thedenverpost--2020-11-18--Colorado public defenders clash with Larimer County judges over jury trials during pandemic

Two Colorado public defenders could be held in contempt of court after they refused to go forward with a jury trial in Larimer County on Tuesday over COVID-19 safety concerns , prompting the judge to declare a mistrial in one of the few counties in the state where trials are still taking place during the worsening pandemic .
The Eighth Judicial District , which includes Larimer and Jackson counties , is one of only four judicial districts in the state with counties at the elevated yellow or orange levels of coronavirus restrictions that have not suspended jury trials due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sixteen of the state ’ s 22 judicial districts have suspended all jury trials , and two additional districts have suspended trials in counties where COVID-19 levels are high , while allowing the proceedings to continue in less-impacted counties .
“ When everyone else is closed , it ’ s problematic that the Eighth for some reason has decided that they should remain open and force people to trial , ” said Maureen Cain , external communications director for the state public defender ’ s office .
Eighth Judicial District Chief Judge Stephen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep jury trials going .
He ’ s working closely with the Larimer County public health director , he said , and believes trials can continue to be held safely .
“ ( The public health director ) said there is no indication of any COVID spread among or related to any court operations , ” Howard said .
“ Specifically what he said was , ‘ What you ’ re doing is working.
’ ” The court has adjusted its procedures to require mask-wearing and social-distancing , among other precautions , Howard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been willing to report to the courthouse and have responded well to the precautions .
The district has successfully completed 24 jury trials since August .
The public defender ’ s office has vehemently disagreed with the chief judge in court filings , taking the stance in one motion that they objected to “ going forward with a jury trial in the midst of a global pandemic with trial procedures that risk lives and violate ( the defendant ’ s ) fundamental constitutional rights.
” On Tuesday , two public defenders refused to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man accused of assault and false imprisonment , prompting District Judge Stephen Jouard to declare a mistrial and order the attorneys back to court in December to explain why they should not be held in contempt of court , a charge that carries sanctions ranging from a fine to six months in jail .
Jouard had previously denied the defense ’ s request for a mistrial , and the attorneys filed an emergency petition with the Colorado Supreme Court challenging the judge ’ s decision ; that petition was denied Tuesday .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this fall a public defender has faced sanctions related to the novel coronavirus — an El Paso County public defender was held in contempt in October for refusing to appear in person for a trial ; he is set to appear in court for sentencing on Dec. 7 .
Jury trials in El Paso County were suspended two weeks after the attorney refused to appear in person .
“ It ’ s concerning that the courts in Larimer County remain open despite clear indications this virus is spreading at a rapid rate and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us to cancel our plans for the holidays and not associate with anyone outside our immediate family , ” Cain said .
Howard on Tuesday acknowledged that the public defender ’ s office is “ very concerned ” about jury trials continuing , but said the justice system must continue to advance cases .
“ Evidence gets cold , witnesses go away , victims are a very big consideration , there should be closure , ” he said , adding that once jury trials are suspended it ’ s unclear when they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are those who disregard , for political reasons , what people say , ” he said of pandemic precautions .
“ I ’ m not one of those people .
My decisions will be based entirely on what I think is best , taking into account public health and the need to carry out judicial functions.
” He added that shifting conditions could prompt him to suspend trials in the future , particularly if the virus spikes during the holidays .
Aside from the Eighth Judicial District , trials are ongoing in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where one county moves into Level Yellow on Wednesday , as well as in the neighboring 15th Judicial District , although no trials are scheduled to take place there until the end of December .
In the 13th Judicial District , which includes Morgan , Logan , Washington , Yuma , Kit Carson , Sedgwick and Phillips counties , trials have not been suspended but Chief Judge Michael Singer said he is meeting with officials Wednesday to go over the COVID-19 numbers and consider options .

Two Colorado public defenders could be held in contempt of court after they refused to go forward with a jury trial in Larimer County on Tuesday over COVID-19 safety concerns, prompting the judge to declare a mistrial in one of the few counties in the state where trials are still taking place during the worsening pandemic.
The Eighth Judicial District, which includes Larimer and Jackson counties, is one of only four judicial districts in the state with counties at the elevated yellow or orange levels of coronavirus restrictions that have not suspended jury trials due to the surging spread of the virus.
Sixteen of the state’s 22 judicial districts have suspended all jury trials, and two additional districts have suspended trials in counties where COVID-19 levels are high, while allowing the proceedings to continue in less-impacted counties.
“When everyone else is closed, it’s problematic that the Eighth for some reason has decided that they should remain open and force people to trial,” said Maureen Cain, external communications director for the state public defender’s office.
Eighth Judicial District Chief Judge Stephen Howard on Tuesday defended his decision to keep jury trials going. He’s working closely with the Larimer County public health director, he said, and believes trials can continue to be held safely.
“(The public health director) said there is no indication of any COVID spread among or related to any court operations,” Howard said. “Specifically what he said was, ‘What you’re doing is working.’”
The court has adjusted its procedures to require mask-wearing and social-distancing, among other precautions, Howard said. So far, jurors have been willing to report to the courthouse and have responded well to the precautions. The district has successfully completed 24 jury trials since August.
The public defender’s office has vehemently disagreed with the chief judge in court filings, taking the stance in one motion that they objected to “going forward with a jury trial in the midst of a global pandemic with trial procedures that risk lives and violate (the defendant’s) fundamental constitutional rights.”
On Tuesday, two public defenders refused to proceed with the jury trial for a man accused of assault and false imprisonment, prompting District Judge Stephen Jouard to declare a mistrial and order the attorneys back to court in December to explain why they should not be held in contempt of court, a charge that carries sanctions ranging from a fine to six months in jail.
Jouard had previously denied the defense’s request for a mistrial, and the attorneys filed an emergency petition with the Colorado Supreme Court challenging the judge’s decision; that petition was denied Tuesday.
It’s at least the second time this fall a public defender has faced sanctions related to the novel coronavirus — an El Paso County public defender was held in contempt in October for refusing to appear in person for a trial; he is set to appear in court for sentencing on Dec. 7.
Jury trials in El Paso County were suspended two weeks after the attorney refused to appear in person.
“It’s concerning that the courts in Larimer County remain open despite clear indications this virus is spreading at a rapid rate and requests by the governor for all of us to cancel our plans for the holidays and not associate with anyone outside our immediate family,” Cain said.
Howard on Tuesday acknowledged that the public defender’s office is “very concerned” about jury trials continuing, but said the justice system must continue to advance cases.
“Evidence gets cold, witnesses go away, victims are a very big consideration, there should be closure,” he said, adding that once jury trials are suspended it’s unclear when they will be able to resume.
“There are those who disregard, for political reasons, what people say,” he said of pandemic precautions. “I’m not one of those people. My decisions will be based entirely on what I think is best, taking into account public health and the need to carry out judicial functions.”
He added that shifting conditions could prompt him to suspend trials in the future, particularly if the virus spikes during the holidays.
Aside from the Eighth Judicial District, trials are ongoing in the Third Judicial District in southeast Colorado, where one county moves into Level Yellow on Wednesday, as well as in the neighboring 15th Judicial District, although no trials are scheduled to take place there until the end of December.
In the 13th Judicial District, which includes Morgan, Logan, Washington, Yuma, Kit Carson, Sedgwick and Phillips counties, trials have not been suspended but Chief Judge Michael Singer said he is meeting with officials Wednesday to go over the COVID-19 numbers and consider options.


thedenverpost--2020-11-18--Colorado taking unfortunate early lead for commercial bankruptcy filings in the region

Bankruptcies among medium-sized companies are ramping up much faster in Colorado than in other states in the Mountain West , with the real estate and rental sector taking the hardest hit so far , according to a report from Resolute Commercial Services .
The pandemic has pushed several large firms in retail , hospitality and oil and gas over the edge and into bankruptcy protection , including household names like The Hertz Corp. , J.C. Penney , and Neiman Marcus Group .
Closer to home , Denver ’ s own Whiting Petroleum and Extraction Oil and Gas have sought to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ranking them among the largest filers this year .
Medium-sized firms have mostly averted a reckoning , thanks to the help of the Paycheck Protection Program and other government assistance , said Jerry Foster , founder of Resolute Commercial Services .
That will change , however , as a resurgence in COVID-19 cases brings down tighter restrictions and fiscal support from the federal government dries up .
During the third quarter , Resolute counted 60 business bankruptcies by firms with $ 1 million or more in liabilities across a nine-state region stretching from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , excluding California and New Mexico .
Of that total , 28 % came in Colorado , surpassing Arizona at 22 % and Washington at 12 % , even though those two states have larger populations and larger economies .
“ It feels like you are in the lead , ” Foster , who is based in Scottsdale , said of Colorado .
“ Largely , many of these trends will play themselves out after the first of the year .
We are not even in the first inning yet.
” He suspects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hit in Colorado because many didn ’ t have access to PPP funds , and they are under pressure from tenants who aren ’ t paying their leases .
Once borrowers submit their 2020 financial statements early next year , the expectation is that lenders and unpaid creditors will demand a reckoning .
A bankruptcy filing may be the only hope some businesses may have to survive long enough for a vaccine to take hold and activity to return to normal .
In a coincidence of timing , the Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Code @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Feb. 19 that are designed to streamline the process and reduce costs for bankruptcy filings for businesses with under $ 2.72 million in liabilities .
The Cares Act boosted that temporarily to $ 7.5 million in liabilities , opening it up to more medium-sized enterprises .
Subchapter V allows existing owners to retain equity as long as they can pay unsecured creditors from disposable income over a three- to five-year period .
Filers aren ’ t required to provide a cumbersome disclosure statement , and they can create the sole restructuring plan .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and avoid the quarterly fee paid to the U.S .
Trustee .
Although new , about 55 % of the filings in the region that Resolute tracked sought the more favorable terms of Subchapter V in the third quarter .
“ It makes it a quicker process , ” Foster said .
“ It has become quite popular.
” For many struggling companies , it could prove the difference between survival and failure in the months ahead .

