Weaver looks to snap losing streak against struggling A's | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Right-handerJered Weaverwill look to snap his four-game losing streak against an Oakland team that has lost five straight entering Monday night's game in Angel Stadium.

Weaver was one of the best pitchers in baseball in April, going 6-0 with a 0.99 earned-run average in his first six starts, but he has lost his last four starts, in which he has allowed 14 runs in 24 innings.

He might not face much resistance Monday night. The A's hit .191 (33 for 173) with one home run and nine runs scored during their losing streak.

Reggie Willitswill start in left field in place ofHowie Kendrick, who will miss his fourth game because of tightness in his right hamstring. Kendrick, who received a cortisone injection Saturday, did some swimming-pool exercises Monday and hopes to resume baseball activities Tuesday or Wednesday.

There is a chance Kendrick, who leads the team with a .322 average, will go on the 15-day disabled list,"but right now, we're being positive about it,"he said.

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Angels ride Torii Hunter's bat, Tyler Chatwood's arm to 4-1 win over Braves | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Torii Hunterhit a two-run homer in the fourth inning and doubled and scored in the sixth, andTyler Chatwoodgave up one run and five hits in seven innings Sunday, leading the Angels to a 4-1 interleague victory over the Atlanta Braves.

Bobby Abreuadded a run-scoring double in the seventh for his 534th career double, tying the Angels designated hitter with Hall of FamerLou Gehrigfor 32nd on baseball's all-time list.

Hunter had gone 99 at-bats and 28 games without a home run before following Abreu's leadoff walk in the fourth with a shot over the left-field wall, Hunter's fifth homer of the season and first since April 21 against Boston.

That gave the Angels a 2-1 lead, which they extended to 3-1 in the sixth when Hunter doubled to left-center against Braves starterDerek Lowe, took third onAlberto Callaspo'sgrounder to second and scored onAlexi Amarista'sgrounder to short.

The Angels added an insurance run against relieverGeorge Sherrillin the seventh whenErick Aybarbunted for a single and took second on third basemanDiory Hernandez'sthrowing error and scored on Abreu's double off the wall in right-center.

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Angels notes: Mike Scioscia to miss Sunday's game; Howie Kendrick out of lineup | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Manager Mike Scioscia will miss Sunday's series finale against the Atlanta Braves to attend his son Matthew's graduation from Notre Dame. Scioscia is scheduled to fly to Chicago after Saturday night's game and return in time for Monday night's game against Oakland. Bench coach Rob Picciolo will run the team in Scioscia's absence.

Left fielder Howie Kendrick, who missed Friday night's game because of tightness in his lower right hamstring, is not in the lineup for Saturday night's game. Scioscia said Kendrick will try to run for the first time Sunday.

"He's getting better, but any time you have a hamstring injury, you're worried," Scioscia said."It's definitely not something you're going to rush."

Braves right fielder Jason Heyward, who is batting .214 with seven homers and 14 runs batted in, was in the Braves' original lineup Saturday night but was scratched because of a sore right shoulder.

Angels left-hander Scott Kazmir, who has spent the past month in the team's extended spring training camp in Arizona trying to find a consistent delivery and release point, threw his bullpen workout in Arizona instead of Anaheim on Saturday.

Kazmir was scheduled to fly to Orange County on Saturday evening, and he will begin a minor league rehabilitation assignment with triple-A Salt Lake on Tuesday night. The team will have 30 days to either activate him or release him.

"There's not a minimum amount of games {to his rehab stint}, but there is a maximum number of games," Scioscia said. The manager said the Angels could also bring Kazmir back in a relief role.

"No doubt, we need starting pitching depth in our organization," Scioscia said."We're looking at him as a starter, but I wouldn't rule out anything."

The Angels lineup for Saturday: DH Maicer Izturis, SS Erick Aybar, LF Bobby Abreu, RF Torii Hunter, 3B Alberto Callaspo, C Hank Conger, 1B Mark Trumbo, 2B Alexi Amarista, CF Peter Bourjos, P Joel Pineiro.

The Braves lineup: CF Nate McLouth, 3B Martin Prado, DH Chipper Jones, C Brian McCann, LF Eric Hinske, 2B Dan Uggla, 1B Freddie Freeman, SS Alex Gonzalez, RF Joe Mather, P Tommy Hanson.

-- Mike DiGiovanna

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Death of Rangers' Derek Boogaard caused by mix of alcohol, oxycodone, officials say | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The death of Rangers enforcerDerek Boogaardwas determined to be accidental and caused by a lethal mixing of alcohol and oxycodone, according to a Hennepin County Medical Examiner report released Friday.

Oxycodone is a powerful and potentially addictive painkiller that has previously been identified in some overdose deaths.

The28-year-old Boogaardwas found dead in his Minneapolis apartment by two of his brothers last Friday, five months after he suffered a season-ending concussion on Dec. 9, at least his fourth.

Boogaard's brain will be examined for signs of a degenerative disease caused by blows to the head, his agent and a spokeswoman for the Boston University School of Medicine said earlier this week.

The 6-foot-7, 265-pound enforcer was known as"The Boogeyman" and became a fan favorite while playing with the Minnesota Wild from 2005-10. He had agreed to a $6.5-million, four-year deal with the Rangers last July and appeared in 22 games this season.

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-- Melissa Rohlin

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Photo: Derek Boogaard. Credit: Matt Slocum / Associated Press.

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Question of the day: Who will win the Preakness? {Updated} | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Writers from around Tribune Co. discuss the topic. Check back throughout the day for more responses and feel free to weigh in with a comment of your own.

John Cherwa, Los Angeles Times

The best horse in the Preakness is Animal Kingdom, the impressive winner of the Kentucky Derby.  But the Derby lacked the expected early speed that would benefit the traditional deep-stretch closers. The Preakness should be very different with Flashpoint forcing a strong early pace. Now, it’s easy to pick the 2-1 favorite, but Animal Kingdom is an underlay at that price. I suspect he’ll win but he’s not the smart choice. I’m going to take a shot on Mucho Macho Man, trained by Kathy Ritvo. He’s never been off the board in nine starts and showed a decent finish in the Derby. Underneath, you’ve have Animal Kingdom and Dialed In, who should benefit from a fast pace. As for a horse to throw in the exotics for a price, I like Dance City, who finished third in the Arkansas Derby.

{Updated at 12:12 p.m.

Neil Milbert, Chicago Tribune

Granted, Animal Kingdom outran a relatively weak field when he made his dirt-racing field and won the Kentucky Derby as a 20-1 long shot. Going into the Derby with six weeks of rest, he proved to be much the best and raced the final quarter in a razor-sharp :24.55. All of that suggests the well-bred colt is capable of a comparable performance at Pimlico -- where he will be facing an even weaker field than the one he dominated at Churchill Downs.

Don't count out my Derby pick, Dialed In. After encountering traffic problems at the start, he made a belated stretch move to finish eighth as the 5.20-1 favorite. The winner of the Holy Bull and Florida Derby at Pimlico's sister track, Gulfstream Park, will hit a $5.5-million three-race bonus jackpot if he wins the Preakness for owner Robert LaPenta and trainer Nick Zito. Bettor beware.}

{Updated at 12:41

Tom Jicha, South Florida Sun Sentinel

Almost every major 3-year-old race, including the Kentucky Derby, has produced an upset. Animal Kingdom’s Derby triumph was visually scintillating. However, the race was slowly run with leisurely early fractions. Theoretically, this makes Animal Kingdom’s come-from-behind surge more impressive. But slow races often produce strange results because it keeps lesser talent in contention. With more early speed, the Preakness fractions should be lively. If Animal Kingdom has to run faster early to stay in touch, will he have the same kick? If so, he probably wins again. But Dialed In, who always drops back to last, ran a faster final half-mile. Alas, the field didn’t come back to him, as happens when the pace is quick. Given the likely odds, Dialed In is a better bet than a short-priced Animal Kingdom.}

Photo: Exercise rider Carlos Rosas takes Preakness entrant Astrology over the track at Pimlico Race Course on Thursday. Credit: Rob Carr / Getty Images

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UCLA football: Psalm Wooching, running back from Hawaii, commits to the Bruins | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Psalm Wooching, a running back/linebacker from Kealakehe High School in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, said he has committed to play at UCLA.

