Bye, George

Torre Declines Yanks' Offer

After Joe Torre's decision to turn down a one-year, incentive-laden contract to return as manager of the Yankees, opinions differ as to who's really calling the shots within the organization.  The prevailing thought is that the team made the offer to Torre knowing he would refuse it, and ESPN's Peter Gammons says it was Randy Levine who "wanted Joe Torre out ... so he gets his way here.” But the N.Y. TIMES' Selena Roberts believes "Hank and Hal have blown their transition move" to the top of the organization.  There is a consensus, however, that George Steinbrenner has greatly decreased his role in running the club, and many wonder where Brian Cashman, who supposedly has authority over baseball operations, has been throughout the process.  

Kicking In 
Nike expected to launch takeover bid of Umbro as part of effort to dominate global soccer market.

Dan In Real Life 
Dan Patrick’s multi-platform deal with SI includes column, blog and Web cast of syndicated radio show.

Eye Lit
CBS only NFL TV partner to show ratings gain over last year  through Week Six.

Pat Down  
Patriots granted access to names of people who sold and bought tickets on StubHub. 

Placing Their Bet
DC-based private-equity firm Arlington Capital Partners set to acquire Daily Racing Form for reported $170-190M.

Canada Dry  
CFL views Bills games in Toronto as threat to league; some see games as precursor to relocation.  

Super Market 
Despite presence of highly-touted rookie Kevin Durant, Sonics' marketing campaign focusing on team rather than individuals. 

21 Jump Street 
Rob Prazmark leaving WMG to revive sports marketing and sponsorship consultancy.