Bankruptcies among medium-sized companies are ramping up much faster in Colorado than in other states in the Mountain West, with the real estate and rental sector taking the hardest hit so far, according to a report from Resolute Commercial Services.
The pandemic has pushed several large firms in retail, hospitality and oil and gas over the edge and into bankruptcy protection, including household names like The Hertz Corp., J.C. Penney, and Neiman Marcus Group. Closer to home, Denver’s own Whiting Petroleum and Extraction Oil and Gas have sought to restructure billions of dollars in debt, ranking them among the largest filers this year.
Medium-sized firms have mostly averted a reckoning, thanks to the help of the Paycheck Protection Program and other government assistance, said Jerry Foster, founder of Resolute Commercial Services. That will change, however, as a resurgence in COVID-19 cases brings down tighter restrictions and fiscal support from the federal government dries up.
During the third quarter, Resolute counted 60 business bankruptcies by firms with $1 million or more in liabilities across a nine-state region stretching from Washington and Oregon and down to Arizona, excluding California and New Mexico.
Of that total, 28% came in Colorado, surpassing Arizona at 22% and Washington at 12%, even though those two states have larger populations and larger economies.
“It feels like you are in the lead,” Foster, who is based in Scottsdale, said of Colorado. “Largely, many of these trends will play themselves out after the first of the year. We are not even in the first inning yet.”
He suspects real estate firms are taking the hardest hit in Colorado because many didn’t have access to PPP funds, and they are under pressure from tenants who aren’t paying their leases.
Once borrowers submit their 2020 financial statements early next year, the expectation is that lenders and unpaid creditors will demand a reckoning. A bankruptcy filing may be the only hope some businesses may have to survive long enough for a vaccine to take hold and activity to return to normal.
In a coincidence of timing, the Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Code added changes known as Subchapter V on Feb. 19 that are designed to streamline the process and reduce costs for bankruptcy filings for businesses with under $2.72 million in liabilities. The Cares Act boosted that temporarily to $7.5 million in liabilities, opening it up to more medium-sized enterprises.
Subchapter V allows existing owners to retain equity as long as they can pay unsecured creditors from disposable income over a three- to five-year period. Filers aren’t required to provide a cumbersome disclosure statement, and they can create the sole restructuring plan. They can also delay paying administrative expenses and avoid the quarterly fee paid to the U.S. Trustee.
Although new, about 55% of the filings in the region that Resolute tracked sought the more favorable terms of Subchapter V in the third quarter.
“It makes it a quicker process,” Foster said. “It has become quite popular.” For many struggling companies, it could prove the difference between survival and failure in the months ahead.


thedenverpost--2020-11-18--Broncos NFL power rankings tracker: How national experts rank Denver entering Week 11

From the opening kickoff when Diontae Spencer ran backward to give the Broncos a terrible starting position , Sunday was not a good day for Denver .
A 37-12 loss to the Raiders in Las Vegas was among the Broncos ’ worst of the season .
In terms of the worst in head coach Vic Fangio ’ s tenure , Denver Post Broncos beat writer Ryan O ’ Halloran writes , “ If it wasn ’ t , it ’ s definitely in contention.
” At 3-6 for the fourth straight season , Denver has a difficult road ahead .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ who have won four straight .
Here ’ s a look at how various national experts rated the Broncos in their power rankings entering Week 11 : Bleacher Report ( No .
28 ) | Last week : No .
25 “ If there was any question as to whether the 2020 Denver Broncos were bad , it was answered Sunday in Las Vegas .
Every facet of the team stunk against the Raiders .
But the most depressing of all had to be second-year quarterback Drew Lock , who threw four interceptions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 37.3 .
It ’ s becoming clearer by the week that Lock is not the long-term answer under center for the Broncos , unless the question is ‘ who will lead the Broncos to six 5-11 seasons in a row ? '
” See the full rankings .
CBS Sports ( No .
22 ) | Last week : No .
24 “ Drew Lock looked ordinary at best against the Raiders , which is not a good thing for the long run .
He has to quit turning it over , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rankings .
ESPN ( No .
23 ) | Last week : No .
22 “ Passing on Bolles ’ fifth-year option will cost Denver in the short term .
Had the Broncos engaged Bolles ’ option , he would have been paid slightly more than $ 11 million next season .
While Bolles led the league in holding penalties during his first three seasons , he worked this past offseason to get stronger , and he has played with more composure as well as better hand technique .
Some personnel executives believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tackle in the league .
The Broncos will face a decision , as well as competition for his services , when he is an unrestricted free agent in March .
They ’ ll need to cut a big check to keep him , ” Jeff Legwold writes .
See the full rankings .
ANFL.com ( No .
25 ) | Last week : No .
23 “ It is not too early to be worried about Drew Lock .
The second-year quarterback ’ s hot-and-cold sophomore season hit a nadir on Sunday with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a 37-12 loss .
Lock has thrown 10 interceptions in seven starts this year and continues to play recklessly with the football — a cowboy style of football that doesn ’ t quite sync up with his skill level .
Lock is very young and still relatively inexperienced — his game has clear mechanical flaws and his play could improve with good coaching and better decision-making .
But will John Elway and the Broncos have the patience to live with the growing pains ?
Lock might need a strong finish in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Dan Hanzus writes .
See the full rankings .
Sporting News ( No .
23 ) | Last week : No .
21 “ Drew Lock seemed to have turned a corner with the Chargers and Falcons games , but his breakdown against a shaky Raiders defense isn ’ t all that inspiring , especially for John Elway .
Now other parts of Vic Fangio ’ s defense are starting to fall apart , too , ” Vinnie Iyer writes .
See the full rankings .
Sports Illustrated ( No .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
24 “ Lots of questions about where the Broncos go from here , and the big one might concern how they approach the quarterback position , ” Albert Breer writes .
See the full rankings .
• On track for fourth consecutive losing season , Broncos should take cues from the young , surging Dolphins • Broncos Analysis : How to kick-start a scuffling offense ?
There are many areas to address .
• Broncos Mailbag : Is there a disconnect between Drew Lock , Pat Shurmur ?
• After Further Review @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Raiders USA Today ( No .
24 ) | Last week : No .
23 “ They better learn how to compete in AFC West after surrendering 110 points in their initial three-game swing through the division , ” Nate Davis writes .
See the full rankings .
Yahoo Sports ( No .
28 ) | Last week : No .
24 “ Drew Lock has a 66.5 passer rating this season .
Of all players with 100 attempts this season , only Sam Darnold has a worse rating ( Darnold ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day ) .
If Lock doesn ’ t play better over the last seven games , it would be very tough to sell Broncos fans on another season of him at quarterback , ” Frank Schwab writes .
See the full rankings .

From the opening kickoff when Diontae Spencer ran backward to give the Broncos a terrible starting position, Sunday was not a good day for Denver.
A 37-12 loss to the Raiders in Las Vegas was among the Broncos’ worst of the season. In terms of the worst in head coach Vic Fangio’s tenure, Denver Post Broncos beat writer Ryan O’Halloran writes, “If it wasn’t, it’s definitely in contention.”
At 3-6 for the fourth straight season, Denver has a difficult road ahead. Next up: The surging Dolphins, who have won four straight.
Here’s a look at how various national experts rated the Broncos in their power rankings entering Week 11:
Bleacher Report (No. 28) | Last week: No. 25
“If there was any question as to whether the 2020 Denver Broncos were bad, it was answered Sunday in Las Vegas. Every facet of the team stunk against the Raiders. But the most depressing of all had to be second-year quarterback Drew Lock, who threw four interceptions and finished with a passer rating of 37.3. It’s becoming clearer by the week that Lock is not the long-term answer under center for the Broncos, unless the question is ‘who will lead the Broncos to six 5-11 seasons in a row?'” See the full rankings.
CBS Sports (No. 22) | Last week: No. 24
“Drew Lock looked ordinary at best against the Raiders, which is not a good thing for the long run. He has to quit turning it over,” Pete Prisco writes. See the full rankings.
ESPN (No. 23) | Last week: No. 22
“Passing on Bolles’ fifth-year option will cost Denver in the short term. Had the Broncos engaged Bolles’ option, he would have been paid slightly more than $11 million next season. While Bolles led the league in holding penalties during his first three seasons, he worked this past offseason to get stronger, and he has played with more composure as well as better hand technique. Some personnel executives believe he has played as well as any tackle in the league. The Broncos will face a decision, as well as competition for his services, when he is an unrestricted free agent in March. They’ll need to cut a big check to keep him,” Jeff Legwold writes. See the full rankings.
ANFL.com (No. 25) | Last week: No. 23
“It is not too early to be worried about Drew Lock. The second-year quarterback’s hot-and-cold sophomore season hit a nadir on Sunday with a four-interception meltdown against the rival Raiders in a 37-12 loss. Lock has thrown 10 interceptions in seven starts this year and continues to play recklessly with the football — a cowboy style of football that doesn’t quite sync up with his skill level. Lock is very young and still relatively inexperienced — his game has clear mechanical flaws and his play could improve with good coaching and better decision-making. But will John Elway and the Broncos have the patience to live with the growing pains? Lock might need a strong finish in the final seven weeks to keep the faith,” Dan Hanzus writes. See the full rankings.
Sporting News (No. 23) | Last week: No. 21
“Drew Lock seemed to have turned a corner with the Chargers and Falcons games, but his breakdown against a shaky Raiders defense isn’t all that inspiring, especially for John Elway. Now other parts of Vic Fangio’s defense are starting to fall apart, too,” Vinnie Iyer writes. See the full rankings.
Sports Illustrated (No. 25) | Last week: No. 24
“Lots of questions about where the Broncos go from here, and the big one might concern how they approach the quarterback position,” Albert Breer writes. See the full rankings.
USA Today (No. 24) | Last week: No. 23
“They better learn how to compete in AFC West after surrendering 110 points in their initial three-game swing through the division,” Nate Davis writes. See the full rankings.
Yahoo Sports (No. 28) | Last week: No. 24
“Drew Lock has a 66.5 passer rating this season. Of all players with 100 attempts this season, only Sam Darnold has a worse rating (Darnold’s collapse is a story for another day). If Lock doesn’t play better over the last seven games, it would be very tough to sell Broncos fans on another season of him at quarterback,” Frank Schwab writes. See the full rankings.


thedenverpost--2020-11-18--Rockies Mailbag: What will Nolan Arenado do, and does Colorado need a second baseman?