Wooching, who will be a senior in the fall, is the second running back from Hawaii to commit to UCLA this week, joining Honolulu Punahou’s Steven Lakalaka.

Wooching, who is 6-foot-3, 210 pounds, was also considering Washington, Utah and Colorado. He said UCLA defensive line coach Inoke Breckterfield,“broke down the campus, the academics they have to offer, the facilities. It’s the right fit for me.”

Wooching, considered a quality player on offense and defense, said he doesn't have a preference between running back and linebacker.

“Any position they put me at, I’ll beat out whoever they have there,” Wooching said.

-- Chris Foster

 

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Clippers react to Cavaliers' win in NBA draft lottery | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Funny but the Clippers just couldn't quite get away from the lottery.

This was supposed to be the one year they weren't part of the conversation

Oh well.

Cleveland won the NBA's draft lottery on Tuesday night, and added the No. 4 overall pick, an event made possible, in part, by wild blind luck and the deal crafted by the Cavaliers at the trade deadline. They sentMo Williamsto the Clippers and took onBaron Davisand his big-money contract for two more years. But they received the Clippers' first-round pick. 

Neil Olshey, the Clippers vice president of basketball operations, said that the team made the decision at the trade deadline that their next step was going to be"via trade or free agency."

"Adding Mo Williams and $8.5 million in cap room gives us better odds of improving than a 2.8% chance of winning the lottery and adding a seventh player under 23 to our roster," he said.

"Additionally, we had a 97% chance of sitting here tonight with Baron Davis, the eighth pick in a bad draft and no cap flexibility."

Cavaliers ownerDan Gilbert, called it a"beautiful" night, saying on a conference call:"I knew it was the right move all along. When it was over, someone on stage told me that it was the Clippers' pick and I thought they were messing around. It wasn't until 10-15 minutes later when I actually started to believe it."

-- Lisa Dillman

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Atlanta Thrashers appear bound for Winnipeg | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Winnipeg’s chances of regaining an NHL franchise appeared bleak last week when the City of Glendale, Ariz., came up with $25 million to keep the Coyotes for another season.

But the Atlanta Thrashers, long beset by ownership problems and management’s inability to put a competitive, playoff-caliber team on the ice, could be sold and moved to Winnipeg to play there as soon next season and increase the number of Canada-based franchises to seven.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that the team’s owners, collectively known as the Atlanta Spirit,are in talks with a group that’s eager to buy the franchise and move it north. Here’s columnistMark Bradley’s summationon where the Thrashers went wrong, and he makes some strong points.

The Winnipeg Free Press reportedthe NHL is devising two schedulesfor next season -- one that would have the Thrashers in Atlanta and another if the team relocates to Winnipeg, which might also result in realignment of the current divisions.

The NHL usually releases its schedule for the subsequent season in mid-June so there isn’t much time to move the chess pieces around the board, work out available dates in multi-purpose arenas and give teams ample time to book charter flights and hotels for next season’s travel.

There’s also the matter of relocating the American Hockey League’s Manitoba Moose, which has been the primary tenant of the new MTS Centre. The arena, built in downtown Winnipeg to replace the old Winnipeg Arena, has a relatively small capacity of just more than 15,000 for hockey.

The Jets left Winnipeg for Phoenix in 1996. A lack of corporate support hurt the Jets during their later years but pent-up demand could compensate for that. Warm-and-fuzzy feelings generated by the return of the NHL could sour if ticket prices are scaled too high or if the team isn’t any good.

Though it’s tough to predict what the NHL will do it’s becoming clear that no one can or will step up to buy the Thrashers and keep them in Atlanta, which CommissionerGary Bettmanwould prefer for the sake of U.S. TV markets and American advertising money. But it might be time for players to dig out the heavy sweaters for those trips to Winnipeg. 

--Helene Elliott

Photo: Defenseman Dustin Byfuglien, checking Ottawa winger Erik Condra, and the Thrashers might be leaving Atlanta for Winnipeg in the near future. Credit: Dale Zanine / US Presswire

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Angels' bullpen lets another one slip away, 5-4 | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The Angels' bullpen struggles continued Sunday whenRich ThompsonandHisanori Takahashifailed to retire the first four batters they faced, allowing the Texas Rangers to push home the deciding run in a 5-4 victory.

Thompson, who started the day having gotten the leadoff man in all 13 of his appearances this season, walkedAdrian BeltreandDavid Murphyto start the eighth inning.Mike Napolifollowed, and though he was badly fooled on a two-strike pitch, he managed to dunk a single into right field to load the bases.

Takahashi was then called in to faceChris Davis, who greeted him with an equally unimpressive single to right to score Beltre. Takahashi got the next two outs andKevin Jepsenrecorded the third out, leaving the bases loaded, but by then the damage had been done.

Rangers closerNeftali Felixthen closed out the win, getting the final two outs whenAlberto Callaspostruck out and Napoli threw outHowie Kendrickat second base on a blown hit-and-run play.

And that wasted another big game byErick Aybar, who had three hits -- including his second homer in three days -- and drove in three runs.

He now has a career-high 13-game hitting streak and his average is .357 since coming off the disabled list 3 1/2 weeks ago. Sunday he fell a triple shy of hitting for the cycle, doubling to help the Angels take a 1-0 lead in the first inning, lining a solo homer to center in the fifth and then singling in two runs to tie the score, 4-4, in the sixth.

In the eighth inning, with the go-ahead run at second base, the Rangers walked Aybar intentionally. He was the only Angel with multiple hits though Kendrick, Callaspo,Torii HunterandMark Trumboeach reached base twice on a single and walk. The Angels left 11 men on base.

Starting pitcherErvin Santanagave the Angels seven strong innings, making only a pair of mistakes -- but they were costly ones. The first came in the third inning when Beltre hit a two-out, three-run homer to give Texas a 3-1 lead. An inning later Davis extended that lead with a solo home run.

Santana kept the deficit there, though, working out of jams in the fifth and seventh innings before turning the game over to the bullpen.

RELATED:

Angels-Rangers box score

First baseman Mark Trumbo is sticking with what works

Longer rehab for Kendrys Morales makes sense to doctor

-- Kevin Baxter, reporting from Arlington, Texas

Photo: Angels second baseman Howie Kendrick takes the throw as Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus slides safely into second base with a steal on Sunday. Credit: Jim Cowsert / US Presswire

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Derek Boogaard's brain to be donated to trauma study | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The parents of New York Rangers enforcer Derek Boogaard, who was found dead Friday in his Minneapolis apartment, have donated their son's brain to researchers at Boston University who are studying the effects of brain trauma on athletes.

No cause has been established for the death of Boogaard, 28, whose body was found by family members. An explanation might come to light through toxicology tests, which take about two weeks to process.

The Minneapolis Star Tribune reported that Boogaard's parents made the decision todonate their oldest son's brainin order to help advance studies on the vexing and complicated problems of head trauma. Boogaard suffered a concussion during the regular season and had not played since Dec. 9, but the Star Tribunequoted friendsas saying that he was optimistic about returning to his old form next season and was looking forward to summer workouts.

