, Pittsburgh and Atlanta.In 2007-08, he earned five assists in 18 games with the Thrashers. He has also won the 2008 Calder Cup with Chicago.

The defenseman Joel Kwiatkowski spent last season with the Cherepovets Severstal of the Kontinental Hockey League in Russia, recording 25 points in 52 games. He ranked first among defenseman and second overall in goals and tied for third overall in assists.

Krog has appeared in 202 career NHL contests with Islanders, Ducks, Thrashers, Rangers and Canucks. In 2002 he recorded four points in 21 playoff games with Anaheim, helping them to get the Stanley Cup Finals.He has also recorded 448 points in 377 career AHL games with Lowell, Providence, Springfield, Bridgeport, Cincinnati, Chicago and Manitoba.