Wolverines Get A Boost From Columbus

By: Matt Dery

1. It appears that an OSU Buckeye fan helped Michigan last week. Jared Sullinger's father, Satch, made a major impression on Trey Burke and according to the UM guard, helped him decide to return for a second season in Ann Arbor. This is the right call for Burke. I spoke to several NBA scouts who all agree that the kid should stay in college. This is a great win for John Beilein, who should have a Top 10 team next year with Mitch McGary, Burke, and GR III on the floor together.

2. Can I be the first person to give Lloyd McClendon some dap? The Tigers hitting coach usually gets nothing but grief from the fan base for the club underachieving at the plate, but, it appears this time he is doing wonders with Austin Jackson. The CF now has a new approach at the plate and better technique and it appears to be paying off. It is only a handful of games, but Mac should get some props for the job he has done with Jackson.

3. Speaking of the Tigers, I have not confirmed this yet, but the team may have replaced its season media credentials this year with pom-poms. I am still investigating that story.

4. The Pistons need athletes and badly. The last two losses in Miami and Orlando really highlighted that point. Greg Monroe is a terrific young big man, but he needs help defensively and an anchor behind him that can protect the rim.

5. Ozzie Guillen said today that the last few days have been very tough on him and his family. Oh really? How about you keep your mouth shut! That should cure all of that heartache.