Fans left flowers in tribute to Boogaard at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minn., home of his previous team, the Minnesota Wild. Many players offered condolences via Twitter, and NHL CommissionerGary Bettmanreleased a statementoffering his condolences Saturday.

-- Helene Elliott

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Lakers Moments: Mychal Thompson is a strong competitor in a 'Showtime' era | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Take hold: Lakers forwardMychal Thompsonpulls down a rebound in a game against Sacramento on Jan. 15, 1990.

The addition of Thompson, acquired in a trade with San Antonio in February 1987, was critical to the Lakers' title hopes that season. In fact, when told of the trade, which included the Lakers paying the Spurs some cash, a visibly upsetLarry Birdof Boston said:“If San Antonio needed money, we would’ve sent them money. But to go and help the Lakers like that is just terrible.”

Thompson added depth and muscle to a Lakers front line that eventually would face Bird’s Celtics in the NBA Finals, doing battle with a Boston team that had what is generally considered the greatest front line in league history: Bird,Robert ParrishandKevin McHale.

He was an exceptional defender, his duels with McHale were ferocious, but also displayed a good touch around the basket. Averaging 10 points and four rebounds coming off the bench in 1987, Thompson was a key to theLakers defeating the Celticsfor the second time in three years in the Finals.

The following season was probably his best as a Laker as he averaged 11.6 points and six rebounds a game. That kind of production off the bench is why the1988 Lakers championship squadis often mentioned as one of the greatest in NBA history.

Read more aboutMychal ThompsoninAll Things Lakers, the L.A. Times' interactive database of all things purple and gold.

Join the Lakers at L.A. Times Facebook page.

-- Steve Lowery

Photo credit: Los Angeles Times

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Angels first baseman Kendrys Morales to undergo second surgery and miss entire season | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Kendrys Moraleshas elected to undergo a second surgery on the left ankle he broke last May 29, a procedure that will sideline the Angels first baseman for the entire 2011 season.

"It's definitely a challenge for us not having Kendry in the middle of our lineup; it's a significant blow," Angels General ManagerTony Reaginssaid."But having gone through most of last season without him, the team has learned how to deal with it and move forward. We've had adversity before, and we will have it again."

The procedure, to be performed by Dr.Thomas Clanton, a Colorado foot-and-ankle specialist at a date that hasn't been determined, will be to clean up scar tissue and remove several degenerative cysts that have developed in the joint.

"The fracture has healed completely, but these are the consequences of a devastating injury," said Dr.Lewis Yocum, team physician."One option was to continue the conservative course with therapy and rehabilitation, but we're trying to gear him up for next season."

Yocum said the second procedure will require a minimum of six months for recovery.

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NHL Conference finals to start Saturday | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The NHL announced the schedule for the conference finals, taking into account arena availability issues in Tampa and the needs of its TV"partners."

Boston and Tampa Bay will be shaking off rust by the time they get started, on Saturday. The West will start Sunday at Vancouver, with the Canucks facing either the Detroit Red Wings or San Jose Sharks.  The Red Wings-Sharks series may end Tuesday or could go to a seventh game, which would be played on Thursday in San Jose.

Here's the NHL's schedule, with the TV options for U.S. viewers and with scenarios for Vancouver playing Detroit or San Jose. All times are Pacific. And games can be heard on Sirius XM Satellite Radio.

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USC football: Receiver Brice Butler will remain with Trojans | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Brice Butler, a USC receiver who did not participate in spring practice and contemplated transferring, will remain with the Trojans, the school announced Monday.

"We are pleased with Brice's decision to continue his development as a student-athlete at USC," Coach Lane Kiffinsaid.

Butler, a fourth-year junior from Georgia, caught nine passes for 112 yards and a touchdown last season.

Butler's fatherBobby, a former NFL player, told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution in January thatKiffin did not give his son a fair chance.

Butler's absence from spring practice cost him a chance to work with new receivers coachTed Gilmore. It also gave senior Brandon Carswelland sophomoresMarkeith AmblesandDe'Von Flournoya chance to compete for the starting spot opposite sophomoreRobert Woods.

Butler will now compete for playing time with that group as well as redshirt freshman Kyle Praterand incoming freshmenGeorge Farmer,Victor BlackwellandMarqise Lee.

RELATED:

Three Trojans selected in a row during NFL draft

Final spring scrimmage is a showcase for defense and running game

--Gary Klein

Photo: USC receiver Brice Butler makes a reception in front of Arizona State's Brandon Magee during a Pac-10 game at the Coliseum last season. Credit: Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times

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Angels' Torii Hunter reflects on Mike Scioscia's 1,000th career victory | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Mike Sciosciahas been reluctant to talk too much about his 1,000th career victory, a milestone he reached with the Angels' 6-5 win over the Cleveland Indians on Sunday, because he hates when too much attention is placed on himself.

But that didn't stop his players from heaping praise on the Angels' manager, who became the 56th manager in major league history to win 1,000 games and the 23rd to do so with one team.

“It’s an individual thing, so he’s not going to talk too much about it, but I’m pretty sure he’s excited,” Angels right fielderTorii Huntersaid.“It’s a great feat, a special accomplishment. Not too many managers can say they’ve won 1,000 games in the big leagues.”

Pitching and defense have been the foundation of the team’s success over the past 10 years, but Scioscia has also gained a reputation for getting the most of his offenses, making up for a lack of power with aggressive baserunning.

“That’s one of the reasons I came here,” said Hunter, the former Minnesota Twins star who signed with the Angels before 2008. “I saw how smart he is, how he strategizes, the way he plays the game, going first to third, being aggressive. Watching him from the other side, I always thought he was a good manager.”

Hunter and fellow outfielderVernon Wells-- the pair has a combined 23 years of big league experience and a combined $41 million in 2011 salary -- dumped a huge cooler of ice water over Scioscia's head as the manager was being interviewed by a television reporter on the field after the game.

"I don't know if anyone else in the clubhouse besides Torii could have thrown water on him," veteran pitcherDan Harensaid."I would be scared to do that. I wouldn't mess with Scioscia."

Hunter had been planning the ice-water bath for several days.

"You see that in college football all the time when guys get a certain amount of wins -- we wanted to make it special," Hunter said."This is great. I've seen him from both sides. I've played against him for a lot of those wins and for him for a couple hundred of those wins. I'm just proud to be a part of it."

RELATED:

Angels-Indians box score

Angels-Indians: Inning-by-inning recap

--Mike DiGiovanna

Photo: Angels Manager Mike Scioscia is drenched in water after center fielder Torii Hunter (48) gave him an ice-water bath after his 1,000th career win on Sunday at Angel Stadium. Credit: Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times

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Angels 1B Kendrys Morales to go to Colorado for second opinion on broken ankle | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The Angels announced after Saturday night's 4-3 loss to the Cleveland Indians that first basemanKendrys Morales, whose rehabilitation from a broken left ankle has stalled over the last few weeks, will travel to Vail, Colo., this week for a second opinion.

Morales has not played since last May 29, and he has not been able to run at full speed yet. The slugger was shut down last week after receiving an injection and has not resumed running, on the field or on a treadmill. He is scheduled to visit Dr.Thomas Clanton, a foot-and-ankle specialist, on Tuesday.

“This is something the Angels recommended to get an optimal course of treatment,” saidTim Mead, the team’s vice president of communications.

The Angels remained confident all winter and even during spring training that Morales, who hit .306 with 34 home runs and 108 runs batted in in 2009, would be ready to start the season. But they appear to be coming to grips with the possibility that Morales won't be back for several more weeks.

