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6/30/07

Saturday Summary

Hard times for Michelle Wie has she had to withdraw today from the U.S. Women's Open after aggravating her wrist again, an injury that has bothered her all this year. She described the pain as, "definitely enough to bring tears to my eyes." Man at this point her career and future doesn't look very bright. It's hard enough to live up to all the expectations and hype while being managed by controlling parents but at least have a chance to compete with you game & talent. Now it seems that even that is a big question mark. At this point I think she should rest and come back to only compete against the women. She has to be careful or she might become the Jennifer Capriati of golf without even a guarantee of the comeback.

A terrible start today for Yankee's pitcher Kei Igawa who just returned from the minors last week. Igawa gave up 3 home runs as the Oakland Athletics crushed the Yankees 7-0. The Yankees only managed 1 hit against A's starter Chad Gaudin. When it rains, it pours and the Yankees are up to their chest in flood water. Sad.

Wimbledon Grass Deals Multiple Bad Bounces to Asian Tennis

Towards the end of the first week at Wimbledon and it looks like another poor showing for Asian tennis players. Besides the absence of China's Na Li and Thai guy Paradorn Srichaphan due to injuries, many of the other top Asian players have also fallen this week. Among them included Ai Sugiyama of Japan, Kevin Kim of the USA, & Yeu-Tzuoo Wang of Taiwan. While there are a few other lower ranked players still in the draw, the only notable player left is South Korea's Lee Hyung-Taik who is ranked 41 in the world.

And there in lies the problem. There are simply not enough quality Asian players out there that can get to and stay in the top 10 and challenge for majors which is very disappointing. Where is Michael Chang when you need him? Despite people's idea that today's tour is tougher than the past, I still see Michael as a top 5 player in today's game, maybe even #3 behind Nadal & Federer. I mean this was one of the smartest tennis players ever to step on the court. Plus anyone who can and has beaten the likes of McEnroe, Lendl, Sampras, Agassi, & Federer just to name a few, at the height of 5'8 with his limited reach? Forget about it. Chang was the man.

6/28/07

NBA Draft News: Yi Jianlian Selected #6 by Milwaukee Bucks

Talk about the bad luck of the draw. Yi Jianlian gets picked by the Milwaukee Bucks, one of the teams that he and his handlers were least interested in. It was reported that the large Chinese media contingent was stunned by the Bucks selection. They were probably thinking, "Milwaukee, what is that? Is that in America?" Since they wanted Yi to end up in a market with a large Chinese population, they are probably not too thrilled with Milwaukee's 3.6% Asian population stat. The reaction at the Buck's home arena was mixed with about half the crowd standing up and cheering. Oh well, they can still hope Yi gets traded to another team but for now he is a Buck.

Interesting side notes about Yi and this draft. Yao Ming had previously seemed disappointed when told that Yi might be picked later than #3 in the draft. He has stated on numerous occasions that he thinks Yi is a better athlete than himself. Also of interest was Greg Oden's response when asked if he had met Yi. Oden said he hasn't but his friend has seen Yi and he looks just like Yao Ming. Get used to it Yi, there's a lot more of that coming your way in the days ahead.

UPDATE:
Chinese SF Sun Yue has just been picked by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2nd round at #40!

6/27/07

China Warns Cops To Remove Their  Bling or Face the Firing

With the 2008 Beijing Olympics expected to attract four billion viewers - one billion more than the Athens Olympics, China is asking her police officers to tidy up or hit the road. In their attempts to put on a perfect face to the world, Chinese cops can no longer wear dyed hair, shave their heads bald, keep beards, sport sideburns, paint their nails, wear jewelry, colored glasses or scarves during the Olympic games. Female police officers cannot have hair longer than shoulder length.

Okay, this is just creepy and totally wrong. They are pretty much trying to wipe out any individuality they can and try to present every Chinese citizen as a model minority (or should that be model majority) boy scout. I mean many foreigners already think Chinese all look alike in the first place, this is only going to reinforce their beliefs. China is just trying entirely too hard if you ask me.

Chinese Magic Man Heading for the Land of Mavericks & Cowboys?

