Red Sox/Yankees returns to MLB on FOX Saturday

From Fox Sports -

Sabathia/Lackey Square-Off at Fenway – Yankees/Red Sox Saturday @ 4PM ET on FOX

Yankees Put Faith in Colon to Rise as Solid No. 2 

YANKS/SOX RENEW BIGGEST RIVALRY IN BASEBALL – The trading deadline has passed and teams are gearing up to make a postseason run. The FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL GAME OF THE WEEK kicks-off August with the biggest rivalry in the game on Saturday, August 6 (4:00 PM ET). As of today, merely one game separates the first-place Red Sox and the second-place Yankees in the AL East division. Winners of five in a row, the Yankees have rode the strong pitching of Cy Young candidate CC Sabathia as they’ve closed the gap on the Red Sox.  Sabathia is scheduled to take the mound Saturday against hard throwing Red Sox right-hander John Lackey who looks to shut down a powerful Yankee lineup at Fenway Park in Boston. Meanwhile, a rematch of the 2010 NLCS takes place in San Francisco as the Giants host the Phillies.  Sporting the best record in MLB, Ryan Howard and the Phillies aim to take the NL from the 2010 World Champion Giants. 

The MLB on FOX pregame show originates live from the Fenway Park in Boston, MA with host Chris Rose.  Once game action begins, Rose joins Joe Buck and Tim McCarver as a field reporter.  

For instant updates throughout the week and during games from the entire MLB on FOX crew, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/MLBONFOX.  Fans can gain more access to exclusive FOX Sports content by logging on to www.facebook.com/foxsports.

  

New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox (81% of nation)                       

Joe Buck, Tim McCarver  & Ken Rosenthal

Fenway Park – Boston, MA

MARKETS INCLUDE: Albuquerque, Austin, Baltimore, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dallas, Dayton, Denver, Detroit, Fort Myers, Greensboro, Hartford, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Knoxville, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Louisville, Memphis, Miami, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Norfolk, Oklahoma City, Orlando, Portland, Providence, Raleigh, Richmond, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, San Diego, Seattle, St. Louis, Tampa, Tulsa, Washington, West Palm Beach

Probable Pitchers:  CC Sabathia, LHP (16-5, 2.55 ERA) vs. John Lackey, RHP (9-8, 6.23 ERA)

Philadelphia Phillies at San Francisco Giants (18% of nation)           

Kenny Albert & Eric Karros                  

AT&T Park – San Francisco, CA

MARKETS INCLUDE: Atlanta, Birmingham, Greenville, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, San Francisco,

Probable Pitchers: Cole Hamels, LHP (12-6, 2.62 ERA) vs. Matt Cain, RHP (9-7, 3.10 ERA)

KLAPISCH: IT’S COLON OR BUST FOR THE YANKEES – The MLB trade deadline came and went without the Yankees making a move.  As FOXSports.com writer Bob Klapisch notes, the Yankees are putting a lot of faith in Bartolo Colon.  “The Bombers have already gotten a return on their investment with Colon: his 8-6 record and 3.30 ERA have revealed flashes of his 2005 prime,” writes Klapisch.  “When it was time to make a decision on Ubaldo Jimenez, Yankees GM Brian Cashman asked himself who he’d really prefer to have on the mound in Game 2 of the postseason: Jimenez or Colon?  The verdict had been rendered by the Yankees' hierarchy well before Sunday’s deadline. Why take a chance on a pitcher who’d lost 3-4 mph on his fastball, has never been the same since the first half of the 2010 season, had never won a postseason game and, through no fault of his own, has never proved he could handle AL East-type pressure?  Cashman correctly pointed out, ‘For us, pitching in a sold-out Stadium against the Red Sox, that’s the same thing as the playoffs.’ Using that metric, Colon was the better choice, especially since Jimenez would’ve cost the Yankees so much in young talent. But that still doesn’t address October’s biggest question: Who gets the ball after Sabathia? As of today, it is Colon or bust, which is another way for the Yankees to say: Our fingers are crossed.”

To read Klapisch’s full column, visit http://tinyurl.com/4396rnd

WHAT DO RICK PORCELLO & BABE RUTH HAVE IN COMMON? DAVID WELLS FINDS OUT ON THIS WEEK’S CHEAP SEATS – Each Wednesday (1:00 PM ET), former MLB All-Star pitcher David Wells hosts The Cheap Seats on FOXSports.com, an informative interview show where Wells talks to the current MLB players. This week, Wells sits down with Tigers P Rick Porcello. Porcello gets candid about the Tigers’ ace Justin Verlander and discusses the most important thing he’s learned from him.  Also, at only age 22, find out why Porcello is already in elite company with Babe Ruth.

To watch the show click here: http://msn.foxsports.com/video/shows/cheapseats

FOX SOCCER’S ‘SOCCER NIGHT IN AMERICA’ FEATURES “NEW BOSS” COLUMBUS CREW VS. COLORADO RAPIDS – FOX Soccer’s “Soccer Night In America” brings East and West together as the Eastern Conference leading Columbus Crew take on the Colorado Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Denver on Friday, August 5 (9:00 PM ET).  The Rapids (8-6-10) sit in 4^th on the Western Conference table having just come off of a convincing 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Union.  Columbus (9-6-7) sits atop the Eastern conference table led by surging performances by forward Robbie Rogers and by head coach Robert Warzycha.   Warzycha’s no-frills roster has managed to upstage all others in the East to propel the team into first place. 

JP Dellacamera calls play-by-play, with former MLS All-Star Kyle Martino handling analysis and Brian Dunseth contributing sideline reports. Former U.S. National Team and MLS players Eric Wynalda and Christopher Sullivan team up for the pregame, halftime and postgame coverage. For the latest MLS news, information and FOX Soccer’s 2011 telecast schedule, visit: http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/mls.

FUEL TV PROVIDES BIGGEST LIVE COVERAGE OF US OPEN OF SURFING IN HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA – The summer's biggest youth culture festival, the 2011 Nike US Open of Surfing, returns to "Surf City, USA" (Huntington Beach, California) this weekend and FUEL TV is bringing its most extensive TV coverage ever. On Sunday, August 7 (4:30PM ET/1:30PM PT), FUEL TV will be broadcasting for three and a half hours live from the beach, covering the finals of the men’s pro surfing contest with 10-Time World Champ Kelly Slater leading the world’s best, while two-time defending US Open Champ Brett Simpson will try to defend his title. In addition, FUEL TV will also telecast the finals of the Converse Coastal Carnage Skateboarding contest and the Nike 6.0 BMX Pro.

MLB FOX Saturday hits the trade deadline

From Fox Sports -

Latest on Trade Deadline Deals from Rosenthal & Morosi:

Beltran’s Deal to Giants is Imminent

FOXSports.com Joins Forces With TeamFanShop To Power Online Stores

MIDWEST RIVALS SQUARE OFF – The FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL GAME OF THE WEEK concludes its July slate with three intriguing matchups on Saturday, July 30 (4:00 PM ET). Two of baseball’s oldest rivals meet in St. Louis as Albert Pujols and the Cardinals host the Cubs. Fresh off Ervin Santana’s no-hitter this afternoon, the Angels look for another strong pitching performance, this time from Dan Haren as they travel to Detroit to take on the Tigers. In Seattle, rookie All-Star Michael Pineda is scheduled to take the hill as the Mariners host Evan Longoria and the Rays.

The MLB on FOX pregame show originates live from the Busch Stadium in St. Louis, MO with host Chris Rose.  Once game action begins, Rose joins Joe Buck, Tim McCarver and Ken Rosenthal as a field reporter.  

For instant updates throughout the week and during games from the entire MLB on FOX crew, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/MLBONFOX.  Fans can gain more access to exclusive FOX Sports content by logging on to www.facebook.com/foxsports.