Asked on Friday if he was surprised by how slowly Morales is recovering, ManagerMike Scioscia’s response was an indication that the Angels don’t expect Morales back until June, at the earliest, and perhaps an admission that those earlier forecasts were far too ambitious.

“It hasn’t even been a year yet,” Scioscia said. “It was a serious injury. You have to be patient through some parts of it.”

--Mike DiGiovanna

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Lakers Moments: A.C. Green is pure good | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Most high: Lakers forwardA.C. Greengoes up for a dunk in a game against the Clippers on Nov. 15, 1985.

Green is known as NBA’s iron man for playing in a record 1,192 straight games, a span of nearly 15 years. He once played the day after having an emergency root canal.

Yet with all his achievements in basketball, Green is also distinguished for his abstinence streak. The deeply religious Green took a vow to abstain from sexual activity and kept it throughout his NBA career, which included two championships during the Lakers’"Showtime" era and another with L.A. in 2000, until getting married at age 38 in 2002.

Green told the Los Angeles Times’ Chris Erskine in 2009 that his Lakers teammates initially didn't buy into his way of life.

"But as time went on, when the guys saw some consistency to the way I was handling my life, they gradually came to accept it," Green said,"to the point where some asked me to talk to sons and daughters."

He also earned respect on the court. Green played nine seasons with the Lakers (from 1985 to'93 and again in1999-2000) and is10th on the team's all-time list with 735 total games played. After a 16-year NBA career, Green is 15th overall with 1,278 games played.

Read more aboutA.C. Greenand where he ranks for theteam's career stealsinAll Things Lakers, the L.A. Times' interactive database of all things purple and gold.

Join the Lakers at L.A. Times Facebook page.

Do you have your own Lakers moment? The Times wants to know about it!Click hereto find out how you can submit your story.

-- Chuck Schilken

Photo: Lori Shepler / Los Angeles Times

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Who would win a race of the last 20 Kentucky Derby winners? {Video} | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Horse Racing Simulation, the most recognized name in virtual racing, along with the National Thoroughbred Racing Assn., recently released a video of their simulation featuring the last 20 Kentucky Derby winners.

The field includes:

Smarty Jones -- the first undefeated contender to win the Kentucky Derby (2004) to win since Seattle Slew in 1977.
Real Quiet -- who narrowly lost the 1998 Triple Crown.
Big Brown -- who drew enormous popularity in his quest for the 2008 Triple Crown.
Barbaro -- one of the most impressive Derby winners (2006) in recent years and a favorite with fans.
Monarchos -- the only other horse in history besides Secretariat (1976) to run the Kentucky Derby in under two minutes (2001).

Other contenders include Street Sense, Funnycide, Strike the Gold, Charismatic, War Emblem, Mine That Bird, Go for Gin, Super Saver and others.

The race is called by top announcer Larry Collmus, who was hired by NBC to call all three Triple Crown races this year for NBC’s national broadcasts.

Who wins? Well, you'll have to watch the video below to find out.

 

-- Houston Mitchell

 

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Badminton World Federation defends new skirt requirement for women | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

A new rule requiring women to wear skirts on the court has been misunderstood, the Badminton World Federation said in a statement Wednesday.

“It has never been the intention of the BWF to portray women as sexual objects, and nor is that what we are doing,” said Paisan Rangsikitpho, deputy president of the organization.

According to Rangsikitpho, the“aesthetic and stylish presentation” of players is an important factor in the organization's attempt to increase the popularity of the sport.“The clothing regulation is yet another example of how BWF are putting focus on the women's game to raise the profile,” he said of the rule that is to take effect at international events on June 1.

In other words, forcing women to wear skirts to help market the sport isn't sexist at all.

Some players, including world No. 9 Tine Baun of Denmark, aren't buying it.

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Red Sox pound three homers in 7-3 win over Angels | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Adrian GonzalezandDavid Ortizcracked back-to-back home runs Tuesday, breaking open a pitcher's duel and powering the Boston Red Sox to a 7-3 victory over the Angels at Fenway Park.

The win was Boston's sixth in as many games against the Angels this season and the Red Sox's 15th in 16 meetings between the teams dating to the start of last season.

RookieMark Trumbo's second-inning line-drive home run into the last row of seats above the left-field wall gave the Angels a quick 1-0 lead against Boston aceJon Lester(4-1). But that was all they got as the let-hander stuck out 11 in seven innings.

The Red Sox started their comeback againstDan Haren, the American League's ERA leader, in the sixth when consecutive two-out hits by Gonzalez, Ortiz and Jed Lowrie gave Boston a 2-1 lead.

After giving up the Gonzalez homer leading off the eighth, Haren (4-2) left in favor ofHisanori Takahashi, who served up a home run to Ortiz on his second pitch. Three batters laterMarco Scutaro, a late addition to the lineup, added a two-run homer of his own, his first of the season.

Five players had two hits for the Red Sox, including Gonzalez who also scored twice and knocked in two runs.

Maicer IzturisandTorii Hunterhad two hits apiece for the Angels, who made some late noise against Boston closerJonathan Papelbonby scoring a pair  of ninth-inning runs on a ground-rule double byErick Aybarand Trumbo's sacrifice fly.

-- Kevin Baxter in Boston

Photo: Boston's Adrian Gonzalez, right, is congratulated by David Ortiz after hitting a solo home run during the eighth inning of the Angels' 7-3 loss Tuesday at Fenway Park. Credit: Matt Campbell / EPA

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'Bad rule' that cost Webb Simpson PGA victory may be changed | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The U.S. Golf Assn. and the Royal& Ancient reportedly have been considering changing a certain rule for the better part of a decade. That lengthy discussion may have cost Webb Simpson his firstPGATour victory last weekend.

Simpson was leading the Zurich Classic of New Orleans by a shot with his ball less than a foot from the cup at the 15th hole Sunday. But the ball moved as he addressed it on the green. Simpson said it likely was caused by the wind, combined with dry and hard greens, but that didn't matter.

Because the current USGA rule doesn't offer any leeway for ball movement caused by outside forces, Simpson was penalized a stroke and eventually finished tied with Bubba Watson after 72 holes. Watson went on to win the tournament in a playoff.

“I better limit my comments on that rule, because I think it's such a bad rule,” Simpson said Sunday. “When the wind or other natural things affect the golf ball, the player shouldn't be penalized.”

USGA vice president Thomas O'Toole said Monday that a modified version of the rule may be in place as early as 2012."If some other agency— wind or gravity — is known to cause that ball to move, no penalty would be applied,” O'Toole said at the U.S. Open media day at Congressional Country Club.

O'Toole added that the rule change has been under consideration for at least seven years but will now be discussed in earnest during the next several months.

“We have to react to this,” he said. “I think this is a better place to be than penalizing players unfairly.”

ALSO:

Minor injuries sideline Tiger Woods

Kevin Na shoots a 16 on a par-four hole {Video}

-- Chuck Schilken

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Photo: Webb Simpson, right, speaks with a rules official on the 15th green after Simpson's ball moved during the final round of the Zurich Classic at the TPC Louisiana. Credit: Hunter Martin / Getty Images

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Vernon Wells runs Angels into 6-5 win over the Rays | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Vernon Wellshasn't done much with his bat this season. But Sunday he helped win a game for the Angels with his feet, staying in a rundown long enough forTorii Hunterto race home with the go-ahead run in a 6-5 win over the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field.

Wells, who had just one hit in the three-game series, came to the plate with Hunter on third and one out in the eighth inning and drew a walk.Hank Congerfollowed by bouncing a ball to second for what looked to be an inning-ending double play. But rather than throwing to second, Tampa Bay'sBen Zobristtried to tag Wells, who avoided the tag long enough for Hunter to score the winning run.

