KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) – The crippling heat wave has finally broken, and just in time for the All-Star game.
After several weeks of record-setting temperatures from coast to coast, the forecast is for high temperatures in the 90s on Tuesday in Kansas City, the site of the annual Midsummer Classic.
That’s quite the reprieve for organizers and civic leaders, along with players, coaches and fans, many of whom had been bracing for triple-digit temperatures.
Twins catcher Joe Mauer has played enough games in Kansas City to know how insufferable the weather can be, so he’s been keeping a wary eye on the forecast. “The weathermen knew we were coming,” he said, “so they gave us a break.”
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – Iowa coach Fran McCaffery has signed a new seven-year deal to remain with the Hawkeyes.
Iowa athletic director Gary Barta said Tuesday that McCaffery will be paid at least $1.66 million a year with a base salary of $1.3 million starting next season.
McCaffery could make up to $1.86 million per season if the Hawkeyes reach the NCAA tournament.
McCaffery left Siena to join the Hawkeyes before the 2010 season. His original contract was for six years and started at roughly $1.1 million per year.
Iowa won 18 games and reached the NIT in 2011-12. The Hawkeyes return three starters next season and bring in a freshman class featuring prized recruits Adam Woodbury and Mike Gesell.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) – AJ Allmendinger says he would never knowingly take a prohibited drug.
Allmendinger issued a statement Tuesday, his first since he was suspended by NASCAR for failing a random drug test. Allmendinger was informed of his suspension hours before Saturday night’s race at Daytona.
The 30-year-old driver says he has requested his “B” urine sample be tested, and he hopes the situation can be resolved with NASCAR as quickly as possible.
NASCAR does not disclose what substance was found in a failed drug test. Allmendinger and Penske Racing have not revealed details, either.
Allmendinger apologized for the distraction he has caused Penske Racing, his sponsors and fans.
Sam Hornish Jr. will replace Allmendinger in the No. 22 Dodge this weekend at New Hampshire.
NEW YORK (AP) – New York Mets pitcher Dillon Gee has undergone surgery to remove a blood clot from an artery in his throwing shoulder.
The team said Tuesday no timetable has been set for the right-hander’s return, but he will miss his next start and probably will be put on the disabled list.
Gee complained of numb fingers on his right hand Sunday, a day after he pitched. Tests on Monday revealed the shoulder clot.
Doctors used a catheter to break up the clot. The 26-year-old pitcher will remain hospitalized for a day or two to make sure the problem is fully resolved.
Gee pitched eight innings of one-run ball in Saturday’s 3-1 win over the Chicago Cubs.