Chicago Cubs at St. Louis Cardinals (50% of nation)                            

Joe Buck, Tim McCarver  & Ken Rosenthal

Busch Stadium – St. Louis, MO

MARKETS INCLUDE: Albuquerque, Atlanta, Birmingham, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Denver, Greensboro, Greenville, Houston, Indianapolis, Knoxville, Louisville, Memphis, Milwaukee, Nashville, New Orleans, Norfolk, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Raleigh, Richmond, Salt Lake City, San Diego, St. Louis, Tulsa, Washington

Probable Pitchers:  Rodrigo Lopez, RHP (2-2, 3.49 ERA) vs. Kyle McClellan, RHP (7-6, 4.15 ERA)

Los Angeles Angels at Detroit Tigers (26% of nation)                          

Dick Stockton & Jose Mota                            

Comerica Park – Detroit, MI           

MARKETS INCLUDE: Austin, Buffalo, Cleveland, Dallas, Detroit, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Sacramento, San Antonio, San Francisco

Probable Pitchers: Dan Haren, RHP (10-6, 3.01 ERA) vs. TBA

Tampa Bay Rays at Seattle Mariners (23% of nation)                         

Kenny Albert & Mark Grace   

Safeco Field – Seattle, WA

MARKETS INCLUDE: Baltimore, Boston, Fort Myers, Hartford, Jacksonville, Miami, New York, Orlando, Portland, Providence, Seattle, Tampa, West Palm Beach

Probable Pitchers: Alex Cobb, RHP (3-0, 2.57 ERA) vs. Michael Pineda, RHP (8-7, 3.64 ERA)

 

ROSENTHAL & MOROSI: BELTRAN SWEEPSTAKES NEARING A CLOSE – FOX Sports reporter and FOXSports.com senior MLB columnist Ken Rosenthal and FOXSports.com writer Jon Paul Morosi report that Carlos Beltran’s departure from the Mets is imminent. “The Giants have reached a tentative agreement to acquire outfielder Carlos Beltran from the New York Mets, major-league sources told FOXSports.com on Wednesday. Pending approval from Beltran and the commissioner’s office, the switch-hitting All-Star will go to San Francisco for top pitching prospect Zach Wheeler. The Mets will send some cash to the Giants in the deal.”

To read more on the deal, visit: http://on-msn.com/qm55uX

WHO’S GONNA PULL OFF THE BIGGEST DEAL? – The MLB trade deadline is rapidly approaching, begging the question ‘which GM will pull off the biggest deal?’  MLB on FOX reporter and FOXSports.com senior MLB columnist Ken Rosenthal says keep an eye on the Phillies’ Ruben Amaro Jr.  “If there’s one thing we’ve learned about Amaro, it’s that he’s fearless,” said Rosenthal. “Fearlessness, in an increasingly cautious trading environment, is the new market inefficiency.  Phillies owner David Montgomery seemingly has removed Amaro’s one restriction — the luxury-tax threshold — telling the Philadelphia Inquirer, ‘We will do whatever it takes.’”  So at this point, it’s probably just a matter of which player Amaro wants most.  It could be the Astros’ Hunter Pence. It could be the White Sox’s Carlos Quentin, one of the Padres’ relievers, or another player entirely. Rest assured, it will be someone, maybe even two someones.”

To read Rosenthal’s full column, visit: http://tinyurl.com/3l3dk45

DAVID WELLS RESERVES CHEAP SEATS FOR VERNON WELLS – Each Wednesday (1:00 PM ET), former MLB All-Star pitcher David Wells hosts The Cheap Seats on FOXSports.com. This week, Wells sits down with former teammate Vernon Wells. Find out what the current Angel thought of his then Blue Jays teammate.

To watch the show click here: http://msn.foxsports.com/video/shows/cheapseats

FOXSPORTS.COM JOINS FORCES WITH TEAMFANSHOP TO POWER OFFICIAL ONLINE STORES FOX Sports teams up with TeamFanShop, a division of Fanatics, Inc., to offer proven e-commerce solutions for their online FOX Sports Shop and fully branded Regional Sports Network Shops. The multi-year agreement will provide an expanded line of team fan gear, enhanced marketing services including search engine optimization, search engine marketing, and email marketing expertise, improved shipping and return policies, and an industry leading customer experience.

The Official Online Store of FOX Sports, http://FOXSportsShop.com, boasts a full catalog of products with over 200,000 unique sports fan items across more than 600 teams and multiple leagues. Fans of all ages will find stylish game day wear with a vast selection of apparel, gear, sports jerseys, championship items and FOX Sports branded merchandise.

BTN KICKS OFF COVERAGE OF 2011 BIG TEN FOOTBALL SEASON – The Big Ten Network is proud to announce coverage of the 2011 Big Ten football season Thursday, July 28 (11:00 AM ET) with comprehensive television and live streaming coverage of Big Ten Football Media Day from the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place in Chicago. The network offers nearly five hours of live coverage, including the full press conferences for all 12 head coaches, BTN President Mark Silverman and Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delany.  Mike Hall and Chris Martin anchor the network’s coverage from the BTN studios.  The network’s online coverage will include the press conferences streamed live from start to finish on www.BTN.com. Fans can also track the day’s activities by following BTN.com’s Brent Yarina on Twitter (@BTNBrentYarina).

MLB Fox Saturday gives us Padres/Phillies

From Fox Sports -

Braves/Reds; Padres/Phillies; Tigers/Twins Face-Off Saturday @ 4:00 PM ET on FOX

Morosi: Reds Need To Acquire Pitching To Make NL Run

MLB ACTION HEATS UP FOX SPORTS – The weather is hot across the nation and the action is even hotter as FOX Sports presents three exciting matchups on Saturday, July 23 (4:00 PM ET). Sporting the two best records in the NL, the NL East-leading Phillies and 2^nd-place Braves spearhead FOX’s coverage. In Cincinnati, Derek Lowe looks to slow down a Reds lineup that boasts the power-hitting combo of Jay Bruce and Joey Votto. The Phillies pitching has lived up to their preseason hype leading them to the best record in baseball. One of their lesser-known arms, Kyle Kendrick, is scheduled to take the hill as the Phillies host the Padres. The Tigers have caught and passed the Indians in the AL Central. Jim Leyland’s men look to make that a permanent change as they travel to Minneapolis to take on the Twins.

The MLB on FOX pregame originates live from Citizens Bank Ballpark in Philadelphia, PA with host Chris Rose.  Once game action begins, Rose joins Kenny Albert and Eric Karros.  

For instant updates throughout the week and during games from the entire MLB on FOX crew, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/MLBONFOX.  Fans can gain more access to exclusive FOX Sports content by logging on to www.facebook.com/foxsports.

   

Atlanta Braves at Cincinnati Reds (45% of nation)                               

Thom Brennaman, Mitch Williams  & Ken Rosenthal

Great American Ballpark – Cincinnati, OH

MARKETS INCLUDE: Albuquerque, Atlanta, Austin, Birmingham, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dallas, Dayton, Denver, Fort Myers, Greensboro, Greenville, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Knoxville, Louisville, Memphis, Miami, Milwaukee, Nashville, New Orleans, Oklahoma City, Orlando, Pittsburgh, Raleigh, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, St. Louis, Tampa, Tulsa, Washington, West Palm Beach

Probable Pitchers:  Derek Lowe, RHP (6-7, 4.37 ERA) vs. Homer Bailey, RHP (4-4, 3.74 ERA)

San Diego Padres at Philadelphia Phillies (34% of nation)                 

Kenny Albert & Eric Karros              

Citizens Bank Park – Philadelphia, PA                        

MARKETS INCLUDE: Baltimore, Boston, Buffalo, Hartford, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York, Norfolk, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Providence, Richmond, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco

Probable Pitchers: Kyle Kendrick, RHP (5-4, 3.34 ERA) vs. Mat Latos, RHP (5-10, 4.02 ERA)

  

Detroit Tigers at Minnesota Twins (20% of nation)                             

Dick Stockton & Rod Allen             

Target Field – Minneapolis, MN

MARKETS INCLUDE: Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Kansas City, Minneapolis, Portland, Seattle

Probable Pitchers: Brad Penny, RHP (7-6, 4.47 ERA) vs. TBA

ROSENTHAL: SAVE THE RAYS FROM THEIR HOME-FIELD ‘ADVANTAGE’ – FOX Sports reporter and FOXSports.com senior MLB columnist Ken Rosenthal points out that the Tampa Bay Rays are tired of playing in their home stadium, Tropicana Field. Rosenthal agrees. “Here they are, arguably the best-run franchise in the sport, and they’ve got no chance of sustaining success in their freak show of a ballpark – a ballpark built with the wrong kind of roof in the wrong part of the region,” writes Rosenthal. “Quite understandably, it’s driving club officials nuts and now, with the team on the verge of falling out of contention, the Rays’ frustration is pouring out.”