That capped a comeback that saw the Angels erase a 5-0 first-inning deficit.

With scheduled starterJered Weaverscratched with an intestinal virus, the Angel sent rookieTyler Chatwoodto the mound and the Rays jumped on his pitches immediately.

Seven of the nine Rays to bat in the inning got hits -– but only two balls were hit well. Two players appeared to have been thrown out on the bases only to have been called safe –- the first on a close play at third, the other when third basemanAlberto Callaspodropped the ball. Both players later scored.

And three of the run-scoring singles in the inning came on two-strike pitches.

But Chatwood eventually settled down, retiring 10 of the next 12 hitters before giving up a double and walk to start the fifth, ending his day.Scott Downscame in from the bullpen to get three ground balls, stranding both runners. Downs wound up going a season-long two innings, allowing only one hit.

Rich Thompson,Fernando RodneyandJordan Waldenfollowed Downs with each pitching a scoreless inning. Walden pitched a perfect ninth to earn his fifth save.

That gave the Angels time to battle back against Rays rookieAlex Cobb, who was making his big-league debut.

Cobb gave up a solo home run to Conger in the second then got wild in the fifth when the Angels used three walks, two singles and an error to score four times, tying the score at 5-5.

Bobby AbreuandMark Trumboeach had two hits for the Angels, with Abreu scoring one run, driving in another and stealing a base.Howie Kendrickwalked twice, scored once and also had a steal.

RELATED:

Angels-Rays box score

Ace Jered Weaver is killing them softly

Howie Kendrick can't explain success against the Rays

-- Kevin Baxter in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Photo: Angels catcher Hank Conger is congratulated by center fielder Peter Bourjos after hitting a home run in the second inning Sunday against Tamp Bay. Credit: Kim Klement / US Presswire

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USC football: Nine Trojans selected in NFL draft | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

USC closed fast in the three-day NFL draft.

Six players were selected Saturday in rounds four through seven, giving USC a total of nine draft picks.

On Thursday, offensive tackleTyron Smithwas chosen with the ninth pick by the Dallas Cowboys.

On Friday, defensive tackleJurrell Caseyand cornerbackShareece Wrightwere third-round picks by the Tennessee Titans and San Diego Chargers, respectively.

The Cleveland Browns drafted tight endJordan Cameronin the fourth round Saturday. ReceiverRonald Johnsonwent to the San Francisco 49ers in the sixth round and tailbackAllen Bradfordwas chosen five picks later by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

On consecutive picks in the seventh round fullbackStanley Haviliwent to the Philadelphia Eagles, receiverDavid Ausberrywas selected by the Oakland Raiders and linebackerMalcolm Smithwas taken by the Seattle Seahawks and former USC coachPete Carroll.

RELATED:

NFL draft featured wise decisions and baffling picks

UCLA's Ayers and Moore selected in second round

NFL draft first-round selections

--Gary Klein

Photo: USC defensive tackle Jurrell Casey participates in a drill at the NFL scouting combine. Credit: Brian Spurlock / US Presswire

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Question of the Day: Does Bud Selig owe Frank McCourt a meeting? | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Writers from around Tribune Co. discuss whether Major League Baseball CommissionerBud Seligshould meet with Dodgers ownerFrank McCourt. Check back throughout the day for more responses, and feel free to weigh in with a comment of your own.

Phil Rogers, Chicago Tribune

Bud Selig isn’t ducking Frank McCourt. He’s tried to help him more than any other owner since McCourt joined baseball’s ownership fraternity, speaking with him as recently as two weeks ago.

But by embarrassing Selig and his fellow owners, and failing to comply with MLB’s rules on a ratio of debts to equity, McCourt has put himself on the other side of the table.

He’s now in a position of negotiating with MLB, not working alongside MLB, and when you negotiate with MLB you do your legwork in meetings with Selig’s top staffers before sitting down with the commissioner. That’s just how it’s done.

He will get his meeting with Selig. But not before a lot more due diligence has been done on the situation, and the further MLB officials dig, the worse the situation stinks.

It’s time to go quietly, trying to save an ounce or two of dignity on the way out.

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Michelle Kwan to co-chair International Olympic Committee conference in L.A. | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games announced Thursday that figure skaterMichelle Kwan, a five-time world champion, nine-time U.S. champion and twice an Olympic medalist, and movie producerFrank Marshall, a five-time Oscar nominee, will be co-chairs of the fifth International Olympic Committee Women and Sport 2012 Conference, to be held early next year in Los Angeles.

The event will take place Feb. 16-18 at the JW Marriott at L.A. Live.

The Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games, which promotes Olympic ideals and organizes bids to hold the Games here, will organize and stage the event in conjunction with the U.S. Olympic Committee.

“It’s an honor to co-chair and participate in such an important international event,” Kwan, a U.S. public diplomacy envoy, said in a news release. "Historically, this conference has played a meaningful role in identifying ways to improve and increase participation of women in the world of sport around the globe. Women athletes are making progress; for the very first time, the 2012 Olympic Games in London will showcase women competing in every sport on the program. I look forward to this conference and to the continued advancement of women in sports.” 

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Angels go for three-game sweep of A's; Kendrys Morales examined by foot specialist | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Three days ago, theAngels' batters, as former Dodgers Manager Tommy Lasorda once said in a famous rant, couldn't hit water if they fell out of a boat. While getting swept in a four-game series by the Boston Red Sox, the Angels scored five runs (total), hit .158 (21 for 33) and were shut out Saturday and Sunday.

Then the Oakland Athletics came to town and the Angels got all better. They beat the A's, 5-0, behindJered Weaver's seven-hit shutout Monday night, and they racked up 16 hits, including seven for extra bases, in an8-3 victory Tuesday night. The Angels will go for a three-game sweep Wednesday afternoon, with Angels right-hander Dan Haren opposing Oakland right-hander Tyson Ross.

"It's crazy, man,"said right fielder Torii Hunter, who was battling a 5-for-49 slump going into the A's series but had three hits, including a double, Tuesday night."You watch this game, you play it long enough, you see some stupid stuff. The game is crazy ... but I love it."

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Question of the Day: What will and should Ohio State do about Jim Tressel? {Updated} | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Writers from around the Tribune Co. discuss Ohio State Coach Jim Tressel, who has been accused by theNCAAofwithholding information and lyingto keep Buckeyes players on the field who accepted improper benefits from the owner of a tattoo parlor.

Check back throughout the day for more responses, and feel free to weigh in with a comment of your own.

Teddy Greenstein, Chicago Tribune

The Jim Tressel question comes down to this: Should one monumental screw-up end his reign? I’d be willing to give The Vest a second chance if he’d finally fess up about why he lied to the NCAA and failed to inform superiors that some players had traded their reputations for tattoos.

It wasn’t that he was “scared” about an investigation involving the FBI. Tressel hid the truth because he didn’t want his players suspended and thought he could get away with it.

Ohio State, though, will have to pull the plug if the NCAA treats the school as a repeat offender and decides to take away scholarships, TV time and victories from 2010. That stain will be too strong for Tressel to blot out.

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Angels pitcher Joel Pineiro goes 5 2/3 innings in rehab start | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Angels right-handerJoel Pineiro, on the disabled list because of right shoulder tightness, allowed three unearned runs and six hits in 5 2/3 innings of a rehabilitation start for Class-A Inland Empire against High Desert on Monday night.

Pineiro struck out two, walked two and threw 71 pitches. His throwing error on a sacrifice bunt in the third inning paved the way for High Desert to score three runs, two of them on a double byDenny Almonte.

