Nike unveils new NFL uniforms

The NFL’s newest merchandise partner, Nike, released their new line of uniforms for all 32 teams yesterday at Brooklyn Navy Yard in New York City. ESPN’s Adam Schefter, NFL Network’s Albert Breer, and countless other members of the media were on hand to see Nike’s take on each squad. While there were few visual changes to each team’s uniform, Nike Elite 51s are made with lighter fabric, and a four-way stretch material. Visually, there were mostly minor tweaks such as the Kansas City Chiefs and Chicago Bears moving the numbers from the sleeve of their jersey to the shoulders. The Seattle Seahawks, however, received the biggest makeover. Nike completely scrapped the old uniform template for the team, heavily using lime-green in the color scheme and the number style. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was on hand for the event and talked with USA Today reporter Michael McCarthy, saying he “loved the uniforms.” Goodell also commented on the changes Nike brought in. “Even if the look doesn’t change, there’s innovation. You saw it with the Seahawks. There’ll be more to come,” he told McCarthy.

Ubaldo Jimenez appeals suspension

After intentionally throwing at Colorado Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki last week during a spring training game, Cleveland Indians hurler Ubaldo Jimenez is appealing the five-game suspension handed to him by the MLB front office. Colorado Manager Jim Tracy called his former pitcher’s actions “the most gutless act I’ve seen in 35 years in the game.”Jimenez has been especially bitter since his former club signed Tulowitzki to a long term contract while trading the pitcher to Cleveland. Earlier this spring, the Indians starting pitcher called playing for his new team “heaven” compared to his time in Colorado. Indians Manager Manny Acta recently told the Associated Press that he believes that Jimenez “is going to be able to pitch” when his turn comes in the second game of the regular season.

Red Sox closer to have surgery

Boston Red Sox closer Andrew Bailey could be out until September, because he will have surgery on his right thumb on Wednesday, the team said in a statement on Tuesday. Bailey apparently suffered the injury in a spring training game against the Pirates on March 21. Valentine hasn’t announced an interim closer yet, but said he thinks he’ll have one player pitch most of the save opportunities rather than have a closer by committee. The candidates for the closer position are Mark Melancon, who closed for the Houston Astros last season or, Alfredo Aceves.

Nash hopes to sign extension with Suns

Phoenix Suns star point guard Steve Nash recently told ESPN.com that he hopes to sign a three-year deal with the Suns or find a new team via free agency. Nash, who turned 38 in February, has only missed four games this season for the Suns. Through 52 games this season, Nash has averaged 12.7 points and 11.3 assists. The two-time MVP was also named to his eighth all-star team in February. The Suns are currently clinging to their playoff lives in the Western Conference, as they stand at 26-26 overall.