To read Rosenthal’s complete column, visit http://on-msn.com/pfYoEZ

JON PAUL MOROSI: REDS SHOULD BUY – With the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline fast approaching, FOXSports.com writer Jon Paul Morosi says the Cincinnati Reds need to acquire additional pitching talent if they seek to keep their playoffs hopes alive.  After a disappointing first half, the defending NL Central champs stumbled into the All-Star break with a 45-47 record, due largely to an inconsistent rotation. However, Cincinnati has since surged out of the break, taking two out of three from its division rival, the St. Louis Cardinals. The two teams, along with the Brewers and Pirates, are part of a tight four-team race to grab hold of first-place in the topsy-turvy NL Central.  Morosi says it is likely that the Reds will need a bullpen upgrade from the outside, such as Rockies starter Ubaldo Jimenez, if they want to play as true contenders.

MLB on FOX analysts Thom Brennaman and Mitch Williams call the action while MLB on FOX’s Ken Rosenthal reports from the field.

To read Morosi’s complete column, visit:  http://tinyurl.com/3cqqk3v

 

CHEAP SEATS SHUTS THE 9^TH INNING DOOR – Each Wednesday, former MLB All-Star pitcher David Wells hosts The Cheap Seats on FOXSports.com. This week, Wells sits down with a couple of closers rocking the NL Central; the Brewers’ John Axford and the Pirates’ Joel Hanrahan. Wells asks Axford how he feels about possibly splitting closer duties with the newly acquired Francisco Rodriguez.

To watch the show click here: http://msn.foxsports.com/video/shows/cheapseats

 

GERMAN GRAND PRIX AIRS ON FOX – On Sunday, July 24 (12:00 PM ET), the German Grand Prix airs on FOX from the Circuit of Nürburgring in Nürburg, Germany. Over 120,000 fans are expected as everyone on the Formula One circuit chases points leader Sebastian Vettel.

 

CAN POINTS LEADER CHAD REED RECOVER FROM HORRIFIC CRASH ON LUCAS OIL AMA PRO MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIPS? – Overall points leader Chad Reed  (Kurri Kurri, Australia) suffered a horrific crash (http://bit.ly/mRakac) during last week’s Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship race in Millville, MN. His crash let his main competitors, Ryan Dungey (Belle Plaine, MN) and Ryan Villopoto (Poulsbo, WA) close the gap in the overall standings (Villopoto is now six points behind, Dungey is seven points behind). The question is will he be able to recover in time for this week’s race at Washougal, WA - the Peterson CAT Washougal National – airing live on FUEL TV on Saturday, July 23 (4:00PM ET) and maintain his lead? With five races to go in the series, it’s becoming a close three-way battle to the end.

Rosenthal: K-Rod just got played

From Fox Sports -

FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL Kicks-Off Second Half at 4:00 PM ET

Rays/Red Sox, Phillies/Mets, Tigers/White Sox, Angels/A’s

Rosenthal: K-Rod, You Just Got Played

DIVISION MATCHUPS KICKOFF SECOND HALF – Fresh off a second-straight victory for the National League in the 2011 MLB All-Star Game, the FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL GAME OF THE WEEK presents its first weekend of the second half with four enticing matchups on Saturday, July 16 (4:00 PM ET). Sporting the American League’s best record, Adrian Gonzalez and the Red Sox begin their second half push towards a playoff spot as they host Evan Longoria and the Rays. In Queens, the Phillies arrive with the best record in all of baseball to face their rivals, the New York Mets. With a staff full of aces, Cole Hamels is scheduled to toe the rubber for the Phillies in this NL East battle. Winners in eight of their last nine games, the Angels aim to ride that momentum into the second half when they visit the A’s in Oakland. In the Midwest, the AL Central-leading Tigers welcome the White Sox to Detroit.

The MLB on FOX pregame originates live from the Citi Field in Flushing, NY with host Chris Rose. Once game action begins, Rose joins Kenny Albert, Mark Grace and Ken Rosenthal as a field reporter.

For instant updates throughout the week and during games from the entire MLB on FOX crew, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/MLBONFOX. Fans can gain more access to exclusive FOX Sports content by logging on to www.facebook.com/foxsports.

Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays (41% of nation)
Dick Stockton & Tim McCarver
Tropicana Field – St. Petersburg, FL
MARKETS INCLUDE: Albuquerque, Austin, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Denver, Fort Myers, Greensboro, Hartford, Houston, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Louisville, Memphis, Milwaukee, New Orleans, Oklahoma City, Orlando, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Providence, Raleigh, Richmond, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, San Diego, Tampa, Tulsa, Washington
Probable Pitchers: John Lackey, RHP (6-8, 6.84 ERA) vs. TBA

Philadelphia Phillies at New York Mets (25% of nation)
Kenny Albert, Mark Grace & Ken Rosenthal
Citi Field – Flushing, NY
MARKETS INCLUDE: Atlanta, Baltimore, Birmingham, Greenville, Knoxville, Miami, Nashville, New York, Norfolk, Philadelphia, St. Louis, West Palm Beach
Probable Pitchers: Cole Hamels, LHP (11-4, 2.32 ERA) vs. John Niese, LHP (8-7, 3.88 ERA)

Los Angeles Angels at Oakland Athletics (18% of nation)
Matt Vasgersian & Eric Karros
Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum – Oakland, CA
MARKETS INCLUDE: Dallas, Los Angeles, Portland, Sacramento, San Francisco, Seattle
Probable Pitchers: Hiroki Kuroda, RHP (6-10, 3.06 ERA) vs. Ian Kennedy, RHP (9-3, 3.44 ERA)

Chicago White Sox at Detroit Tigers (15% of nation)
Josh Lewin & Rod Allen
Comerica Park – Detroit, MI
MARKETS INCLUDE: Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Minneapolis
Probable Pitchers: Edwin Jackson, RHP (5-7, 4.30 ERA) vs. Max Scherzer, RHP (10-4, 4.69 ERA)

ROSENTHAL: K-ROD, YOU JUST GOT PLAYED – FOX Sports reporter and FOXSports.com senior MLB columnist Ken Rosenthal points out that shortly after hiring Scott Boras as his new agent, Francisco Rodriguez got something he didn’t want – a job as a setup man. “For once, Boras looks like he was out-maneuvered, even though he will benefit financially if K-Rod does not finish 21 more games and vest his $17.5 million option, becoming a free agent instead,” writes Rosenthal. “In reality, Rodriguez has no choice but to be a good teammate with the Brewers, much as it might wound his ego. He’s destined to hit the open market this offseason, and throwing a hissy fit will only diminish his value. In the end, the Mets got what they wanted, escaping K-Rod’s onerous option. The Brewers got what they wanted, adding another quality reliever to their late-inning mix. The only one who didn’t get what he wanted was K-Rod, the “historic closer” who became a setup man less than 48 hours after his new agent vowed that such a thing would not occur. You’re Francisco Rodriguez, and you just got played.”


