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Articles by Dave Martinez
All-Star CJ Abrams is demoted to the minors by the Nationals for nonperformance reasons
About 2 minutes reading time. CHICAGO (AP) — All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams was demoted to the minor leagues by the Washington Nationals on Saturday for a reason not related to his on-field performance and is not expected to play for them the rest of the season. Nationals manager Dave Martinez announced the unusual decision before Saturday’s game against the Chicago Cubs. “I just want it to be known, it wasn’t performance-based — it’s an internal issue,” Martinez said.
Darren Baker, son of longtime manager Dusty Baker, called up by Nationals
About 3 minutes reading time. WASHINGTON (AP) — Darren Baker spent much of his childhood around baseball. Sunday was the first time he woke up knowing he was a major leaguer. The second baseman, the son of two-time All-Star and longtime manager Dusty Baker, was one of the Washington Nationals’ roster additions when he had his contract selected from Triple-A Rochester on Sunday. “I didn’t need an alarm today,” said Darren Baker, who learned of his callup Saturday.
On the field at least, the Nationals and Orioles have had a pretty friendly rivalry
About 4 minutes reading time. WASHINGTON (AP) — Dave Martinez was asked about the rivalry between the Nationals and Orioles — specifically, whether it’s actually become much of one — and his answer was blunt. “Honestly, no,” Washington’s manager said. “It really hasn’t.” That might come as news to quite a few fans in the area — and a handful of lawyers — but what Martinez seemingly meant was despite the proximity of the franchises, there isn’t a great deal of animosity when they play.
New Balance SuperComp Trainer
I’ve put in almost 140 miles in the New Balance Fuel Cell SuperComp Trainer and it has been one of my favorite shoes for running long. It’s a max-cushioned carbon fiber-plated shoe designed as an everyday trainer. Read more for the full review. by Dave Martinez I’m going to refer to this model as the New Balance SuperComp Trainer as it is already a long name.
Red Bull’s Markus Holgersson struggles to adjust in MLS
Photo by Andy Marlin/Getty Images The heart of the New York Red Bull’s defense became the subject of scrutiny throughout the latter parts of 2011. Whether it was Tim Ream, Rafa Marquez or Stephen Keel, a few key points became apparent; the backline needed height, physicality and skill if they wished to be considered a championship contender.
Mix Diskerud rediscovering himself under Vieira's system
IMAGE, ANTHONY J. MERCED FOR EMPIRE OF SOCCER by DAVE MARTINEZ Last year while covering a team signing event at the Nike store in SoHo, EoS caught up with New York City FC midfielder Mix Diskerud. He was alone, awaiting a throng of media to swarm their way towards his end of the table — the minute they were done talking to David Villa, of course. Seeing a chance for some face time, I approached the player and took a knee across across the table from him.
Judge says MASN should pay Washington Nationals based on MLB panel decision
Nov 15, 2019 The Canadian Press Dave Martinez , The Canadian Press NEW YORK — In a story Nov. 15 about a legal dispute between the Baltimore Orioles and the Washington Nationals, The Associated Press reported erroneously that the judge denied a motion by the Nationals to reargue the case that led to his Aug. 22 decision to confirm an award recommended by an arbitration panel. It was the Orioles who filed the motion.
Joe Torre: Right call was made, Nationals protest was denied - TSN.ca
HOUSTON — Major League Baseball executive Joe Torre says the "right call" was made and that a protest was denied after Nationals leadoff hitter Trea Turner was called out for interference during Washington's 7-2 Game 6 victory in the World Series on Tuesday night. Nationals manager Dave Martinez was ejected for arguing plate umpire Sam Holbrook's ruling in the seventh inning, and Torre said Washington's request to protest the game was denied because it was a judgment call.
Behind The Bello's Brawl Between NYCFC, RBNY supporters
A melee erupted in Newark shortly before the start of the Red Bulls, New York City FC encounter, pitting supporters from both teams in an English style hooligan clash. The brouhaha, which lasted all of a few minutes, involved fans tossing garbage bags at each other, engaging in fisticuffs and using restaurant signs as weapons before New Jersey Transit cops broke up the fracas. Why did it happen? As it turns out, there is a bit of history behind the scrap.
Thierry Henry: Stories you've never heard about the Arsenal and MLS legend
Who is Thierry Henry? It depends on whom you ask. Titi turns 39 year on Wednesday and fans who look back on his four seasons in MLS will be quick to remember the French star by his demeanor on the pitch, a no-nonsense taskmaster who is just as apt to score gravity-defying goals as he is to openly scold his teammates. Reporters came to know Henry as a prickly fellow, a player who can be charming, abrasive, amusing and dismissive – sometimes all at once.
