John Challis, Teen Inspiration, Dies at 18

John Challis inspired people with his sheer courage, will, and determination. People of all ages looked at him as a role model. Just 18 years of age, he knew he was dying of liver cancer, but that didn't stop him from going after his goals and dreams. This afternoon his family is in mourning as Challis' body finally gave out from the cancer that had ravaged him.

Challis was a recent visitor to Yankee Stadium, where Alex Rodriguez played host to him and his family. He met with members of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Penguins, and touched all those he came in contact with.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

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Farrell Not Ready to Walk the Plank

Boston Red Sox pitching coach John Farrell became one of the hot properties this season and was rumored to be the Pittsburgh Pirates #1 choice to be their next manager. Now they'll have to look elsewhere after Farrell told them, "thanks, but no thanks".

"While I do have aspirations to manage in the major leagues in the future," he said, "I have declined the opportunity to interview for the position of Pittsburgh Pirates manager." Source

Can you blame the guy? While managing in the big leagues is a great job, who would want to jump at the Pirates job? They're a team with no payroll, no fans, and no prospects for a title any time soon. And the manager isn't going to be able to change that. Perhaps Indians coach Joel Skinner will now be the #1 contender.

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What's Worse than Managing the Pirates?

Getting fired by them. Jim Tracey got the axe today after 2 abysmal years. How you can succeed when you're relying on guys like Shaun Chacon.

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