To read Rosenthal’s complete column, visit http://tinyurl.com/6ejdlwx.


CHEAP SEATS HITS HOME RUN DERBY BP – Each Wednesday, former MLB All-Star pitcher David Wells hosts The Cheap Seats on FOXSports.com. This week, Wells roams the field and chats with some of his buddies and the All-Stars at Chase Field during batting practice. Notable guests include: Ryan Braun, Andre Either, Heath Bell, Brandon Phillips, Hunter Pence, Curtis Granderson, Michael Young, Jose Bautista, C.J. Wilson and Adrian Gonzalez.


To watch the show click here: http://msn.foxsports.com/video/shows/cheapseats


FOX SOCCER’S ‘SOCCER NIGHT IN AMERICA’ HEADS TO SEATTLE FOR SOUNDERS VS. RAPIDS – FOX Soccer’s “Soccer Night In America” brings together two of the Western Conference’s best to the Pacific Northwest Saturday afternoon, when the Seattle Sounders and their frenzied fan base welcome MLS Cup holder Colorado Rapids to CenturyLink Field with kickoff on Saturday, July 16 beginning at 4:00 PM ET/1:00 PM PT. Not only do the Sounders bring in an eight-game unbeaten streak, but the second-best record in Major League Soccer (9-4-8/35 points), four points adrift of the LA Galaxy in the West. The Rapids are on a three-game unbeaten streak, all in a six-day span. Much of that can be credited to forward Conor Casey, who has scored six goals in his last seven games and carried the inconsistent Rapids back from mediocrity. Mark Rogondino has the play-by-play, with former MLS All-Star Kyle Martino handling analysis and Keith Bleyer contributing sideline reports.


Former U.S. National Team and MLS players Eric Wynalda and Christopher Sullivan team up for the pregame, halftime and postgame coverage, beginning at 3:30 PM ET/12:30 PM PT.


For the latest MLS news, information and FOX Soccer’s 2011 telecast schedule, visit: http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/mls.


NEW MOTORCYCLE SPONSOR MIGHT BE FACTOR WITH NATE ADAMS AT RED BULL X-FIGHTERS SPAIN - According to Andy Bell, FUEL TV Announcer for the Red Bull X-Fighters Freestyle Motocross Series, tour leader Nate Adams recently switched to riding a 450cc Honda, and it might be affecting his riding. “Although he won last contest, Nate didn’t put down a perfect run, and was going long on a lot of the jumps,” says Bell. “The new bike is more powerful than what he used to ride and he’s not used to it yet.” Having won the last contest, the American is still the favorite going into this weekend’s competition in Spain that airs on FUEL TV Sunday, July 17 (8:00PM ET).

MLB All-Star Game Ratings

From Fox Sports -

82nd MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL ALL-STAR GAME DRAWS ALMOST 26 MILLION VIEWERS

Mid-Summer Classic Once Again Delivers as One of Summer's Top Television Events & Dominates All Prime Time Competition

Phoenix, AZ - The 82nd MLB ALL-STAR GAME delivered FOX a total audience of 25.9 million viewers and its best night in prime time since the American Idol finale in May.

According to figures released today by Nielsen Media Research, the All-Star Game remains one of the most powerful forces in prime time. Last night’s game delivered FOX a dominating win for the night among all Households, across every major male demographic and among Adults 18-34.

The game registered a 6.9/12, with an average audience of 11.0 million viewers, -8% versus last year's 7.5/13 and -9% in viewership decline compared to last year’s 12.1 million.

The All-Star Game remains one of the most prominent sports events of the spring and summer. Last night’s 6.9/12 beats the most recent ratings for the Kentucky Derby (6.7), the entire NCAA Tournament (6.4), Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals (4.8) and the final round of the U.S. Open (4.5).

Host city Phoenix, due to its size, contributed fewer homes than last year's far larger host city of Los Angeles. Phoenix averaged a 10.6/19, and although that's +23% better than the 8.6/17 LA posted last year, the huge difference in size between the two markets equates to a difference of 288,000 homes.

St. Louis topped all markets last night with a 17.8/28, marking the fourth straight year that St. Louis has been the top-rated city for the All-Star Game. Since 2003, St. Louis has been out-rated for the All-Star Game only once, by host city Pittsburgh in 2006. Philadelphia was the second highest-rated market at a 14.7/23, an +11% gain over last year's 13.3/21. Markets with the biggest increases included host city Phoenix, +45% (10.6 vs. 7.3); Cleveland, +42% (9.5 vs. 6.7); Knoxville, +42% (4.7 vs. 3.3); San Francisco, +28% (11.1 vs. 8.7); Richmond, +23% (7.5 vs. 6.1); Pittsburgh, +21% (8.6 vs. 7.1); Greenville, +16% (8.6 vs. 7.4); Austin, +16% (5.7 vs. 4.9); Greensboro, +14% (8.3 vs. 7.3); and Philadelphia (see above).

Michelle Branch + MLB All-Star Game = Ratings for FOX

TCN fav Michelle Branch is joining the Fox Festivities for the MLB All-Star Game.  That alone will get us to watch! Here's the full release from FOX...

FOX SPORTS BROADCASTS MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL’S 82ND ALL-STAR GAME LIVE FROM PHOENIX’S CHASE FIELD

McCarver Calls His 20th Midsummer Classic – Most by Any Broadcaster in the Sport’s History

Pregame Coverage Highlighted By World Premiere Preview of “THE X FACTOR”

Jordin Sparks & Michelle Branch Contribute to Star-Studded Night

FOX Sports presents Major League Baseball’s 82nd ALL-STAR GAME, traditionally the most-watched television program of the summer, live and in high-definition from Phoenix’s Chase Field, Tuesday July 12 (8:00 PM ET/5:00 PM PT). MLB on FOX’s Emmy Award-winning broadcasters play-by-play announcer Joe Buck and analyst Tim McCarver call the action.

McCarver, a two-time National League All-Star catcher with the Cardinals (1966 & 1967), is calling the 20th All-Star Game of his Hall of Fame-worthy broadcasting career, the most by any announcer in history. The pairing of Buck and McCarver for 13 All-Star Games is also a record. MLB on FOX Insider Ken Rosenthal reports from the field, his sixth All-Star Game assignment for FOX Sports.

Chris Rose hosts his third Midsummer Classic with MLB on FOX analysts Eric Karros and Mark Grace. This is Karros’ fifth All-Star Game and Grace’s second. During the game, Rose reports from the American League dugout while Karros handles the Senior Circuit. Grace gets to roam around Chase Field where he has played and served as a Diamondbacks broadcaster. Rose and Karros also provide live commentary and take viewer questions on Twitter throughout the broadcast using the @MLBONFOX & @Chris_Rose14 handles..

In addition to the pomp and circumstance of player introductions, highlighting FOX Sports’ All-Star pregame coverage is a special world premiere preview of THE X FACTOR, FOX’s highly anticipated singing competition debuting in September. Hosted by Steve Jones and featuring judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, L.A. Reid and Nicole Scherzinger, THE X FACTOR awards the next superstar solo artist or breakout musical group with a $5 million recording contract with Syco/Sony Music.

Grammy nominated platinum recording artist and AMERICAN IDOL-winner Jordin Sparks sings the U.S. National Anthem before first pitch and later on Grammy Award-winning singer Michelle Branch performs “God Bless America” during the 7th inning stretch.

To bring viewers the sights and sounds of the first All-Star Game hosted by the Arizona Diamondbacks and the city of Phoenix, more than 21 cameras and 80 microphones will be positioned throughout Chase Field. This year’s star-studded contest also features the FOX “X-MO” a special camera situated behind home plate that shoots at up to 500 frames-per-second. To bring viewers even closer to the action, players, managers, coaches for each league wear microphones and in-game interviews throughout the broadcast. @MLBONFOX and FOX Sports also plan to provide robust game-related content via Twitter and Facebook Monday and Tuesday.