Though he fell behind on several counts early in the game, Pineiro seemed to get stronger as the game went on, and he showed no signs of discomfort. Pineiro will be evaluated Tuesday, and barring setback, he will either join the Angels rotation this weekend or make one more rehab start before being activated.

--Mike DiGiovanna

Photo: Angels starting pitcher Joel Pineiro during an exhibition game. Credit: Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times

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Angels: Red Sox complete the four-game sweep of the Angels, winning 7-0 Sunday at Angel Stadium | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

News flash: The Boston Red Sox beat the Angels. 

Well, that may seem like old news, since it happens so often, as in virtually every time these teams meet up these days. The score, stats and location may change, but the result usually doesn't.

With Sunday's 7-0 triumph before 35,107 at Angel Stadium, Boston completed a four-game series sweep and has won 13 of 14 games against the Angels dating to the start 2010 season.

It's the second straight shutout for the Angels, who lost to Boston, 5-0, on Saturday. 

The Angels (12-10) have lost four straight after winning 11 of 14. It's the first four-game home sweep the Angels have been dealt since 2005 by the Seattle Mariners. 

Boston (10-11) has won a season-high five straight games and eight of nine overall -- and this is after the Red Sox started the season dropping eight of 10 games.

As in the previous three games here, Boston received a strong performance from its starting pitcher who quieted the Angels' bats while his own offense provided the fireworks.

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Dustin Penner stays in, Alexei Ponikarovsky out for Kings in Game 5 | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Greetings from San Jose, where the Sharks had their full team on the ice for the morning skate at HP Pavilion but the Kings’ session remained optional. What matters most is who shows up Saturday night, when the Sharks can end the team’s playoff series with a victory. A sixth game, if necessary, will be played Monday at Staples Center.

Kings CoachTerry Murraysaid he will stick with his plan to insert left wingScott Parsein the lineup, even though Parse hasn’t played since Nov. 15 and underwent hip surgery shortly after that game. Parse will skate alongsideMichal HandzusandJustin Williams, as Parse did in Friday’s practice.

The Kings’ fourth line will be Dustin Penner,Jarret StollandKevin Westgarth, which meansAlexei Ponikarovsky-- who scored the Kings’ final goal in their 6-3 loss Thursday at home -- will be scratched from the lineup, as willOscar Moller.

Whether he’s doing it to justify General ManagerDean Lombardi’strade for Penner or he believes against all evidence that Penner will suddenly become motivated to play at both ends of the ice, Murray kept Penner in the lineup. 

“Against this San Jose team, they’ve got three dominant lines. I’ve said this before, they’ve got three lines that are probably as good as any in the National Hockey League,” Murray said Saturday morning. “And they can play the game any way you want, any way they want it. And so it’s important for us to play four lines.

“When you have your top guy out of the lineup like this everybody has to dig in, check the proper way and play hard every shift. So with Parse going into the lineup here tonight I’m going to take Ponikarovsky out. Put Penner there with Stoll. It’s a little bit of a risk but I haven’t been getting enough from the top line on that left side, on the production side of it, and Parse has ability. He has skill. So I’m going to take that look here tonight.”

Murray said he took Ponikarovsky’s Game 4 goal into consideration but found better reasons to play Penner, who has one assist and is -4 defensively in the series.

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Trevor Bauer strikes out 17 in UCLA's win over Stanford | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The best pitcher in college baseball right now could be UCLA juniorTrevor Bauer, who tied a career high with 17 strikeouts on Friday in a4-1 win at Stanford.

Bauer leads the nation in strikeouts with 127 and has recorded at least 10 strikeouts in nine of his 10 starts this season. He improved his record to 8-1 with a four-hitter and has a 1.42 earned-run average.

UCLA is 21-13 overall and 10-4 in the Pacific 10.

-- Eric Sondheimer

Photo: UCLA starter Trevor Bauer. Credit: Chris Carlson / Associated Press

ALSO:

Linebacker Jordan Zumwalt is a big hit at UCLA scrimmage

Cori Close introduced as UCLA women's basketball coach

 

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Sacramento mayor meets with NBA officials | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Sacramento MayorKevin Johnsontold the head of the NBA's relocation committee that he's secured $9.2 million in corporate commitment for suites, season tickets and other support to be determined in the city's ongoing effort to keep the Sacramento Kings in town.

Johnson met with relocation committee chairmanClay Bennett, owner of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and an NBA attorney Thursday in sessions that included regional business leaders, but not Los Angeles billionaireRon Burkle.

Last week, Burkle's group expressed interest to invest in an NBA team in Sacramento and to help build a new arena in town.

The NBA Board of Governors then agreed to extend the Kings' deadline to apply for relocation to Anaheim's Honda Center from Monday until May 2 to let Bennett conduct"fact-finding" visits to Sacramento and Anaheim.

Bennett also met with an arena builder in Sacramento to assess the"feasibility study" that's in progress.

"At the end of the day, we want our commitment and passion to be palpable," mayor spokesmanJoaquin McPeeksaid."Sacramento put its best foot forward today."

The Board of Governors can approve the request to move by ownersJoeandGavin Maloofby a simple majority.

-- Lance Pugmire

 

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Question of the Day: Which NFL team benefits the most or is disadvantaged the most by its schedule? {Updated} | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Writers from around the Tribune Co. give their opinions on the recently released2011 NFL schedule.

Jamison Hensley, Baltimore Sun

San Francisco 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh already has a daunting challenge of turning around a team without an established quarterback. On Tuesday, theNFLschedule makers didn’t do the $25-million rookie head coach any favors, especially in the second half of the season.

The tough stretch begins with a showdown against his brother John on Thanksgiving night, which forces San Francisco to make a cross-country trip to Baltimore only four days after playing Arizona at home. But that’s just the start of the 49ers’ late-season, frequent-flier miles.

San Francisco ends the regular season by traveling for three of its final four games, including road trips to division opponents Seattle and St. Louis. There's no break for the final home game, which is a prime-time matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

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Next up for the Angels, a plague of locusts | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The weatherman has not been kind to the Angels on their current six-game road trip.

In Chicago, they endured three rain delays, brief snow flurries and a wind chill of 26 degrees. Their first game in Texas started with the temperature hovering at an uncomfortably humid 91. And then just before the team took batting practice Tuesday, the blue skies turned slate gray and rain and large hail-stones began to fall.

Oh, and there's a tornado watch in effect until late this evening. However, the forecast calls for the fast-moving front to pass through the Dallas area quickly, meaning Tuesday night's game figures to be delayed but not postponed.

-- Kevin Baxter in Arlington, Texas

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Angels-Rangers: Much ado about something | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

With five consecutive wins, the Angels are the hottest team in baseball. And with six wins in as many games at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, the Texas Rangers are the best team in the majors at home.

One of those streaks figures to take a pounding over the next three nights when the Angels and Rangers square off for the first time this season. But Angels ManagerMike Sciosciatook pains Monday not to overplay his team's first meeting with the defending American League champions.

"It's a first look," he said."There's going to be scouting that starts to take place on both sides. Evaluating. You get a look at the other club. Get a look at some of the bullpen arms they might be using. That's what is it.

"It's no different, us playing the Rangers, than when we were us playing the White Sox."

The teams come into the series tied atop the AL West at 10-5, the second-best record in the league. But that, too, is of little relevance now, Scioscia said.

"No matter what game the schedule brings you have to play at a high level and win," he said."Obviously when you do the math, when you play a team in your own division it affects your standings directly. Because you're in control of what you can do. But this game has no more importance than if we were playing another team.