Sun Yue has been called the "Chinese Magic Johnson" for his slick ball handling skills and pass-first mentality. At 22 years old, the 6'9 point guard/small forward just came off a season in which he average 10.5 assists for a Chinese professional team than relocated to Los Angeles in midseason and played in the American Basketball Association. Sun's strengths are his height (for his position), great athleticism, ball handling skills, and instinctive passing ability. Sun needs to work on bulking up, protecting the ball from turnovers, and improve his shooting touch. He has worked out for the Dallas Mavericks and is the type of player Dallas hopes will slip to the No. 34 pick in tomorrow's draft. But Sun's stock has blossomed since arriving in America as has his game and it is uncertain if he will last past the first round. Will we see Magic in Dallas next year? I hope so.

6/26/07

Dice K Out Pitches Greg Maddux Then Pitches Own Music CD

Daisuke Matsuzaka out pitched Greg Maddux over the weekend to lead his Red Sox in a 2-1 win over the San Diego Padres. After early control issues in the first inning, Dice-K finished strong allowing one run and five hits while striking out nine and walking five. He improves to (9-5) while four time NL Cy Young winner Greg Maddux drops to (6-4).

In a manner befitting his superstar status, Matsuzaka will also be pitching a new music album next month. Now before you start fearing what kind of bad Japanese karaoke music Dice-K will sing and that he will become the next William Hung, let me put your fears to rest. Dice-K will not sing and this album is just a collection of his favorite American and Japanese songs. Thank goodness the man has some sense unlike many other foolish athletes nowadays who think they have chops just cause they got hops.

Kobayashi Eating Machine Broken? Hotdog Clogged No Doubt

Japanese hotdog eating champion Takeru "Tsunami" Kobayashi has finally bitten off more than he can chew. Kobayashi the Michael Jordan of the competitive eating circuit had previously won six straight Nathan's Famous hot dog eating contests but he may not even compete this year. While training for the upcoming event, Kobayashi pushed his body to the limit and injured it causing jaw arthritis. He had wanted to win this year's competition for his mother who had died earlier this year.

I feel bad for him cause there is nothing like seeing all your dreams & hard work flushed down the toilet because your body gives out before a competition. Still if he does sit this one out, Kobayashi will finally have loosened his strangle hold on the hotdog and given someone else a chance to take a bite. Maybe this year Sonya "Black Widow" Thomas will show all the boys how to stuff down the hotdog?

Yao Ming to Marry Long-Time Girlfriend

My main man Yao is getting ready to tie the knot with his girlfriend Ye Li after a long 8 year courtship. Ye is a 6'2 former Chinese National Basketball player and was born in Shanghai like Yao. They met in 1999 also in Shanghai and that is probably where they will get married. Yao wears a red string bracelet that she made for him which is really cool. You can honestly tell he loves her and has not been corrupted by the wild and decadent lifestyle of the NBA. I wish them a long and wonderful marriage.

An interesting side note, Yao had expressed interest in having more than one child even though China still has the 1-child policy. He was criticized by some in the media because like other rich Chinese, Yao could afford to have a second child by paying the steep penalty to the local government while the average Chinese citizen could not. While I understand the necessity of this policy it is still stupid and unfair. I mean can you imagine if Yao had a little brother today who was 7'9? Hell, imagine 4 more brothers and you could have the most massive & dominant sibling sports team in history. Well unfortunately they got it wrong the first time cause Yao has no siblings. They better get it right this time and let him and Ye Li get to work on the next NBA superstar, cause I hope to see the first 8 foot tall NBA Chinese baller sometime in my lifetime.

6/20/07

Ichiro Takes Silver on List of Top Outfield Arms in Baseball

Ichiro Suzuki was ranked number 2 just after Delmon Young of the Devil Rays, as being one of the best outfield throwers in baseball. The ranking was based on four third base coaches --Lamont, Houston's Doug Mansolino, Dodger's Rich Donnelly, and Toronto's Brian Butterfield -- on which outfielders have the cannon arms that puts fear in the dugout. Ichiro's throwing motion is described as very smooth with good transition from groundball to glove to hand to throw. Everything is in one piece and very textbook. Ichiro is just the total package. He can hit, run, throw and even hit for power when he wants to. But he has one weakness which is like a punch in the face, Cleveland.

Yi Jianlian - The Chinese Dark Horse of the 2007 NBA Draft

The Philadelphia 76ers flew all the way out to Southern California to watch 7-footer Chinese power forward Yi Jianlian in a private workout. The athletic Yi has also been scouted by the Celtics, Bulls, & Lakers among others and is expected to go anywhere from the # 3 to # 12 pick in the NBA draft on June 28th. Yi's game has been pretty much analyzed to death by many experts. His weaknesses include being relatively thin and weak in the upper body. His level of intensity & desire has also be questioned. But the upside is worth the risk. According to ESPN.com draft analyst Chad Ford, "Purely in terms of talent and tools, I have no doubt he's the 3rd best prospect in the draft." Yi has been working with trainer Joe Abunassar who say's Yi's numbers in the traditional vertical leap, three quarter court sprint and lane agility drills were eye-popping. Says Abunassar, "His numbers for a guy his size are at the top of the charts I've seen in 13 years. He runs as well as some guards, most guards, I should say." Del Harris, a 30 year NBA veteran described Yi as "A young 7-foot kid that could literally fly."