Pete Macheska, the coordinating producer of Major League Baseball on FOX, produces his eighth All-Star Game broadcast and Bill Webb directs his 14th Midsummer Classic. Don Bui produces pre- and post-game segments. David Hill, Ed Goren and Eric Shanks are the Executive Producers of FOX Sports. Bill Brown is Senior Producer. Scott Ackerson is the Executive Vice President & Executive Producer of all studio programming, including MLB on FOX’s studio coverage.

Phillies/Braves highlights MLB Fox Saturday

From Fox Sports -

FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL – SATURDAY AT 4:00 PM ET

Leads Into All-Star Week with Phillies/Braves, White Sox/Twins & Dodgers/Padres

David Wells Sits Down With First Time All-Stars CJ Wilson & Rickie Weeks on FOXSport.com’s Cheap Seats

  

DIVISION RIVALS FACEOFF ON FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL – On the final weekend before the 82^nd MLB All-Star Game airing Tuesday, July 12, (8:00 PM ET), the FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL GAME OF THE WEEK presents three intra-divisional matchups on Saturday, July 9 (4:00 PM ET).  The city of Brotherly Love host a spectacular pitching matchup as Tommy Hanson and the Braves take on All-Star Cliff Lee and the Phillies. Coming off a terrific June in which he sported a spectacular stat line (5-0, 0.21 ERA), Lee looks to shut down a Braves attack that ranks 18^th overall in runs scored. In Chicago, a pair of AL Central rivals battle as Paul Konerko and the White Sox host the Twins. Out west, the Padres hope Clayton Richard is up to the task of slowing down All-Star Matt Kemp and the Dodgers offense.

The MLB on FOX pregame originates live from the Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, with host Chris Rose.  Once game action begins, Rose joins Joe Buck, Tim McCarver and Ken Rosenthal as a field reporter.  

For instant updates throughout the week and during games from the entire MLB on FOX crew, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/MLBONFOX.  Fans can gain more access to exclusive FOX Sports content by logging on to www.facebook.com/foxsports.

   

Atlanta Braves at Philadelphia Phillies  (76% of nation)                      

Kenny Albert & Eric Karros          

Citizens Bank Park – Philadelphia, PA

MARKETS INCLUDE: Albuquerque, Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Birmingham, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dallas, Dayton, Denver, Fort Myers, Greensboro, Greenville, Hartford, Houston, Jacksonville, Knoxville, Louisville, Memphis, Miami, Milwaukee, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Norfolk, Oklahoma City, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Portland, Providence, Raleigh, Richmond, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis, Tampa, Tulsa, Washington, West Palm Beach

Probable Pitchers:  Tommy Hanson, RHP (10-4, 2.52 ERA) vs. Cliff Lee, LHP (9-6, 2.92 ERA)

Minnesota Twins at Chicago White Sox (16% of nation)                     

Dick Stockton & Mark Grace        

U.S. Cellular Field – Chicago, IL                                    

MARKETS INCLUDE: Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Minneapolis

Probable Pitchers: Brian Duensing, LHP (6-7, 4.25 ERA) vs. Mark Buehrle, LHP (6-5, 3.66 ERA)

San Diego Padres at Los Angeles Dodgers (7% of nation)              

Joe Buck, Tim McCarver  & Ken Rosenthal

Dodger Stadium– Los Angeles, CA                              

MARKETS INCLUDE: Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Diego

Probable Pitchers: Clayton Richard, LHP (5-9, 3.88 ERA) vs. Rubby De La Rosa, RHP (3-4, 4.31 ERA)

 

MOROSI: IS PRESSURE OF 3K GETTING TO JETER? – FOXSports.com writer Jon Paul Morosi wonders if the pressure of reaching the 3,000-hit mark is getting to Yankees Captain Derek Jeter. “On the night he climbed within four hits of 3,000, Derek Jeter told us what was on his mind. He did it on his terms, because he is too smart to have done so otherwise,” writes Morosi. “He didn’t sound angry. He didn’t take it too far. He didn’t name names but by Jeter’s understated standards, it was stunning. The revealing question came from a reporter who asked, simply, whether Jeter is enjoying all of this. There was no need to explain what this meant. Jeter knew. This is the hype, the history, the attention, the reporters, the cameras — partially because of the coming milestone, but mostly because of who he is.”

To read Morosi’s full column, please visit. http://on-msn.com/n7xune

  

THE CHEAP SEATS WITH DAVID WELLS – Each Wednesday, former All-Star pitcher David Wells hosts The Cheap Seats with David Wells on FOXSports.com. This week, Wells interviews first time All-Stars CJ Wilson of the Rangers and Rickie Weeks of the Brewers.

To watch the show click here: http://msn.foxsports.com/video/shows/cheapseats

ROSENTHAL STANDS UP TO CANCER DURING ALL-STAR GAME – FOX Sports reporter and FOXSports.com senior MLB columnist Ken Rosenthal will be wearing a bow tie in support of “Stand Up To Cancer” during the 82^nd MLB All-Star Game.  SU2C, the official charity for MLB on FOX this season, utilizes resources from the film and media industry to support a new model of cancer research with the mission to fund groundbreaking, collaborative research to accelerate treatments to patients.  Rosenthal has been rocking a bow tie every week this season in support of NFL player Dhani Jones’ Bow Tie Cause initiative.  This Saturday he will wear a bow tie representing ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, during the San Diego Padres at Los Angeles Dodgers game.  For more information on the Bow Tie Cause, visit www.bowtiecause.org.   

BRITISH GRAND PRIX AIRS ON FOX – On Sunday, July 10 (12:00 PM ET), the British Grand Prix airs on FOX from Silverstone Circuit in Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire, England. Over 120,000 fans are expected as everyone on the Formula One circuit chases Sebastian Vettel. The German driver holds a commanding 77-point lead on his competitors, having won six of the eight races and been runner-up in the other two.

Mets/Yankees highlights MLB Fox Saturday

From Fox Sports -

Subway Series Showdown & Windy City Clash Highlight

FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL at 4:00 PM ET

MLB Classic All-Star Moments Down To Final Four

SUBWAY SERIES & WINDY CITY SHOWDOWN HIGHLIGHT FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL – Crosstown and interstate rivalries are the focus of the FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL GAME OF THE WEEK on Saturday, July 2 (4:00 PM ET).  The National League’s leading hitter, Jose Reyes, guides the Mets into a battle with Mark Teixeira, Alex Rodriguez and the slugging New York Yankees. Reyes is putting up one of his finest seasons, leading the NL in batting, hits, runs, triples and is second in stolen bases. In Chicago, nothing revs up fans’ emotions quite like Cubs vs. White Sox. Ozzie Guillen’s men hold the upper hand in both the 2011 standings and recent success as they visit their Northside brethren at Wrigley Field. The MLB 2011 season takes on a new shape as both the Indians and Reds find themselves in the thick of playoff races when they faceoff this Saturday on FOX. Cincinnati hitting stars Jay Bruce and Joey Votto lead the Reds hit brigade against sinkerballer Fausto Carmona.

The MLB on FOX pregame originates live from Wrigley Field in Chicago, with host Chris Rose.  Once game action begins, Rose joins Kenny Albert and Eric Karros as a field reporter.  

For instant updates throughout the week and during games from the entire MLB on FOX crew, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/MLBONFOX.  Fans can gain more access to exclusive FOX Sports content by logging on to www.facebook.com/foxsports.

