In DC, Steven Goff cites sources as saying that Everton F Wayne Rooney and DC United have "resolved major issues in their negotiations and could soon finalize a deal that clears the way" for him to "join the MLS club this summer." The sides continue to "work though minor matters, and barring significant setbacks," Rooney seems likely to visit DC in the "next two weeks for closing meetings and a physical." If a deal is struck, Rooney would "not be eligible to play until the MLS transfer and trade window opens July 10" (WASHINGTON POST, 5/15).
NICE & COZY: In Milwaukee, Jeff Maillet noted the weather has been "brutal in April and May, and that's a huge reason why there has been lots of empty seats" in MLB ballparks. However, Brewers fans continue to "buck that trend ... and having a roof and a talented team sure help." Through 19 games at Miller Park, the Brewers "rank No. 10 -- with an average attendance of 32,995 -- out of the 30 clubs." The Brewers also "rank No. 7 overall (31,638) when they're on the road" (JSONLINE.com, 5/14).
WINNING FORMULA: In Detroit, Bill Shea noted while Pistons Owner Tom Gores and his operatives have "found success in using their M&A playbook in other industries ... it hasn’t worked nearly as well with winning basketball games." The Pistons have one playoff appearance have a "reputation for mediocre basketball and a questionable front office." Gores is among a "handful of private equity and venture capital billionaires who own NBA teams, and they have a mixed record of success." The key "appears to be simple: Some owners have hired the right personnel executives and coaches, and perhaps had a bit of luck, to establish consistent winners." Gores "hasn’t done that" (CRAINSDETROIT.com, 5/13).
A LITTLE BIRD TOLD ME: In Boston, Nick Cafardo wondered why the Orioles are "such a mess?" The Orioles’ problem is "team ownership, and perhaps it always has been during the Angelos family’s run." Word is that Orioles Chair & CEO Peter Angelos is "not in the best of health and that his sons, John and Lou, have taken over running the team." There have been reports that Exec VP/Baseball Operations Dan Duquette has been "'thrown out of the cockpit,' but no one has any idea who’s flying the plane." Cafardo: "This is the Baltimore Orioles, for goodness sake. ... Get your act together" (BOSTON GLOBE, 5/13).