Ugly incident reveals deep rifts within NYCFC's budding supporters' groups
An unseemly episode unraveled during the last New York City FC home match — and surprisingly, it has revealed a rift amongst the team’s various supporters’ groups. As the story goes, a crew of 3-4 individuals caused panic and widespread fear amongst some of the fans within section 237.
Left out of expansion talks, Chicago Sting Trust suspend operations
Despite several conversations between the Chicago Sting Trust and NASL Commissioner Bill Peterson, the fan-based investment group has been shut out from expansion talks — and are consequently suspending operations. EoS has learned that the Trust will cease their chase for an NASL franchise, making a formal announcement on Thursday afternoon. The reason is simple according to Sting Trust member, Shane Nicholson; the NASL never took them seriously.
Report: Nationals to name Martinez manager
The Washington Nationals have found their next manager in Chicago Cubs bench coach Dave Martinez according to a report by Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports. Martinez has spent 10 years has bench coach for manager Joe Maddon, from 2008-14 with the Tampa Bay Rays and 2015-17 with the Chicago Cubs. The 53-year-old also spent 16 years as an MLB player with the Cubs, Montreal Expos, Cincinnati Reds, San Francisco Giants, Chicago White Sox, Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves and Toronto Blue Jays.
Reality Star: Thierry Henry joins Edgar Davids for Xbox Originals Show "Every Street United"
New York Red Bulls’ captain Thierry Henry has certainly taken a liking to the silver screen. Not only will he be providing analysis of this year’s World Cup, and featuring in a cameo for the coming “Entourage” movie, but he will also add another notch to his IMDb profile. Henry will join Dutch legend Edgar Davids in the reality show “Every Street United,” set to feature on the fledgling ‘Xbox Originals’ platform. Each half-hour show will feature street soccer players from around the globe.
Dave Martinez: Farewell EoS - And Welcome, Jack Bell!
I would like to announce my departure as Editor-in-Chief of Empire of Soccer — and the start of a new era for this very site. It is my distinct pleasure to introduce you to the new Editor-in-Chief of EoS, Jack Bell. In actuality, Jack doesn’t need an introduction to New York soccer fans. A 23-year veteran at the New York Times, Bell pioneered the Gray Lady’s modern day soccer coverage, running the wildly successful Goal Blog for the publication.
Celebrated Red Bulls podcast "Seeing Red!" goes daily!
Mark Fishkin is a successful digital media professional who has worked with the likes of the Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg over the past several years. But that isn’t the part of Fishkin’s life that has earned him local fame. Instead, Red Bull fans know him as the voice of Seeing Red! — the premier New York Red Bulls podcast. And now that he is between jobs, Fishkin is looking to take the success of Seeing Red! to the next level — and make it his living.
Let's Talk: Queens Boro Prez wants a soccer (or hockey!) stadium in Flushing
Queens Borough President Melinda Katz shocked the local soccer community during her recent State of the Borough address, coming out in favor of a soccer stadium in Willets Point — mere blocks away from Major League Soccer’s original targeted “MLS to QUEENS” space in Flushing Meadows Park. And why did she do it? Simply put, she wants to start a conversation — one she feels will serve her constituents and better her borough.
Ronald Zubar announces departure from Red Bulls
MATT KREMKAU - EMPIRE OF SOCCER by DAVE MARTINEZ If there was any doubt, Ronald Zubar has made it official: he will not be returning to the New York Red Bulls. A locker room favorite, Zubar’s Red Bull career was riddled with injury issues over his two short years with the club. The French defender appeared in 40 matches, starting 32 while adding four goals to his ledger across all competitions.
Cosmos release statement on USSF D2 decision, club future
Following U.S. Soccer’s decision to sanction both the North American Soccer League (NASL) and United Soccer League (USL) as provisional division two leagues, the New York Cosmos have finally broken their silence. Cosmos COO Erik Stover offered a statement to the fans on Saturday morning which, in part, confirmed the team’s full participation in the NASL competition this season. As reported by EoS on Friday, new Cosmos owner Rocco Commisso will now take on the majority ownership role with the team.