New York Yankees at New York Mets  (79% of nation)                     

Joe Buck, Tim McCarver  & Ken Rosenthal

Citi Field – Flushing, NY

MARKETS INCLUDE: Albuquerque, Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Birmingham, Boston, Buffalo, Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Fort Myers, Greensboro, Greenville, Hartford, Houston, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Knoxville, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Memphis, Miami, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Norfolk, Oklahoma City, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Portland, Providence, Raleigh, Richmond, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Tampa, Tulsa, Washington, West Palm Beach

Probable Pitchers:  TBA vs. Dillon Gee, RHP (8-1, 3.32 ERA)

Chicago White Sox at Chicago Cubs (10% of nation)                           

Kenny Albert & Eric Karros                   

Wrigley Field – Chicago, IL                                              

MARKETS INCLUDE: Chicago, Milwaukee, Minneapolis

Probable Pitchers: Philip Humber, RHP (7-4, 2.89 ERA) vs. Matt Garza, RHP (4-6, 4.07 ERA)

Cleveland Indians at Cincinnati Reds  (10% of nation)                       

Thom Brennaman & Mark Grace        

Great American Ballpark– Cincinnati, OH                                  

MARKETS INCLUDE: Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Detroit, Indianapolis, Louisville, St. Louis

Probable Pitchers: Fausto Carmona, RHP (4-10, 5.89 ERA) vs. Homer Bailey, RHP (3-2, 3.86 ERA)

  

KLAPISCH: ARE THE YANKEES BETTER OFF WITHOUT JETER? – FOXSports.com writer Bob Klapisch questions if the Yankees are better off without Derek Jeter:  “No one in the organization will touch that question — at least not now, and certainly not on the record — but the team’s overall surge in the last two weeks has left officials wondering what to do with the aging captain when he finally comes off the disabled list,” writes Klapisch.  “Unless Jeter experiences a quick and dramatic turnaround, his return to the lineup will create the worst-possible dilemma for Joe Girardi. Not only is Jeter expecting to be reinstalled as the everyday shortstop, he intends to bat in the leadoff spot, too. Statistically, Jeter should be at the bottom of the batting order — of the Yankees’ nine starters, he ranked seventh in on-base percentage. However as one member of the organization put it, “I’d be very, very surprised” if Jeter made any such concession to his manager.”

To read Klapisch’s full column, please visit http://tinyurl.com/3fctmnp.

MLB’S TOP ALL-STAR MOMENT COMES DOWN TO THE FINAL FOUR – Four (two American League and two National League) All-Star classic moments remain with one to be named as the favorite in All-Star Game history. This week’s bracket determines each League’s moment representative with Ted Williams’ walk-off home run facing off with Cal Ripken Jr. for the AL title and Carl Hubbell’s five strikeouts and Stan Musial’s game-winning home run in 1955 vie for the NL crown.  During this weekend’s FOX SATURDAY GAME OF THE WEEK coverage, each League’s winner is announced and fans can begin voting for their favorite All-Star moment of all-time.  The Midsummer Classic with the top moment revealed during the 82nd MLB All-Star Game, broadcast exclusively on FOX on Tuesday, July 12 (8:00 PM ET).

www.MLB.com/moments

Voting Periods:

          Round Three (4 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, June 25 – Saturday, July 2

          Round Four (2 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, July 2 – Saturday, July 9

BTN WELCOMES HUSKERS WITH THREE DAYS OF NEBRASKA PROGRAMMING – The Big Ten Network rolls out the red carpet as the University of Nebraska officially joins the Big Ten Conference this Friday. To celebrate, BTN dedicates three days of programming to the Cornhuskers kicking off Friday, July 1 (12:00 PM ET) with Big Ten Welcomes Nebraska, an hour-long special from BTN studios in Chicago.  The program introduces Big Ten fans to the history and tradition of Nebraska athletics, as Cornhusker icons Trev Alberts, Tommie Frazier, Johnny Rodgers and others share their thoughts on what football means to the state of Nebraska and Husker fans nationwide. The show also includes exclusive 1-on-1 interviews with Nebraska athletic director Tom Osborne, football coach Bo Pelini, men’s basketball coach Doc Sadler, baseball coach Darin Erstad and others.  Hosted by Dave Revsine, Rick Pizzo and Mike Hall, Big Ten Welcomes Nebraska features analysis from Gerry DiNardo, Howard Griffith and The Sporting News’ Mike DeCourcy.

A full programming schedule for the weekend can be found at www.bigtennetwork.com/schedule.

THREE-WAY BATTLE HEATS UP MOTOCROSS TOUR AS IT HITS HALFWAY MARK – It’s an exciting three-way battle for the title as the 2011 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Series hits its halfway point this weekend with the Rockstar Energy RedBud National from Buchanan, MI airing live on FUEL TV Saturday, July 2 (1:00 PM ET). Chad Reed (Kurri Kurri, Australia) holds on to the overall points lead in the 450 Class with 223 points, but the 2010 Champ Ryan Dungey (Belle Plaine, Minnesota) moved closer with a win last weekend in Lakewood, Colorado.

Interleague Play hits MLB Fox Saturday

From Fox Sports -

Interleague Action Anchored By Mets/Rangers; Indians/Giants Saturday at 4:00PM ET

Eight MLB All-Star Classics Still Vying for Title of Best Moment

Ted Williams, Stan Musial, Pete Rose and Cal Ripken Jr. Among Candidates

INTERLEAGUE PLAY CONTINUES ON FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL – For the second consecutive weekend, the FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL GAME OF THE WEEK features interleague action with four matchups on Saturday, June 25 (4:00 PM ET). Jose Reyes and the New York Mets head to Texas to take on Josh Hamilton’s AL West leading Rangers. The Washington Nationals look to continue their hot streak in Chicago, facing Paul Konerko and the White Sox. In Los Angeles, crosstown rivals square off with the Angels heading to Dodger Stadium to take on Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp. As the defending World Champion San Francisco Giants host Asdrubal Cabrera and the AL Central leading Cleveland Indians in an exciting matchup in the Bay Area. The MLB on FOX pregame originates live from Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, with host Chris Rose. Once game action begins, Rose joins Dick Stockton and Eric Karros as a field reporter.

For instant updates throughout the week and during games from the entire MLB on FOX crew, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/MLBONFOX. Fans can gain more access to exclusive FOX Sports content by logging on to www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.myspace.com/foxsports.

New York Mets at Texas Rangers (50% of nation)
Kenny Albert, Mark Grace
Rangers Ballpark – Arlington, TX
MARKETS INCLUDE: Atlanta, Austin, Birmingham, Boston, Charlotte, Dallas, Fort Myers, Greensboro, Greenville, Hartford, Houston, Jacksonville, Knoxville, Miami, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Oklahoma City, Orlando, Philadelphia, Portland, Providence, Raleigh, San Antonio, Seattle, Tampa, Tulsa, West Palm Beach
Probable Pitchers: Jon Niese, LHP (6-6, 3.70 ERA) vs. Alexi Ogando, RHP (7-2, 2.66 ERA)

Cleveland Indians at San Francisco Giants (31% of nation)
Jose Mota, Mitch Williams & Ken Rosenthal
AT&T Park– San Francisco, CA
MARKETS INCLUDE: Albuquerque, Buffalo, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Denver, Detroit, Kansas City, Louisville, Memphis, Minneapolis, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, St. Louis
Probable Pitchers: Justin Masterson, RHP (5-5, 3.18 ERA) vs. Matt Cain, RHP (6-4, 3.44 ERA)

Washington Nationals at Chicago White Sox (12% of nation)
Josh Lewin, Sean Casey
AT&T Park– San Francisco, CA
MARKETS INCLUDE: Baltimore, Chicago, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Norfolk, Richmond, Washington
Probable Pitchers: TBA vs. John Danks, LHP (3-8, 4.29 ERA)

LA Angels of Anaheim at LA Dodgers (6% of nation)
Dick Stockton, Eric Karros
Dodger Stadium– Los Angeles, CA
MARKETS INCLUDE: Las Vegas, Los Angeles
Probable Pitchers: Tyler Chatwood, RHP (4-4, 3.84 ERA) vs. Hiroki Kuroda, RHP (5-8, 3.07 ERA)

WILLIAMS, MUSIAL, RIPKEN, ROSE BATTLE IN NEXT ROUND TO NAME GREATEST MOMENT IN ALL-STAR GAME HISTORY - Eight (four American League and four National League) All-Star moments remain in the quest to crown the fan’s favorite moment in All-Star Game history. This week’s bracket matchups pit such stellar moments as the six straight all-star strikeouts by Fernando Valenzuela and Dwight Gooden vs. Carl Hubbell striking out five consecutive Hall of Famers. Each week during coverage of FOX’s SATURDAY GAME OF THE WEEK, winners of the previous round are announced and fans can vote for the next round’s matchup. One AL and one NL moment face-off in the final week leading into the Midsummer Classic with the top moment revealed during the 82nd MLB All-Star Game, broadcast exclusively on FOX on Tuesday, July 12 (8:00 PM ET).

