Of ESPYs and Futures

Posted Jun 25, 2009 by Marc Lancaster

Updated Jun 25, 2009 at 11:56 AM

Dubious an honor as they may be, the ESPYs are back, with the list of nominated athletes out today.

Evan Longoria was tabbed as a candidate for “Best Breakthrough Athlete” along with Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson, NBA Rookie of the Year Derrick Rose and Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan.

In addition, the Rays’ win in the ALCS was tabbed as a “Best Upset” nominee (I understand what they’re getting at, but they DID win the division title in the league’s toughest division) and Joe Maddon is one of five finalists in the “Best Coach/Manager” category with Geno Auriemma, Mike Tomlin, Phil Jackson and Dan Bylsma—an interesting pick considering Maddon is the only one of the group not to win his sport’s championship.

Also today, the rosters for the All-Star Futures Game in St. Louis were announced. Montgomery’s Desmond Jennings was picked as one of the outfielders for the U.S. team and Kyeong Kang of the Rays’ Bowling Green affiliate was tabbed for the World team outfield. As announced yesterday, Durham skipper Charlie Montoyo will be a coach for the World team.

The game will take place July 12, two days before the All-Star Game, at Busch Stadium.