   Floats like Michelle Kwan, stings like Bruce Lee

It's pretty safe to say Yi Jianlian has great athleticism and potential. I don't really care how high he is picked but just hope that he lands on the right team that is willing to work to bring out his talent. A interesting article speculates on the possibility of Yi ending up with the Los Angeles Lakers on a Kobe Bryant trade to the Bulls but that is a very long shot. As a Southern California resident I would love to see that but regardless of where he goes, it will be exciting times for Asian b-ball fans come draft time.

6/19/07

Yao Effect spreading to Baseball & Football, No Sport is Safe!

Yesterday the Yankees became the first Major League Baseball team to sign players from the Chinese Baseball Association, signing 2 teenagers a pitcher & catcher. Clearly this is meant to be the groundwork for the development of baseball in China. It seems the bigwigs of every major sport has taken to the idea of having their very own "Yao Ming" like star for their sport as the NFL is also looking for the next Chinese football player. I guess all the money and promotion the NBA is getting out of Yao Ming's success has made other groups envious of the huge potential upside of capturing the hearts & minds of the Chinese audience.

While this is all nice and good, I hope they don't overlook other Asian athletes who are not Chinese natives. An example would be Timmy Chang an American football player who holds the NCAA Division l-A records for total offensive yards (18,210), most career passing yards (17,078), most career plays from scrimmage (2,587), most passes completed without an interception (80), and is second to Ty Detmer's 121 touchdown passes (120). He also holds the all-time interception record with 67. Pretty impressive huh? Not to the NFL. Since Timmy is an Asian-American of Chinese descent and not a real "Chinese" native, I guess the NFL didn't really think they could market him to American or Chinese audiences. Chang is currently a free agent and many feel he was never given a proper shake because of his ethnicity. Let's hope that other Asian-American athletes do not share similar fates as the West continues to focus East when looking for athletes of the Asian persuasion.  

Paradorn Srichaphan To Miss First Wimbledon in 8 years

Thai tennis star Paradorn Srichaphan will miss his first Wimbledon in 8 years due to a wrist surgery. Paradorn is probably best known for his victory over Andre Agassi at Wimbledon 2002, a performance he followed up with the following year by reaching the last 16 at the All England club. His father/coach has predicted that he will be healthy by September which means he will pretty much miss the US Open and this whole year will be a wash.

Man that is a terrible break for Paradorn. This guy is a physical specimen, 6'1 ripped and chiseled like a rock with power to boot. A inconsistent but brilliant tennis player who last October matched world number 1 Roger Federer shot for shot at the Swiss Indoors in Basel Switzerland. Paradorn pushed Roger to the very edge of a third-set tiebreaker before the Fed closed it out winning 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (7-5). I watched that match and it was high level tennis from both guys, unfortunately though Srichaphan's level of consistency is closer to Marat Safin then it is to Federer or Nadal. At 28 he is coming into the twilight of this career and missing the French, Wimbledon and US Open this year is really a killer. Still it's hard to feel sorry for him when you consider he has more time to spend with his fiancée and former Miss Universe Natalie Glebova. Paradorn clearly has a lot of game on and off the court.

6/18/07

Congratulations Tiger, It's a Tigress Cub!

Congratulations to Tiger Woods on the birth of his first child a healthy baby girl Sam Alexis Woods. In 2 years time, I am fully expecting to see Sam putting against Oprah on national television, but for now let's all hope that the media doesn't hound Tiger's family like they do to other celebrity families.

Yankees' Wang Continues to Dominate Opposing Lineups

Chien-Ming Wang was unstoppable again last night as he plowed through the Mets helping the Yankees win the second Subway series with a 8-2 victory. Wang has allowed only 4 runs in his past three starts covering 24 2-3 innings and came within one out of a complete game on Sunday. Joe Torre said "Wang is remarkable" and Alex Rodriguez added "He's an incredible talent" to describe the 27 year old, 6'3 pitcher from Taiwan. Wang (7-4) struck out a career high 10 despite playing with a stiff neck and upper back. He left the mound to a standing ovation, something he has grown rather accustomed to. I think that the work the Yankees have done with Wang is paying off. He's money on his bread & butter heavy sinker but now he has added an effective slider and changeup to his repertoire. Mad props to Wang, he reps Asians hard.  I can't wait to see him go head 2 head with Dice-K.