Click here for more

The voting periods will be as follows:

Round Two (8 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, June 18 – Saturday, June 25
Round Three (4 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, June 25 – Saturday, July 2
Round Four (2 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, July 2 – Saturday, July 9

WHAT TIE WILL ROSETHAL WEAR TO SALUTE OUR TROOPS? VOTE ON FOXSPORTS.COM – The fan-designed bow ties supporting our troops are in and we’re one step closer to deciding which bow tie MLB on FOX reporter and FOXSports.com senior MLB columnist Ken Rosenthal wears on the final regular-season broadcast of 2011. The field, which started with the top 32 designs submitted in the Bow Ties for the Troops Tournament, has now been cut in half. Fans can vote for their favorite design through Thursday, July 7 at http://msn.foxsports.com/other/page/Rosenthals-Bow-Tie-Bracket. Rosenthal wears the winning bow tie during the September 24 MLB on FOX SATURDAY GAME OF THE WEEK. The MLB insider has been rocking a bow tie every week this season in support of NFL player Dhani Jones’ Bowtie Cause initiative. For more information on the Bowtie Cause, visit www.bowtiecause.org.

JON PAUL MOROSI: AL IS REAL PITCHING-DOMINANT LEAGUE – National MLB on FOX writer Jon Paul Morosi takes a look at pitching this season and comes up with one clear winner: the American League. “DH, no DH, whatever: Right now, the American League has better pitchers than the National League. For decades, it would have been absurd to make such a statement. Everyone knew the NL pitched and the AL hit. But times have changed. At some point this year, the Junior Circuit sneaked into his older brother’s room and stole his identity. Now the league with the DH rule is ruled by the pitchers.”

For Morosi’s full analysis, visit: http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/josh-beckett-justin-verlander-james-shields-jered-weaver-American-League-is-real-pitching-dominant-league-062011.

EUROPEAN GRAND PRIX ROLLS ONTO FOX SUNDAY – The European Grand Prix comes to FOX Sports on Sunday, June 26 (12:00 PM ET) from Valencia, Spain. Twisting through the America's Cup port, the Juan Carlos I Marina, Valencia is a relatively long track that consists of 25 turns, most of which are sweeping corners that give the circuit a fast and flowing nature. Last year’s winner Sebastian Vettel discusses the challenging course: “The circuit is a street circuit, but the average speed (200 km/h) is extremely high, so it’s tricky. In general you need a lot of wing for the corners and less for the relatively long straights, which means you have to find a compromise. There are no run-off zones, so you can’t make any mistakes - a small slide and you end up in the wall... Overtaking is difficult and the only real possibility is in Turn 12. We had a good race there last year and the car should be good. I’m looking forward to it.”

NO CLEAR FRONTRUNNER YET ON RED BULL X-FIGHTERS FREESTYLE MOTOCROSS TOUR: The Red Bull X-Fighters Freestyle Motocross Tour heads to Rome for the second time in the history of the sport, airing on FUEL TV Sunday, June 26 (8:00 PM ET). There will be 50,000 spectators this year in the Stadio Olimpico, which was one of the venues of the 1990 World Cup soccer tournament. With two of six competitions held already, no clear frontrunner has emerged, with Spain’s Dany Torres taking the first stop in Dubai and American Nate Adams winning the second stop in Brazil.

Yankees/Cubs highlights FOX MLB Saturday

From Fox Sports -

Yankees/Cubs Anchors MLB on FOX’s Interleague Showdown Saturday at 4PM ET

Waltrip Elected to NASCAR Hall of Fame Class 2012

Rosenthal on Realignment: “It Would Be Fairer”

FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL GOW GOES INTERLEAGUE – It’s interleague play this weekend as FOX Sports presents two exciting matchups on Saturday, June 18 (4:00 PM ET). For the first time since 2003, the Yankees visit Wrigley Field to take on the Cubs. The big news in New York is the calf injury that has sidelined Captain Derek Jeter; putting his pursuit of 3,000 hits on hold. However, the hot bat of Curtis Granderson has carried the Yankees offense recently while the Cubs’ Ryan Dempster has his work cut out for him as he faces Granderson and a lineup that boasts Robinson Cano, Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira. The AL West-leading Rangers visit the Peach State to take on the Braves. Entering Spring Training there were questions about how much time Michael Young had left in Texas. Now halfway through June, those questions seem silly as the Rangers DH has led the Rangers offensively. Young and the Rangers aim to topple groundball pitching machine Derek Lowe. The MLB on FOX pregame originates live from the Wrigley Field in Chicago, with host Chris Rose. Once game action begins, Rose joins Joe Buck, Tim McCarver and Ken Rosenthal as a field reporter.

For instant updates throughout the week and during games from the entire MLB on FOX crew, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/MLBONFOX. Fans can gain more access to exclusive FOX Sports content by logging on to www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.myspace.com/foxsports.

New York Yankees at Chicago Cubs (74% of nation)
Joe Buck, Tim McCarver & Ken Rosenthal
Wrigley Field – Chicago, IL
MARKETS INCLUDE: Albuquerque, Baltimore, Boston, Buffalo, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Denver, Detroit, Fort Myers, Hartford, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Louisville, Miami, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, New York, Norfolk, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Portland, Providence, Richmond, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis, Tampa, Washington, West Palm Beach
Probable Pitchers: TBA vs. Ryan Dempster, RHP (5-5, 5.48 ERA)

Texas Rangers at Atlanta Braves (23% of nation)
Kenny Albert & Eric Karros
Turner Field – Atlanta, GA
MARKETS INCLUDE: Atlanta, Austin, Birmingham, Charlotte, Dallas, Greensboro, Greenville, Houston, Jacksonville, Knoxville, Memphis, Nashville, New Orleans, Oklahoma City, Raleigh, San Antonio, Tulsa
Probable Pitchers: Matt Harrision, LHP (5-6, 3.31 ERA) vs. Derek Lowe, RHP (3-5, 4.02 ERA)

ROSENTHAL & MOROSI WEIGH-IN ON PROPOSED REALIGNMENT -- As rumors began swirling around this week that Major League Baseball is working on a realignment of its teams, FOXSports.com’s Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul Morosi offered their thoughts and stories on the subject. The reports suggest that instead of 16 National League teams and 14 American League teams, MLB would have an equal number of teams in each league: 15 NL and 15 AL.

KEN ROSENTHAL: Competition would be fairer.

“I'm in favor of two 15-team leagues for the simple reason that it would make the competition fairer. The same number of teams would compete in each division for the division title. The same number of teams would compete in each league for the wild card. The distribution of inter-league opponents also would be more equitable. This season in the NL Central, the Brewers must play the Yankees and Red Sox, the two super-powers of the AL East. The Cardinals will play neither of those clubs, while the Reds will play only the Yankees. How is that right?”

