Sports Dispatch

• There are two head coaches and two players who are currently active that were in the NFL when Ronald Reagan was President: Mike Shanahan began his coaching career with the Oakland Raiders in 1988 while Joe Gibbs broke into the league with the Skins in 1982. Jeff Feagles (Giants punter) was a rookie in 1988 with the New England Patriots and is entering his 20th season. Vinnie Testaverde's rookie year was 1987 with Tampa Bay and, today, signed a one-year contract with the Pats for his 21st season.


• There are three words that more than likely give Michael Vick the only hope he has of ever putting on pads again - Arena. Football. League...and that isn't even a guarantee.


• Vick's career suicide does put a smile on my face in regards to the media. There won't be any future raging debates on whether or not he belongs in the Hall of Fame.


• I love NFL preseason.


• When Arizona Diamondbacks rookie pitcher Micah Owings took the mound last night with his 0-5 record and 5.70 ERA against the potent Atlanta Braves, I'm sure his mind was on his mechanics and not making mistakes. I'm sure the furthest thing from his mind was entering the record books. Owings broke out of his shell by getting the win by holding the Braves to three runs on three hits while striking out seven through seven innings. Oh, and he also was 4-5 with 2 home runs, four runs scored, and six RBI's from the plate. He became the first MLB pitcher in history to have four hits, four runs, and six RBI's in the same game.
• Watch out for the Boston Celtics this upcoming NBA season. They traded over half their team for Kevin Garnett to go with Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. They're also trying to woo Reggie Miller out of retirement. I wonder if Larry Bird has been staying in shape.
• As an NBA fan and follower, I remember dreaming of the day when there would be an NBA without Dennis Rodman. I now have that same yearning for Major League Baseball. When that "thorn" named Gary Sheffield (not Barry Bonds) is finally removed from the league, I will be one happy man.
• I would not be opposed to the Dallas Cowboys cutting or trading Julius Jones. Marion Barber III runs with purpose and passion and is so damn elusive.