Commisso and the Cosmos, Seamus' role, back pay and a future home at MCU
After days of speculation, EoS can confirm that media magnate Rocco Commisso is in line to become the New York Cosmos majority owner — if U.S. Soccer once again awards the North American Soccer League Division Two status. But that is only part of the story. U.S. Soccer is supposed to announce their ruling on divisional sanctioning late Friday afternoon. The NASL are likely to retain their status.
Cosmos still have not paid players, employees - now Duk sues
Paying employee wages is still a problem for the New York Cosmos. And while many employees are waiting to see what the future of the team holds before making their next move, there is at least one person who has had enough of the delays: Yasmani Duk. The Bolivian striker joined the Cosmos last season, and is now on the verge of a loan to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq FC. But before he does, it looks like he will engage in litigation to correct the wrongs against him.
Injured, isolated and broke, Guenzatti struggles in post-Cosmos world
Sebastian Guenzatti gave everything to the New York Cosmos — and now, he has been left with nothing. A local Queens product who left his home at the age of 18 to pursue his dreams of a soccer career, Guenzatti is a natural born risk taker; a tenacious give-it-your-all bomber that instantly won the hearts of Cosmos fans.
Jacksonville Armada move to terminate all player contracts
The Jacksonville Armada players gathered last week for a series of practice sessions under a cloud of uncertainty. On Wednesday afternoon, their future became clear. Or perhaps a better word is bleak. Sources tell EoS that Armada ownership has officially made the call to terminate all player contracts. The decision was made public to the players on Wednesday afternoon. Despite players participating in practice sessions last week, they will not be paid out for the month of December.
Sources: Jacksonville Armada leave NASL, target USL move
Several months ago, the Jacksonville Armada began a cost-cutting operation. Staff numbers were reduced. Spending, examined. At the time, the thought was that ownership was beginning to take a more responsible, realistic approach to the team’s overall spending — particularly in the face of a difficult year of operations. But the reason was much deeper than that. EoS has learned that the Armada have officially given notice to the NASL that they will no longer be a part of the league.
Insult To Injury: Belmont bid dies as Cosmos flail
The news just gets worse and worse for the New York Cosmos. After releasing players from their contracts and converting furloughs to staff-wide layoffs on Friday evening, the Cosmos got one final kick in the gut: the official end of their race for a stadium in the Elmont area. Newsday reports the Empire State Development Corp. has officially cancelled their four-year old Elmont RFP.
Savarese remains under contract with Cosmos - with a new mission
The New York Cosmos’ midtown office is a ghost town. Members of ownership are joined by a handful of executive staffers, tending to the day-to-day business of the club — or what is left of it. However, there is one staff member who is still busy at work — even if he never steps foot in the Manhattan compound. EoS has learned that the longtime Cosmos Head Coach and Sporting Director remains under contract with the team.
NYCFC interested in former Cosmos mid Szetela
Danny Szetela grew up a fan of the Metrostars. He went on to play for the New York Cosmos. Now, will we see him in City blue? Following a tweet from SBI writer Matt Reed, EoS has learned that New York City FC have expressed interest in the longtime Cosmos midfielder. Szetela, 29, has been a fixture with the Cosmos since returning to professional soccer in 2013.
The End: Cosmos terminate all player contracts
The New York Cosmos are preparing for the end — and this may be the most definitive proof of that statement to date. Cosmos players received termination letters on Monday, assuring that the Cosmos will not be taking the field in 2017. Or ever again. Players will be paid through the month of November and have been promised to be paid their bonus money for the year. However, no player will be paid for December or for the remainder of their contract — no matter the length of their current deals.
NASL Meetings, Day 1: Carlos Slim and the Cosmos, Expansion, USL and More
Tuesday’s NASL board meetings overloaded the internet with rumors, innuendo and an endless stream of drama. Here is what we know: Hours prior to the leak of Carlos Slim’s possible involvement and rumored purchase of the New York Cosmos, multiple sources were already informing us that the Mexican billionaire was somehow tied to the Cosmos in a potential ownership stake.
Cosmos in Crisis: Late Pay, Furloughs cast team's future in doubt
The North American Soccer League has been in trouble for several months. Despite recent revelations that the league severed its ties to the embattled Traffic Sports, they are still set to lose three of their more successful teams (Minnesota United, Ottawa Fury, Tampa Bay Rowdies), with rumors quickly spreading of the possible end of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers and Rayo OKC.