Tiger Woods Amazed by Powerful Swings of 15 Yr Old Phenom

The Japanese media has been all abuzz over the crowning of their new Golf Prince in Ryo Ishikawa who at 15 years of age became the youngest winner of a pro tournament in Japan last month taking the Munsingwear Open. This was Ishikawa's first time competing on a professional tour and man what a way to start a career. The unknown, slim high school student shattered the record for youngest man to win a Japanese male tournament formerly held by hall of fame golfer Seve Ballesteros who won it at age 20 back in 1977. Quite impressive, so much so that a Japanese newspaper ridiculously called him "More of a genius than Tiger Woods". Tiger after watching some clips was impressed himself, saying that the kid had "Tremendous power". Phil Mickelson ever the jokester said, " I don't want to give him too much advice because I didn't want him to come over and beat us all." Surprising the US media has all but totally ignored this story. Probably had enough of Michelle Wie, teen phenom hyping overload?

This kid does have a baby face and I believe he is 15 years old which makes his feat quite incredible.  Not sure how old basketball star Yi Jianlian is, but I'm pretty sure Greg Oden is around 50 years old which makes him an incredible athlete too.

6/17/07

Sunday Summary

Tiger Woods had to settle for a tie in 2nd place with Jim Furyk as they both finished +6 at the US Open today, both unable to catch Argentina's Angel Cabrera who finished at 5 over par. Tiger has finished 1-1-2-2 in his last four majors which must be bitter sweet as he was so close to a second Tiger Slam. He was one shot back of Stuart Appleby going into the final round at the Masters and two back of Aaron Baddeley here at Oakmont. He came to the final hole both times with a chance, but couldn't deliver either time with the Masters going to Zach Johnson and this one to Cabrera. Man this one's gotta burn. So close but no cigar, kinda like his pal Roger Federer at the French Open last week losing a chance at the Roger Slam by losing to Rafael Nadal. While I am a big fan of both men, I wonder if their high profile ego-boosting meetings last year somehow wacked both of their mojos as neither have been as dominant as in past years. Still both should rebound quickly, they are too good not to.

  Federer & Woods back in 2006 US Open

From the civilized sport of golf & tennis to the brutal & barbaric science of mixed martial arts, we continue with close but no cigar Sunday news. Yushin Okami lost via unanimous decision to Rich Franklin at UFC 72 last night. Yushin had won 6 consecutive fights, 4 in the UFC going into this fight and was touted for his wrestling ability. He however did not show it until the 3rd round, losing both rounds 1-2 to inactivity. Franklin was the busier fighter in the bout that was pretty much a big yawn until Yushin put Franklin in an armlock in the 3rd. Franklin escaped and survived the 3rd round, losing it but still went on to win the decision. Sounds pretty boring to me and Okami probably wanted to kick himself afterward for not being more aggressive. Oh well - live, get your butt kicked, and learn. Should be the official post-loss motto of fighters everywhere.

6/16/07

Dice-K's Giant Win over SanFran and Barry Bonds

Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched one of this best games today to help his Red Sox best the San Francisco Giants in a 1-0 victory. The press was promoting it as Dice-K vs Bonds but Barry was not up to the task as he went 0-3 with an intentional walk, thus still stuck on 747 career homers, still eight away from Hank Aaron's record. If Barry thought another Asian pitcher was going to help him make history, (Former Dodger's Chan-Ho Park gave up Bond's record-breaking 71st and 72nd homers in 2001), he was mistaken. The closest Bonds came to a homer was on the first pitch in the fourth inning, when he hit a long foul ball into the right-field grandstand; he flew out to center on the next pitch. Matsuzaka with some help from a Manny Ramirez homer, struck out 8 in seven innings, improves to 8-5, and gets his first shut-out performance of the year. He considered today's performance as his best yet in the Majors and I think that this is just the beginning. Definitely the one to watch.

