MIAMI (AP) - Kyle Lohse (lohsh) hurled six no-hit innings and pitched into the eighth to help the World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals spoil the Miami Marlins' debut in their new ballpark, 4-1. The highlight for Marlins fans came early when boxing legend Muhammad Ali, who had one of his greatest bouts in Miami Beach against Sonny Liston in 1964, delivered the ceremonial first pitch after riding in from center field in a golf cart.
UNDATED (AP) - There are seven more major league openers on tap today with both Cy Young award winners scheduled to pitch. AL Cy Young winner Justin Verlander is on the mound this afternoon for the Tigers in their home opener against Boston and tonight in San Diego, NL Cy Young winner Clayton Kershaw of the Dodgers takes on the Padres at Petco Park.
CHICAGO (AP) - The Theo Epstein era in Chicago begins this afternoon as the Cubs new GM starts his new gig after coming over from Boston. The Cubs, who haven't won a World Series since 1908, send out Ryan Dempster against the much-improved Washington Nationals and their young ace, Stephen Strasburg, at 98-year-old Wrigley Field.
MIAMI (AP)- The Miami Heat moved within two games of the Chicago Bulls in the race for the NBA's best record following their 98-93 win over Oklahoma City last night. LeBron James had 34 points and 10 assists and Dwyane (dwayn) Wade added 19 points in the Heat's 17th straight home victory.
CHICAGO (AP) -Reigning NBA MVP Derrick Rose practiced with the Chicago Bulls yesterday and could be back in the lineup for their game tonight against Boston. Rose has missed the last 11 games with a groin injury.