For a complete story from Rosenthal click here: http://tinyurl.com/3k8tdxl

JON PAUL MOROSI: Astros to AL West is the only move that makes sense.

“If MLB is interested in creating the most equitable route to the postseason for all 30 franchises, then the Astros must join the AL West under the new collective bargaining agreement. Let’s not make this too complicated: The origin of the current imbalance is that the NL Central has six teams and the AL West has four. So, MLB should move one team from the NL Central into the AL West. That team is Houston. Any other scenario involves multiple clubs switching divisions, and there’s no reason to do that.”

For a complete story from Morosi click here: http://tinyurl.com/5wc8pcx

FANS TO CHOOSE ALL TIME GREATEST MLB ALL-STAR GAME MOMENT - Fans now have the chance to vote for their favorite moment in the history of the All-Star Game in a new bracket tournament called Midsummer Classics. A total of 16 (eight American League and eight National League) All-Star moments are available to choose from with each captured in a short video available by logging onto MLB.com/moments. The bracket matchups pit such stellar moments as the first ever All-Star Game home run, hit by Babe Ruth vs. Cal Ripken Jr.’s homerun in his final All-Star Game. Each week during coverage of FOX’s SATURDAY GAME OF THE WEEK, winners of the previous round are announced and fans can vote for the next round’s matchup. One AL and one NL moment face-off in the final week leading into the Midsummer Classic with the top moment revealed during the 82nd MLB All-Star Game, broadcast exclusively on FOX on Tuesday, July 12 (8:00 PM ET).

The voting periods will be as follows:


Round One (16 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, June 11 – Saturday, June 18 (Noon ET)


Round Two (8 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, June 18 – Saturday, June 25 (Noon ET)


Round Three (4 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, June 25 – Saturday, July 2 (Noon ET)


Round Four (2 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, July 2 – Saturday, July 9 (Noon ET)

DW NAMED TO 2012 NASCAR HOF CLASS – NASCAR on FOX and SPEED analyst Darrell Waltrip, a three-time NASCAR champion, can now add another title to his name: NASCAR Hall of Famer. Yesterday, it was revealed by NASCAR at Charlotte’s Convention Center that Waltrip has been elected to the 2012 NASCAR Hall of Fame’s third class. The HOF nomination tops DW’s already long list of honors including the Most Popular Driver Award, the Bill France Award of Excellence, and elections into both the National and International Motorsports HOF. The racing legend retired in 2000 with 84 career wins (tied for third all-time), three Winston Cup victories (1981-82, 1985), and, perhaps most memorable, a win at the 1989 Daytona 500, his sole career victory at the Great American Race. “This is the greatest honor a driver can receive,” said Waltrip of his NASCAR Hall of Fame nomination from yesterday’s ceremony. “It means you must have been pretty good at what you do. I am humbled and excited that my name, Darrell Waltrip, now sits among the sports best and brightest.”

‘SOCCER NIGHT IN AMERICA’ VISITS KANSAS CITY’S NEW PARK FRIDAY – FOX Soccer’s “Soccer Night In America” makes its first visit to the brand new, LIVESTRONG Sporting Park Friday, June 17 (8:00 PM ET) as Sporting Kansas City welcomes a hot San Jose Earthquakes squad. Sporting KC (an Eastern Conference-low 10 points) opened its new stadium with a 0-0 tie against the Chicago Fire on June 9, and then redeemed itself with a convincing 4-1 win at FC Dallas on June 12. San Jose brings a six-game unbeaten streak (4-0-2) into LIVESTRONG Sporting Park, a streak extended by Saturday’s 4-2 victory against D.C. United. The four goals – three coming from forward Steven Lenhart -- vaulted the Earthquakes’ scorching attack into the MLS lead for most goals per game at 1.54. FOX Soccer’s J.P. Dellacamera calls play-by-play, with former MLS standout Kyle Martino handling analysis and Brian Dunseth contributing sideline reports. Former U.S. National Team and MLS players Eric Wynalda and Christopher Sullivan team up for the pregame, halftime and postgame coverage. For the latest MLS news, information and FOX Soccer’s 2011 telecast schedule, visit: http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/mls.

Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship Hits BUDds CREEK, MARYLAND - FUEL TV airs the fourth stop of the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championships, the Motor Tees Budds Creek National, live from Budds Creek, MD on Saturday, June 18 (1:00 PM ET). 2009 Overall Winner Chad Reed has taken the lead in overall points and is riding strong, but 2011 Supercross Winner Ryan Villopoto has closed the gap with a win last week and is threatening to take over the series points lead.

Pick your favorite MLB All-Star Moment

From Fox Sports/MLB.com -

FANS TO CHOOSE TOP ALL-TIME MLB ALL-STAR MOMENT IN

MIDSUMMER CLASSIC BRACKET TOURNAMENT ON MLB.COM

MLB Network’s Bob Costas Narrates Each Video

Former All-Stars and MLB Network Analysts Al Leiter, Harold Reynolds, and Mitch Williams Determined the Moment Match-Ups

          Cal Ripken Jr. will take on Babe Ruth.  Bo Jackson’s bomb in Anaheim will try to overcome Reggie Jackson’s titanic blast that hit a transformer on the roof at Tiger Stadium.  And John Kruk’s hilarious at-bat against Randy Johnson will try to beat out Stan “The Man” Musial’s walk-off home run in a new bracket tournament called Midsummer Classics on MLB.com.  

          Fans now have the opportunity to vote for their favorite Midsummer Classic moment from a total of 16 (eight American League and eight National League) in a bracket format to determine the greatest moment in the history of the All-Star Game.  Starting on Saturday each week, fans will vote at MLB.com/moments until one AL and one NL moment square off in the final week leading into the 82^nd MLB All-Star Game, which will be broadcast on FOX on Tuesday, July 12 starting at 8 p.m. Eastern.

          Narrated by MLB Network’s Bob Costas, each moment will be captured in a short video that will be available on MLB.com and shareable and embeddable online and through social media.  The bracket match-ups were determined by former All-Stars and MLB Network analysts Al Leiter, Harold Reynolds and Mitch Williams.

            Here is a link to the brackets.  Following are the first round match-ups:

            American League

• Ted Williams Honored at All-Century Team Ceremony/Pedro Martinez Strikeout Performance (1999)

vs. Fred Lynn Hits Only All-Star Game Grand Slam (1983)

• All-Star Game in Yankee Stadium’s Last Season Ends in 15^th Inning Walk-Off (2008) vs. Ted Williams Hits Walk-Off Home Run (1941)

• Babe Ruth Hits First Ever All-Star Game Home Run (1933) vs. Cal Ripken Jr. Moves Back to Shortstop and Hits Home Run in His Final All-Star Game (2001)

• Reggie Jackson Hits Rooftop Home Run (1971) vs. Bo Jackson Does It All in Anaheim (1989)

            National League

• Fernando Valenzuela and Dwight Gooden Strikeout Six Straight All-Stars (1984) vs. Johnny Callison Hits Walk-Off Home Run (1964)

• Carl Hubbell Strikes Out Five Consecutive Hall of Famers (1934) vs. Dave Parker Guns Down Brian Downing at Home From Deep Right Field (1979)

• Pete Rose Runs Over Ray Fosse (1970) vs. Moises Alou Knocks In Tony Gwynn to Win the Game (1994)

• Stan Musial Hits Walk-Off Home Run (1955) vs. John Kruk Survives At Bat Against Randy Johnson (1993)

The voting periods will be as follows:

          Round One (16 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, June 11 – Saturday, June 18

          Round Two (8 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, June 18 – Saturday, June 25

          Round Three (4 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, June 25 – Saturday, July 2

          Round Four (2 Midsummer Classics): Saturday, July 2 – Saturday, July 9