Mason Rocca (left) scored nine points and grabbed five rebounds off the bench for Armani Jeans Milano, but the host team could not hold off the New York Knicks in yesterday's high scoring exhibition. Rocca was a game-best +15 for his squad in 20 minutes of play. Penn product Ibby Jaaber scored 16 points, swiped seven steals and committed nine turnovers. I have the game on my DVR and hopefully I can watch to write up a few notes shortly.
When Will Venable (video) struck out against Brian Wilson in the top of the ninth yesterday, San Diego's improbable final weekend push to make the NL playoffs came up one win short. Venable played in 131 games in 2010, batting .245 with 13 home runs, 29 stolen bases and 129 strikeouts. After making an adjustment to his back elbow in his swing and raising his average as high as .253, Venable went hitless in his final 12 at-bats.
Chris Young only was able to make four starts for the Padres this season. One in the second game of the year and three down the stretch. Young was 2-0 for the Friars with a 0.90 ERA in 20 innings. It is unlikely San Diego will pick up Young's option year.
Bishop John Barres told stories of Pete Carril at the Mayors' Prayer Breakfast in Reading.
