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By Michael Lopez

It may not be a Guinness World Record, but Lionel “Leo” Messi's latest feat is still definitely worth mentioning. The legendary Barcelona striker scored his 200th goal for the team this week, all but confirming his status as the world's greatest fútbol player.

Perhaps the most amazing thing about Messi's accomplishment is that he did it at just 24-years-old. Leo's still got a long career ahead of him and should be right on track to take down the all-time goal record (which stands at 235) within the next two seasons.

Even Pelé couldn't help but praise Messi’s talents. Speaking with ESPN, the retired Brazilian soccer god shared some very kind words about Leo’s abilities.

"Today there is no doubt, Messi, he is the best player today," Pelé said. "I don’t see any player who is better."

So even though Cristiano Ronaldo has the Facebook fans and Zico has the social network, Messi is the dominant force where it counts!

Do you think Leo is the world's greatest futbol player? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Barcelona, Blogger: Michael Lopez, futbol, Lionel Messi, