1660 THE FAN

Here's Your Tuesday July 7th Sports Update.

2009-07-07T04:53:00.001-04:00

Another win felt insured since Detroit had won their last 8 games and it looked like they may put this one away until the 9th.
Tigers drop the series opener 4-3. Ryan Raburn had a nice effort in defeat with a homer and RBI double. Game 2 is tonight at 7:05 on 590 KZO.

The Cubs took the first of 3 at home against Atlanta 4-2. Randy Wells got the win for the Cubs spreading out 7 hits in 6 innings. The 2nd game of the series at Wrigley tonight at 8:05.

The Kalamazoo Kings are winners of 5 straight and sit four-and-a-half games in first place in the Frontier League East division. After a sweep of Washington over the weekend they were off Monday and head back out on the road tonight for a three games series with Windy City. You can follow the Kings all season long at 1660 The Fan dot com!

The merry-go-round that is NBA free agency gives, and free agency takes away. It brought the Pistons Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva and now it sends Rasheed Wallace to the Celtics. The Detroit Free Press is reporting the 36-year-old Wallace accepted a 2 year deal at 5.8 mil a season. Wallace helped the Pistons win the 2004 NBA title, but in his 5 ½ years with the organization he was also one of the league leaders in technical fouls.

Five local athletes will be playing in this Saturday's (MICHIGAN HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL COACHES ASSOCIATION) all-star game. These athletes were chosen out of 277,900 from across the state. They are Kalamazoo Central Defensive Back Juan Hemphill, South Haven wide out Chris Massenburgh, Portage Central defensive back Gerrit Rauch, Battle Creek Pennfield line backer Ethan Webb, and Mendon Offensive Tackle Matt Collins. The game is this Saturday at Spartans Stadium in East Lansing at 2pm.

ESPN is reporting the Tribune Co. and the Ricketts family have reached an agreement on the sale of the Chicago Cubs and Wrigley Field. Baseball owners must approve the deal, and because Tribune Co. is in Chapter 11 bankruptcy, a court also has to approve the transaction.

Here's Your Friday July 3rd Sports Update

2009-07-03T04:43:00.001-04:00

The Cubs grilled up a hitting frenzy last night pounding Milwaukee 9-5 with 7 of those runs batted in by Derek Lee. Lee blasted a 3 run shot but was hardly done yet.
Lee had a good feeling about jumping on that 3-1 pitch.
Geovany Soto and Jake Fox added solo homers for Chicago. Follow the Cubbies on 1660 The Fan.

In Kansas City Mark Buehrle had a shutout going into the ninth, then the Royals scored 1 but it wasn’t enough as the White Sox took a 4-1 win. The Sox have now won 6 in a row.

The Tigers are 3-9 in their last dozen trips to the Metrodome, and Kevin Slowey has had Detroit’s number on the mound – he’s 3-0 against Jim Leyland’s crew. Rookie Lucas French, fresh up from Triple-A Toledo, will get his first career start tonight as the Tigers enter the home stretch of their tough roadtrip. Live coverage tonight at 7:50 on 590 KZO.

Still can’t tell you who the next Pistons head coach will be, but I can tell you who it won’t be, and that’s Doug Collins. The former Pistons coach said thanks, but I’m doing alright up here in the press booth. Please do the right thing and get Bill Laimbeer!

Success begets success! That is very apparent with the results of this year’s Western Michigan Mike Gary Athletic Fund. With a goal of $1 million dollars, they broke last year’s record with a total of 1-million-twenty-two-thousand-forty-five. Now I’m not saying that having one of the best football seasons in recent memory alone helps donors open their checkbooks, but it doesn’t hurt!

Here's Your July 1st Sports Update

2009-07-01T03:35:00.001-04:00

Armando Gallaraga had it down pitching 6 1/3 innings giving up just 2 hits and a run as the Tigers grabbed a 5-3 win over the A’s in Oakland. In the 2nd of a 3 game series Placido Palanco homered and brought 3 runs home. Ryan Raburn chipped in 3 hits and an RBI to help Detroit to their 9th win in 12 games. The A’s have now dropped 6 of their last 7. Next game this afternoon at 3:30 on 590 KZO.

The Cubs were shut out 3-0 by the Pirates in Pittsburgh. It was the 2nd of a 3 game series at PNC Park. An unhappy Lou Pinella commented on the lack of run production.
Ted Lilly struck out 7 but also allowed the 3 runs which drops his record to 7-6. The Cubs have lost 7 of their last 9. Game 3 of the series on 1660 The Fan tonight at 6:30.

The White Sox pummeled the Indians in Cleveland 11-4 to move above .500 for the 1st time since May 2nd.

The Kalamazoo Kings lost their first series game 9-6 to the Beach Bums in Traverse City. The next game is tonight at 6:45 on 1660thefan.com.

Marion Hossa must decide if $4 million a year is enough to play hockey for the Red Wings in a long-term deal. If not, he’s available as a free agent today to offer his services to some much less cool team for more money.

After finishing 39-43 in his first year as a head coach, Michael Curry has been fired by the Detroit Pistons, and on the eve of free agency no less. It’s not Curry’s fault Joe Dumars thrust a past-his-prime Allan Iverson on him, but that’s how these things go. Who do I want as the next Pistons head coach? Well, one-time Bad Boy and Dumars teammate Bill Laimbeer suspiciously quit the Detroit Shock recently. He’s a proven winner and a fan favorite – so it’ll probably end up being Avery Johnson or Doug Collins again.

Here's your Sports Update for Tuesday June 30th

2009-06-30T04:54:00.002-04:00

This trip to the West Coast did not start off well for the Tigers losing to Oakland 7-1. Detroit didn’t score their lone run until the 6th inning on a Laird RBI. Tonight’s game from Oakland comes your way tonight at 9:45 on 590 KZO.

The Cubs fared better in Pittsburgh topping the Pirates 3-1 behind great pitching from Rich Harden and Ryan Theriot’s help at the plate. Cubs and Pirates again tonight at 7:05.

The White Sox took the first of a three game series from the Indians in Cleveland 6-3.

In a move that’s not going to make a lot of fans happy, the Detroit Red Wings have decided not to renew backup goalie Ty Conklin’s contract. It’s not he didn’t play well – they just don’t wanna pay him a LOT more money next season – salary cap an’ all. Your new hero or goat is Jimmy Howard, fresh off four seasons with the Grand Rapids Griffins.

The Western Michigan men’s basketball team released its non-conference schedule Monday. Some highlights for next season include a home bout with Temple December 1st and a road matchup with Illinois of the Big Ten December 13th.

Here's Your Sports Update For Thursday June 25th

2009-06-25T04:59:00.001-04:00

The Tigers are certainly enjoying this series with the Cubs as they took game two 5-3 at Comerica. Zach Miner grabbed the win in relief of Rick Porcello. It’s not much help to have base runners if you can’t get them home and Detroit catcher Gerald Laird who had a solo homer said leaving a good number stranded was the key.
It’s an afternoon contest today at 12:45. Tigers and Cubs on 590 KZO.

The White Sox hit 6 home runs at home last night enroute to a 10-7 win over the Dodgers.

The Kalamazoo Kings got back in the win column after a bruising series at home. The Kings posted a 6-4 win over the Midwest Sliders in the first of that series. Game 2 is tonight from Ypsilanti at 6:45 on 1660thefan.com

The College Baseball world has a new champion. The LSU Tigers took home their 6th trophy in pounding Texas 11-4 with help from a 5 run 6th inning.

The United States men’s soccer team not only advanced to the finals for the 1st time since 1916 but they did by claiming a huge 2-0 win over perennial European champion Spain.

Greg Jennings got a big slice of the quan from the Packers! Jennings was due to make the veteran minimum in the upcoming season, the final year of his rookie contract. Instead, he’ll be catching balls to the delight of Cheeseheads through two-thousand-twelve and making up to 31-million if he continues to play at a high level. Jennings, of course, is a product of Kalamazoo Central and Western Michigan – he was drafted by Green Bay in the second round in ’06.

The murder of the 2005 NFL High School Coach of the Year has hit home for a member of the Detroit Lions. Defensive end Jared DeVries played for coach Ed Thomas at Aplington-Parkersburg High in Iowa from 90 to 94. DeVries walked off the field at the Lions practice facility in Allen Park when he learned of his former coach’s killing. Coach Thomas was allegedly gunned down by a former player Wednesday.

The Mid-American Conference and ESPN announced the 2009 football television schedule Wednesday. The announcement revealed that Western Michigan will be playing on national television at least three times this year. The Broncos open at Michigan Stadium September 5th on ABC/ESPN2 at 3:30 p.m. The Broncos will also face Indiana Sept. 12th on the Big Ten Network, and Western takes on Ball State on ESPN2 live from Waldo Stadium on Nov. 24th.

The flowing, curly locks of Magglio Ordoñez are no more! Although he won’t admit it was to help him break out of his slump, he told the Detroit Free Press is just felt like time to cut off his legendary hair. He says he’s going to put the hair on eBay and donate the proceeds to charity. Ladies, get out yer checkbooks!

Sports Wrap-Up for Wednesday June 24th in your mailbox

2009-06-24T04:33:00.001-04:00

In a moment Little League ball players dream of while they’re standing out in right field waiting for a hit to come their way. Ninth inning, down by 2 and you step up and land one in the bleachers to give your team a 1 run victory. Ryan Rayburn did just that for the Tigers last night as he took a hanging ball and made a 2 run walk off home run out of it.
That slipped the tigers past the cubs 5-4 in Detroit. Brandon Inge gave the Tigers a 3-2 lead in the 7th but another lead change set up Rayburn’s heroics. The Tigers and Cubs continue the series tonight at Comerica Park where Detroit is 21-11 this year.

The L.A. Dodgers are making out fine without Manny Ramirez and beat the White Sox 5-2 last night in Chicago.
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The Stanley Cup finals are over, but The Red Wings’ Cup legacy was recognized big-time Tuesday. Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull and Luc Robitaille – all teammates on the 2002 Stanley Cup champion Red Wings – all voted into the NHL Hall of Fame at the same time. Yzerman is sixth on the all-time scoring list and the longest-serving captain ever at 19 seasons – uh, hence the nickname. Hull is third on the list with 741 scores and Robitaille’s 668 are the most by a left winger.
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Yahoo! Sports is reporting the Celtics floated the idea of sending Ray Allen and Ray-zhahn Rondo to the Pistons for – get this – Rip Hamilton, Tayshaun Prince and Rodney Stucky. Even Matt Millen would call that a bad deal! Fortunately, Joe Dumars agrees – ain’t gonna happen!

Sports Wrap-Up For Thursday June 18th

2009-06-18T02:47:00.000-04:00

The Tigers try to come up with a solution for the Cards! For 1660 The Fan dot com sports, I’m Sean Patrick! Busch Stadium one of those places the Tigers haven’t done too well lately – Larry Long is off to see the Wizard!

The Tigers dropped another one in St. Louis last night 4-3.
The Cardinals Colby Rasmus was 3 for 4 with a pair of RBI’s helping hand Detroit their 4th loss in a row. The Tigers try to salvage 1 of the 3 games in the series today.

Other major league winners last night were Cincinnatti, L.A. Angels, Washington, the Orioles, Brewers, Toronto, Boston, Texas, the Pirates, Diamondbacks, Colorado, Seattle and Oakland.

The Crosstown Classic off to a late start thanks to Tuesday’s rainout. Wednesday John Danks put up 7 shutout innings in 4-1 White Sox win over the Cubs. The Cubs’ only score came on an Alfonso Soriano RBI in the eighth. The Cubs can break even in the now-two-game series this afternoon.

Michigan State baseball incoming freshman Torsten Boss earned MVP honors after hitting two triples, picking up four RBIs and scoring two runs in the 28th annual East - West All-Star Baseball Classic on Tuesday (June 16) at Comerica Park in Detroit.
The Grand Rapids Press is also reporting Boss was named the Michigan High School Football Division 1-2 Player of the Year by the Associated Press.

Western Michigan men’s basketball head coach Steve Hawkins weighs in on the proposed downtown Kalamazoo Arena – and how it could help the Broncos on the court. In an interview at westernmichigan-dot-rivals-com the Coach talks about how other teams in the MAC have upgraded their arenas but Western has not, and that hurts recruiting.
The Kalamazoo Kings were shut out 4-0 by the Midwest Sliders Wednesday

Sports Wrap-Up For Wednesday June 17th

2009-06-17T03:31:00.001-04:00

The Tigers took a terrible pounding from St. Louis 11-2 last night. The Cards put up 4 runs in the 1st inning and coasted to a win in the 1st of the 3 game series in St. Louis. What really did the trick was shutting down Justin Verlander. Jim Leyland said the Cardinals took rightful advantage of it.
That was Verlanders first loss since April 17th. Albert Pujols knocked the cover off his league leading 23rd homer of the year sending it nearly 450 feet. The series resumes tomorrow night.

The Inter Chicago game was literally a wash out as the Cubs and White Sox game was postponed. You can follow the Cubs on 1660 The Fan.

Former Tiger now Houston Astro Pudge Rodriguez has tied the record for most games in catchers gear as he got behind the plate for his 2,2226th game right he started as a 19 year old. Pudge has now matched Carlton Fisk who caught for Boston and the White Sox.

D.J. Powers at HockeysFuture.com has released his Top 10 NCAA prospects for the 2009 NHL Draft, naming Western Michigan's Kevin Connauton as the eighth best collegiate prospect in the draft. Connauton finished his first collegiate season tied for fifth on the team in scoring with seven goals and 11 assists and received Central Collegiate Hockey Association All-Rookie Team honorable mention.

A new report shows Sammy Sosa failed a test for performance-enhancing drugs in 2003, this according to the New York Times. Sosa was a member of the Steroid Cubs when he and Steroid McGwire were chasing the single-season steroid homerun record in 19-steroid-8. This could affect his chances of getting in the Hall of Steroids when he’s elgible in three steroids.

Sports Wrap-Up for Tuesday June 16th

2009-06-16T01:25:00.000-04:00

The Tigers heading into St. Louis tonight for the first time since losing the 2006 World Series. In Detroit’s favor: The Cardinals have lost seven of their last ten, and 7-2 Justin Verlander is starting for the Tigers, and he’s pitching lights-out ball. Working against Detroit would be Albert Pujols, who is the all-time leader in interleague batting average at .352, and since ’06 he’s batting .630 against the Tigers! Detroit and St. Louis, live from Busch Stadium tonight at 7:55 on 590 KZO!

The Crosstown Classic gets underway at Wrigley tonight, both the Cubs and White Sox a far cry from the teams they were when they met up last year. The Cubs won their second straight NL Central title in 2008, but so far they’re 30 and 30 this season, and the 30 and 34 White Sox were AL Central champs last year. Carlos Zambrano starts for the Cubs against the White Sox tonight at 7:30 on 1660 The Fan.

Bronco hockey expanding its presence in the American Hockey League Monday with the signing of Patrick Galivan by the Chicago Wolves. Galivan was the 2008-2009 CCHA scoring champ putting up 19 goals and 28 assists. He joins Western teammate Chris Frank in the AHL; Frank signed with the San Antonio Rampage shortly after the season.

Remember the big off-season football story we followed last year? Will Bret Favre play again? After being released by the New York Jets and having some surgery, the question is will Favre show up this year wearing Viking horns? Minnesota would have liked answer awhile back and still don’t have a commitment other than he’s considering it. It will also be some time before it’s known if the surgery was successful.

Only a couple games in Major League Baseball last night. The L.A. Dodgers beat San Francisco 9-7 and a big run producing game came out in favor of the Brewers as Milwuakee outlasted Cleveland 14-12.

Portage Central grad, pro soccer player and excellent role model Lindsay Tarpley was the keynote speaker at the Big Borthers/Big Sisters banquet last night. She also held a soccer workshop for young players in an effort to give them the early start she wishes she’d had.
Tarpley now plays pro soccer for the Chicago Red Stars.

Detroit Shock head coach Bill Laimbeer resigned Monday afternoon after a very successful 6 ½ run with the organization during which he won three WNBA titles. Laimbeer is of course known as the center who led the Pistons to back-to-back NBA titles in 89 and 90 and is the all-time franchise leader in rebounds. And acting surprised when he was called for a foul. Laimbeer has said that to coach in the NBA is his goal – Bill! Please save the New York Knicks!

Sports Wrap Up For Friday June 12th

2009-06-12T04:22:00.001-04:00

Tigers – 3 hour rain delay, gotta finish those White Sox games though. Edwin Jackson gave up 5 hits and 2 runs in 5 innings. But in the bottom of the 9th Joel Zumaya loads the bases and the White Sox bat in the winning run - Boo! - 4-3’s yer final. Rick Porcello pitching for Detroit when they visit the Pirates tonight at 6:45 on 590 KZO.
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Derek Fisher made 2 of the most important 3-point shots of his career in helping the Lakers come a win away from an NBA title with a 99-91 win. Fisher hit a 3 to send the game to overtime and another one in OT to help seal the victory. Los Angeles can wrap things up Sunday night in game 5.

Former Chicago Bears Quarterback Rex Grossman is heading south to join the Houston Texans. Grossman had spent his 6 year career with Chicago and will compete to be Houstons third string quarterback behind starter Matt Schaub and last years Detroit Lion Dan Orlovsky.

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The West Michigan Mayhem women’s football team hosting the Dayton Diamonds Saturday at 7 at Vicksburg High – the Mayhem trashed the Diamonds 56-nothing last month.
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The Cubs went into extra innings to lose to Houston yesterday 2-1 – Chicago also drops the series 2-1. Randy Wells will be on the mound when the Cubs host the Twins this afternoon.
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The Kalamazoo Outlaws pro football team are back home tomorrow at Soizen-Rapitz Field by Mayor’s Riverfront Park. They’ll be on the field for a 6 o’clock matchup with the London Silverbacks – Go Outlaws!
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Former Heisman runner-up and San Diego Chargers QB Ryan Leaf is a wanted man in Texas after failing to turn himself in on drug and burglary charges. And somewhere, Michael Vick is saying “whew!”
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Sports Wrap-Up For Thursday June 11

2009-06-11T05:00:00.000-04:00

It was another big night for Justin Verlander as he pitched a complete game allowing only 1 run on 6 hits as the Tigers handed the White Sox a 2-1 loss and their 8th of the last 10. It was a perfect time for Verlander to go the whole game as Detroit’s bull pen was a bit understaffed and he was glad to give them a break.
Jim Thome had a solo shot for the Sox accounting for their only run. Verlander is now 7-0 in his last 9 starts.

At Minute Maid Park in Houston, the Astros edged the Cubs 2-1 in their 2nd game of a 3 game series. Geovany Soto’s second inning solo homer was the only time Chicago got on the board. Cubs manager Lou Pinella put the situation in simple perspective.
Angel Guzman only pitched a third of an inning but gave up enough to shoulder the loss.

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For the 28th straight season a Western Michigan Bronco has been called up in the Major League Baseball draft. Right-handed pitcher and Kalamazoo Central grad Kevan Hess will soon be wearing the Olde English “D!” Hess was taken in the 14th round by the team he’s been rooting for his whole life – The Tigers! How much sweeter is that?

The Tigers also took a right-handed hurler with their first pick: Jacob Turner out of Westminster Christian Academy in Missouri – last year he went 7-2 with 113 strikeouts and 13 walks.

MAC Council Approves Some Recomendations

2009-06-10T03:13:00.000-04:00

In MAC football, The Mid-American Conference Council of Presidents approved several recommendations of the league’s Joint Committee at its annual spring meeting Monday (June 8) at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. The Presidents ratified bowl extensions through 2013 with the Motor City Bowl in Detroit, GMAC Bowl in Mobile, Ala., and International Bowl in Toronto, ON, Canada. The GMAC Bowl will own the MAC’s first selection following the 2009, 2011 and 2013 football seasons; the Motor City Bowl will retain the first selection following the 2010 and 2012 seasons.

Stanley Cup Finals Go To Game 7

2009-06-10T03:11:00.004-04:00

Home ice continues to dominate in the Cup Finals! With their backs against the wall the Penguins are able to force a game 7 .
The Red Wings were down 2-1 in the third after Tyler Kennedy’s goal for Pittsburgh but looked like they were putting on some late pressure. However the Penguins were able to hang on. The series moves back the Joe for Friday’s game 7 on 1660 The Fan.

Cubs Dominate Houston

2009-06-10T03:09:00.001-04:00

The Cubs handled the Astros with far more ease behind Mike Fontenot’s 4 for 5 night at the plate. Chicago takes the game 7-1 at Minute maid Park in Houston. The Cubs scored 3 runs on 6 hits in the 1st to set the pace. Ted Lilly’s 6 and 2/3rd innings of scoreless ball helped Chicago get the job done on defense as well.

Tigers Pull Game Out in 10th

2009-06-10T03:07:00.002-04:00

In Chicago, the Tigers very nearly let one get away. Tied at 6 in the 9th after the Tigers let 3 runs in to tie it.
But Miguel Cabrera cracked a solo shot in the 10th to give Detroit a 7-6 victory and their 4th win in the last 5 games. The series continues tonight on 590KZO with Justin Verlander getting the start.

K-Wings Hook On With New League

2009-06-10T03:06:00.001-04:00

The K-Wings have made good on their promise to deliver their 36th consecutive season of hockey. Your Wings are now proud members of the North Division in the ECHL, formerly known as the East Coast Hockey League - Wikipedia, you’re so smart!
Kalamazoo’s new division rivals are the Cincinnati Cyclones, the Elmira (N.Y.) Jackals, the Johnstown (Pa.) Chiefs, the Toledo (Ohio) Walleye and the Wheeling Nailers - and we wanna kick their butts to win the Kelly Cup!

Kings Host Education Day

2009-06-09T02:50:00.002-04:00

Kalamazoo Kings off Monday, they’re back in action today – or if you prefer, back in class today – with the annual Kalamazoo Public Schools Education Day game. That means an early start for the kids – 10:05 A-M start with your Kings hosting the Lake Erie Crushers for game one of a three game series. You can follow the Kings all season long at 1660 The Fan dot com and WKZO dot com.

NBA Finals Continue Tonight

2009-06-09T02:49:00.002-04:00

The Lakers won the first two games of the NBA Finals in LA, just barely squeaking out an overtime win Sunday. Tonight the series shifts to Orlando for games three, four and five – I have mixed feelings on that three-games-in-a-row thing. The pressure’s on the Magic tonight at 9.

Cubs Take On Astros Tonight

2009-06-09T02:48:00.002-04:00

The Cubs were off Monday; they’re winners of three of their last four. They’re back at it tonight, visiting the Astros. Ted Lilly on the mound for Chicago in game one of the three game series.

Red Wings Can Wrap it up Tonight

2009-06-09T02:46:00.001-04:00

The Red Wings with a chance to re-claim Lord Stanley’s Cup tonight, they just gotta do what neither they nor the Penguins have been able to do in this series and that’s win on the road. The Detroit Free Press is reporting Dan Clearly did not practice with the team Monday but that he will play in Game 6. He didn’t practice Saturday morning either but that didn’t keep him from scoring at the Joe that night. Red Wings-Penguins tonight, a possibility for Detroit to take the title in Game 6, tune in at 7:40 on your home for the Red Wings, 1660 The Fan!

Tigers Split a Pair With White Sox

2009-06-09T02:44:00.001-04:00

The Tigers get two scoops of White Sox! For 1660 The Fan dot com sports, I’m Sean Patrick! The Tigers and White Sox squeezing in a two-fer Monday to makeup some rain outs. Game 1 a tight, back and forth affair which the Tigers took 5-4.
That’s your final, Joel Zumaya gets the win – he’s 3-and-0. The second game saw the long-awaited return of Jeremy Bonderman which was not good in watching this dismal Tiger performance in the night cap. After being sent to the minors Jose Contreras came back with a vengeance only one hit and one walk in his first start since early May. To add insult to injury, it wasn’t just the great pitching Contreras brought.
That pretty much set the tone as Detroit lost 6-1 and splitting the double header with the White Sox. 590KZO has all your Tiger games home and away with tonight’s broadcast at 7:50.

Soriano's 14th-inning homer lifts Cubs past Reds

2009-06-08T02:15:00.002-04:00

CINCINATI-- Alfonso Soriano's homer keyed a three-run 14th inning, as the Chicago Cubs topped the Cincinnati Reds, 6-3, in the rubber match of a three-game series.

Ryan Theriot finished 3-for-6 with a solo homer for the Cubs, who have won three of four overall and played an extraordinary amount of baseball over their last five games. Four of Chicago's last five games have gone to extra innings, and all but one -- Sunday's -- have been one-run contests. The Cubs played 57 innings over the span, with Sunday's contest representing the longest game of their season.

Randy Wells allowed two runs in a 6 2/3-inning start for Chicago, and was backed by a brilliant bullpen effort. Save for Carlos Marmol, who allowed the tying run to reach base in the seventh, six Cubs relievers pitched 7 1/3 scoreless frames.

The teams wasted numerous opportunities throughout the game, going a combined 4-for-34 with runners in scoring position and leaving 31 runners on base. However, in the top of the 14th against Lincoln, Soriano ripped a homer to right center field to put the Cubs on top. Chicago kept the inning going with a Theriot single and Kosuke Fukudome walk, and after Derrek Lee flied out, Mike Fontenot got an RBI single. Reed Johnson followed with a run-scoring double for a 6-3 lead, which Guzman made stand in the bottom half. He gave up a leadoff single to Nix, but set the next three batters down to seal the victory.

Gasol sparkles in OT as Lakers take 2-0 series lead

2009-06-08T02:10:00.003-04:00

LOS ANGELES--The Lakers are halfway to their 15th championship thanks to Pau Gasol's dominance in overtime in Game 2 of the NBA Finals.

Gasol scored seven of his 24 points in the extra session, powering Los Angeles to a 101-96 victory over Orlando at the Staples Center. Kobe Bryant scored 29 points and dished out eight assists, none bigger than one that led to a crucial three-point play by Gasol to cap a seven-point LA run in OT. Lamar Odom tallied 19 points and pulled down eight rebounds for the Lakers, who took the opener, 100-75, on Thursday.

Rashard Lewis poured in 34 points for the Magic, while Hedo Turkoglu added 22 points in defeat. Dwight Howard totaled 17 points, 16 rebounds and four blocks. Howard also had four steals, but accounted for seven of Orlando's 20 turnovers. That led to 28 Lakers points. The series shifts to Orlando for Game 3 on Tuesday.

The Magic had a chance to pull out the win at the end of regulation. Turkoglu hit a long-range jumper just before the shot clock was to expire, giving Orlando an 88-86 edge with 47.7 seconds left. Gasol then scored inside for the Lakers 14 seconds later, but Courtney Lee missed two crucial shots down the stretch for Orlando. First, he drove past Gasol into the lane with the shot clock running down, but the ball clanked off the back of the rim. Odom got the rebound with 9.1 seconds left, and out of a timeout Bryant drove to the lane, but his shot was blocked from behind by Turkoglu. That gave Orlando the ball back with 0.6 seconds left. Turkoglu then tried an inbounds lob to Lee, who got behind the defense, but the shot didn't fall as time expired. Howard's three-point play gave the Magic a 91-90 lead less than two minutes into OT, but the Lakers came back with the next seven points.

Wings Crush Pens, Take 3-2 Lead

2009-06-08T02:05:00.001-04:00

DETROIT--The Red Wings are one win away from winning their second straight Stanley Cup title.

The Wings crushed the Penguins 5-0 to take a three-games-to-two lead in the best-of-seven Stanley Cup Final. Valtteri Filppula, Niklas Kronwall, Brian Rafalski and Henrik Zetterberg all scored during a four-goal second period for the Red Wings, who are trying to win their 12th Cup. Daniel Cleary also scored while Chris Osgood posted 22 saves to record his 15th career postseason shutout. Marc-Andre Fleury allowed all five goals on 21 shots through 35-plus minutes for the Pens, who will host Game Six on Tuesday.

Thomas' grand slam in eighth propels Tigers over Angels

2009-06-08T02:01:00.002-04:00

DETROIT--Clete Thomas hit a grand slam in the bottom of the eighth inning, as the AL Central-leading Detroit Tigers got by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, 9-6, in the rubber match of a three-game set at Comerica Park.

Brandon Inge and Adam Everett each had a hit and two RBI for Detroit, which has won two straight after dropping the previous four contests. Rick Porcello went five innings but didn't factor in the decision. The young right-hander allowed four runs on five hits with three walks and two strikeouts. Joel Zumaya (2-0) picked up the win despite giving up a run and walking three batters in the eighth inning.

Juan Rivera had three hits, including a two-run homer, two doubles and three RBI, while Chone Figgins added a solo homer for the Angels.

Detroit begins an 11-game road trip at the Chicago White Sox on Monday.

Sports Update for Friday June 5

2009-06-05T04:40:00.001-04:00

It was tough period to watch as the Red Wings had a 2-1 lead and watched it disappear in the second stanza. The Penguins shelled Detroit for 3 goals in the second including Sidney Crosby’s tiebreaker.
The Penguins added another and went on to tie the series at 2 games apiece. Game 5 is Saturday night back at the Joe then Tuesday things switch back to Pittsburgh on Tuesday with all your coverage on 1660 The Fan.

On the diamond the Cubs and Braves took a rain check in Atlanta last night and will make up the game June 22.

In Chicago Jason Giambi had a 3 run homer to help The A’s shut out the White Sox 7-0.

A career milestone for Randy Johnson. The San Francisco Giants win over Washington 5-1 gave the Big Unit his 300th win. Johnson becomes the 24th pitcher to reach the 300 win mark.

The NBA finals got started last night in Los Angeles and the Lakers breezed to a 100-75 win over Orlando. Kobe Bryant tossed in 40 points. The lakers are trying to win their 15th NBA title and Coach Phil Jackson’s 10 which would move him past coaching legend Red Auerbach.
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The Tigers looking to avoid a sweep at the hands of Boston Thursday. The Dontrelle Willis feel-good comeback story doesn’t feel so good lately. Decent start for Dontrelle, Tigers out to a 3-nothing lead in the second, but one inning later the wheels come off
Jim Leyland has some words with the ump and he gets tossed too. Tigers stop the bleeding but can’t close the gap, 6-3 Boston as they sweep Detroit. Adding injury to insult, Miguel Cabrera pulled his hamstring; he’ll be evaluated today. Justin Verlander’s on the mound when they host the Angels tonight at 6:45 on 590 KZO.
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You may be a champion curler and not even know it yet – your chance to find out comes tomorrow at Wings Stadium. Olympic curling bronze medalist Joe Polo will be conducting a free clinic at Wings Saturday 6-to-9 pm. Wings Stadium will be hosting the 2010 USA Curling National Championships.
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The West Michigan Mayhem professional women’s football team will seek to retain their unblemished record on the road Saturday – the 5-0 Mayhem will be visiting the Fort Wayne Flash, whom they beat 41-nothing earlier this season.
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The 2009 Adrenaline Games Alliance Summer Skate Park series is shredding through the Kalamazoo Skate Zoo tomorrow from 5-to-9 – the Skate Zoo is on Ravine Road just west of Douglas – you can get more info at aganation.com. Strut your stuff or spare yourself the hospital bills and check out the pros!

Sports Update for Thursday June 3

2009-06-04T04:20:00.000-04:00

At Comerica Park, the Tigers mustered very little offense again as Boston doubled them up 10-5. Red Sox pitcher Josh Beckett had a no-hitter going into the 7th inning. Detroit only came up with 3 hits; 2 of them from Curtis Granderson. Armando Gallaraga took the loss for the Tigers who have one more game with Boston this series with game time 12:45 on 590 KZO.

The Cubs and the Braves went to 11 innings in Atlanta before Chicago came up with an RBI single to take a 3-2 win. That snaps a 7 game losing streak for the Cubs.
The Braves said goodbye yesterday to 2 time Cy Young winner Tom Glavine who they traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Braves 3rd baseman Chipper Jones says Glavine was important part of the organization.
Chicago and Atlanta finish up the 3 game set tonight at 6:45.

In the 3rd game of a 4 game series The Oakland A’s got the best of the White Sox 5-3 in Chicago.

The Red Wings will try again tonight to steal a game in The Igloo – you know, they call it the Igloo but it looks more like one of those old stove-top Jiffy Pop popcorns. Some good news for Detroit on the injury front. Pavel Datsyuk, who’s missed 5 games with a sore foot – that’ll happen when you block a shot with it – practiced Wednesday and looks likely for Game 4 – a decision will be made today. Red Wings GM Ken Holland tells the AP if Datsyuk doesn’t make Game 4 that he will be back at some point in the Finals. Red Wings up 2 games to 1 face off with the Penguins tonight at 7:40 on 1660 The Fan.

Western Michigan track continues to pick up wins – even in the off-season! Irene Cooper, Ashley Hunault and Sarah Morris have all been named to the 2009 MAC Track and Field All-Academic team. Way to score in the game of life!

Thanks for the Memories Tiger Stadium

2009-06-03T04:53:00.001-04:00

The old Tiger Stadium will soon become a brand spanking new piece of nice flat property. The Free Press is reporting that Tuesday the Detroit Economic Development Corporation commission voted 7-1 to shorten its name. I mean, to wipe the last remaining vestiges of Tiger Stadium from the face of the Earth, ostensibly because then people will suddenly want to start buying property in Detroit. Good luck with that. Just remember – you don’t cross Ernie Harwell.

Kings Sweep Evansville

2009-06-03T04:52:00.001-04:00

The Kalamazoo Kings swept a series from Evansville as they doubled up the Otters 6-3. Kalamazoo heads to Southern Illinois for a Friday game with the Miners.

Cubs Lose to Braves in 12 Innings

2009-06-03T04:51:00.004-04:00

In Atlanta it looked the Cubs were going to grab a win until Chipper Jones RBI in the 12th inning gave the Braves a 6-5 win in the opener of a 3 game set at Turner Field. The Cubs won all 6 games they played with Atlanta last season. Game 2 of the set is tonight.

Tigers Lose Opener to Red Sox

2009-06-03T04:51:00.002-04:00

The Tigers opened a series at home with the Red Sox and had to swallow a 5-1 loss. Detroit catcher Gerald Laird said they just left too many men on base.
Rick Porcello’s record drops to 6-4. Daisuke Matsuzaka (Dice-Kay Matsu-saka)Notched his first season win for the Red Sox. Game 2 is tonight at 6:45 on 590 KZO

Red Wings Drop Game Three

2009-06-03T04:49:00.001-04:00

The Pittsburgh Penguins were in a do or die situation. That’s not to say they would have lost the championship but being down 3 games to none to Detroit would be an uphill battle at best. But the Pens took the lead in the third and added an extra goal in the final minute to win game three 4-2.
The Wings came out for the third period and seemed a bit unorganized and didn’t even record a shot on goal for the first 8 minutes of the final stanza. Pavel Datsyuk was still not in the line up due to nursing the foot injury he suffered in the Chicago series. They’re off tonight with game 4 tomorrow night at Mellon Arena.

Sports Wrap Up For Tuesday 6/2

2009-06-02T03:37:00.001-04:00

As if Detroit wasn’t already giving Pittsburgh more than they can handle, the 2-nothing series-leading Red Wings are now looking at the return of Kris Draper. He’s been out with a pulled groin since game 3 against the Blackhawks. The Detroit Free Press is reporting Draper took part in an optional skate Monday and coach Mike Babcock says he has been cleared to return. No developments yet on when Pavel Datsyuk – who’s been out with a sore foot – will be back on the ice. The Red Wings and Penguins, Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals tonight at 7:40 on 1660 The Fan!

After splitting a weekend series with Baltimore, the Tigers sit comfortably atop the AL Central with a four-game lead over the White Sox. Detroit begins a three game home stand with the Red Sox tonight – rookie Rick Porcello on the mound, off to a 6-3 start. Catch the action at 6:45 on your home for the Tigers, 590 KZO.

The Cubs get back on the diamond tonight – they had a day off after going 2-2 against the Dodgers. It’s kinda like their season thus far – they’re only a game over .500. The 0-2 David Wells takes the mound in Atlanta tonight when the Cubs and Braves get underway at 7.

A shakeup over on Vanrick Drive – on Monday the Kalamazoo Wings announced that the team is voluntarily withdrawing from the International Hockey League. In reaching the decision the organization cited its commitment to providing affordable family entertainment. The statement also indicated that plans for a 36th consecutive season of hockey would be forthcoming.

Kalamazoo Kings in action tonight on the road, game one of a three-game affair with the Evansville Otters at 8:05. After a 5-1 start the Kings were swept over the weekend by Southern Illinois. You can follow the Kings all season long online at 1660 The Fan dot com and WKZO dot com.

Dodgers use quick start to earn split with Cubs

2009-06-01T01:30:00.002-04:00

CHICAGO--Cubs fall to the team with the best record in baseball as the Dodgers split the series with an 8-2 win in Chicago. The Cubs had won four out of five after dropping eight in a row but LA pounded Sean Marshall with 8 hits and 8 runs. The Cubbies travel to Atlanta tomorrow night to take on the Braves at 7:00.

Tigers split series with Baltimore

2009-06-01T01:26:00.002-04:00

BALTIMORE--Tigers split a four-game set with 3-0 victory against Baltimore over the weekend taking back to back games at Camden Yard.

Curtis Granderson temporarily stepping into the clean-up spot for the first time in his career blasted a solo over the center field wall in the fourth to put the Tigers on the board first. Jeff Larish went 2-3 with a RBI double and Clete Thomas also added an RBI double to seal the victory in the ninth.

Tiger’s pitching finally holding up their end as Edwin Jackson retired the first 11 batters he faced in his 8 shut-out innings. He allowed only two hits and a walk with seven K’s before Fernando Rodney earned his 10th save.

Tigers will bring it back to the D for a three in a row as they face Boston starting Tuesday at 7:00.

Osgood backstops Red Wings to 2-0 series lead

2009-06-01T01:22:00.002-04:00

DETROIT--Red Wings giving flashbacks to Pittsburgh of last years six-game championship victory as they jump out to take the first two of the series winning 3-1 in the Motor City Sunday night.

Chris Osgood nothing but solid again for Detroit making 31 saves in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals. Jonathon Ericsson, Valtteri Fillula and Justin Abdelkader scored in succession after a first-period score from Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin as the Wings attempt to become the first club in history to repeat as back-to-back champions as they did in ’97 and ’98. Tomas Holmstrom and Marian Hossa added two assists.

The Penguins are now in familiar territory as the series heads to Pittsburgh with Detroit leading 2 games to none—Those who don’t learn from history are doomed to repeat it!
Play resumes Tuesday 8:00.

Detroit opens Cup Finals with a win

2009-05-31T01:00:00.002-04:00

DETROIT--Johan Franzen scored the winning goal late in the second period and an impressive Chris Osgood was a wall in the net saving 31 out of 32 shots-on-goal to give the Red Wings a win over Pittsburgh 3-1 in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals.

The Stanley Cup finals opener was full of reminders about last year. Pittsburgh's Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin were slowed down and Detroit scored some fortunate goals.

Detroit opened with a Brad Stuart goal off the skate of Penguin's goalie Marc-Andre Fleury in the first and Justin Abdelkader gave the insurance tally in the third. Captain Nicklas Lidstrom return to action after missing two games with a lower-body injury but Pavel Datsyuk remained sidelined with a swollen foot he suffered in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals against Chicago.

Pitssburgh will look to learn from painful lessons from last year's six-game loss, while the Wings will hope to become the first club to repeat as back-to-back championships as they did back in '97 and '98. Detroit will host game 2 Sunday 8:00.

Tigers snap Orioles' win streak

2009-05-30T23:13:00.002-04:00

BALTIMORE--A solid performance from the Tiger's line-up puts a hault to the Orioles' season high, five-game winning-streak as they win 6-3 in game three of four at Camden Yards Saturday night.

Clete Thomas went 3-5 including two home runs and Curtis Granderson chipped in a solo-shot while scoring two runs. Justin Verlander (6-2) was impressive on the mound throwing for six innings as he picked up his sixth win on the season. Ryan Raburn added two hits and an RBI, while Gerald Laird knocked in an insurance run.

Verlander found himself in a bit of trouble in the fifth after a Matt Wieters' triple started off the inning followed by a Nolan Reimhold RBI single. A quick 1-2-3 got the Tigers out of the inning but found themselves battling again in the sixth as Luke Scott blasted a two-run, game-tying homer. That was shortlived as Thomas' second homer in the seventh gave the lead back to Detroit.

Detroit manager Jim Leyland continues to have difficulty with his bullpen as he was forced to use three relievers in the seventh until Joel Zumaya was able to battle out. Fernado Rodney came in the ninth with the save and tacked up his ninth save of the year.

Tigers will try to split the series tomorrow in Baltimore at 1:35. Edwin Jackson is expected to pitch.

WMU's Lexi Jager Gets it Done On/Off Field

2009-05-29T04:10:00.002-04:00

Western Michigan softball’s Lexi Jager continues to make headlines – this time off the field. The sophomore who set numerous career and single-season records this season, who was named First Team All-MAC, can now add Academic All-MAC to her lengthy resume. The occupational therapy major carries a 3.3 GPA and is only the second outfielder in program history to earn the honor.

Photo Courtesy Zolton Cohen

An NHL Rematch From Last Season on 1660 The Fan

2009-05-29T04:08:00.002-04:00

It’s déjà vu all over again! The Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins square off tomorrow in game one of the Stanley Cup finals and Detroit is hoping to have captain Niklas Lidstrom back on the ice. Lidstrom missed games 4 and 5 against the Blackhawks with a lower-body injury – his first missed playoff games in his 16 year career. Pavel Datsyuk and Jonathon Ericsson will be game-day decisions. The Red Wings and Penguins Game 1 7:40 Saturday on 1660 The Fan dot com!

Cavaliers Stave Off Elimination

2009-05-29T04:05:00.002-04:00

It was all or nothing for the Cleveland Cavaliers in game 5 of the Eastern Conference NBA finals with Orlando. LeBron James had a triple double in the effort wihich Cleveland took 112-102 and said the Cavs do know how to get it done.
The teams head south for Saturday’s game 6 in Orlando.

Cubs Edged By Dodgers

2009-05-29T04:04:00.002-04:00

The first of a 4 game series at Wrigley slipped away from the Cubs as Los Angeles nipped them 2-1. Randy Wolf was nearly unstoppable on the mound and Joe Torre was happy for him.
Randy Wells took the loss after giving up 8 hits in 7 innings.

Tiger Offense Sputters

2009-05-29T04:02:00.001-04:00

The offensive cool off continues for Detroit as they lost 5-1 to the Orioles in Baltimore. Luke Scott hit a solo shot and a 3 run homer for Baltimore. The Tigers left 10 men stranded and dropped their 4th of the last 6 outings. Tigers and O’s again tonight from Camden Yards with game time 6:45 on 590 KZO.

Sports Wrap for Wednesday 5-27

2009-05-27T05:07:00.000-04:00

The Tigers needed it to rain hits as they put up very little offense against Zack Greinke’s superb outing giving the Royals game two of the set 6-1. Greinke gave up only 1 run on 6 hits and fanned 8 batters in throwing his 5th complete game of the season.

It came down in buckets last night in Chicago. The game was barely official but made it to the top of the 6th which was enough to give the Cubs their first win in 9 games over the Pirates 6-1. Losing pitcher Ian Snell is trying not to over think the loss.
Sean Marshall grabbed the win after 5 solid innings. It’s an afternoon game with Pittsburg today at 2:20.

The NBA playoffs are taking some interesting turns. At one time it looked like it would take magic to stop the Cavaliers when that’s exactly what happened. Orlando took it to overtime and crawled out with a 116-114 win. Lebron James scored 44 including the ones that sent the game to OT. Cleveland coach Mike Brown knows there’s really only one thing to do now.
Hopefully a shift back home tomorrow night will keep the Cavs alive.

The Red Wings will have their work cut out if they finish off Chicago tonight. Part of the championship match up was decided last night in Raleigh as the Pittsburgh Penguins head back to familiar territory with a 4-1 win and a 4 game sweep of Carolina. Pens center Sidney Crosby says this road was not a smooth one.

A hopeful sign for the upcoming Michigan football season – sophomore center David Molk has been named to the named to the 2009 Rimington Trophy Spring Watch List, as announced by the award's selection committee. He is one of 44 centers and only 5 sophomores in contention for the award, given annually to the nation’s top center. Molk did not miss a single offensive snap in his redshirt freshman season.

The Red Wings with an opportunity to close out the Blackhawks in the Western Conference Finals tonight in Hockeytown – but they may have to do it without Niklas Lidstrom and Pavel Datsyuk – they will both be gameday decisions. If Lidstrom is unable to play, it will be only the second playoff game he misses in his 16 seasons – Game 4 of this series was his first scratch. The Red Wings and their 3-1 series lead take on the Blackhawks for Game 5 tonight at 7:10 on 1660 The Fan.

Sports Wrap for Tuesday 5-26

2009-05-26T02:51:00.000-04:00

The Red Wings took their series to Chicago over the weekend – I’ve got good news and bad news. I usually take the bad news first so I have something to look forward to. On Friday the Red Wings, who were without the injured Pavel Datsyuk, rallied from a 3-nothing deficit to send the game to overtime, but less than two minutes into the extra period Patrick Sharp puts in the gamewinner for the Blackhawks. Now the good news – Sunday at the United Center is was a Red Wing highlight reel! Still without Datsyuk and also short one Nicklas Lidstrom who missed his first playoff game in 16 years, Detroit blasted the Blackhawks from all sides – a short-handed tally from Marion Hossa put Detroit on the board, three power play goals and change later the Red Wings dismiss the Blackhawks 6-1 to take a commanding 3-1 lead in the best-of-7 Western Conference finals. Game 5 tomorrow night live from the Joe at 7:10 on 1660 The Fan.
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After back-to-back sweeps the Tigers were due to hit a bump in the road and it was the Rockies. Friday at Comerica the Olde English “D” extended their streak to 7 with a 4-3 win – rookie Rick Porcello won his fourth straight start. But then Saturday it went the other way – Todd Helton homered in the sixth to break a 3-all tie and give the Rockies the 4-3 win. Then Sunday Dontrelle Willis allowed 7 hits and 3 runs in 6 2/3 innings of work as the Rockies took the series with a 3-1 win.
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It was Aye Aye to Detroit as they made very short work of the Royals 13-1 yesterday in Kansas City. Gerald Laird parked two in the seats and Justin Verlander stayed on superstar course with 7 shut out innings. The second of that 3 game set is tonight at 8:10 on 590 KZO.

The Cubs are not enjoying such success lately as they recorded their eighth straight downing 10-8 against the Pirates at Wrigley. The boo birds were heard from as Chicago equaled their 2006 losing streak which resulted in a dismal season and the firing of the manager and team president.

The White Sox mounted a 23 hit barrage and pummeled the Angels of Anaheim 17-3.
Jeremy Dye and Jim Thome each hit 3 homers for the Sox.

The Denver Nuggets hammered the Lakers 120-101 last night as Denver evens the series at two apiece. Kobe Bryant led all scorers with 34 but L.A. was outscored in every quarter. Game 5 Wednesday in Los Angeles.
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Your Kalamazoo Kings off to a good start opening weekend against the Traverse City Beach Bums. Friday a football score as the Kings took down the Beach Bums 13-10 – Brendan Murphy with 4 RBIs. Saturday TC evened it up with a 4-1 win. And Sunday a 2-1 Kings victory to take the series - Brendan Murphy went 3-for-4 at the plate including a longball. They’re home tonight against Evansville at 7:05 – you can follow the Kings all season long at 1660 The Fan dot com and WKZO dot com.

Tigers can't make it 8 in a row

2009-05-24T04:29:00.003-04:00

DETROIT--The Tigers can't make it eight in a row as they fall 4-3 to the Rockies in Detroit.
Colorado's Houston Street clinched an impressive 100th career save as he retired Miguel Cabrera, Magglio Ordonez and Brandon Inge, the heart of Detroit's line-up, to hang on to the one-run lead.
April's Pitcher of the Month for the Tigers, Armando Galarraga, is no longer as he found himself once again giving up early runs in the game, although not as damaging as previous games in the month of May.
The Rockies jumped on the Tiger's quick in the 1st inning. Despite a solo-shot from Cabrera in the 2nd, it took until the 5th for the Tiger's to tie-up the game at three. Those runs were set-up in a double steal by Ordonez and Ryan Rayburn. However, it was short lived as Galarraga sent a 3-0 fastball to lead-off Todd Helton, who sent it back to the stands--the second homer Galarraga gave up in the game. Helton has now homered in 31 Major League ballparks after adding Comerica to the list. Galarraga is 2nd in the American league in home runs allowed.
Detroit will continuing the three-game series Sunday at 1:00 p.m. in Comerica Park. Dontrelle Willis is expected to throw for the Tigers.

Sports Wrap-Up for Friday May 22

2009-05-22T04:07:00.001-04:00

Yeah! Stand up and cheer! Jackson wins his third straight start and speaking of streaks, the Tigers have beaten Texas six in a row and now have back-to-back sweeps under their belts. Detroit hosts the Rockies over your Memorial Day weekend, game one tonight at 6:45 on 590 KZO.

The Red Wings take their 2-nothing lead into Chicago tonight in the Western Conference Finals, tune in at 7:40 on your home of the Red Wings, 1660 The Fan.

A rough series for the Cubs losing all three games of a series with St. Louis with last night’s 3-1 decision. Albert Pujols hit a huge blast off the McDonald’s for his 14th homer for the Cards.
Chicago is really struggling on the road and in this last 3 game series scored only 2 runs.
Maybe things will be better in San Diego as the Cubs start a 3 game set with the Padres tonight.

The NBA playoffs continued with Denver evening things up with a 106-103 win. Carmelo Anthony scored 34 points.
There’s now a day of rest and travel with the series continuing Saturday in Denver.

In hockey the Pittsburg Penguins now have a 2 game edge as they took out Carolina 7-4 last night in Pittsburgh. The series now moves to Carolina for Saturday night’s game 3.

The bad news is Michigan football’s season last year. Yeah, that was bad. But the good news is, that sucky performance means you can finally get tickets. This year anyway. On the heels of their worst season ever, Michigan football is offering the “All In” package for the upcoming campaign. It’s a one-year deal for all the home games – including Notre Dame and Ohio State – and it’s only 400 bucks! You can be there when Michigan snaps its longest slump against the Buckeyes!

How can a football team lose two games – at the same time? Well, it could happen if Delaware State gets beat at Michigan in October. In order to schedule the trip to Ann Arbor, the Hornets had to forfeit a conference game to North Carolina A&T. Don’t feel too bad for ol’ DSU though – they’ll pick up a 550-thousand dollar paycheck for their troubles.

Memorial Day weekend, a perfect time for the Kalamazoo Kings to open up the home season. Your home team kicks it off today taking on the Traverse City Beach Bums at Homer Stryker field tonight at 7:05. You can follow the Kings all season long online at 1660 The Fan dot com and wkzo dot com.

Sports Wrap-Up for Monday 5-18-09

2009-05-19T05:03:00.000-04:00

Tigers right-hander Armando Galarraga shot out of the gate to a 3-0 start – since then he’s 0-3 and sporting a 10.91 ERA, and the low point came Sunday when he was pulled two outs and five runs into the first inning! Uh, don’t look now man, but isn’t that Jeremy Bonderman coming back to the lineup soon? Dontrelle Willis on the mound tonight for game one of a three game tussle with the Rangers at Comerica – 6:45 start on 590 KZO

Red Wings tonight – powerhouse win over the Blackhawks in game one at the Joe Sunday – let’s hope for a repeat performance this evening, live from Hockeytown Red Wings-Blackhawks Game 2 at 7:10 in 1660 The Fan!

Cubs off last night, at St. Louis tonight, three game series gets underway with Ted Lilly on the mound for Chicago at 8:15.

One of the MAC’s postseason bowl games has undergone an upgrade – your G-M-A-C Bowl 2.0 dumps Conference USA and installs the ACC as your opponent in Mobile, Alabama. With the move, all three of the MAC’s contracted bowls are with BCS conferences, including the Motor City Bowl with the Big Ten and the International Bowl with the Big East.

The Eastern Conference NHL series got started with Pittsburgh getting out to a 1 game lead at home after edging Carolina 3-2. Game 2 is Thursday night also in Pittsburgh.

The NBA’s next set of series starts tonight on the west coast when the Lakers bring a clean slate against Denver. Tomorrow night is the first game in the NBA series between Orlando and Cleveland. LeBron and the Cavs have not lost a playoff game so far. Things tip off in Cleveland.

Over in Baseball the winners included the Pirates, Colorado, postponed was Arizona and Florida, the Brewers doubled up St. Louis, The Dodgers in 11 innings, Toronto beat the White Sox. Winners also included the Yankees, Tampa Bay and the Angels.

The Coca-Cola 600 celebrates 50 years of existence and the site is Lowe’s Motor Speedway. Last weeks race at that track put a million dollars in Tony Stewarts coffers. The Coca-Cola 600 has been won by Jeff Gordon 3 times but it’s been a decade.

Locally Lady Bronco basketball star Tiera DeLaHoussaye is trying to shine in the WNBA with the Detroit Shock after signing a contract with them and looks to be right in the mix when the season rolls around.
Also good luck to WMU senior gymnast Liz Prouty who’s representing her school at Disney World in Orlando starting next week during the NCAA National Student-Athlete Development Conference.

Tigers Blast A's Again

2009-05-16T22:43:00.004-04:00

DETROIT--After previously being swept in three games by Minnesota, the Detroit Tigers have now taken two straight from the Oakland Athletics drilling them 9-1 at home.
Detroit's line-up pounded Dallas Braden (3-5) who was tagged on 9 hits giving up six runs. Miguel Cabrera went 3-for-4 with four RBI, while Ryan Raburn hit a three-run homer in the fifth while scoring twice. Placido Polanco chipped in three hits and two runs.
Tiger's got on the board first when a Gerald Laird double drove in Raburn in the second. The A's would answer in the third after a Ryan Sweeney double was brought in by a Travis Buck single to the right. The throw attempt home was on time, but Sweeney slid past Laird's tag to tie the game.
In the fifth the Tiger's offense exploded scoring five runs. After throwing Cabrera out at first Braden's throw home got past the plate allowing Curtis Granderson to score. Magglio Ordonez followed with a ground-rule double to plate Polanco and, after Brandon Inge drew a walk, Raburn launched a 2-1 pitch over the wall in right to give the Tiger's a 6-1 lead. A Cabrera two-out double in the sixth and another double in the eighth kept the Tiger's cushion big as they finished 9-1.
Rick Porcello (4-3) had his third straight start giving up just a single run on three hits with two walks and five strike outs in six innings. Bobby Seay started with seventh but was quickly replaced by Joel Zumaya who got the next two batters as well as a 1-2-3 eighth inning. Fernando Rodney finished out a perfect ninth to end the game.

Sports Wrap-Up for Friday May 15

2009-05-15T01:57:00.002-04:00

Red Wing fans can keep those car flags waving proudly.
A late go-ahead score let Detroit put that bruising series behind them. The final was 4-3 over the Ducks and that sets up a series we’ll be right in the middle of. The Wings and the Blackhawks give you a nice Sunday afternoon game to enjoy and you can do that at 2:40 on 1660 The Fan.
In the other conference battle another series decided in a game 7 but when the dust settled the Carolina Hurricanes had emerged with a 3-2 overtime win over the Bruins. The Canes now set their eye on the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The NBA as well has two series going to a 7th game as Houston evened that series at 3 apiece beating the Lakers 95-80 despite Kobe’s 32 points. That series will be decided on Sunday. Orlando refused to quit and handed the Celtics an 83-75 loss and lived to play game 7 Sunday in Boston.

The Tigers snatch defeat from the jaws of victory and get swept by the Twins. Detroit back home today – Edwin Jackson on the mound as they begin a three-fer with the A’s, Game one tonight at 6:45 on 590 KZO.
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The Cubs crushed the Padres Thursday 11-3 completing the three-game sweep at Wrigley. The Cubs extended San Diego’s current road losing streak to 11 – their longest such slump in 38 years! 31 year-old rookie Bobby Scales had a pair of two-run doubles for Chicago. The Cubs kick off another three game home stand today with Houston.

Sports Wrap-Up for Thursday May 14th

2009-05-14T04:02:00.002-04:00

It was tough to stay unflappable watching this 14-10 13 inning game slip away from the Tigers. Detroit led briefly in the top of the 13th but Minnesota’s Joe Crede with two strikes sent a curve ball into the seats to clear the bases.
Tigers try to take one game of the series this afternoon on 590 KZO with air time at 12:50.

The Cubs and Padres barely got in an official game finally having the contest called for rain in the 8th. But it was enough for Chicago to wring out a 6-4 win. The same teams meet again today at 2:20 on 1660 The Fan.

In the NBA Denver sent the Mavericks back to Texas with a 124-110 final and a 4 games to 1 series win and now move on to their first trip to the conference finals in over 20 years.

On the rink Pittsburgh just had all the pieces in place and got about everyone involved in their solid 6-2 clubbing of Washington. It was a bruising 7 game series with that rivalry but the Penguins now have a spot in the conference finals.

Joe Louis Arena will be rockin’ tonight as the defending Stanley Cup champion Red Wings take the ice for Game 7 of the Western Conference semifinals tonight, facing a Ducks team that just won’t quit. Could this be the end of the season for Detroit? Red Wings-Ducks, tonight at 6:40 on your home for Red Wings playoff hockey – 1660 The Fan.

Jeremy Bonderman is one step closer to finally suiting up for the Tigers. He’s been on the DL all season after undergoing shoulder surgery and the Detroit Free Press is reporting he will begin his injury-rehab assignment with the West Michigan Whitecaps this weekend. The Whitecaps are home Saturday night taking on the Great Lakes Loons.

It’s on to the MAC Championships in Akron for the Western Michigan track and field team. The Broncos took second place at last year’s meet, took seven event titles and scored a record 153 points. The Broncos start today with the hammer throw, shot put, pole vault and javelin.

Sports Wrap-Up for May 13th

2009-05-13T03:22:00.000-04:00

Talk about a change in scenarios. After sweeping the Bluejackets in 4, the Red Wings and Ducks are takin’ it to 7 after Anaheim double ‘em up 2-1 on the west coast. Jonas Hiller was stingy in the net for the Ducks swatting away 38 shots. So back to Motown we go for game 7 tomorrow night. The winner then limps on to battle the Blackhawks in the conference finals.
The other NHL battle is going to a 7th game as the Bruins cheated the grim reaper with a 4-2 doubling of Carolina. The Hurricanes do well in game seven’s and they’ll need to as that series moves north to Boston tomorrow night.

The NBA playoffs continued last night with Kobe and the Lakers humiliating Houston by 40. The 118-78 drubbing give L.A. a 3-2 series lead. It could wrap up with a Laker win tomorrow night in Texas.
A much tighter game was played in Boston as the Celtics had to reach deep to come back from a 14 point 4th quarter deficit. The 92-88 victory gives Boston a 3-2 edge in their series with Orlando.

Moving to the diamond, a pair of solo homers from Jeff Larish and Ramon Santiago was all the Tigers could muster as they fell to the Twins 6-2 in the Twin Cities. Detoit starter Armando Gallaraga knew he did a couple things wrong.
His record evens out at 3-3. Your home for Tiger baseball is 590 KZO.

In Chicago Milton Bradley put a two-run homer in the sixth to take the lead and a pair of insurance runs came later as the Cubs knocked over the Padres 6-2. You don’t hear of many 31 year old rookies but the Cubbies have Bobby Scales and he hit his first career home run and coach Lou was happy for him.
The Padres have now lost 11 of their last 13.
And in Cleveland Jim Thome had a pair of two run homers to lead the White Sox past the Indians 7-4.

Red Wings top Anaheim in Game 5

2009-05-11T00:35:00.002-04:00

filed by Emily Wolfram 1660thefan.com

DETROIT--Henrik Zetterberg posted a goal and two assists
as the Detroit Red Wings topped the Anaheim Ducks, 4-1, in Game 5 of a Western
Conference semifinal at Joe Louis Arena. Johan Franzen, Jiri Hudler and
Darren Helm also lit the lamp for the Red Wings, who lead the best-of-
seven series 3-2 and get their first crack to eliminate Anaheim on Tuesday
in Game 6 at Honda Center. Chris Osgood needed just 16 saves for his seventh
win of the 2009 playoffs. Ryan Whitney posted the only goal for the Ducks, who
have dropped two straight games for the first time this postseason. Jonas
Hiller made 34 stops in defeat.

Tigers Sweep Cleveland First Time Since '89

2009-05-10T23:09:00.004-04:00

filed by Emily Wolfram 1660thefan.com

CLEVLAND--Adam Everett went 2-for-3 with a double and
two runs batted in, and Jeff Larish hit a solo homer as the Detroit Tigers
held on to edge the Cleveland Indians, 5-3, to complete a three-game series
sweep at Progressive Field.

Curtis Granderson added a two-run single for the Tigers, who claimed their
first three-game sweep in Cleveland since June 5-7, 1990. Detroit has won six
of eight overall.

Rick Porcello (3-3) earned the victory after tossing five solid innings. The
young righty gave up one run on five hits while striking out five and walking
a pair of batters. The Tigers bullpen has allowed only three runs in the last
31 innings.

Asdrubal Cabrera turned in a two-hit effort and knocked in a run for Cleveland, which has dropped four in a row and seven of its last nine.
The Indians have scored just three runs in their last 28 innings. Grady

Detroit opened the scoring by jumping on Anthony Reyes (1-1) for four runs in the top of the
second. Larish belted a solo homer to the right-field seats with one down, but
the Tigers weren't finished. Magglio Ordonez doubled, Brandon Inge singled and
Gerald Laird walked to load the bases. Everett's sacrifice fly and a two-run
single by Granderson stretched the lead to 4-0.

In the home half, Sizemore's RBI base-hit to right brought in Peralta, who
singled to get the Indians on the board. It was the Tribe's first run in 20
2/3 innings.

Everett's two-out run-scoring single to center in the fourth chased home
Ordonez to up the Tigers advantage to 5-1.

The Indians mounted a ninth inning threat off Fernando Rodney. Peralta reached
with a one-out single and after Kelly Shoppach grounded out, Sizemore drew a
walk. Cabrera then laced a run-scoring double into the left-center field gap
to make it a 5-2 game. Rodney's wild pitch allowed another run to cross the
plate to get the Tribe to within two. After Victor Martinez worked a walk,
Shin-Soo Choo flied out to right to end the ballgame. Detroit will visit Minnesota on Tuesday

Tigers & Cubs Results

2009-04-28T04:24:00.003-04:00

filed by Larry Long 1660thefan.com

Opening a series with a win against the Yankees has to be a good omen and the Tigers did just that with a 4-2 win at Comerica Park. Maglio Ordonez made the difference in the batting area.
While Justin Verlander turned in a nice performance on the mound. C.C. Sabathia took the loss for the Yanks who didn’t even get on the board until the ninth inning.

Heading out to the desert the Cubs were pounded by Arizona 7-2. Cubs skipper Lou Pinella had little choice but to give a veiled chuckle at Chicago’s inability to stop the Diamondbacks nearly effortless scoring.
Losing pitcher Ted Lilly concedes he didn’t do enough to win the game and also pretty much wrote the game off.

Lions Select Matthew Stafford 1st in NFL Draft

2009-04-25T16:17:00.001-04:00

by Dan Cash

NEW YORK – At this point...it happened. The Detroit Lions used their 1st overall pick on former Georgia Quarterback Matthew Stafford. Like it or not...Stafford is now your franchise quarterback for at least the next 3 seasons. Just over 41-Million-Dollars in guaranteed money assures that.

So where do Detroit Lions fans go from here?

It's an interesting situation with Stafford if you believe in signs of change within the birth of a new franchise. The Lions are exactly that...a new franchise beginning right now. Sure William Clay Ford Sr. is still in charge and Martin Mayhew and Tom Lewand worked under Matt Millen for the last 8 seasons...but how much worse can it possibly get?

When it comes to signs Stafford has several. He graduated from the same Texas High School as the last Quarterback to lead the Detroit Lions to an NFL Championship Bobby Layne. He's become friends with 3-Time-Super Bowl Champion Troy Aikman who lives in Stafford's hometown.

Those points however mean nothing, when it comes to the Lions history of systematically ruining quarterbacks.

Joe Harrington, Andre Ware, Chuck Long and the list goes on and on and on. I don't want to be the guy who says Stafford's career is over before it begins...but as I believe I already said “The Lions systematically ruin quarterbacks that they draft”.

Maybe it's a new time. Maybe it's a new franchise...but Lions fans only hope is that Stafford learned enough from his friend Troy Aikman and his hometown...to tell the Lions...”You know...you were 0-16 and I am undefeated in bowl games...let's try it my way.”

We shall see.

Bulls Outlast Pistons

2009-04-14T01:29:00.002-04:00

filed by Larry Long 1660thefan.com

Both the Pistons and Bulls limped into the playoffs but now they’re battling for the better seeds. Chicago though made it five-in-a-row holding off Detroit 91-88 behind Derrick Rose’ 24 points. Detroit closes out their home schedule with a 21-20 record.

2009-04-13T22:09:00.003-04:00

from foxsports.com

BOSTON (AP) - Mark "the Bird" Fidrych, the fun-loving pitcher who baffled hitters for one All-Star season and entertained fans with his antics, was found dead Monday in an apparent accident at his farm. He was 54.

Worcester County district attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. said a family friend found Fidrych about 2:30 p.m. Monday beneath a dump truck at his Northborough, Mass., farm about 35 miles west of Boston. He appeared to have been working on the truck, Early said.

The curly-haired right-hander was the American League Rookie of the Year in 1976 when he went 19-9 with a 2.34 ERA and 24 complete games. But injuries cut short his career, and he ended up spending only five seasons in the major leagues, all with the Detroit Tigers. He was 29-19 with a 3.10 ERA.

"The entire Detroit Tigers organization was saddened to learn of the passing of former player Mark Fidrych today," the Tigers said in a statement. "Mark was beloved by Tigers fans and he was a special person with a unique personality. The Tigers send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."

Fidrych attempted a comeback in 1982 and 1983 in the Boston Red Sox organization. He pitched for their Triple A team in Pawtucket, R.I. But he never pitched in the majors after 1980 and retired in July 1983.

The Worcester, Mass., native later owned a trucking business. State police detectives are investigating the circumstances of his death, Early said.

Tigers and Cubs Still Winning

2009-04-13T21:47:00.002-04:00

The Tigers were red hot over the weekend with their sweep over the Rangers. Monday’s mid-30’s temps at Comerica Park seemed to cool them off a little in game one of their series with the White Sox. Lotsa highlights here but mostly for the other side. Jermaine Dye and Paul Kornerko hit back-to-back homers for the Sox in the second – and it was the 300th career longball for each of them.
That makes it 6-4 but every time the Tigers threatened Chicago had an answer and the White Sox take game one 10-6. Game two comes your way live from Comerica Park today at 12:45 on your home for the Tigers, 590 KZO.
---------------------------------------
Cubs getting a late start on their home season, a rain delay pushed back their Monday matchup at Wrigley with Colorado. A dingy, soggy affair, not a lot of fireworks but the Cubs manage to get the job done.
Chicago grinds out the 4-nothing win and improves to 5-2. The Cubs have a day off then they face Colorado again tomorrow.

Red Wings Dive Into Playoffs

2009-04-13T21:44:00.001-04:00

The Red Wings begin their defense of Lord Stanley’s Cup with a first-round matchup with Columbus. The Red Wings really hitting a slump at the wrong time, dropping their last three in the regular season. They get a break before their series starts though – game 1 isn’t ‘til Saturday. The Red Wings host the Blue Jackets for round one, game one Saturday at 5:40 on 1660 The Fan.

VIDEO: WMU Spring Football Game Highlights

2009-04-11T18:25:00.000-04:00

VIDEO: WMU Defense Impresses at Spring Game

2009-04-11T18:22:00.001-04:00

KALAMAZOO -- The Western Michigan Broncos held their annual Brown-Gold spring game at Waldo Stadium Saturday afternoon. Last season's starting Quarterback Tim Hiller sat out the game while he recovers from a torn ACL.

Hiller, Running Back Brandon West, Quarterback Drew Burdi who led the spring game and WMU Head Coach Bill Cubit spoke with 590 KZO's Dan Cash following the game at Waldo Stadium.

QUARTERBACK TIM HILLER

QUARTERBACK DREW BURDI

WMU HEAD COACH BILL CUBIT

WMU RUNNING BACK BRANDON WEST

WMU's Tim Hiller Named Male Michigan College Athlete of the Year

2009-04-10T16:11:00.001-04:00

From WMU Media Relations:

KALAMAZOO, Mich. - Tim Hiller was announced as the 2009 Male Michigan College Athlete of the Year by the Detroit Athletic Club on Friday, April 10. Hiller, who set seven Western Michigan single-season and game records en route to leading the Broncos to the 2008 Texas Bowl, becomes the first Bronco to win the collegiate award.

“It is a great honor to receive this award and being the first Bronco to do so makes it all the more special to me. I thank the Detroit Athletic Club and all those on the committee for this recognition,” commented Hiller.

Hiller and the other award recipients will be honored at an awards ceremony held at the Detroit Athletic Club on May 11. Attendees will be shown a video of each award winners' accomplishments and for receiving this award, Western Michigan’s athletic department will receive a $2,500 donation.

In keeping with its tradition of encouraging amateur athletics, the Detroit Athletic Club continues to play an important role by supporting the annual National Athletic Awards, a prestigious program that benefits the March of Dimes. Each year, the DAC names four outstanding Michigan student athletes and presents them with the Michigan High School Athlete of the Year award and Michigan College Athlete of the Year award. The DAC Foundation supports this outstanding event and makes scholarships available to the two high school winners and the 10 high school nominees as well as making a donation to the colleges of the two college winners. Winners are chosen based on athletic achievement, academics and community involvement.

Hiller has excelled in each of the above criteria during his Bronco career. His 522 passing attempts, 339 completions, 3,725 yards, 36 TDs during the 2008 season are all new WMU single-season records. His 42 completions and 63 attempts at Buffalo on Oct. 11, and his 471 yards at Central Michigan one week later are new WMU game records. Tim Hiller has more than excelled in the classroom, earning a 4.0 GPA during his scholastic and collegiate career. He completed is undergraduate course work in August of 2008 and is currently pursuing his MBA.

Hiller is a mainstay in the community as well, leading the Bronco football team’s efforts in service to the community each semester and founded Western Michigan’s chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). He will take his philanthropic efforts abroad when he travels to Trinidad at the end of April for an FCA mission.

Western Michigan also boasts the 2008 Male Michigan High School Athlete as linebacker Mitch Zajac (Holt, Mich./Holt High School) became the first future Bronco to win the award since its inception in 1997.

Michigan College Athlete Award Winners Since 2006
2009 — Tim Hiller, WMU (Football) and Katie Cezat, HC (Basketball)
2008 — Jeff Lerg, MSU (Hockey) and Tiffany Ofili, UofM (Track)
2007 — Drew Stanton, MSU (Football) and Becky Weima, Calvin (Swimming)
2006 — Davis Tarwater, UofM (Swimming) and Lisa Winkle, Calvin (Basketball)

Broncos in Action

2009-04-10T02:20:00.002-04:00

Western Michigan softball on the road this weekend visiting MAC foe Northern Illinois – it’s the beginning of a six-game MAC roadtrip.

Bronco baseball visitng MAC opponent Buffalo for a three game series. Game one gets underway today at 3.

Tigers Drop Last Game of Series

2009-04-10T02:18:00.002-04:00

The Tigers closing out their four game series in Toronto, Thursday’s game marking the first time two first-round draft picks faced each other on the mound in their debut – Rick Porcello for Detroit and Ricky Romero for the Blue Jays. Curtis Granderson put the Tigers on the board in the third.
Good start for Curtis, his second homer on the young season. Marcus Thames would also score in the third, 2-nothing Tigers. But that would be all for Detroit - 3 homeruns in the space of 9 batters put the Blue Jays back in it, and this one caps it off…
Porcello gave up four runs and eight hits in five-plus innings. Blue Jays win it 6-2 and the Tigers drop to 1-3. The home season for Detroit begins today when they host Texas at 12:45 on your home for the Tigers, 590 KZO.

K-Wings Wrap Up Season This Weekend

2009-04-10T02:16:00.001-04:00

The K-Wings are closing out their regular season this weekend at home and on the road. They’re home tonight facing the Fort Wayne Komets at 7:30 and Saturday they visit Muskegon for a 7:30 start. But that doesn’t mean they’re done for the year – the K-Wings will be in the playoffs.

Desperate Predators Skate Past Detroit

2009-04-10T02:14:00.002-04:00

filed by Larry Long 1660thefan.com

The Nashville Predators showed how desperate they were to win last night in Detroit when they came back from a two goal deficit to beat the Wings in a shootout 4-3. Detroit is comfortably in the playoffs but Nashville tied the Blues for the final playoff spot with only a game or two left for most teams. The Predators wrap up tonight in Minnesota also desperately needing that win.

Lions Tap WMU's Blair

2009-04-09T04:22:00.001-04:00

It’s no secret that a glaring lack of protection for the quarterback has been a big problem for the Detroit Lions, and the team has turned to a Bronco to plug a hole. The Lions have announced the signing of offensive guard James Blair. Blair helped lead Western Michigan to the International Bowl after the 2006 season – a season that featured two 1000-yard backs for the Broncos. Blair comes to the Lions from the New York Jets.

Pistons Crush Knicks

2009-04-09T04:20:00.001-04:00

filed by Larry Long 1660thefan.com

In a game that was lopsided early on the Pistons dismantled the Knicks 113-86 last night at the Garden. Sheed and McDyess each notched double-double’s in the win which Detroit savors in their tight playoff race with the Bulls and Hornets. The Knicks are out of playoff contention.

Tigers Nail Down First Win

2009-04-09T04:19:00.003-04:00

filed by Larry Long 1660thefan.com

The Tigers notched the seasons first “W” beating the Blue Jays 5-1 in the third of a four game series in Canada. Brandon Inge bagged his third homer in as many games and said the Tigers can’t afford an early season losing streak.
Miguel Cabrerra clubbed two homers to help Zach Miner pick up the win.

1952 Lion Gus Cifelli Passes

2009-04-02T22:41:00.001-04:00

Gus Cifelli has died. Who was Gus Cifelli? A star tackle who helped lead Notre Dame to three national titles and the Detroit Lions to the 1952 NFL title. He was a total alpha-male too: served in the Marines during World War II and was awarded the Order of the Purple Heart, graduated from Notre Dame in 1950 (you mean college football players used to graduate?) and after his football career earned a law degree and was elected a district judge. The honorable Gus Cifelli was 84.