Pay Up: Cosmos asking a transfer fee for Savarese
Giovanni Savarese is the hottest coaching prospect in America — and the New York Cosmos want to cash in on his next move. EoS has learned that talks between Savarese and Minnesota United fell through on the Cosmos’ insistence of a transfer fee. The news was first reported via social media by FifyFive.One reporter, Jeff Reuter. The subject of several head coaching vacancies, Savarese enters the winter transfer window as one of the most sought after bosses on the domestic front.
Decision Day? Klinsmann to meet heads of U.S. Soccer today
Is the axe ready to drop on Jurgen Klinsmann? EoS has learned that both Klinsmann and U.S. U-23 coach Andi Herzog are set to meet with Sunil Gulati and representatives of U.S. Soccer today in conversations that could shape the future of the U.S. Men’s program. Klinsmann flamed out in spectacular fashion in the team’s first two Hexagonal encounters of the World Cup cycle, dropping results against Mexico (2-1) and Costa Rica (4-0) over the course of a week.
How The Cosmos Came To Choose Belson For The NASL Final
While fans of the North American Soccer League and the New York Cosmos learned about the team’s plans to host a final at Belson Stadium three days ago, the venue has been in place for well over a month. But even after weeks to prepare themselves for the announcement, no one is happy about the situation. Not the Cosmos. Not the league. Not the fans. So how did New York end up settling on the 2,600 seat Belson Stadium? Well, that is a complicated story — one that begins before the season even started.
Minnesota, several others eye Cosmos coach Savarese
Fans of the New York Cosmos know what Head Coach and Team Sporting Director Giovanni Savarese has meant to the club since joining them in 2013. Apparently, MLS teams have taken notice as well. Per SI.com’s Grant Wahl, the two-time Soccer Bowl championship winning coach is reportedly a coaching target for former NASL club, Minnesota United. But the interest in Savarese does not stop there.
Marsch speaks on possible matchups vs. D.C., Montreal
New York Red Bulls boss Jesse Marsch joined Mark Fishkin and Eric Giacometti on the popular “Seeing Red!” podcast this week, giving his insight on possible playoff opponents. After last night’s 3-1 Toronto FC victory over the Philadelphia Union, the field of opponents for the Red Bulls has narrowed to the winner of D.C. United and the Montreal Impact. Marsch believes there are similarities with both sides, particularly when it comes to their wing-heavy attack.
NYCFC to face Toronto FC in Eastern Conference Semis
It didn’t take long for New York City FC to find out their opponent for the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Led by Sebastian Giovinco, Toronto FC downed the Philadelphia Union 3-1 at BMO Field on Wednesday night, setting up a semifinal encounter against NYCFC. This was Toronto’s first ever postseason victory. It will also be NYCFC’s first foray into the MLS playoffs.
Thierry Henry: Stories you've never heard about the Arsenal and MLS legend
Who is Thierry Henry? It depends on whom you ask. Fans will be quick to identify Henry by his demeanor on the pitch, a no-nonsense taskmaster who is just as apt to score gravity-defying goals as he is to openly scold his teammates. Reporters know Henry as a prickly fellow, a player who can be charming, abrasive, amusing and dismissive – sometimes all at once. But Henry's teammates and colleagues see the all-time great in a unique light.
Talking to Gonzalo Veron about his difficult times at Red Bull
One of the more perplexing situations surrounding the New York Red Bulls this year involves Designated Player, Gonzalo Veron. The former San Lorenzo attacker battled his way back from preseason injury in order to return to selection with the team. However, he has been sparsely used in the months since his return. Since May, Veron has appeared in 12 matches, starting five times, scoring a single goal through a minuscule 403 minutes of playing time.
Hot, Hot, Hot: Red Bulls, NYCFC prepare for blazing conditions
Sunday’s encounter will be a hot one — long before the Red Bulls and New York City FC take the field. Early prognostications are calling for this weekend’s Hudson River Derby match to be a scorcher, with temperatures in and around 95 degrees at the 1 P.M. kickoff time. Due to the activity on the field, the glare of the seats and the static conditions, temperatures on the pitch will likely be about 5-10 degrees hotter, creating a bubbling cauldron for both NYCFC and Red Bull players to perform.
EoS Radio BLUECAST! with MLSSoccer.com's Dylan Butler!
New York City FC are red hot, atop of the Eastern Conference following victories against the New England Revolution and the New York Red Bulls. Who better to break it down than Dylan Butler? MLSSoccer.com’s NYCFC beat reporter breaks down the action of this past week, discusses the emergence of Jack Harrison, the trade of Poku and the possible transfer market targets for the team.