Denver Post sports writer Patrick Saunders with the latest installment of his Rockies Mailbag .
Pose a Rockies — or MLB — related question for the Rockies Mailbag .
Does Nolan Arenado want to win bad enough to forgo the money on his contract and opt out knowing his next deal ( with presumably a winning team ) would be significantly less ?
As much as Arenado wants to play for a winner — and make no mistake , he desperately wants that — I don ’ t think he will opt out .
There are three main reasons .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount of money for Arenado to give up , and you ’ re right , given baseball ’ s current financial environment , he ’ s unlikely to land another deal as lucrative as his current one .
Two , Arenado could still hope that the Rockies trade him once baseball returns to “ normal.
” Keep in mind that he has a full no-trade clause in his contract , so he could , theoretically , help steer the deal .
Three , Arenado ’ s baseball brethren would not look kindly on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to keep in mind that the MLB Players Association is an important part of the equation .
The players are a fraternity and when a player signs a mega-deal it helps the rest of the players .
As Arenado debated signing the contract , he was in frequent contact with the MLBPA .
The union ’ s input matters to him .
Players have opted out of big contracts before , but usually only for more money or a longer deal .
Think of Alex Rodriguez ’ s deal with the Yankees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreed to a 10-year , $ 275 million contract with the Yankees , a deal that only came about after he opted out of the final three years of his original 10-year , $ 252 million contract he signed with the Texas Rangers .
Do you see the Rockies getting a competent second baseman since they already have Josh Fuentes , Trevor Story and Nolan Arenado ?
Also , do you see them getting another starter in the rotation with the inconsistencies that they have had ?
Gabriel , I think the Rockies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ baseman in Ryan McMahon .
I still believe he has a ton of talent and I like his range and athleticism .
Does he need to be more consistent ?
Yes .
In 2020 , McMahon committed seven errors over 248 innings for a .947 fielding percentage .
In 2019 , he committed 13 errors over 860 innings for a .972 fielding percentage .
McMahon also regressed at the plate .
In 2019 , he hit .250 with a .779 OPS while striking out 29.7 % of the time .
In 2020 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a 34.2 strikeout percentage .
He needs to rebound , but I think he will .
As for your question regarding a starting pitcher , I don ’ t think the Rockies will look outside the organization to add another starter .
They are hoping that right-hander Ryan Castellani will take a big step forward .
The same goes for Chi Chi Gonzalez .
And there is a chance that left-hander Ryan Rolison will make his debut and be part of the 2021 rotation .
Rolison has yet to pitch above high-A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and has a good feel for his stuff .
Patrick , I saw that you talked to Todd Helton for your story on the Hall of Fame .
I ’ m wondering how he is doing ?
We don ’ t hear much about him .
Trevor , I did talk to Helton about his personal life .
That conversation will remain between the two of us .
But it ’ s no secret that he ’ s had some struggles , including two arrests for DUI , most recently in Knoxville , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tell me something -– on the record -– that I found very interesting .
“ I thought I was ready to retire and all of that , ” he said .
“ But if I had to do it all over again , I would have stayed in the game right after I retired .
I would have stayed with the Rockies as a special assistant .
It would have been a better decision .
It would have given me some structure.
” Helton said he still has a close relationship with Rockies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said there are no current plans for Helton to rejoin the Rockies organization .
Was DJ LeMahieu a clubhouse leader ?
And is some of the last two years due to players ’ unfavorable reactions to his not even getting an offer ?
Kenneth , LeMahieu was a clubhouse leader with the Rockies , but not in the traditional sense .
He was by no means a rah-rah guy and he didn ’ t say much , but his teammates thought he was the toughest player on the field .
He was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of his teammates upset when the Rockies did not attempt to re-sign him after the 2018 season ?
Most definitely .
At the same time , they were thrilled that he found success in New York .
Having said all of that , the players ’ reaction to LeMahieu ’ s departure is only a very small part of what ’ s gone wrong with the Rockies over the last two seasons .
I read your article concerning the Rockies ownership not doing an end-of-year question/answer session .
I think that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it seems they do not want to be held accountable for the problems of the team .
But my question has to do with the Rays and the way they do things .
I asked you this question and you stated that you do not think that the way the Rays run things would work here .
I have to disagree with that .
Dick Monfort wants a player that he can advertise to get the people in the stands .
The Rays do not have a player that is comparable to Arenado @ @ @ @ @ @ @ starting pitching , a plethora of relievers , and decent fielders .
If the ownership did it this way I think we would be a contender year in and year out .
We do not need a face of the franchise here to put rear ends in the seats ; a winning team would put more rear ends in the seats .
Your thoughts ?
Del , first of all , I was disappointed that the Rockies decided not to talk to the media after the end of the 2020 season .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would have a chance to talk to general manager Jeff Bridich about the state of the team .
Then I was told that wasn ’ t happening until the Rockies had some news to announce .
As far as the Rays vs. Rockies scenario , I think you and I disagree on a number of points .
For one thing , history has shown us that the Rockies are never likely to be able to pitch as well as teams at sea level .
Yes , pitching is important to Colorado ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pitchers as deep as the Rays ’ would be very difficult at altitude .
Free-agent pitchers , for example , are reluctant to come to Colorado .
I think the Rockies need to find a balance between solid pitching and a dynamic offense .
Right now , they lack both .
Also , keep in mind that the Rockies drew nearly 3 million fans to Coors Field in 2019 ( 36,953 per game ) while the Rays drew just short of 1.3 million fans ( 14,734 ) to Tropicana Field .
Central to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drawing fans to Coors Field .
Given the statements about how hard the team has been hit financially this year , what is the likelihood that Jeff Bridich looks to ship Trevor Story , Nolan Arenado and some starting pitching for an arsenal of future prospects , thus cutting the payroll significantly ?
This compared to keeping either of them and having another .500 team .
Chris , I don ’ t think the Rockies will trade both Arenado and Story .
One , perhaps , but not both .
And given that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Antonio Senzatela and Kyle Freeland , at a reasonable cost , for the next few years , I don ’ t seem them trading their top three pitchers .
Could right-hander Jon Gray be traded before he becomes a free agent after 2021 ?
Yes , that a possibility .
The bottom line : I don ’ t see the Rockies doing a complete teardown and a subsequent rebuild .
I understand that the MLB owners meeting in Dallas is canceled this year .
Will this meeting be held remotely , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Judy , you are correct , although it ’ s not the owners ’ meetings but the annual Winter Meetings that have been canceled .
The Winter Meetings had been scheduled for Dec. 7-10 in Dallas .
Now , the interaction between teams ’ front offices , agents and players will take place virtually .
Increasingly , negotiations have taken place via texts , phone calls and Facetime on computers .
Now we can add Zoom to the list .
I honestly don ’ t think that not having the “ convention ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to change things all that much .
Ken Rosenthal noted in one of his recent articles that the Rockies are willing to accept major leaguers in return for a Nolan Arenado trade .
They would like to compete and build around Trevor Story , rather than a package of prospects in return .
Have you heard anything similar to this ?
I would imagine this changes the amount of suitors that will be reaching out to the Rockies .
I agree with what Rosenthal wrote .
But , as Rosenthal also noted : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happening aren ’ t good , particularly when teams might prefer to wait for a member of the Great Free Agent Shortstop Class of 2021-22 .
Then again , what choice do the Rockies have but to try ?
It would be foolish for them to trade Story and keep Arenado when they already know of Arenado ’ s discontent.
” The problem is , of course , the size of Arenado ’ s contract .
He ’ s owed $ 35 million in 2021 and a total of $ 199 million over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
What do you think would be the fan reaction if Rockies management said the word “ rebuild ” ?
( I saw somewhere that the Rockies were last in team rankings at 30th ) .
Ken , I honestly don ’ t know what the reaction would be .
My guess is that it would be split between those fans who think that a rebuild is definitely needed and those who believe that a couple of key players could turn the team around .
The frustrating part of the quandary is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be in a position to add key players .
It ’ s nearing time to make plans for the annual Scottsdale pilgrimage .
Any word from the Rockies on fans at spring training ?
Jeff , you ’ re not the only one wondering if there will be traditional spring training , delayed spring training or no spring training at all .
As it stands now , teams are targeting Feb. 15 as the opening of camps but much depends on the coronavirus and a possible vaccine .
As for fans in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to tell .
I wish I had a more definitive answer for you .
Denver Post sports writer Patrick Saunders with the latest installment of his Rockies Mailbag .
Pose a Rockies — or MLB — related question for the Rockies Mailbag .

