Battle of California - Kings, Sharks, and Ducks

So, I guess that means he won't be able to come to Islanders' camp this year? Hey, if it works out, good for him. Director of Warrior Scouting and Veteran Presence Procurement is a cool-sounding gig.

Hat tip to Aaron Gleeman, who had it in his Twins notes this morning. Everyone's favorite go-to guy for nepotism accusations has hung up his cleats and taken over as head coach of the Wisconsin-Stout Blue Devils. I was always a fan of Toby (I watched him play for the Rochester Honkers for a few summers), and it's too bad he never got his token cup of coffee in the majors, but it's good to see that he's managed to stay involved in baseball. I look forward to him taking over the Twins' managerial reins from Jake Mauer in 2027.

like you wouldn't guess what it's about... (translation in comments)

Former Vikings great, Randy Moss, has retired from the NFL. I know the last time around didn't end so well, (nor the first time around..), but I'll always have great memories of Randy. I certainly hope he goes in to the Hall of Fame as a Viking, and I hope he has earned a full write up on the Norseman. :)

Meg is requesting your voting support in some super-nerdy endeavor this week, but why not also go vote on something hockey-related? Anaheim Calling asked me to submit some 650 words on whether the Ducks should retire Paul Kariya's jersey -- you can read my take along with Arthur, Daniel, and Jen in the link above. So go read (if you want), cast your vote, and feel free to talk it out in the comments -- here or there. Unlike Meg's cause, I won't make you vote every day! :)

translation in comments

Your fearless leader, Bud Elliott, was kind enough to join us on the Slow States podcast last night to talk about how the end of the Bobby Bowden era might compare to what we're undoubtedly going through very soon with Joe Paterno. Thanks again to Bud for his help -- and you guys should really take up a collection to replace his laptop fan. The man deserves it for running such a fine site. Best of luck in the ACC Championship Game this weekend, 'Noles!

After a series of tweets from Maiocco, I'm getting the idea that Marvel Smith is considering retirement before setting foot on the football field this year "49ers RT Marvel Smith is excused for personal reasons and will not make trip to Dallas. Snyder is out." "49ers RT Marvel Smith has not looked right physically. There's a strong chance he is going to retire after being in NFL for nine seasons." "I'm getting on flight to Dallas. Maybe I'll have more about Marvel Smith's likely retirement when I get there."