ESPN calls “MNF” audible
ESPN is changing quarterbacks. Joe Theismann will no longer be part of “Monday Night Football” broadcasts and will be replaced as an analyst by Ron Jaworski, a former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback. Jaworski will join play-by-play announcer Mike Tirico and analyst Tony Kornheiser in the booth. Critics had panned the chemistry between Theismann and Kornheiser, but Tirico shot down rumors that the two clashed off the set. “There was not one off-air moment of tension between them during the year,” Tirico said. “I saw them eat meals together and play golf together a couple of times. … But if management feels this is the next step to make (the show) better, we’ll take it and run with it.”
In a league of her own
For the first time in nearly 20 years, a female umpire will work a major- league exhibition game. Ria Cortesio, set to start the season in Double-A, will be on the bases Thursday for a game between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Chicago Cubs in Mesa, Ariz. “It’s awesome,” Cubs star Derrek Lee said. “I think it’s about time. Female eyes are as good as male eyes. Why can’t they be umpires? Good for her.” Pam Postema was the last woman to work big-league exhibitions, in 1989. She was in spring training two years before getting released.
New York moment
“We also went to ground zero, and that was really humbling and put everything in perspective for us, why we’re in our business and why we’re protecting the freedom of people in the United States.”
Matt McCraw, Air Force senior guard, on the Falcons’ visit to New York as semifinalists in the NIT
The good humor man
Call it a Schilling for your thoughts, but Boston Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling answers questions on his blog, one asking what he would do if the Red Sox signed seven-time Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens. “Would I move to the bullpen to make room for the Rocket? I’d sell ice cream to make room for the Rocket.”