MSU No Stranger to Final Four

2009-04-02T22:40:00.001-04:00

Michigan State appearing in their 5th Final Four in 11 years tomorrow. But this is not just your typical Spartan Final Four – playing in Detroit 30 years after Magic beat Bird for the title. This is gonna be something special! On Saturday on 590 KZO we have a special Final Four edition of The Huge Show at 2 followed by Michigan State versus UConn at 4:30. On 1660 The Fan you can catch the second game, North Carolina taking on scrappy Villanova, starting at 8:30.

Tigers Win Behind Inge and Cabrerra's Bats

2009-04-02T22:38:00.001-04:00

The Tigers took a spring training win over their opening day opponents Toronto Thursday 8-5. Brandon Inge put up his fifth homer of the preseason and Miguel Cabrera batted in three runs. The Tigers close out spring training with a pair of games against Atlanta tonight and tomorrow afternoon, then visit the Blue Jays for opening day Monday at 6:55 on your Home for the Tigers 590 KZO.

Red Wings Singin' the Blues

2009-04-02T22:36:00.002-04:00

filed by Larry Long

The Red Wings hung tough at home but wound up with a terminal case of the Blues as St. Louis muscled out a 5-4 win in Detroit.
Detroit tied the game with less than five minutes but the Blues broke it 36 seconds later.
The Wings who have the Central Division sewn up and are chasing san Jose to regain the overall league best record are off until Sunday afternoon when they take on Minnesota.

Tigers Roughed Up By Braves

2009-04-02T01:30:00.003-04:00

Justin Verlander got shelled Wednesday, giving up 9 hits and 7 earned runs in five innings as the Tigers fell to Atlanta 9-3 in Lakeland. It was Verlander’s last run-through before opening day Monday in Toronto. And speaking of Opening Day, say hello to your new right-handed rookie pitchers – Rick Porcello and Ryan Perry will be on the Opening Day roster.

NIT Decided Tonight

2009-04-02T01:30:00.001-04:00

Penn State taking the floor against Baylor tonight in the National Invitation Tournament title game. The Nittany Lions have already set a school record with 26 wins, looking for one more and an NIT title tonight. Penn State leading scorer Talor Battle leads his team into, uh, battle tonight at 7 at Madison Square Garden.

K-Wings Play Three-In-A-Row

2009-04-02T01:28:00.001-04:00

The K-Wings kicking off three nights of hockey in a row tomorrow as they close in on the end of the regular season. Friday they’re home against Port Huron, Bloomington visits Wings Stadium Saturday, and Sunday they return the favor and hit the road to Bloomington.

Pistons Get Tangled In Nets

2009-04-02T01:26:00.002-04:00

filed by Larry Long

Every game is crucial these days for the Pistons and last night’s 111-98 loss to New Jersey made it a tighter race with Chicago for a playoff spot. Richard Hamilton who scored 29 for the Pistons is very confident they’re ready for post-season play.
Rasheed Wallace missed the game not for injury but temper. Sheed was suspended for breaking the league’s technical foul limit.

Purdue Out Of Big Dance

2009-03-27T04:35:00.000-04:00

filed by Larry Long

Another Big Ten team is out of the big dance. Purdue lost to U Conn 72-60 last night. The Huskies only shot 39% in the first half but Purdue shot even worse and only stayed in the game by fighting back a few times but couldn’t tip the momentum. Connecticut is pursuing their third national title.

Lawrence Done After Great Year

2009-03-27T04:33:00.001-04:00

filed by Larry Long

Often the team that dominates on the boards will win but a 52-26 rebounding edge was not enough for Lawrence to outlast Cedarville 80-77. The Trojans advance to the finals on Saturday. Lawrence finishes the season with a fine 24-2 record.

Tigers Double Up on Rays

2009-03-27T04:32:00.003-04:00

filed by Larry Long

Detroit had most of their starters for the first time this spring and doubled up the rays 6-3 in Lakeland. Rick Porcello really struggled on the mound but Curtis Granderson kept the hits coming and that was enough for the win.

Major Win For Spartan Women

2009-03-25T02:57:00.002-04:00

(AP)Michigan State fans came to boo their former coach.
They ended up cheering as loud as they have in years, witnessing a rare second-round upset against a woman who bolted for her dream job two years ago.
Mia Johnson scored a season-high 17 points and Lauren Aitch had 15, lifting the ninth-seeded Spartans to a 63-49 win Tuesday night over mighty Duke.

Red Wings Back On NHL Pinnacle

2009-03-25T02:41:00.001-04:00

filed by Larry Long

The Red Wings were able to score with less than 90 seconds left to edge Edmonton 3-2, a win that also put them back in the number one overall spot. Detroit now 49-16-9 claimed their fifth win in the last six games.

No 200th win for Bronco softball coach...yet.

2009-03-25T02:39:00.002-04:00

filed by Larry Long

It looked like Bronco softball coach Kathy Leitke was going to claim her 200th win as Westerns coach but Michigan State delayed it a bit when they battled back to score four runs in the seventh to beat the Broncos 5-3. The ladies will try to get their coach that 200th win in a double-header against Notre Dame.

Pistons drop 5 of 6

2009-03-25T02:31:00.004-04:00

filed by Larry Long

Two struggling NBA teams went at it in Chicago last night with the Bulls pulling out a 99-91 win over Detroit. Chicago has won their last five of six are in the hunt for a fleeting playoff spot. The Pistons have now lost five of their last six.

It took 50 years for Schoolcraft..but...

2009-03-25T02:30:00.001-04:00

filed by Larry Long

The banner year for the Schoolcraft Eagles continues to roll as they survived double overtime to knock off Calvin Christian 59-56 in a game played at Gull Lake High. It’s been five decades since Schoolcraft reached the men’s basketball semi-finals.

Lions thinking Stafford is #1!

2009-03-24T19:40:00.002-04:00

In less than a week Georgia quarterback Matt Stafford will undergo a private workout for the Detroit Lions in Athens, Georgia - Stafford will be struttin’ his stuff next Tuesday. The Lions, of course, have the number one pick in the NFL Draft, and Stafford is widely considered the odds-on favorite to be taken by Detroit. takes place April 25-26 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

Michigan State/NCAA action

2009-03-24T19:30:00.003-04:00

Michigan State coming up Friday night facing off against defending champs Kansas in the Sweet Sixteen. Pregame starts at 8:30 on your home for MSU March Madness, 590 KZO! Bonus Sweet Sixteen coverage tomorrow, including Purdue taking on number one seed UConn, beginning at 6 on 1660 The Fan.

Tigers great Kell dies at 86.

2009-03-24T19:29:00.002-04:00

Tigers were off Tuesday, they’ve lost four of their last five on the spring training tip. Today they visit the Mets at 1:10. In some somber news the Tigers have lost one of their own – Hall of Famer George Kell passed away Tuesday at his home in Arkansas. Kell played for Detroit from ’46 to ’52 and was the longtime television broadcast voice of the Tigers. George Kell was 86.

"New Look" Lions!

2009-03-24T19:20:00.002-04:00

It’s worked for the Broncos, the Buccaneers and in a big way for the Patriots. Could the Detroit Lions be next to get their mojo back with a little image makeover? The Detroit Free Press is reporting that a toy truck appeared on nflshop.com with a new font for the Lions as well as some tweaks to the logo. The truck disappeared from the site shortly thereafter, but there’s no such thing as bad publicity. Courtesy freep.com - click to enlarge.

Lady Broncos Lose Men Go For 1st Place Tie

2009-03-04T03:48:00.001-05:00

The Lady Broncos saw their season get even worse losing to Eastern Michigan 69-66 and fall to 3-12 in the conference. The Bronco men try to get back in a first place tie when they entertain Ball State tonight at University Arena.

Billups Back In Detroit

2009-03-04T03:47:00.001-05:00

filed by Larry Long

Chauncy Billups was back in Detroit last night only dressed as a Denver Nugget. The Pistons however ruined his return with a 100-95 win. Richard Hamilton who scored 21 was glad to be back on the court with Billups.
Billups was traded by Detroit to Denver this season in a trade for Allen Iverson.

Red Wings Shut Out Blues

2009-03-04T03:45:00.002-05:00

filed by Larry Long

It was Chris Osgood grabbing his first shut-out of the year with 22 saves as the Red Wings embarrassed the Blues in St. Louis.
It was a close call for Marian Hossa, back after a neck injury when he was checked then rammed head first into the boards. He was down for several minutes before being carried off in a stretcher. He seems to be ok.

Spartans Are Big 10 Champs

2009-03-04T03:43:00.001-05:00

filed by Larry Long

They had to earn it but Michigan State is the Big Ten champ with a 64-59 win over Indiana. It was a frustrating night for Tom Izzo who even got called for a technical from arguing with a ref. Coach Izzo may be sporting a different look soon as a result of his pledge to shave his head if the Spartans won the conference outright this year.

03/03/09 Bronco Update

2009-03-03T14:32:00.002-05:00

Here's your Bronco Update for Tuesday 3-3-09. Patrick
Galivan of the Western Michigan Hockey team is takes the CCHA
regular season scoring title with 36 points in 28 leagues games.

FileFactory.com

03/03/09 1660thefan.com Sports Update

2009-03-02T19:05:00.000-05:00

Here's your Sports Update for Tues, Mar 3, 2009 from 1660thefan.com!

FileFactory.com

18-0 KC vs 16-2 Schoolcraft tonite!

2009-03-02T19:04:00.002-05:00

K-Christian hoops on the air tonight as they continue their march through the KVA. The Comets hosed Schoolcraft by 16 at home in January – tonight Schoolcraft gets a shot at payback when K-Christian visits the Eagles’ house. 18-0 K-Christian versus 16-2 Schoolcraft, the finest in high school boys’ hoops live tonight at 7:15 on 1660 The Fan.

K-Wings Education Day Wed

2009-03-02T19:03:00.002-05:00

The K-Wings are in action tomorrow afternoon for an Education Day game, and by “day game” I mean 10:30am. They be looking to learn the Port Huron Icehawks a thing or two.

D & D

2009-03-02T19:02:00.002-05:00

The Pistons have fought their way back to .500 with a couple big-time bang bang wins over the Magic and the Celtics – can you believe they beat the Celtics by ten Sunday? The Pistons can get back in the win column with a win tonight over the visitng 39-21 Denver Nuggets. The D & D game – you know, Denver and Detroit – starts at 7:30.

More hardware for Bronco Hockey - playoffs start

2009-03-02T19:01:00.002-05:00

Western Michigan Bronco Hockey continues to turn heads and make headlines. For the third time this season Bronco Tyler Ludwig has been named CCHA Defenseman of the Week after this past weekend’s sweep of Bowling Green. Ludwig finished the regular season with career highs in goals, assists and points. Ludwig and the Broncos will begin their battle for the Mason Cup when they host Lake Superior State in the first round of the CCHA playoffs this Friday at 7:35.