News Flashes: August 19, 2010

August 19, 2010

Miami Dolphins

Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Mike Nolan making an impact early on.

• It seems that the Miami Dolphins most influential acquisition may not be Brandon Marshall or Karlos Dansby, but defensive coordinator Mike Nolan. The Fins first preseason game revealed glimpses of a much more aggressive and intense defensive unit in Miami's 10-7 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

• Here's what Miami Herald writer Chris Perkins had to say: "Defensive coordinator Mike Nolan, who came over from San Francisco, has preached an aggressive defensive mind-set since his arrival months ago. He wants players to make plays, not just defend against plays. The mentality is catching. Cornerback Nate Ness, for example, had three passes defended and two passes broken up against the Buccaneers; cornerback Sean Smith had an interception; defensive tackle Paul Soliai had a forced fumble and a recovered fumble; safety Reshad Jones recovered a fumble."

Florida Marlins

Florida Marlins outfielder Mike Stanton making a habit of showing off his power.

• As of lat night's victory/loss versus the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Florida Marlins are 59-60/58-61 and stand a daunting 11/12 games behind the division lead. 

• While playoff hopes may be a fleeting goal at this stage of the season, the Fish have plenty to look forward to as the season draws an end. Their three rookies in the lineup continue to impress with Mike Stanton, Logan Morrison and Gaby Sanchez performing well at both ends of the field.

• In other news, the Florida Marlins signed their 2010 first-round draft pick on Tuesday night, taking Christian Yelich out of Westlake High School in California. Yelich, a 6'4, 190-pound first baseman, signed a letter of intent to join the University of Miami's baseball team as a back-up plan.

Miami Heat

Mugshot of Miami Heat forward Udonis Haslem.

• Miami Heat forward Udonis Haslem released a statement yesterday regarding his recent felony charges: "First and foremost, I’d like to thank the Arison family, Coach Riley, Coach Spoelstra, the HEAT organization and fans who have shown me their support during this incident. I am confident that once the judicial process runs its course, I will be cleared."

• As for the Heat's new-look team, here's a glimpse into what the team's style of play will be entering the 2010 season: "A Need for Speed?" (Article by Couper Moorhead).