Denver Post sports writer Patrick Saunders with the latest installment of his Rockies Mailbag.
Pose a Rockies — or MLB — related question for the Rockies Mailbag.
Does Nolan Arenado want to win bad enough to forgo the money on his contract and opt out knowing his next deal (with presumably a winning team) would be significantly less?
— Marcus Farrell, Denver
Marcus, that’s the six-year, $199 million question. That’s what’s left on Arenado’s eight-year, $260 million deal.
As much as Arenado wants to play for a winner — and make no mistake, he desperately wants that — I don’t think he will opt out.
There are three main reasons.
One, that’s a huge amount of money for Arenado to give up, and you’re right, given baseball’s current financial environment, he’s unlikely to land another deal as lucrative as his current one.
Two, Arenado could still hope that the Rockies trade him once baseball returns to “normal.” Keep in mind that he has a full no-trade clause in his contract, so he could, theoretically, help steer the deal.
Three, Arenado’s baseball brethren would not look kindly on him turning down huge money. You have to keep in mind that the MLB Players Association is an important part of the equation. The players are a fraternity and when a player signs a mega-deal it helps the rest of the players. As Arenado debated signing the contract, he was in frequent contact with the MLBPA. The union’s input matters to him.
Players have opted out of big contracts before, but usually only for more money or a longer deal. Think of Alex Rodriguez’s deal with the Yankees. In December, 2007, A-Rod agreed to a 10-year, $275 million contract with the Yankees, a deal that only came about after he opted out of the final three years of his original 10-year, $252 million contract he signed with the Texas Rangers.
Do you see the Rockies getting a competent second baseman since they already have Josh Fuentes, Trevor Story and Nolan Arenado? Also, do you see them getting another starter in the rotation with the inconsistencies that they have had?
— Gabriel Guerrero, Fort Lupton
Gabriel, I think the Rockies already have a “competent” second baseman in Ryan McMahon.
I still believe he has a ton of talent and I like his range and athleticism. Does he need to be more consistent? Yes. In 2020, McMahon committed seven errors over 248 innings for a .947 fielding percentage. In 2019, he committed 13 errors over 860 innings for a .972 fielding percentage.
McMahon also regressed at the plate. In 2019, he hit .250 with a .779 OPS while striking out 29.7% of the time. In 2020, McMahon hit .215 with a .714 OPS with a 34.2 strikeout percentage. He needs to rebound, but I think he will.
As for your question regarding a starting pitcher, I don’t think the Rockies will look outside the organization to add another starter. They are hoping that right-hander Ryan Castellani will take a big step forward. The same goes for Chi Chi Gonzalez. And there is a chance that left-hander Ryan Rolison will make his debut and be part of the 2021 rotation.
Rolison has yet to pitch above high-A Lancaster, but he pitched in college and has a good feel for his stuff.
Patrick, I saw that you talked to Todd Helton for your story on the Hall of Fame. I’m wondering how he is doing? We don’t hear much about him.
— Trevor, Greeley
Trevor, I did talk to Helton about his personal life. That conversation will remain between the two of us. But it’s no secret that he’s had some struggles, including two arrests for DUI, most recently in Knoxville, Tenn., in 2019.
Helton did tell me something -– on the record -– that I found very interesting.
“I thought I was ready to retire and all of that,” he said. “But if I had to do it all over again, I would have stayed in the game right after I retired. I would have stayed with the Rockies as a special assistant. It would have been a better decision. It would have given me some structure.”
Helton said he still has a close relationship with Rockies owner Dick Monfort. However, he said there are no current plans for Helton to rejoin the Rockies organization.
Was DJ LeMahieu a clubhouse leader? And is some of the last two years due to players’ unfavorable reactions to his not even getting an offer?
— Kenneth Bell, Greeley
Kenneth, LeMahieu was a clubhouse leader with the Rockies, but not in the traditional sense. He was by no means a rah-rah guy and he didn’t say much, but his teammates thought he was the toughest player on the field. He was a beloved teammate, no question.
Were some of his teammates upset when the Rockies did not attempt to re-sign him after the 2018 season? Most definitely. At the same time, they were thrilled that he found success in New York.
Having said all of that, the players’ reaction to LeMahieu’s departure is only a very small part of what’s gone wrong with the Rockies over the last two seasons.
I read your article concerning the Rockies ownership not doing an end-of-year question/answer session. I think that is a little childish on their part as it seems they do not want to be held accountable for the problems of the team. But my question has to do with the Rays and the way they do things. I asked you this question and you stated that you do not think that the way the Rays run things would work here. I have to disagree with that. Dick Monfort wants a player that he can advertise to get the people in the stands. The Rays do not have a player that is comparable to Arenado. What they do have is good starting pitching, a plethora of relievers, and decent fielders. If the ownership did it this way I think we would be a contender year in and year out. We do not need a face of the franchise here to put rear ends in the seats; a winning team would put more rear ends in the seats. Your thoughts?
— Del, Lamar
Del, first of all, I was disappointed that the Rockies decided not to talk to the media after the end of the 2020 season. I was told, repeatedly, that we would have a chance to talk to general manager Jeff Bridich about the state of the team. Then I was told that wasn’t happening until the Rockies had some news to announce.
As far as the Rays vs. Rockies scenario, I think you and I disagree on a number of points. For one thing, history has shown us that the Rockies are never likely to be able to pitch as well as teams at sea level. Yes, pitching is important to Colorado’s success but putting together a stable of pitchers as deep as the Rays’ would be very difficult at altitude. Free-agent pitchers, for example, are reluctant to come to Colorado. I think the Rockies need to find a balance between solid pitching and a dynamic offense. Right now, they lack both.
Also, keep in mind that the Rockies drew nearly 3 million fans to Coors Field in 2019 (36,953 per game) while the Rays drew just short of 1.3 million fans (14,734) to Tropicana Field. Central to Dick Monfort’s business model is drawing fans to Coors Field.
Given the statements about how hard the team has been hit financially this year, what is the likelihood that Jeff Bridich looks to ship Trevor Story, Nolan Arenado and some starting pitching for an arsenal of future prospects, thus cutting the payroll significantly? This compared to keeping either of them and having another .500 team.
— Chris Ringwood, Denver
Chris, I don’t think the Rockies will trade both Arenado and Story. One, perhaps, but not both. And given that the club has control of German Marquez, Antonio Senzatela and Kyle Freeland, at a reasonable cost, for the next few years, I don’t seem them trading their top three pitchers. Could right-hander Jon Gray be traded before he becomes a free agent after 2021? Yes, that a possibility.
The bottom line: I don’t see the Rockies doing a complete teardown and a subsequent rebuild.
I understand that the MLB owners meeting in Dallas is canceled this year. Will this meeting be held remotely, and how will this impact the offseason?
— Judy Frieman, Denver
Judy, you are correct, although it’s not the owners’ meetings but the annual Winter Meetings that have been canceled. The Winter Meetings had been scheduled for Dec. 7-10 in Dallas. Now, the interaction between teams’ front offices, agents and players will take place virtually. Increasingly, negotiations have taken place via texts, phone calls and Facetime on computers. Now we can add Zoom to the list. I honestly don’t think that not having the “convention” that is the Winter Meeting is going to change things all that much.
Ken Rosenthal noted in one of his recent articles that the Rockies are willing to accept major leaguers in return for a Nolan Arenado trade. They would like to compete and build around Trevor Story, rather than a package of prospects in return. Have you heard anything similar to this? I would imagine this changes the amount of suitors that will be reaching out to the Rockies.
— James, Denver
I agree with what Rosenthal wrote. But, as Rosenthal also noted: “The odds of such a deal happening aren’t good, particularly when teams might prefer to wait for a member of the Great Free Agent Shortstop Class of 2021-22. Then again, what choice do the Rockies have but to try? It would be foolish for them to trade Story and keep Arenado when they already know of Arenado’s discontent.”
The problem is, of course, the size of Arenado’s contract. He’s owed $35 million in 2021 and a total of $199 million over the final six years of his contract.
What do you think would be the fan reaction if Rockies management said the word “rebuild”? (I saw somewhere that the Rockies were last in team rankings at 30th).
— Ken Fonda, Greeley
Ken, I honestly don’t know what the reaction would be. My guess is that it would be split between those fans who think that a rebuild is definitely needed and those who believe that a couple of key players could turn the team around. The frustrating part of the quandary is that the Rockies don’t seem to be in a position to add key players.
It’s nearing time to make plans for the annual Scottsdale pilgrimage. Any word from the Rockies on fans at spring training?
— Jeff, Elizabeth
Jeff, you’re not the only one wondering if there will be traditional spring training, delayed spring training or no spring training at all. As it stands now, teams are targeting Feb. 15 as the opening of camps but much depends on the coronavirus and a possible vaccine.
As for fans in the stands, it’s too early to tell. I wish I had a more definitive answer for you.
Denver Post sports writer Patrick Saunders with the latest installment of his Rockies Mailbag.
Pose a Rockies — or MLB — related question for the Rockies Mailbag.


thedenverpost--2020-11-19--Broncos to still allow 5,700 fans at Sunday’s game against Dolphins, source says, despite Denver mov

Broncos to still allow 5,700 fans at Sunday’s game against Dolphins, source says, despite Denver moving to Level Red

Despite a record spike in coronavirus around Colorado , the Broncos will still allow 5,700 fans into Sunday ’ s game against the Dolphins at Empower Field , a league source told The Denver Post .
The state health department announced Tuesday that Denver and surrounding metro counties were moving to Level Red , the second-highest level of restriction on Colorado ’ s coronavirus dial .
But a league source said that change , and the rise in cases and hospitalizations statewide , hasn ’ t affected the Broncos ’ attendance capability .
On Sept. 8 , Gov .
Jared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to attend Broncos home games , and that was officially extended Oct. 5 to cover the team ’ s seven remaining games at Empower Field .
The team initially opened the season to no fans at Empower Field in Week 1 against Tennessee .
• Broncos Briefs : Fixing turnover problem will be challenge against opportunistic Miami defense • On track for fourth consecutive losing season , Broncos should take cues from the young , surging Dolphins The Level Red designation , a notch below Level Purple which includes a stay-at-home mandate , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or 75 people , and individuals can only attend outdoor events with members of their own households .
A league source said the Broncos ’ current attendance rules and safety measures fall in line with the Level Red mandates .
An attendance of 5,700 is about 7.5 % of the stadium ’ s capacity , while seating is sold in “ pods ” of one to six tickets and sections are separated into smaller groups with designated entry , concession and restroom areas .
Masks are required and there are signs everywhere to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Broncos have been in constant communication on attendance at Empower Field with Gov .
Polis ’ office , which the league source said has approved of the club ’ s efforts to limit co-mingling at games ( no tailgating or congregating inside the concourses/stadium bowl is allowed ) .
Gov .
Polis ’ office did not respond to request for comment for this story .
Meanwhile , Scott Bookman , Colorado ’ s COVID-19 Incident Commander , told 9News that “ the Broncos have been wonderful partners throughout the course of this pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is able to still have fans while restaurants , bars , offices , schools and gyms are all facing severe restrictions starting this weekend .
“ We continue to be in conversations with the Broncos to make sure that we are doing all that we can to keep everyone safe ( at the games ) , ” Bookman said .
All ticket inventory for Sunday ’ s game will again be limited to the 100 level , the 300 level , United Clubs and suites/premium areas .
If Denver were to move to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ size would not be allowed .

Despite a record spike in coronavirus around Colorado, the Broncos will still allow 5,700 fans into Sunday’s game against the Dolphins at Empower Field, a league source told The Denver Post.
The state health department announced Tuesday that Denver and surrounding metro counties were moving to Level Red, the second-highest level of restriction on Colorado’s coronavirus dial. But a league source said that change, and the rise in cases and hospitalizations statewide, hasn’t affected the Broncos’ attendance capability.
On Sept. 8, Gov. Jared Polis announced a variance for 5,700 fans to attend Broncos home games, and that was officially extended Oct. 5 to cover the team’s seven remaining games at Empower Field. The team initially opened the season to no fans at Empower Field in Week 1 against Tennessee.
The Level Red designation, a notch below Level Purple which includes a stay-at-home mandate, allows outdoor events at 25% capacity or 75 people, and individuals can only attend outdoor events with members of their own households.
A league source said the Broncos’ current attendance rules and safety measures fall in line with the Level Red mandates. An attendance of 5,700 is about 7.5% of the stadium’s capacity, while seating is sold in “pods” of one to six tickets and sections are separated into smaller groups with designated entry, concession and restroom areas. Masks are required and there are signs everywhere to remind fans to social distance.
The Broncos have been in constant communication on attendance at Empower Field with Gov. Polis’ office, which the league source said has approved of the club’s efforts to limit co-mingling at games (no tailgating or congregating inside the concourses/stadium bowl is allowed).
Gov. Polis’ office did not respond to request for comment for this story. Meanwhile, Scott Bookman, Colorado’s COVID-19 Incident Commander, told 9News that “the Broncos have been wonderful partners throughout the course of this pandemic” when asked about why the team is able to still have fans while restaurants, bars, offices, schools and gyms are all facing severe restrictions starting this weekend.
“We continue to be in conversations with the Broncos to make sure that we are doing all that we can to keep everyone safe (at the games),” Bookman said.
All ticket inventory for Sunday’s game will again be limited to the 100 level, the 300 level, United Clubs and suites/premium areas. If Denver were to move to Level Purple, outdoor events of any size would not be allowed.


thedenverpost--2020-11-19--Warriors guard Klay Thompson suffers right leg injury

SAN FRANCISCO — Golden State guard Klay Thompson injured his right leg Wednesday during a workout in Southern California .
@ @ @ @ @ without providing further details about the severity or any timeline for his availability with training @ @ @ @ @ the season beginning Dec. 22 .
It was unclear how this might affect Golden State @ @ @ @ @ , when the Warriors held the No .
2 overall selection .
This could be @ @ @ @ @ Warriors , who finished worst in the NBA last season .
Thompson didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus-shortened season this year as he worked back from surgery for a torn ACL in @ @ @ @ @ suffered that injury in the deciding Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals against the @ @ @