Asian Tennis Blues

As a big tennis fan, I will be the first to admit that I am highly disappointed in the state of Asian tennis in the current game. When Michael Chang won the French Open in '89 it was the singular most amazing victory the world had ever witnessed from an Asian athlete. I mean at only 5'8 in height, he beat living legends Ivan Lendl and Stefan Edberg while fighting cramps and tossing under-arm serves. Even though Michael never won another Grand Slam, Chang did reach another 3 finals including another French, an Australian, and US Open final. He lost these finals to Muster, Becker, & Sampras all higher ranked and former number 1 players. Michael was also ranked as high as # 2 in the world, no small feat by any means.

Since he was such an inspiration to an entire generation of Asians around the world, where are all the great new Asian tennis stars? Well there is Paradorn Srichaphan a Thai player who reached as high as No. 9 in the world and Kimiko Date who was in the ladies top 10 back in the mid '90s. While Olympic powerhouse China has produced several exciting players such as Li Na, Li Ting, and Peng Shuai, some are now questioning their training methods as being too harsh. Still anything the Communists has to throw at these girls must be nothing compared to what Michael Chang had to go through. I mean he had to deal with his entire "Chang Gang" of parents, brother, & relatives which followed him like gnats on a baby's bottom for his entire career! I'm just amazed he didn't go psycho and become another Michael Jackson on us.

Do I have to come back from the senior tour to show you young-uns how it's done?

Speaking of top Asian players, Li Na of China was 1 match away from the semis of the DFS Classic but today lost 6-2, 7-5 to Mara Santangelo of Italy. She also lost last year in the same tournament to eventual winner and 2 time title holder Maria Sharapova who will probably 3-peat here en route to the upcoming Wimbledon championships. Somehow I doubt "Princess" Maria has ever faced the training regimens of the Chinese Federation, not that I don't feel for her with Yuri hawk-eyes sitting in her corner. 

6/14/07

A Tale of Two Matsui's

A great night for Matsui fans as Hideki and Kaz Matsui both led their teams to victories. Kazuo, the lesser known of the two, was 3-for-5 with a double and scored twice as his Colorado Rockies beat the Boston Red Sox 7-1 while handing Josh Beckett his first loss of the season. If Kaz continues to make noise will we have to start calling him K-Mat to differentiate from Hideki's H-Mat. Remember Daisuke Matsuzaka was almost labeled D-Mat. The 3 Mat boys from Japan, scary! 

Hideki Matsui was equally impressive as he helped the Yankees win their 9th straight today beating the Arizona Diamondbacks 7-1 for their second straight sweep. Matsui drove in 3 runs, A-Rod drove in 2, and Andy Pettitte breezed through 8 solid innings. Matsui incidentally owns the highest inter-league batting average among players with at least 200 at-bats which is made all the more impressive since he has never switched leagues meaning he is not familiar with many NL pitchers. Not Lost in Translation: The man can play some ball, 'nuff said.

Unlike Paris Hilton, Thai Woman Fights for Get-Out-of-Jail Card

Former Thai female boxing champion Siriporn Thaweesuk was released from jail early this past Wednesday as a reward for winning the women's light-flyweight title. She was release on parole 3  years before the end of her 7 year sentence for selling amphetamines. Thaweesuk beat Japan's Ayaka Miyano in a prison yard in April, a performance witnessed by her fellow guards & inmates. As she had been promised in advance by prison authorities of an early release for her victory, she was very literally fighting for her life & freedom. From jailbait to WBC light-flyweight champion of the world, Thaweesuk really Shawspanked the system (in a good way) to get her redemption. As Paris Hilton would say back in her jail cell, "That's Hot!"

Not even the Crazy Psycho Ghost from "The Grudge" can stop Thaweesuk (left)

6/13/07

Yankees Extends Season High Winning Streak to 8

Chien-Ming Wang helped the Yankees reach .500 in a 4-1 victory last night over the Arizona Diamondbacks. He did it by out pitching National League Cy Young Award winner Brandon Webb a fellow sinkerball phenom. Last season Wang had the lowest home run rate in the majors allowing .5 homers every nine innings while Webb was second at .57.  Wang has won 3 straight starts.

New York beat the Diamondbacks 7-2 again tonight to extend their winning streak to 8 games. The Yankees were aided by Hideki Matsui who hit a three run drive and Alex Rodriguez who hit his 25th homer. Matsui has been hitting very well lately and has really lifted the Yankees' fortunes with his stellar play. Let's hope Godzilla keeps breathing the thunder & lightning!

High Five, Happy Times

6/12/07

Li Na Muscles Her Way Into the 3rd Round at DFS Tennis Classic

Chinese tennis star Li Na moved in the 3rd round of the DFS grass court tennis tournament in Birmingham, England. This is a tune-up event for Wimbledon which is just around the corner and is being competed by Maria Sharapova who has won 3 times here. Li Na is known for being the first Chinese player to reach the quarterfinals of a major, doing so at Wimbledon last year. (Remember Michael Chang is an American)

This picture of Li Na makes me feel that she could do well in women's arm wrestling if she ever hung up the racquet. She looks like a freak'n female Nadal! Envious? Yes I am.

Takashi Saito - Old, Quiet, & Most Dominant Closer in Baseball?

Jonathan Papelbon, Mariano Rivera, Eric Gagne, & now Takashi Saito. Saito WHO you ask? The 37 year old closer for the LA Dodgers is underrated & unknown but he has been a rock for the Dodgers and is considered by some to be as dominant as any closer in the game. Saito is 39-41, has converted .951 of his saves with only 2 losses in 100.1 innings, spanning 93 games. Eric Gagne Who? Instead of flashing "Game Over" on screens and blasting "Welcome to the Jungle" like they did for Gagne, they should flash "Sayonara" and play "Welcome to the Saito" when he comes to the mound. Highly unlikely Saito will get to enjoy any special theatrics despite his stellar play. The new 'Game Over' may not make many headlines but he should still appreciate what he is bringing to the fans and his team and that should be good enough.

6/11/07

Japanese Ambition + Beauty & the Beach

Japan has officially sent a letter to the International Olympic Committee with it's desire to host the 2016 games in Tokyo. They are the first city to formally declare their bid and Tokyo is being seen as a "very formidable" contender by American's host-hopeful city, Chicago. The Tokyo governor stated that Japan's presence on the world stage is overshadowed by the US and hopes the Olympics will remedy that.

As a Asian nation, I don't think they have a very good chance considering the proximity to the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. Still I would prefer Tokyo simply because the coverage of the city would be much more exciting than Chicago. Just imagine what kind of wacky & senseless technology, toys, gadgets they will have in Tokyo by 2016. The podium medal presenters will probably all be scantily clad anime inspired female robots. But I digress.

Speaking of scantily clad females, meet Miwa Asao - the Japanese version of Anna Kournikova. This attractive 21 year old beach volleyball player who works part time as a model/tv personality (how many times have we heard this before?) is the newest sensation in Japan. Admired for her bright smile and alluring, umm assets, Asao is spiking attention to her sport like never before. Undaunted by critics who say she is just a pretty face with little substance, Asao has claimed her main job is volleyball and she will try for a medal at the London Olympic Games. She does have a great attitude, and I hope her career turns out more like Maria Sharapova than Anna Kournikova. Course not that she could lose either way.

Interest in Ladies' Volleyball has spiked in Land of Rising Sun

6/10/07

Sunday Summary

Liu Xiang continues to impress as he won another 110m hurdles race at the Prefontaine Classic grand prix in Oregon today. This was the second time in 2 weeks in which Liu had mediocre starts and had to reach down deep and pull from behind to win the race. Liu is my hero.

Na On Min playing in her first major at the McDonald's LPGA Championship finished in 3rd. The 18 year old rookie from South Korea was trying to become the youngest major champion in LPGA history but it was not to be as she could not catch leaders Karrie Webb and Suzann Pettersen. Michelle Wie had a horrible time finishing in last place by 10 shots with a 21-over 309, the highest 72-hole score of her career. The consolation prize? Wie got her first performance based paycheck of the year. Not like she really needed it.

Daisuke Matsuzaka lost his 3rd straight as his Red Socks lost to the Arizona Diamondbacks 5-1 on Sunday. Facing Dice-K for the first time, Big Unit Randy Johnson looked impressive striking out nine in 6 innings and winning his fourth straight decision. Matsuzaka (7-5) gave up two runs in six innings, striking out 9. The roll of the dice has not been kind as of late for Matsuzaka, lets hope he can pick it up soon.

Roger Clemens was Chien-Ming Wang's Idol - Say it Isn't So!

The Rocket was like his old self on Saturday leading the NY Yankees to a 9-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. His decision to pitch for the Yanks had been met with enthusiasm by many on of the NY line up including Derek Jeter, Josh Phelps, and Chien-Ming Wang. Wang went as far as to say that Clemens was his Idol as a child. Okay.

