Tampa Bay Rays defeat LA Angels 13-4. This Rays team is very good. The Rays got things started in the third inning with back-to-back-to-back homers by Evan Longoria, former Dodgers Willy Aybar and Dioner Navarro. The Angels would take the lead 4-3 in the bottom of the fourth, but the Rays came back in the top of fifth with five runs. The way the Rays are going, could a playoff appearance be in their future?

Utah Blaze defeat LA Avengers 65-56. The stone cold Avengers on a three-game losing streak met the red hot Blaze winning five of their last six. And the Avengers just got colder. Although they are 4-10 for the season, they are still in the hunt for a playoff spot. Yeah. Go figure.

Notable News

In NFL news, New York Giant's defensive end Michael Strahan announced his retirement on Monday after 15 years, seven Pro-Bowls and a Super Bowl ring. Strahan in his gap-toothed glory holds the single-season record for sacks with 22 1/2 in 2001. He will be a first-ballot hall of famer hands down.

Sticking with the NFL what do George Bush and Cedric Benson have in common? They are both products of Texas that have had their jobs far too long. After getting a DUI over the weekend, the Chicago Bears gave the boot to running back Benson. This comes a month after Benson was arrested for a BUI - boating under the influence. In his three seasons with the Bears, Benson has rushed for 1,593 yards with 3.8 yards per attempt and an eye-popping 45.5 yards per game.

And staying with Chicago, the Bulls hired Vinny del Negro as head coach. Serving as an assistant GM with the Phoenix Suns, del Negro has no coaching experience. None. Not even an assistant to the assistant coach.

Tonight's Action

Boston Celtics at LA Lakers. Mmm hmmm. Let's just see what happens. 6:00 pm ABC, AM 570 KLAC.

LA Dodgers at San Diego Padres. In a game of offensive futility, at least the pitching matchup should be good. Clayton Kershaw will go to the mound against Greg Maddux. 7:05 pm FSN Prime Ticket, AM 790 KABC.

Tampa Bay Rays at LA Angels. James Shields will go to the hill against Jered Weaver. 7:05 pm FSN West, AM 830 KLAA.

AP Photo by Mark Avery