SAN FRANCISCO — Golden State guard Klay Thompson injured his right leg Wednesday during a workout in Southern California.
The team announced the injury without providing further details about the severity or any timeline for his availability with training camp starting Dec. 1 and the season beginning Dec. 22. It was unclear how this might affect Golden State’s draft decisions Wednesday, when the Warriors held the No. 2 overall selection.
This could be a severe blow for the Warriors, who finished worst in the NBA last season. Thompson didn’t play at all during the coronavirus-shortened season this year as he worked back from surgery for a torn ACL in his left knee. He suffered that injury in the deciding Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals against the Toronto Raptors.


thedenverpost--2020-11-18--Robinson Canó suspended 162 games by MLB after drug test

NEW YORK — Mets second baseman Robinson Canó was suspended for 162 games by Major League Baseball on Wednesday after he tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug for the second time in his decorated career .
The 38-year-old Canó will miss the entire 2021 season and lose $ 24 million in salary .
The eight-time All-Star hit a robust .316 with 10 home runs and 30 RBIs in this year ’ s pandemic-shortened season .
Minus Canó , New York could move good-hitting Jeff McNeil into a regular spot at second base .
The suspension also will surely prompt calls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DJ LeMahieu , an AL MVP candidate this year with the Yankees .
The penalty came less than two weeks after Steve Cohen bought the Mets for $ 2.4 billion , a move that created an avalanche of positivity for a team that has reached the playoffs just three times in the last 20 years .
The commissioner ’ s office said Canó tested positive for Stanozolol , an anabolic steroid .
He was penalized 80 games in May 2018 while with Seattle after a positive test for Furosemide , a diuretic that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ substances .
“ We were extremely disappointed to be informed about Robinson ’ s suspension for violating Major League Baseball ’ s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program , ” new Mets president Sandy Alderson said in a statement .
“ The violation is very unfortunate for him , the organization , our fans , and the sport .
The Mets fully support MLB ’ s efforts toward eliminating performance-enhancing substances from the game.
” There was no immediate comment from Canó or the players ’ union .
Alderson was hired by Cohen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ completed .
General manager Brodie Van Wagenen exited the same day — Van Wagenen made the trade to get Canó from Seattle in December 2018 after previously being his agent .
In a move that polarized Mets fans , the high-priced Canó and big league saves leader Edwin Díaz were acquired in a deal that sent top outfield prospect Jarred Kelenic and young pitching to the Mariners .
Canó was set to head into the eighth year of his $ 240 million , 10-year contract .
He will not be eligible for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In 16 seasons , he is a career .303 hitter with 1,302 RBIs and two Gold Gloves .
He played 49 games this year in a season shortened from the usual 162 to 60 because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Canó became a star with the Yankees , then signed a big contract with the Mariners .
His ban during the 2018 season made him among the most prominent players penalized under baseball ’ s anti-doping rules .
At that time , Canó said the diuretic “ was given to me by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to treat a medical ailment.
” Canó said he didn ’ t realize the drug was banned by MLB .
McNeil has hit .319 in three seasons with the Mets and was an All-Star in 2019 .
Second base is probably his most natural position , though he ’ s done fine while also playing third base , left field and right field .

NEW YORK — Mets second baseman Robinson Canó was suspended for 162 games by Major League Baseball on Wednesday after he tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug for the second time in his decorated career.
The 38-year-old Canó will miss the entire 2021 season and lose $24 million in salary. The eight-time All-Star hit a robust .316 with 10 home runs and 30 RBIs in this year’s pandemic-shortened season.
Minus Canó, New York could move good-hitting Jeff McNeil into a regular spot at second base. The suspension also will surely prompt calls by Mets fans to sign free agent DJ LeMahieu, an AL MVP candidate this year with the Yankees.
The penalty came less than two weeks after Steve Cohen bought the Mets for $2.4 billion, a move that created an avalanche of positivity for a team that has reached the playoffs just three times in the last 20 years.
The commissioner’s office said Canó tested positive for Stanozolol, an anabolic steroid. He was penalized 80 games in May 2018 while with Seattle after a positive test for Furosemide, a diuretic that some athletes have used to mask other substances.
“We were extremely disappointed to be informed about Robinson’s suspension for violating Major League Baseball’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program,” new Mets president Sandy Alderson said in a statement. “The violation is very unfortunate for him, the organization, our fans, and the sport. The Mets fully support MLB’s efforts toward eliminating performance-enhancing substances from the game.”
There was no immediate comment from Canó or the players’ union.
Alderson was hired by Cohen on the day the Mets sale was completed. General manager Brodie Van Wagenen exited the same day — Van Wagenen made the trade to get Canó from Seattle in December 2018 after previously being his agent.
In a move that polarized Mets fans, the high-priced Canó and big league saves leader Edwin Díaz were acquired in a deal that sent top outfield prospect Jarred Kelenic and young pitching to the Mariners.
Canó was set to head into the eighth year of his $240 million, 10-year contract. He will not be eligible for the playoffs if the Mets make the postseason.
In 16 seasons, he is a career .303 hitter with 1,302 RBIs and two Gold Gloves. He played 49 games this year in a season shortened from the usual 162 to 60 because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Canó became a star with the Yankees, then signed a big contract with the Mariners. His ban during the 2018 season made him among the most prominent players penalized under baseball’s anti-doping rules.
At that time, Canó said the diuretic “was given to me by a licensed doctor in the Dominican Republic to treat a medical ailment.” Canó said he didn’t realize the drug was banned by MLB.
McNeil has hit .319 in three seasons with the Mets and was an All-Star in 2019. Second base is probably his most natural position, though he’s done fine while also playing third base, left field and right field.


thedenverpost--2020-11-18--Charlie Brown specials to air on TV, after all, in PBS deal

NEW YORK — The “ Great Pumpkin ” never showed on broadcast television this year , but after a deal @ @ @ @ @ Brown Thanksgiving and Christmas specials will return to the air .
Last month , Apple @ @ @ @ @ to the beloved Peanuts holiday specials .
That sparked an outcry from viewers who were @ @ @ @ @ on network TV .
Apple offered each special to stream for free for a handful @ @ @ @ @ didn ’ t stop online petitions from gathering hundreds of thousands of signatures .
On @ @ @ @ @ the backlash , announcing it had teamed up with PBS for ad-free broadcasts of “ @ @ @ @ @ ( on Nov. 22 ) and “ A Charlie Brown Christmas ” ( on Dec. @ @ @ @ @ will also be available for free during three-day windows on Apple TV+ ( Nov. 25-27 @ @ @ @ @ Dec. 11-13 for “ Christmas.
” ) For subscribers , the specials will be available @ @ @ @ @ 4 , respectively .

NEW YORK — The “Great Pumpkin” never showed on broadcast television this year, but after a deal with PBS, the Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and Christmas specials will return to the air.
Last month, Apple TV+ became the new home to the beloved Peanuts holiday specials. That sparked an outcry from viewers who were accustomed to annually tuning in on network TV. Apple offered each special to stream for free for a handful of days, but that didn’t stop online petitions from gathering hundreds of thousands of signatures.
On Wednesday, Apple bowed to the backlash, announcing it had teamed up with PBS for ad-free broadcasts of “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” (on Nov. 22) and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (on Dec. 13).
Both specials will also be available for free during three-day windows on Apple TV+ (Nov. 25-27 for “Thanksgiving” and Dec. 11-13 for “Christmas.”) For subscribers, the specials will be available beginning Nov. 18 and Dec. 4, respectively.


thedenverpost--2020-11-18--Gary Lynn Harris, Denver native, scientist and scholar, dies at 67

Gary Lynn Harris , a native of Denver ’ s Five Points neighborhood who went on to become an electrical engineer and scientist , and whose research focused on semiconductor fabrication of electronic and optical materials , died Oct. 26 of colon cancer .
Harris was 67 .
Harris , who graduated from Manual High School in 1971 , earned bachelor of science , master of science and Ph.D. degrees in electrical engineering from Cornell University , becoming one of the two first African-Americans to receive a Ph.D. in electrical engineering-electro-physics from Cornell , according to the Journal of Blacks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to serve Howard University in various capacities , including as dean of the Graduate School and associate provost for research .
“ He was often celebrated for his listening ear , willingness to provide great advice and deep love for graduate students , ” said Wayne A. I. Frederick , president of Howard University , in a letter to the Howard community .
Frederick said Harris , a Howard faculty member since 1980 , is fondly remembered for his “ generosity of time , intellect and caring.
” Harris mentored and advised more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ graduates with their research theses and dissertations .
An author , he published more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific articles , he presented more than 200 papers at scientific conferences , and edited five books .
Harris served as an associate with the National Research and Resource Facility for Submicron Structures and he was a visiting scientist at the Naval Research Laboratory .
“ Dr .
Harris is the epitome of the University motto – ‘ Veritas et Utilitas , ’ ‘ Truth and Service , ’ ” said Dana A. Williams , interim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in the community letter .
“ The contributions he made during his tenure as the dean of the Graduate School have had an unparalleled positive impact on the Howard University community.
” Born on June 24 , 1953 , Harris attended Gilpin Elementary School , Cole Middle School and Manual .
As a boy , Harris demonstrated an aptitude for electronics when he helped his father , Norman , who ran a television and radio repair business from a garage on California Street in Denver .
“ That ’ s where my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Rickey Harris .
“ He would help my dad and he got really good at it.
” A scholar , Harris was named the “ head boy , ” equivalent to student body president , at Manual .
He worked as an electrician for a local company and secured an internship at Martin Marietta .
Harris also worked with his brothers at Denver Broncos football games , selling sodas and hot dogs .
He was a staunch , lifelong Broncos fan .
As a teenager , he developed a passion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park Golf Course .
Later in life , Harris enjoyed travel , and with his wife , Jennifer , visited international destinations including Europe , South America , Central America and Mexico .
“ Gary was a pretty outgoing person , ” Rickey Harris said .
“ He was well liked by his peers and his friends.
” Throughout his life , Harris had a focused drive to excel .
“ You could see early on that he was going to do great things , ” Rickey Harris said .
“ That ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of us.
” The Harris family attended the Central Baptist Church in Denver .
As an adult , when Harris visited family in Denver , he ’ d often go to local schools to talk with and inspire students .
“ He never forgot where he came from .
He would always come back and reach out to the students at Manual and other schools , and he was instrumental in getting several students to attend Howard University , ” Rickey Harris said .
“ We are really proud of that.
” As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nanoscale Science and Engineering Facility , Harris developed a state-of-the-art mobile laboratory , known as the “ NanoExpress , ” which brought science to the public and served about 10,000 enthusiasts annually .
He was also known for advocating science education through media , including a news talk show , “ Nano Talk , ” he launched on Sirius XM .
“ People can ’ t do what they can ’ t imagine ” was a motto .
Harris was recognized with the Electrical Engineering Outstanding Teacher Award and the National Society of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In 2017 , Cornell awarded him the inaugural Turner Kittrell Medal of Honor .
In 2019 , Howard dedicated the Graduate School Research and Media Center in his honor .
Harris is survived by his wife of 36 years , Jennifer ; a daughter , Jamie Harris , Los Angeles , and a son , Wesley , New York ; two brothers , Norman and Rickey , both of Denver ; three sisters , Sophronia Ann Harris , Marlean Dorsey , and Pearl Harris , all of Denver .
He was preceded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Gladies ; and a sister , Wyona Annie Wise .
A service was held on Nov. 6 in Washington , D.C .
He is interred in Fort Lincoln Cemetery , Md .
In lieu of memorial contributions , the family suggests that a tree be planted in his honor .