I admire Roger Clemens for being one of the best pitchers of all time. His dominance & longevity in baseball have been incredible. Still I remember his remarks last April during the World Baseball Classic when he joked that all the dry cleaners in town were closed because they were at the Japan and Korea games. Talent and CLASS are two different things I suppose. If Wang has a bad game, will Clemens start a petition for the Yankees to send him back to the dry cleaners? Ridiculous.

6/9/07

Takeru Kobayashi No Longer Top Dog of Hot Dogs?

Tweety just Ate Sylvester

Not exactly breaking news but still worth regurgitating and rehashing because even after digesting it a week it still hurts so bad and will stink worse coming out the back end. A dark day indeed for Asians &  sports fans as legendary eating champion Takeru Kobayashi's hot dog record of 53 3/4 was shattered by Joey Chestnut with a total of 59 1/2 dogs & buns consumed. Oh the humiliation, I can barely stomach it. You competed against a bear for pete's sake surely you can meet the challenge of this man?  

Joey "JAWS" Chestnut

It should be noted that Joey made the record feasting in an air conditioned mall which helps facilitate the gorging process unlike the hot and humid conditions that Kobayashi usually competes in. Still the title is truly up for grabs this year as these 2 gluttoness titans flex their abdominal muscles and bite to the bitter end for the Superbowl of eating at Nathan's 4th of July hot dog eating contest. Tyson/Holyfield, De La Hoya/Mayweather, Federer/Nadal, they were all ugly, messy affairs but I think this one will take the cake. Come on Kobayashi, stop being such a ham & just eat it!      

Big Butted, Tattooed Women Not Welcome at Beijing 2007 Olympics

To put their best face forward for the upcoming Olympic games, China is focusing on their Butts. Currently they are looking for 208 hostesses for various activities including award ceremonies, and they are being extra picky on candidates, meticulously checking under every crack so to speak. Applicants cannot have tattoos, big bottoms, multiple earrings, or be sleazy looking. (No Bai Ling or Chinese Paris Hilton's) Ladies must be of uniform height (No Michelle Wie's) and glossy skin is preferred. No word on whether or not the glossy skin criteria also applies to the butt.

6/7/07

Danny Ainge infatuated with Yi Jianlian?

A Boston Celtics insider believes that the Celtics may chose Yi Jianlian with their No.5 pick in June's NBA Draft. It seems that Danny Ainge thinks Yi will fit in well with his team and is really gunning for him. Yi, who has been described as a hybrid between Dirk Nowitzki and Paul Gasol, is considered by some to be the 3rd best pick after Greg Oden & Devin Durant in this years loaded draft. That is high praise indeed!

Danny is a legend in my book and if he is that positive about Yi then the future looks very bright for him. I just hope that where ever he ends up, the team will actually give him adequate playing time and help develop him as a player cause he is going to need it! Like Yao said, he is gonna need to bulk up or he will get bullied by stronger players. Still it's good too see Yi suffers no culture shock adapting well to the US, driving around on his own in LA, doing interviews in English, and getting a star's treatment going to movie premieres. A big Asian man living large.

  Yi lost in the Land of the Jolly White Midgets

Wang Delivers first Yankee Complete Game, Throttled Chicago for 9 Innings

The Yanks first nine-inning complete game was delivered by the capable hands of ace Chien-Ming Wang (5-4) as he struck out four and walked one, throwing 104 pitches in last night's 5-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox. It was Wang's 4th win in five starts and it seems that that hamstring injury that he was nursing earlier on is a distant memory. With Wang starting to roll and Roger Clemens slated to start on Saturday, things are starting to look up for the Yankees again. This was Wang's third complete game in the Majors.

6/6/07

Olympic and Dancing Champion Apolo Ohno's Life Off the Ice

My favorite Winter Olympics staple Apolo Anton Ohno was busy dispelling rumors of a potential on- screen romance a few weeks after winning the Dancing with the Stars competition on national television. Apolo described his relationship with his dancing partner Julianne Hough as "sometimes goofy, but strictly professional." The speculation comes after Hough canceled her August 8th wedding to her fiance 2 weeks before the show's finale. I say its most likely just wishful thinking by the audience that on-air tv chemistry is reality, but still it wouldn't be the first time that some lady's heart has been melted by the Iceman.

What's next for the multi-talented Ohno? More crossover opportunities in film and television in the future is definitely in the works. With his talent and personality I honestly say the sky is the limit for Apolo.

Speaking of Asian ice-skaters, Michelle Kwan recently... Ok never mind, no real news to report on Michelle but just wanted an excuse to post these pics. Didn't think you would mind.

