For (St.) Pete's Sake

As the MLB season nears the halfway point, few things have gotten in the way of the Rays, who remain just one game back in the AL East. However, the team has hit a roadblock in its search for a new ballpark, as team officials suspend their push for a November referendum on a proposed $450M waterfront location. After St. Petersburg voters earlier this month indicate they want a voice in the process, the Rays allow a group of civic leaders to form a committee to lead a new ballpark search and consult on the location, funding and design. And with St. Pete Mayor Rick Baker for the first time saying the Rays need a new ballpark to "remain viable in the long run," community leaders finally seem to believe what Bud Selig has been asserting for some time now. Columnists agree the team is "wise to use patience on this project."

Swing States 
Nike Q4 earnings up 12%, but stock price plummeting amid concerns of slow U.S. sales.

Shoe Money Tonight? 
Steve & Barry's may file for bankruptcy as soon as next week without last-minute finance help.

Incomplete Pass
NFL in '06 rejected carriage offer from Comcast that would have given league stake in the  company.

Reign Delay
Tribune Co. push back deadline for Cubs, Wrigley bids as prospective buyers question Wrigley revenue potential.

Start Spreading The News 
On eve of tonight's NBA Draft, top prospect O.J. Mayo signs four-year deal with Nike.

Diamond Daze
CWS per-game attendance lowest since '98, but ESPN, ESPN2 see ratings gains.

Houston, We Have A Problem
Astros P Shawn Chacon threatens future in MLB after attacking GM Ed Wade.

Swiss Miss
Storms cause Germany-Turkey Euro 2008 game to lose int'l TV feed during crucial moments.