Gary Lynn Harris, a native of Denver’s Five Points neighborhood who went on to become an electrical engineer and scientist, and whose research focused on semiconductor fabrication of electronic and optical materials, died Oct. 26 of colon cancer. Harris was 67.
Harris, who graduated from Manual High School in 1971, earned bachelor of science, master of science and Ph.D. degrees in electrical engineering from Cornell University, becoming one of the two first African-Americans to receive a Ph.D. in electrical engineering-electro-physics from Cornell, according to the Journal of Blacks in Higher Education.
He went on to serve Howard University in various capacities, including as dean of the Graduate School and associate provost for research.
“He was often celebrated for his listening ear, willingness to provide great advice and deep love for graduate students,” said Wayne A. I. Frederick, president of Howard University, in a letter to the Howard community.
Frederick said Harris, a Howard faculty member since 1980, is fondly remembered for his “generosity of time, intellect and caring.”
Harris mentored and advised more than 150 master’s and Ph.D. graduates with their research theses and dissertations. An author, he published more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific articles, he presented more than 200 papers at scientific conferences, and edited five books.
Harris served as an associate with the National Research and Resource Facility for Submicron Structures and he was a visiting scientist at the Naval Research Laboratory.
“Dr. Harris is the epitome of the University motto – ‘Veritas et Utilitas,’ ‘Truth and Service,’ ” said Dana A. Williams, interim dean of Howard’s Graduate School, in the community letter. “The contributions he made during his tenure as the dean of the Graduate School have had an unparalleled positive impact on the Howard University community.”
Born on June 24, 1953, Harris attended Gilpin Elementary School, Cole Middle School and Manual. As a boy, Harris demonstrated an aptitude for electronics when he helped his father, Norman, who ran a television and radio repair business from a garage on California Street in Denver.
“That’s where my brother picked up a love for electronics,” said Rickey Harris. “He would help my dad and he got really good at it.”
A scholar, Harris was named the “head boy,” equivalent to student body president, at Manual. He worked as an electrician for a local company and secured an internship at Martin Marietta.
Harris also worked with his brothers at Denver Broncos football games, selling sodas and hot dogs. He was a staunch, lifelong Broncos fan. As a teenager, he developed a passion for golf, often playing at City Park Golf Course. Later in life, Harris enjoyed travel, and with his wife, Jennifer, visited international destinations including Europe, South America, Central America and Mexico.
“Gary was a pretty outgoing person,” Rickey Harris said. “He was well liked by his peers and his friends.”
Throughout his life, Harris had a focused drive to excel. “You could see early on that he was going to do great things,” Rickey Harris said. “That’s something our grandmother instilled in all of us.”
The Harris family attended the Central Baptist Church in Denver. As an adult, when Harris visited family in Denver, he’d often go to local schools to talk with and inspire students.
“He never forgot where he came from. He would always come back and reach out to the students at Manual and other schools, and he was instrumental in getting several students to attend Howard University,” Rickey Harris said. “We are really proud of that.”
As part of his work at the Howard Nanoscale Science and Engineering Facility, Harris developed a state-of-the-art mobile laboratory, known as the “NanoExpress,” which brought science to the public and served about 10,000 enthusiasts annually. He was also known for advocating science education through media, including a news talk show, “Nano Talk,” he launched on Sirius XM.
“People can’t do what they can’t imagine” was a motto.
Harris was recognized with the Electrical Engineering Outstanding Teacher Award and the National Society of Black Engineers Scientist of the Year Award. In 2017, Cornell awarded him the inaugural Turner Kittrell Medal of Honor. In 2019, Howard dedicated the Graduate School Research and Media Center in his honor.
Harris is survived by his wife of 36 years, Jennifer; a daughter, Jamie Harris, Los Angeles, and a son, Wesley, New York; two brothers, Norman and Rickey, both of Denver; three sisters, Sophronia Ann Harris, Marlean Dorsey, and Pearl Harris, all of Denver. He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Gladies; and a sister, Wyona Annie Wise.
A service was held on Nov. 6 in Washington, D.C. He is interred in Fort Lincoln Cemetery, Md. In lieu of memorial contributions, the family suggests that a tree be planted in his honor.


thedenverpost--2020-11-18--Colorado high school football playoffs primer: Favorites, challengers, dark horses and biggest snubs

No .
1 Cherry Creek ( 6-0 ) vs. No .
8 Regis Jesuit ( 5-1 ) , 4 p.m. Friday No .
4 Pomona ( 6-0 ) vs. No .
5 Eaglecrest ( 4-1 ) , 5 p.m. Friday at Valor Stadium No .
2 Valor Christian ( 5-0 ) vs. No .
7 Cherokee Trail ( 4-2 ) , 6 p.m. Thursday at Valor Stadium No .
3 Legend ( 6-0 ) vs. No .
6 Fairview ( 6-0 ) , 2:30 p.m. Saturday at EchoPark Stadium Biggest snub : Columbine — The Rebels ’ fate was likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their rivalry showdown with Ralston Valley .
With one less game on the schedule — which also happened to be one of Columbine ’ s toughest — last year ’ s 5A runners-up didn ’ t have the RPI strength to climb into the top 8 .
Honorable mention : Castle View ’ s two losses came to unbeaten Valor and Fairview , the latter of which CV actually led in the fourth quarter .
Favorite : Cherry Creek — Shockingly , the Bruins were not a unanimous No .
1 in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vote went to Valor Christian .
As good as the Eagles have been , however , there ’ s no doubt the Bruins are prohibitive favorites .
Not only do they have a roster overflowing with FBS-level talent , they just rampaged through the deepest league in the state .
Consider this : The Bruins defense has scored as many touchdowns as it has given up ( 2 ) in its last five Centennial League games .
Throw in a deadly passing game piloted by CU hoops commit Julian Hammond III ( 1,802 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , an explosive rushing attack led by James Walker II ( 709 yards , 8 TDs ) and a special teams that has four touchdowns to its name , and the Bruins have zero holes .
Challenger : Valor Christian — There ’ s only one Gavin Sawchuk in the state of Colorado , and he plays for the Eagles .
That alone makes Valor a serious threat to win their fourth 5A title in six years .
The five-star Class of 2022 running back is averaging a gaudy 10.7 yards per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yards and 17 TDs .
On the other side of the ball , the Valor defense has allowed just 28 points this season — 21 of which came in one game against Castle View .
Dark horse : Legend — The Titans appear to have all the ingredients of a legit contender .
Balanced offense ?
Kalen Shoemaker has 890 yards and 14 TDs passing , while Connor Eise ( 798 yards , 8 TDs ) powers a strong run game .
Salty defense ?
Legend posted three shutouts and a near blanking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Signature wins ?
Aside from dominating Regis , the Titans also outlasted defending 4A champion Pine Creek 21-20 .
A matchup with perenial power Fairview , which once again features an explosive passing attack , will tell the tale this weekend .
No .
1 Dakota Ridge ( 6-0 ) vs. No .
8 Montrose ( 4-2 ) , 3 p.m. Saturday at Englewood High School No .
4 Loveland ( 6-0 ) vs. No .
5 Broomfield ( 5-0 ) , 6:30 p.m. Friday at Ray Patterson Field No .
2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
7 Pine Creek ( 2-2 ) , 1 p.m. Saturday at Don Breese Stadium No .
3 Ponderosa ( 6-0 ) vs. No .
6 Fountain-Fort Carson ( 5-1 ) , 10:30 a.m. Saturday at EchoPark Stadium Biggest snub : Skyline — Pity the poor Falcons , whose lone loss this season came by one point to fourth-seeded Loveland .
Two years removed from a surprise run to the 4A title game , Skyline would ’ ve been a tough out with its explosive offense led by Chase Silva and Grayden Bridwell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Brighton had just one blemish on its record — a 30-21 loss to No .
5 Broomfield that was a white-knuckler .
Favorite : Dakota Ridge — Nobody came close to challenging Dakota Ridge in six regular-season games , with the Eagles outscoring opponents 308-32 .
In fact , over the last four , the Eagles surrendered just two field goals while scoring 42-plus points in each .
CU commit Charlie Offerdahl is averaging 11.6 yards per carry with 13 total TDs as well as five interceptions on defense .
Quarterback Ben @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passing .
And both of those guys have spent some time watching from the sidelines of blowout wins .
Could the Eagles be a product of a down league ?
We ’ ll find out Saturday in Englewood .
Challenger : Palmer Ridge — When in doubt , go with the team that features a future CSU quarterback ( Luke McAllister ) and multiple college recruits at wide receiver ( Kaden Dudley , Anthony Costanzo and Marcellus Reed ) .
The Bears no doubt have the passing attack to go the distance in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But will they be sharp after missing back-to-back games to COVID ?
A quarterfinal matchup with Pine Creek — which beat Palmer Ridge each of the past two years — offers a shot at revenge .
Dark horse : Fountain-Fort Carson — CHSAA ’ s RPI loved the Trojans , ranking the former 5A squad at No .
1 .
The state ’ s coaches , which put FFC at No .
6 , weren ’ t quite as impressed with a resume that includes a split of a season series with Rampart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One thing is for certain : Senior running back Q Jones ( 137 carries , 1,395 yards , TDs ) is a force to be reckoned with .
A stingy Ponderosa defense awaits in the quarterfinals .
No .
1 Roosevelt ( 5-0 ) vs. No .
8 Fort Morgan ( 4-1 ) , 1 p.m. Saturday No .
4 Pueblo South ( 4-0 ) vs. No .
5 Mead ( 5-1 ) , Mead forced to forfeit due to COVID-19 No .
2 Holy Family ( 6-0 ) vs. No .
7 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday No .
3 Durango ( 5-0 ) vs. No .
6 Lutheran ( 4-1 ) , 1 p.m. Saturday at Demon Stadium Biggest snub : Palisade — The 3A bracket ended up being relatively straightforward , but the Bulldogs ( 4-2 ) could certainly have some beef given that they knocked off seventh-seeded Evergreen 24-7 in Week 1 .
Conifer , which beat Palisade but lost to Evergreen in Week 6 , could also have an argument .
Favorite : Holy Family — For the first time since 2016 , the 3A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Palmer Ridge .
While Roosevelt may make sense to peg as the favorite since the Roughriders are the No .
1 seed , we ’ ll go with the one team in the bracket that has a double-digit victory over a state playoff team , Holy Family , which pushed around sixth-seeded Lutheran in a 38-14 win .
The Tigers have size up front , a quarterback who can sling it ( Michael White , 903 yards , 12 TDs ) and a running back who can detonate in an instant ( Trevin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 9.7 ypc ) .
Challenger : Roosevelt — It ’ s been five years since the Roughriders last reached the 3A final , and this may be their best chance to get back there .
An overtime win over Mead — decided by a missed extra point — is the Roughriders ’ most impressive victory .
Since then , they ’ ve outscored their last three opponents 139-0 .
Six-foot-2 , 190-pound quarterback Brig Hartson is a threat running ( 204 yards , 2 TDs ) and throwing ( 838 yards , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while the defense has a pair of playmakers in Clayton Robinson ( 13.0 TFLs , 5.5 sacks , 1 INT ) and Cooper Walton ( 11.0 TFLs , 1 INT ) and allowed just four touchdowns as a unit .
Dark horse : Pueblo South — A Pueblo team has played in the 3A championship game five of the last six seasons , and there ’ s reason to believe Pueblo South could do so again for the second straight year .
The Colts got off to a slow start after missing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID , but they ’ ve already advanced to the semifinals after coronavirus knocked out Mead after the bracket was revealed .
All-state running back George Longoria has 816 yards and four touchdowns rushing in just four games .
Honorable mention : Durango , led by dual-threat QB Jordan Woolverton and a stifling defense , will be tough to beat .
Note : All games at home site of higher seed unless otherwise noted .