6/5/07

Dice-K Drops his 2nd Consecutive Game

Daisuke Matsuzaka lost his second straight start despite putting out a decent pitching effort, yielding seven hits and two walks while striking out eight. This was a much better performance than the stinker of a game he had against Cleveland a week ago. Unfortunately his teammates didn't provide much help as they couldn't get their bats going against Oakland A's pitchers in a three-hit shutout. Matsuzaka drops to 7-4.

Yao and Yi Gets Props from Dwight Howard of Orlando Magic

Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic gave us some nice media sound bites about Yao Ming during his weeklong visit to China. Asked about his top five NBA players, he named Yao twice. Favorite tennis player? "Yao Ming,'' Howard replied again, pausing for a few seconds for effect, and then substituting Roger Federer's name. "I love Yao Ming,'' he said. "I love playing against him. We're probably going to be rivals until we retire from the NBA.'' He also fancies 7-foot newcomer Yi Jianlian as one of the best new rookies in this year's draft. Nice.

Ichiro's Magnificent Hitting Streak Ends at 25

WOW, Ichiro Suzuki is the man! Is there anyone else in sports that strikes a ball as well and cleanly as he does on a regular basis? I would probably have to go between sports to think of two, but Tiger Woods and Roger Federer would be comparing apples to oranges. I am referring to Ichiro's recent hitting streak which ended over the weekend at 25 consecutive games in which he has recorded a hit. By doing so, Ichiro has set the new club record and his streak is the longest in the Majors this season. This would also be the 6th time he has complied a hitting streak of 20 or more games. Only 3 other active players have at least three streaks of 20 or more games - Nomar Garciaparra (5), Vladimir Guerrero (3) and Manny Ramirez (3). Want to learn how to properly hit a baseball kids? Watch Ichiro.

6/4/07

Woe is Wie

A hard day for Michelle Wie who's comeback from a four month recuperation of a wrist injury turned out to be a total disaster. Wie clearly was not herself and looked cramped and stiff and lacked mental focus. To make matters worse, her ever present father B.J. gave her caddie advice, a potential rule infraction which could have given her a 2 stroke penalty. She ultimately had to withdraw from the tournament. I feel bad for Michelle who clearly still has wrist issues. Like Thai tennis player Paradorn Srichaphan who also had to skip the French Open due to a wrist injury, Michelle would be wise to not rush back into competition until she is fully healed. Speedy recovery wishes for them both.

6/3/07

KJ Choi Wins the Memorial Tournament

Congratulations to KJ Choi for winning the Morgan Stanley Memorial Tournament. KJ recorded a 7-under 65 on Sunday to best a loaded field that included Tiger Woods, Ernie Els, Vijay Singh & Phil Mickelson. Choi had 4 straight birdies on the front nine which gave him the lead and eventually finished with three clutch par saves from the bunkers and gallery to edge out a 1 shot victory over Ryan Moore. This victory gives Choi, a former powerlifter turned golfer, his fifth victory on the PGA Tour as well as wins in 3 straight seasons.

Tiger could never really get it going finishing in a tie for 15th but shot a final round 67, his best round of the week. Expect great things from them both with the U.S. Open coming up June 11th at Oakmont, PA.

Olympic Gold Medalist Hurdler Liu Xiang Wins Reebok Grand Prix

Equal props goes out to Liu Xiang for winning the 119 meter hurdles at the Reebok Grand Prix in New York yesterday. As many may not know, Liu holds the current world record time in this event and was the gold medalist in the 2004 Olympics. His time of 12.92 was good enough to edge out Terrence Trammell of the US who is himself a 2 time Olympic silver medalist. With the 2008 Beijing Olympics coming up Liu will have the unenviable task of having 1 billion sets of eye balls watching his every rise & fall in every race. But he takes it all in long stride and its good to see that he hasn't lost focus now that he is a mega superstar and larger than life in China. This article shows why Liu is already consider by many as an All Time Great. Rock on Liu!

Chien-Ming Wang Shuts Down Red Sox for 4th Victory of Season

In baseball, Chien-Ming Wang of the New York Yankees fought control issues with his sinker in the early innings but persevered to shut down the Boston Red Sox for 2-2/3 innings to record his fourth victory of the season. Wang won a league leading 19 games last year he shared with Johan Santana and is already considered the Yankee's ace. With all the hype going to Dice K, look for this other Asian pitcher to quietly do some damage as he tries to help the Yankees out of their slump.