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British driver Mike Conway wins Long Beach Grand Prix | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Mike Conway,badly injured in a crash at last year's Indianapolis 500, completed his comeback Sunday by winning the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, his first victory in the Izod IndyCar Series.

The 27-year-old Englishman passedRyan Briscoefor the lead with 14 laps left in the 85-lap race and held on to win by more than six seconds on the 1.97-mile, 11-turn course on Long Beach's seaside streets.

"On the restarts the car was awesome, it just came to life," Conway told a television audience as he basked in Victory Lane."Just had to make the right moves and hang in there and keep it clean.”

Briscoe finished second andDario Franchitti, the reigning IndyCar champion, was third.

Danica Patrick,Conway's teammate at the Andretti Autosport team, finished seventh.

Pole-sitterWill Powerfinished 10th after his car was hit from behind byHelio Castroneves,his teammate at Team Penske, as they tried to maneuver through Turn 1.

Conway crashed near the end of last year's Indy 500, his car going airborne, flying overRyan Hunter-Reay'scar and then slamming into the catchfence in front of the grandstands.

The crash ended Conway's season because he suffered multiple fractures to his lower left leg, among other injuries, requiring months of rehabilitation.

Hunter-Reay, last year's Long Beach winner, finished 23rd after his car had late mechanical problems.

-- Jim Peltz

Photo: Mike Conway leaves the track after a crash during the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 27. Credit: Chris O'Meara / Associated Press

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Rain delays Angels in Chicago | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The tarp has been on the field for nearly two hours and now officials are saying the start of Saturday's game between the Angels and Chicago White Sox will be delayed at least an hour, to 4 p.m. CDT. But with a sizable weather front blowing in from the west, that may be wishful thinking.

A steady drizzle has been falling on Chicago's South Side for most of the afternoon and the temperature has dipped to 38 degrees. If the teams can't play Saturday, a doubleheader -- weather permitting -- likely will be scheduled for Sunday. Friday's opener of the three-game series was stopped twice by rain and the bottom of the ninth began beneath a downpour.

RELATED:

Jered Weaver makes history in latest start

Jered Weaver leads Angels to 4-3 win over the White Sox

Angels reliever Fernando Rodney has another scoreless outing

-- Kevin Baxter, reporting from Chicago

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Angels could be washed out in Chicago | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

TheAngels'early batting practice Friday at U.S. Cellular Field was cut short by rain. Whether they will get Friday's scheduled night game in was iffy in the middle of the afternoon.

Temperatures had dipped into the mid 40s with gusty winds making it feel even colder. Warnings of high winds were issued in several areas north of Chicago. If Friday's scheduled game can't be played, plans are for the Angels and White Sox to play a doubleheader Saturday beginning at 3 p.m. CDT. That, however, could be a problem too since rain is forecast through Sunday.

RELATED:

Wells' hit, Mathis' sacrifice fly help Angels beat Indians

What's more impressive for a pitcher? Three wins in a week or two in one day?

-- Kevin Baxter in Chicago

Photo credit: Sukree Sukplang / Reuters

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Kings assign Brayden Schenn to Manchester | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

TheKingshave sent top prospectBrayden Schennto the Manchester Monarchs, L.A.'s affiliate in the American Hockey League, instead of bringing him up for the NHL playoffs. 

General ManagerDean Lombardihad said a few days ago that he was undecided about whether to recall the 19-year-old center once his team was eliminated from the Western Hockey League playoffs. Now that the Saskatoon Blades season is over, Schenn is off to Manchester, N.H.

In 27 WHL regular-season games, he had 21 goals and 53 points and was a plus-18 in the plus/minus category.

As The Times' Helene Elliottreported a few days ago, Lombardi had been leaning against bringing Schenn up as the Kings take on the San Jose Sharks because the Stanley Cup playoffs would be simply too much pressure.

"With your top player, and he was told this when he left, I think part of their development, particularly when they go back to a league where they should be a dominant player, is to go deep and win," Lombardi told her."If you’re that good, as he is and as he should be, you might as well learn to take winning on your shoulders now."

Elliott will have more later.

RELATED:

Terry Murray on who he'd like to see step up

Kings' Justin Williams:'I'm a go' for playoff opener

-- Debbie Goffa

Photo: Brayden Schenn, seen here when he was with the Kings in October to start the season. He was later sent down to rejoin his juniors team. Credit: Harry How / Getty Images

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LeBron James passes Kobe Bryant for NBA's most popular jersey | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

LeBron James may not be the most popular guy in theNBA, but he wears the most popular jersey.

James' No. 6 Miami Heat jersey is the league's top seller for 2010-11, based on sales on NBAStore.com since the start of the season. The superstar, who switched teams and numbers before the season started, replaces theLakers' Kobe Bryant at the top of the list.

Bryant drops to No. 2 after two years on top. James is No. 1 for the first time since his rookie season in 2004.

The Boston Celtics have five players in the top 15, with Rajon Rondo at No. 3 and Shaquille O'Neal, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett taking the 12-15 spots. Amare Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony, both new members of the New York Knicks, are fourth and eighth, respectively.

ALSO:

Lakers' Kobe Bryant says his anti-gay slur'should not be taken literally'

Lakers end losing streak, but there's plenty of bad news mixed in with the good

-- Chuck Schilken

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Photo: LeBron James. Credit: Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

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Ducks announce playoff broadcast schedule | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The Ducks have announced the local television and radio broadcast schedule for their Western Conference quarterfinal series against the Nashville Predators.

All of the games will be broadcast live by either KDOC, Fox Sports West or Prime Ticket.

Check out the complete TV and radio schedule below:

Game 1 (Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.):TV: KDOC; Radio: AM 830 (KLAA)

Game 2 (Friday, 7:30 p.m.):TV: KDOC; Radio: AM 1150 (KTLK)

Game 3 (Sunday, 3 p.m.):TV: FS West; Radio: AM 1150 (KTLK)

Game 4 (Wednesday, April 20, 5:30 p.m.):TV: KDOC; Radio: AM 1150 (KTLK)

*Game 5 (Friday, April 22, 7:05 p.m.):TV: KDOC / Versus; Radio: AM 1150 (KTLK)

*Game 6 (Sunday, April 24, TBD):TV: Prime Ticket; Radio: TBD

*Game 7 (Tuesday, April 26, TBD):TV: TBD; Radio: TBD

* -- If necessary

-- Austin Knoblauch

Photo: Ducks forward Saku Koivu, left, is congratulated by teammate Corey Perry after scoring a goal against the Kings on Saturday. Credit: Jeff Gross / Getty Images

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UCLA basketball: A virtual preview of the new Pauley Pavilion | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The renovated Pauley Pavilion won't open for another 17 months, but fans can get a virtual preview of the finished building's interior by clickinghere.

The coolest feature of this interactive display is that it allows you to see price points for different areas inside the arena, as well as 360-degree views from those respective spots. And if you wanted to compare the view from, say, midcourt in the lower bowl ($1,198 per season ticket plus a $3,200 donation to the UCLA athletic department per seat) to the corner in the upper deck ($624 per season ticket, with no donation required), you can view two locations at once.

As seats are purchased, the locations will change colors to let online visitors know they are no longer available. Visitors can also use an instant messaging function to ask questions and receive answers from ticket-office employees in real time from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

--Ben Bolch

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European openers for Kings, Ducks next season | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Yes, this season isn't over -- and you can argue that with the playoffs opening Wednesday, it's really just beginning.

But here's something to look forward to next season: The Kings and Ducks will open the 2011-12 regular season in Europe.

It will be announced Monday that the Kings will face the New York Rangers at Stockholm on Oct. 7 and the Buffalo Sabres at Berlin on Oct. 8. The Ducks will play the Sabres at Helsinki, Finland, on Oct. 7 and the Rangers at Stockholm on Oct. 8.