Class 5A
Quarterfinals
No. 1 Cherry Creek (6-0) vs. No. 8 Regis Jesuit (5-1), 4 p.m. Friday
No. 4 Pomona (6-0) vs. No. 5 Eaglecrest (4-1), 5 p.m. Friday at Valor Stadium
No. 2 Valor Christian (5-0) vs. No. 7 Cherokee Trail (4-2), 6 p.m. Thursday at Valor Stadium
No. 3 Legend (6-0) vs. No. 6 Fairview (6-0), 2:30 p.m. Saturday at EchoPark Stadium
Biggest snub: Columbine — The Rebels’ fate was likely sealed the day they had to cancel their rivalry showdown with Ralston Valley. With one less game on the schedule — which also happened to be one of Columbine’s toughest — last year’s 5A runners-up didn’t have the RPI strength to climb into the top 8. Honorable mention: Castle View’s two losses came to unbeaten Valor and Fairview, the latter of which CV actually led in the fourth quarter.
Favorite: Cherry Creek — Shockingly, the Bruins were not a unanimous No. 1 in the final CHSAANow coaches poll. One first-place vote went to Valor Christian. As good as the Eagles have been, however, there’s no doubt the Bruins are prohibitive favorites. Not only do they have a roster overflowing with FBS-level talent, they just rampaged through the deepest league in the state. Consider this: The Bruins defense has scored as many touchdowns as it has given up (2) in its last five Centennial League games. Throw in a deadly passing game piloted by CU hoops commit Julian Hammond III (1,802 yards, 17 TDs, 3 INTs), an explosive rushing attack led by James Walker II (709 yards, 8 TDs) and a special teams that has four touchdowns to its name, and the Bruins have zero holes.
Challenger: Valor Christian — There’s only one Gavin Sawchuk in the state of Colorado, and he plays for the Eagles. That alone makes Valor a serious threat to win their fourth 5A title in six years. The five-star Class of 2022 running back is averaging a gaudy 10.7 yards per carry through five games with 1,149 all-purpose yards and 17 TDs. On the other side of the ball, the Valor defense has allowed just 28 points this season — 21 of which came in one game against Castle View.
Dark horse: Legend — The Titans appear to have all the ingredients of a legit contender. Balanced offense? Kalen Shoemaker has 890 yards and 14 TDs passing, while Connor Eise (798 yards, 8 TDs) powers a strong run game. Salty defense? Legend posted three shutouts and a near blanking of Regis Jesuit in a 31-7 drubbing. Signature wins? Aside from dominating Regis, the Titans also outlasted defending 4A champion Pine Creek 21-20. A matchup with perenial power Fairview, which once again features an explosive passing attack, will tell the tale this weekend.
Class 4A
Quarterfinals
No. 1 Dakota Ridge (6-0) vs. No. 8 Montrose (4-2), 3 p.m. Saturday at Englewood High School
No. 4 Loveland (6-0) vs. No. 5 Broomfield (5-0), 6:30 p.m. Friday at Ray Patterson Field
No. 2 Palmer Ridge (4-0) vs. No. 7 Pine Creek (2-2), 1 p.m. Saturday at Don Breese Stadium
No. 3 Ponderosa (6-0) vs. No. 6 Fountain-Fort Carson (5-1), 10:30 a.m. Saturday at EchoPark Stadium
Biggest snub: Skyline — Pity the poor Falcons, whose lone loss this season came by one point to fourth-seeded Loveland. Two years removed from a surprise run to the 4A title game, Skyline would’ve been a tough out with its explosive offense led by Chase Silva and Grayden Bridwell. Honorable mention: Similar to Skyline, Brighton had just one blemish on its record — a 30-21 loss to No. 5 Broomfield that was a white-knuckler.
Favorite: Dakota Ridge — Nobody came close to challenging Dakota Ridge in six regular-season games, with the Eagles outscoring opponents 308-32. In fact, over the last four, the Eagles surrendered just two field goals while scoring 42-plus points in each. CU commit Charlie Offerdahl is averaging 11.6 yards per carry with 13 total TDs as well as five interceptions on defense. Quarterback Ben Gultig has 920 yards and 14 TDs passing. And both of those guys have spent some time watching from the sidelines of blowout wins. Could the Eagles be a product of a down league? We’ll find out Saturday in Englewood.
Challenger: Palmer Ridge — When in doubt, go with the team that features a future CSU quarterback (Luke McAllister) and multiple college recruits at wide receiver (Kaden Dudley, Anthony Costanzo and Marcellus Reed). The Bears no doubt have the passing attack to go the distance in their jump to the 4A ranks. But will they be sharp after missing back-to-back games to COVID? A quarterfinal matchup with Pine Creek — which beat Palmer Ridge each of the past two years — offers a shot at revenge.
Dark horse: Fountain-Fort Carson — CHSAA’s RPI loved the Trojans, ranking the former 5A squad at No. 1. The state’s coaches, which put FFC at No. 6, weren’t quite as impressed with a resume that includes a split of a season series with Rampart and a win over Pueblo West. One thing is for certain: Senior running back Q Jones (137 carries, 1,395 yards, TDs) is a force to be reckoned with. A stingy Ponderosa defense awaits in the quarterfinals.
Class 3A
No. 1 Roosevelt (5-0) vs. No. 8 Fort Morgan (4-1), 1 p.m. Saturday
No. 4 Pueblo South (4-0) vs. No. 5 Mead (5-1), Mead forced to forfeit due to COVID-19
No. 2 Holy Family (6-0) vs. No. 7 Evergreen (4-2), 6 p.m. Friday
No. 3 Durango (5-0) vs. No. 6 Lutheran (4-1), 1 p.m. Saturday at Demon Stadium
Biggest snub: Palisade — The 3A bracket ended up being relatively straightforward, but the Bulldogs (4-2) could certainly have some beef given that they knocked off seventh-seeded Evergreen 24-7 in Week 1. Conifer, which beat Palisade but lost to Evergreen in Week 6, could also have an argument.
Favorite: Holy Family — For the first time since 2016, the 3A title will go to someone other than Palmer Ridge. While Roosevelt may make sense to peg as the favorite since the Roughriders are the No. 1 seed, we’ll go with the one team in the bracket that has a double-digit victory over a state playoff team, Holy Family, which pushed around sixth-seeded Lutheran in a 38-14 win. The Tigers have size up front, a quarterback who can sling it (Michael White, 903 yards, 12 TDs) and a running back who can detonate in an instant (Trevin Johnson, 786 yards, 11 TDs, 9.7 ypc).
Challenger: Roosevelt — It’s been five years since the Roughriders last reached the 3A final, and this may be their best chance to get back there. An overtime win over Mead — decided by a missed extra point — is the Roughriders’ most impressive victory. Since then, they’ve outscored their last three opponents 139-0. Six-foot-2, 190-pound quarterback Brig Hartson is a threat running (204 yards, 2 TDs) and throwing (838 yards, 13 TDs, 2 INTs), while the defense has a pair of playmakers in Clayton Robinson (13.0 TFLs, 5.5 sacks, 1 INT) and Cooper Walton (11.0 TFLs, 1 INT) and allowed just four touchdowns as a unit.
Dark horse: Pueblo South — A Pueblo team has played in the 3A championship game five of the last six seasons, and there’s reason to believe Pueblo South could do so again for the second straight year. The Colts got off to a slow start after missing the first two weeks of the season to COVID, but they’ve already advanced to the semifinals after coronavirus knocked out Mead after the bracket was revealed. All-state running back George Longoria has 816 yards and 12 touchdowns rushing in just four games. Honorable mention: Durango, led by dual-threat QB Jordan Woolverton and a stifling defense, will be tough to beat.
Note: All games at home site of higher seed unless otherwise noted.


thedenverpost--2020-11-18--Body found in torched car in Lake County tied to Glendale fatal hit-and-run

A body found in a burning vehicle in Lake County has been identified as the registered owner of the car .
It ’ s the same car believed to be involved in a fatal hit-and-run collision earlier in Glendale .
The Summit County Coroner ’ s Office identified the body as that of 75-year-old Richard Randolph , of Denver , according to Lake County Sheriff ’ s Office news release .
The vehicle , a 2015 Hyundai Sonata , Colorado license plate 717-ODQ , was found on fire on Nov. 4 along Colorado 91 .
The coroner ’ s office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive identification .
“ Video footage obtained by Lake County Sheriff ’ s Office support the theory that Mr. Randolph set the vehicle fire himself in what is believed to have been a suicide , ” the sheriff ’ s office said .
On Nov. 2 , Glendale police responded to Leetsdale Drive and South Cherry Street on an auto-pedestrian collision .
A 74-year-old woman and her dog were hit and the driver fled the scene .
The woman was taken to Denver Health Medical Center where she was pronounced dead , police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the registered owner of the vehicle allegedly involved in the fatal hit-and-run accident that occurred in Glendale , ” the sheriff ’ s office said .
A search warrant was executed on the car and evidence was collected as part of the ongoing Glendale hit-and-run investigation .

