News and Notes from around the Majors

Yesterday and today have been pretty busy days around the league, primarily because of the MLB Draft.

• San Diego State pitcher Stephen Strasburg was selected first overall by the Washington Nationals in the MLB Draft. Strasburg throws 100mph and is represented by Scott Boras. He is expected to ask for a $50 million contract, making it the biggest contract ever by the first pick.
• There has been a recent blog buzz speculating that Phillies outfielder Raul Ibanez is using PEDs, which is contributing to his career season. Ibanez vehemently denied any PED use and said he is willing to prove it. Ibanez is batting .327 with 20 HR and 55 RBIs this season.
• Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Manny Ramirez broke his silence yesterday regarding his 50-game suspension for testing postive for an illegal substance. Ramirez said that he looks forward to getting back with team and that what happened is in the past and he is ready to move on.
• Phillies closer Brad Lidge was placed on the 15 day disabled list with a knee sprain.
• The Yankees announced that they will make up their rain-out against the Tampa Bay Rays by playing a day-night doubleheader on Labor Day, Sept. 7.
• Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira confronted ESPN analysist and former CY Young Award winner Rick Sutcliffe for accusing Rodriguez of giving Teixeira verbal signs from the dugout on what pitches were coming.