Cosmos Set Sights on Competing with America's Best Clubs
The U.S. Open Cup means everything to the New York Cosmos. It is a chance to compete at the top level of American soccer. It is an opportunity to measure their talents to those in Major League Soccer. It is a chance to fly the banner of the North American Soccer League. And it is also a chance to honor their rich heritage by advancing through the tournament and representing North America in the CONCACAF Champions League tournament. That last goal is quite lofty (even for an MLS side).
Red Bulls continue to evaluate trialist Okugo
The New York Red Bulls may be battered at the centerback position, but they aren’t rushing towards a quick fix solution. That is the message from Jesse Marsch regarding trialist Amobi Okugo who continues to be under evaluation with the club. “It was good again today,” Marsch said of Okugo after Tuesday’s training session. “We are continuing to get a full picture of what Amobi is about. It’s been good, it’s been good.” Okugo joins Red Bulls camp at a crucial time.
United No More? MLS trademarks "MNFC"
It looks like Arthur Blank won. Following a report from Sports Illustrated detailing the tug-of-war between Atlanta and Minnesota over the “United” moniker, a MLS trademark filing uncovered by EoS seems to show Atlanta has won that debate. MLS filed a trademark for MNFC and Minnesota FC on February 18th, 2016; just one day after the original SI report was published. As reported by Brian Straus, Minnesota and Atlanta are in line to make their MLS debuts for 2017.
Former Spurs midfielder Niko Kranjcar trains with Cosmos
The New York Cosmos aren’t done looking for quality midfield players. On the heels of Juan Arango’s signing last week, EoS has learned the Cosmos are hosting former Tottenham midfielder and Croatian international Niko Kranjcar for training. Kranjcar, 31, is currently a free agent following his loan deal with Queens Park Rangers last season. He is best known for his time at Tottenham, where he appeared in 77 matches through four seasons, scoring 11 goals at the club.
Multiple reports link Miazga to imminent Premier League move
It no longer seems a question of if, but when Matt Miazga moves on from the New York Red Bulls. ESPN soccer insider Taylor Twellman broke news stateside following a report from England’s Daily Mail claiming Miazga will complete a move to an unnamed English club “by the end of this week.” The Mail claims Miazga’s transfer will fall in the vicinity of £3.5million (or roughly $5 million). Adding fuel to the report, ESPN’s Doug McIntyre reveals Miazga has left U.S. training camp.
NASL, Traffic Sports in discussions to end relationship
The NASL, Traffic Sports relationship has been a source of intrigue ever since former league chairman and Traffic President Aaron Davidson was indicted by the United States on charges relating to the ongoing FIFA corruption scandal. Since his indictment, the league has eliminated Traffic’s presence on the club level, introducing Stephen Malik as the new owner of the then-Traffic owned Carolina RailHawks. Despite that initiative, Traffic continues to have a stake in the league’s operations.
NASL to announce West Coast expansion within 1-2 months; multiple cities possible
West Coast expansion has long been on the “to-do” list of the North American Soccer League. In fact, NASL Commissioner Bill Peterson told EoS West Coast expansion conversations have been happening “since my first week on the job.” Well, those conversations are about to become a reality. According to Peterson, one ownership group is near the point of announcing a new West Coast market based team — and there are several others ready to follow. “We will be on the West Coast soon,” Peterson tells EoS.
Former Red Bull Dane Richards joins Miami FC
It didn’t take long for former New York Red Bull midfielder Dane Richards to find a new club. EoS has learned that the speedy Jamaican international will be moving a bit closer to home, joining NASL expansion side, Miami FC. He will be unveiled with a host of other players during a club press conference at 6 P.M. on Thursday afternoon. Richards, 31, completed a loan deal with Indy Eleven from the New York Red Bulls this past October. New York did not pick up his option for 2016.
Watch: Patrick Vieira talks about his move to New York City FC
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USMNT Notes: Spector in for Ukraine friendly, Gulati re-elected, Bradley, Beasley score, more
It looks like U.S. Men’s National Team coach Jurgen Klinsmann has had a change of heart. After USSF announced the withdrawal of Tim Ream, Mix Diskerud and Michael Bradley from the March 5th friendly against Ukraine, the U.S. has gone back on it’s word and brought in talent to fill the void — namely, Jonathan Spector. Spector, 28, has not appeared in a U.S. jersey since February of 2012, playing a part in a historic 1-0 victory over Italy in Genoa.
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