A body found in a burning vehicle in Lake County has been identified as the registered owner of the car. It’s the same car believed to be involved in a fatal hit-and-run collision earlier in Glendale.
The Summit County Coroner’s Office identified the body as that of 75-year-old Richard Randolph, of Denver, according to Lake County Sheriff’s Office news release.
The vehicle, a 2015 Hyundai Sonata, Colorado license plate 717-ODQ, was found on fire on Nov. 4 along Colorado 91. The coroner’s office used dental records in coming to the positive identification.
“Video footage obtained by Lake County Sheriff’s Office support the theory that Mr. Randolph set the vehicle fire himself in what is believed to have been a suicide,” the sheriff’s office said.
On Nov. 2, Glendale police responded to Leetsdale Drive and South Cherry Street on an auto-pedestrian collision. A 74-year-old woman and her dog were hit and the driver fled the scene. The woman was taken to Denver Health Medical Center where she was pronounced dead, police said.
“Mr. Randolph is the registered owner of the vehicle allegedly involved in the fatal hit-and-run accident that occurred in Glendale,” the sheriff’s office said.
A search warrant was executed on the car and evidence was collected as part of the ongoing Glendale hit-and-run investigation.


thedenverpost--2020-11-18--Broncos Briefs: Fixing turnover problem will be challenge against opportunistic Miami defense

The Broncos enter Sunday ’ s game against Miami with an NFL-high 21 turnovers .
The Dolphins ’ 15 takeaways , meanwhile , are tied for fourth-most .
If that trend continues , the Broncos will be 3-7 and the Dolphins 7-3 by 5 p.m. Sunday .
“ We talked about that ( Wednesday ) , ” Broncos coach Vic Fangio said .
“ The Dolphins excel in that area .
This will be a very important week for us to take care of the ball.
” The Broncos were minus-5 in turnover differential in Sunday ’ s 37-12 loss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year is second-worst in the league ( Dallas minus-13 ) .
Miami is fifth in scoring defense , allowing only 20.2 points per game .
Against the Los Angeles Chargers last week ( 29-21 win ) , the Dolphins rushed at least five players on 15 of Justin Herbert ’ s 36 drop-backs ( 41.7 % ) .
“ They like to pressure and they ’ ll bring a good bit of pressure in certain situations against certain formations , ” Fangio said .
“ They ’ re playing fast , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re creating turnovers .
That ’ s one of the reasons why they ’ ve won a bunch here lately , that and their special teams and their offense has been playing very , very good also.
” Fant sits out .
In addition to quarterback Drew Lock ( ribs ) , sitting out practice Wednesday were tight end Noah Fant ( ribs ) , inside linebacker Joe Jones ( calf ) and right tackle Jake Rodgers ( shoulder ) .
Five players were limited : Right tackle Calvin Anderson ( ankle ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , receiver Jerry Jeudy ( ankle ) , inside linebacker Josey Jewell ( quad ) and safety Trey Marshall ( elbow ) .
Right tackle Demar Dotson ( hand/groin ) was a full participant .
Elijah Wilkinson , the Broncos ’ starting right tackle for the first three games , has been on injured reserve with a leg injury , but returned to practice last week .
“ He ’ s a possibility ( for Sunday ) , ” Fangio said .
“ We ’ re going to see how he does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this week.
” Inside linebacker Mark Barron ( hamstring ) and tight end/fullback Andrew Beck ( hamstring ) , who are still on injured reserve , practiced with their position groups .
“ Mark is making good progress ; he eventually can ( return ) , ” Fangio said .
“ We ’ re going to practice ( Beck ) some and see where he ’ s at.
” Donatell feeling better .
During a Zoom conference , inside linebacker Alexander Johnson revealed that defensive coordinator Ed Donatell was recently hospitalized because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesperson , Donatell was taken to the hospital last week , but is “ feeling much better , starting to participate in virtual meetings ( and ) doing light physical activity.
” Donatell has missed the Broncos ’ last three games , but is participating in virtual meetings this week .
Patrick on ejection .
Broncos receiver Tim Patrick was ejected with 13:05 remaining in the loss to Las Vegas for an altercation with Raiders safety Johnathan Abram .
Abram shoved Patrick , who responded with a right jab .
“ You saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ You know the type of guy he is .
It just didn ’ t play out in my favor.
” Dolphins road favorite .
The Dolphins ’ trips to Denver have been infrequent — only nine times in the regular season ( only one from 1972-98 ) .
Miami has been installed as the 3 1/2-point favorite Sunday , the first time in 35 years it will be a road favorite against the Broncos .
The Dolphins ( 6-3 ) have won five consecutive games .
“ We taking things one day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what ’ s in the future or what has happened in the past , ” coach Brian Flores said in a video conference with the Denver media .
“ It ’ s a hard thing to do with young players , but the way they respond in practice and in our meetings and the attention to detail in those settings … we ’ re not ( looking ahead ) .
This is a very good ( Broncos ) team.
” Miami is the second-youngest team in the NFL ( 25.76 years ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Walker focused on present .
The injuries to the defensive line have created an opportunity for fourth-year end DeMarcus Walker , who has played 134 snaps in his four games since returning from a hamstring injury .
Walker has played 133 snaps and totaled one sack and two pressures .
A former second-round pick , Walker is a free agent after the season .
Asked about his contract , Walker said : “ We ’ re trying to win .
It ’ s as simple as that .
Everybody brings up that question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot more football left to play.
” Footnotes .
The Dolphins ’ plus-74 first-half point differential ( 163-89 ) is best in the NFL ; the Broncos are 29th at minus-61 ( outscored 131-70 ) .
… Patrick on the struggling Broncos ’ offense : “ When that dam does break , it ’ s going to be a good sight.
” … Fangio on the Broncos releasing cornerback Davontae Harris : “ We needed the ( roster ) space and we chose Davontae to be that guy ( to be released ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vante Bausby practiced Wednesday , his first on-field activity since being claimed on waivers from Arizona last week .

The Broncos enter Sunday’s game against Miami with an NFL-high 21 turnovers. The Dolphins’ 15 takeaways, meanwhile, are tied for fourth-most.
If that trend continues, the Broncos will be 3-7 and the Dolphins 7-3 by 5 p.m. Sunday.
“We talked about that (Wednesday),” Broncos coach Vic Fangio said. “The Dolphins excel in that area. This will be a very important week for us to take care of the ball.”
The Broncos were minus-5 in turnover differential in Sunday’s 37-12 loss at Las Vegas and their minus-12 differential this year is second-worst in the league (Dallas minus-13). Miami is fifth in scoring defense, allowing only 20.2 points per game. Against the Los Angeles Chargers last week (29-21 win), the Dolphins rushed at least five players on 15 of Justin Herbert’s 36 drop-backs (41.7%).
“They like to pressure and they’ll bring a good bit of pressure in certain situations against certain formations,” Fangio said. “They’re playing fast, they’re playing hard and they’re creating turnovers. That’s one of the reasons why they’ve won a bunch here lately, that and their special teams and their offense has been playing very, very good also.”
Fant sits out. In addition to quarterback Drew Lock (ribs), sitting out practice Wednesday were tight end Noah Fant (ribs), inside linebacker Joe Jones (calf) and right tackle Jake Rodgers (shoulder).
Five players were limited: Right tackle Calvin Anderson (ankle), cornerback A.J. Bouye (hip), receiver Jerry Jeudy (ankle), inside linebacker Josey Jewell (quad) and safety Trey Marshall (elbow). Right tackle Demar Dotson (hand/groin) was a full participant.
Elijah Wilkinson, the Broncos’ starting right tackle for the first three games, has been on injured reserve with a leg injury, but returned to practice last week.
“He’s a possibility (for Sunday),” Fangio said. “We’re going to see how he does with more of a workload in practice this week.”
Inside linebacker Mark Barron (hamstring) and tight end/fullback Andrew Beck (hamstring), who are still on injured reserve, practiced with their position groups.
“Mark is making good progress; he eventually can (return),” Fangio said. “We’re going to practice (Beck) some and see where he’s at.”
Donatell feeling better. During a Zoom conference, inside linebacker Alexander Johnson revealed that defensive coordinator Ed Donatell was recently hospitalized because of COVID-19 symptoms.
According to a team spokesperson, Donatell was taken to the hospital last week, but is “feeling much better, starting to participate in virtual meetings (and) doing light physical activity.”
Donatell has missed the Broncos’ last three games, but is participating in virtual meetings this week.
Patrick on ejection. Broncos receiver Tim Patrick was ejected with 13:05 remaining in the loss to Las Vegas for an altercation with Raiders safety Johnathan Abram. Abram shoved Patrick, who responded with a right jab.
“You saw the video,” Patrick said. “You know the type of guy he is. It just didn’t play out in my favor.”
Dolphins road favorite. The Dolphins’ trips to Denver have been infrequent — only nine times in the regular season (only one from 1972-98). Miami has been installed as the 3 1/2-point favorite Sunday, the first time in 35 years it will be a road favorite against the Broncos.
The Dolphins (6-3) have won five consecutive games.
“We taking things one day at a time and not worrying about what’s in the future or what has happened in the past,” coach Brian Flores said in a video conference with the Denver media. “It’s a hard thing to do with young players, but the way they respond in practice and in our meetings and the attention to detail in those settings … we’re not (looking ahead). This is a very good (Broncos) team.”
Miami is the second-youngest team in the NFL (25.76 years), behind only Jacksonville (25.24).
Walker focused on present. The injuries to the defensive line have created an opportunity for fourth-year end DeMarcus Walker, who has played 134 snaps in his four games since returning from a hamstring injury. Walker has played 133 snaps and totaled one sack and two pressures. A former second-round pick, Walker is a free agent after the season.
Asked about his contract, Walker said: “We’re trying to win. It’s as simple as that. Everybody brings up that question a lot, but we have a lot more football left to play.”
Footnotes. The Dolphins’ plus-74 first-half point differential (163-89) is best in the NFL; the Broncos are 29th at minus-61 (outscored 131-70). … Patrick on the struggling Broncos’ offense: “When that dam does break, it’s going to be a good sight.” … Fangio on the Broncos releasing cornerback Davontae Harris: “We needed the (roster) space and we chose Davontae to be that guy (to be released) at this point.” … De’Vante Bausby practiced Wednesday, his first on-field activity since being claimed on waivers from Arizona last week.