The Kings are expected to play an exhibition game -- probably in Berlin -- before their opener. The Ducks also are expected to play an exhibition game in Finland against Jokerit, Teemu Selanne'sformer team. Selanne could still be playing for the Ducks then or he might be retired. Either way, there's sure to be a ceremony involved.

The Kings and Ducks opened the 2007-08 season with two games in London against each other. The NHL has sent teams to Europe for exhibition and regular-season games for several years in an attempt to increase the game's audience and emphasize its players' multinational backgrounds.

-- Helene Elliott

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Hockey: Kings pull to within 3-1 of Ducks | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Ryan Smythscored his 23rd goal of the season on the power play at 18:24 of the second period and the Kings have cut their deficit to 3-1 at Staples Center.

It was Smyth's 100th point with the Kings. The goal was assisted byDrew DoughtyandJack Johnson, who notched his 100th career point.

-- Steve Galluzzo

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Ducks clinch playoff berth with 2-1 victory over Kings | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Teemu Selannewasn’t ready for the Ducks’ season — or his stellar career — to end just yet. His two-goal performance Friday against the Kings ensured that he and they will continue into the playoffs.

Selanne, who will be 41 a few days after his contract expires this summer, capped a rally with a dynamic goal set up by fellow Finn Saku Koivu at 5:54 of the third period, giving the Ducks a 2-1 victory at Honda Center that clinched the Ducks’ berth in the Stanley Cup playoffs.

It’s the first time both local teams will be in the playoffs in the same season. They will play their regular-season finale Saturday at Staples Center, a game that will determine each team’s seeding. The playoffs are expected to start Wednesday.

The Kings had clinched a playoff berth earlier this week but are pushing for fourth place and home-ice advantage in the first round. Their loss, coupled with Nashville’s win over Columbus on Friday, dropped them to fifth.

The Ducks entered the game needing to earn two points or have the Dallas Stars not earn two points. The Stars won— as did Chicago, and Phoenix was leading San Jose late in their contest in northern California. The final order of the eight West playoff teams might not be determined until Sunday, when Chicago faces Detroit.

Ducks goaltender Dan Ellis, given the start when a lower-body injury prevented Ray Emery from playing, stopped 23 shots in his first start since March 20. Jonathan Quick stopped 26 for the Kings.
Check back later for more atwww.latimes.com/sports.

-- Helene Elliott 

Photo: Kings forward Dustin Penner, left, controls the puck in front of Ducks defenseman Francois Beauchemin, center, and goalie Dan Ellis during the Ducks' 2-1 victory Friday. Credit: Kelvin Kuo / U.S. Presswire

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Brett Moffitt tops NASCAR Hunter Index for April | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Brett Moffitt, a driver from the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, earned the top spot in theHunter Index for April, a ranking of the top developmental drivers in the nation.

Greg Pursley, a driver from Newhall and a Canyon High graduate, was the No. 3 driver in the Hunter Index. He won the K&N Pro Series West season opener at Phoenix International Raceway last month.

Brandon Davis, a driver from Henderson, Nev., came in at No. 8. He won the first two races in the NASCAR Late Model division at Toyota Speedway at Irwindale on Saturday night.

Go toHaddock in the Paddockto see how I voted in the Hunter Index and see the rest of the drivers in the top 10.

ALSO:

Kimi Raikkonen coming to NASCAR truck series

Brandon Davis wins NASCAR Late Model season opener

-- Tim Haddock

Photo: Greg Pursley won the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West race at Phoenix International Raceway in March  and was the third-ranked driver in the Hunter Index for April. Credit: Getty Images for NASCAR

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Kings clinch playoff berth with shootout victory over Coyotes | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

The fourth time was the charm for the Kings, who clinched a playoff berth Wednesday night with a 3-2 shootout victory over the Phoenix Coyotes at a jubilant Staples Center.

The Kings’ clinching had been delayed twice when Dallas won and once more by their own loss at San Jose. But the Kings secured their second consectuive postseason spot whenMichal HandzusandJarret Stollscored in the shootout but onlyRadim Vrbatacould beatJonathan Quick, who is 10-0 in shootouts this season.

The Coyotes still need a point to secure a spot among the top eight in the Western Conference.

With two games left in the regular season— a home-and-home series with the Ducks that begins Friday at Anaheim — the Kings can now focus on improving their seeding. They moved up to fourth in the West, a point ahead of Nashville, which also has two games left.

"I’m real excited. I can’t thank our fans enough," saidKyle Clifford, who combined withBrad RichardsonandWayne Simmondsto generate energy that the crowd appreciated and applauded.

We'll have more on the game soon atlatimes.com/sports.

-- Helene Elliott

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Weaver, Angels survive another bullpen collapse in 5-3 win | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Jered Weavergave up a run and three hits in 6 2/3 innings and rookieJordan Waldennailed down his first save of the season Tuesday, lifting the Angels to a 5-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field.

Weaver (2-0) struck out six and retired the side in order three times, running his career record against the Rays to 4-1 with a 2.27 ERA in six starts. And the quality start was the 29th in 36 tries dating to the start of last season -- only reigning Cy Young award winnerFelix Hernandezhas more over that span.

The only run he gave up came in the third inning, when former AngelSean Rodriguezdrove a hanging slider into the left-center-field bleachers. But Weaver gave up just one more hit after that before turning the game over to the Angels' troubled bullpen, which nearly gave the game away.

Hisanori Takahashireplaced Weaver and walked the first batter he faced, then gave up a disputed infield single to the second, loading the bases. When the left-hander walked another man leading off the eighth, he was pulled in favor ofMichael Kohn, who gave up a two-run homer toB.J. Upton.

Kohn eventually escaped the inning without further damage and Walden, handed the closer's role earlier in the day, pitched a perfect ninth to end the Angels' three-game losing streak.

The Angels jumped on Rays' starterJeff Niemannearly, scoring three first-inning runs on four singles and two stolen bases. They made it 4-0 in the second on a leadoff home run byHank Conger, his first in the majors.

Then, after Rodriguez homered to get the Rays on the scoreboard,Howie Kendrickstarted the fifth with a triple and came home onTorii Hunter'ssecond run-scoring single of the game.

-- Kevin Baxter in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Photo: Angels starter Jered Weaver delivers a pitch during the Angels' 5-3 victory Tuesday. Credit: Mike Carlson / Associated Press

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Butler vs. Uconn: After 10 minutes | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Ouch, my ears hurt. The sound of the ball clanking against the rim over and over and over? Make it stop.

Clang goesMatt Howard'sattempt for Butler.

UConn'sKemba Walkergets inside, though, layup, foul and free throw. UConn's ahead, 13-8, now and the Huskies' length seems to be emerging.

Also emerging is the sense that Butler can't afford to miss free throws at all or make any turnovers. The Bulldogs have a slim margin for error.

And has any team won a game without scoring a two-point field goal? Butler's trying. Bulldog's down 13-9, 0-for-the-game from two-point range, shooting 13 percent from the field? Hey, being down 13-9 doesn't seem so bad.

Andrew Smithbreaks a five-minute Butler scoring drought and has the Bulldogs' first two-pointer of the game at the 10:19 mark of first half. Butler down, 13-11.

Oh, yeah, Huskies are missing a lot of layups, too.

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Coach Shaka Smart agrees to eight-year deal to stay at Virginia Commonwealth

-- Diane Pucin

Photo: UConn point guard Kemba Walker reacts after scoring and drawing a foul against Butler on Monday night in the NCAA championship game. Credit: David J. Phillip / Associated Press

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