Cubs sweep Pirates, extend winning streak to five
PITTSBURGH Two bunts, one double and nine well-pitched innings. The Cubs proved on a Wrigley Field-like day they can win when their bats arent booming.
Things looking up for leadoff man Cabrera, White Sox Chris De Luca: Shortstop Orlando Cabrera was never supposed to be the White Sox' leadoff hitter this season. He was pegged for the No. 2 spot in manager Ozzie Guillen's lineup from the day he was acquired from the Los Angeles Angels for pitcher Jon Garland.
Bears dump Manning Jr.
The Bears aren't done addressing two problem areas from last season. The team continued to work over its secondary Tuesday by granting cornerback Ricky Manning Jr. his long-sought release and waited to hear from offensive tackle Fred Miller, who has been offered a one-year deal for the minimum-salary benefit at $830,000.
Illini's Wilson looking to put heat on Daniel
Martez Wilson won't make his first start for Illinois until Saturday, but he's already earning accolades. The sophomore linebacker from Simeon is on the Butkus Award watch list and has received preseason All-Big Ten mentions from several publications.