Thursday, Dec. 23, 2010
CSNChicago.com
Cubs search for Santo's replacement is wide open
Cubs radio play-by-play man Pat Hughes just signed a five-year contract extension, now he'll be a part of the hiring process to find a new analyst, a process that could take nearly a month.
"We wanted to do this as respectfully as we could," WGN-AM 720 sports director Dave Eanet said.
"It's not something we wanted to plunge right into. But we're not too far from spring training and there is a vacant seat in the booth. Having said that, we know we're not going to replace Ron Santo."
Several ex-Cubs-turned-analysts could get the job, a list that includes: former first baseman Mark Grace, starting pitcher Rick Sutcliffe, relief pitcher Dan Plesac, first baseman Eric Karros, closer Mitch Williams and hitting coach Gary Matthews. (chicagotribune.com)
Are your Bears, Blackhawks Christmas gifts real?
MLB
Police arrested a suburban man with more than 1 million worth of counterfeited sports clothing and equipment ready to distribute. Thousands of sweatshirts, T-shirts, jerseys and hats with with counterfeit logos of the Bears and Blackhawks were seized.
Joseph Kim, 27, of Riverwoods is charged with possession of more than 2,000 items worth more than 650,000 in merchandise. Kim operated a three-story warehouse where eight embroidery machines and more than 10,000 items of clothing existed. (abclocal.go.com)
Patrick Kane watching world juniors
The hockey world junior championships are in Buffalo, New York and Blackhawks star Patrick Kane is paying attention. Part of Kane wishes he was playing in the tournament, but he says that he's happy, the support for hockey in Buffalo has really grown.
Of course, much of hockey's rise in popularity in Buffalo has to do with the success of Kane. (torontosun.com)
Ex-Bear Orton upset with Broncos
Shortly after signing a contract extension in Denver, quarterback Kyle Orton has been replaced by Tim Tebow. Orton believes he's healthy enough to play but has been told the rookie out of Florida will get the nod.
"I'd love to play it out," Orton said. "It wasn't my decision. There was nothing I could do. ... The way it was presented to me was he'll be the starter the rest of the season and that's just how it goes.
"You never want to give up your job, you know?" Orton said. "We've worked hard as a unit for a number of months, and you'd like to be able to finish that out with your guys. It's disappointing not to be able to do that." (denverpost.com)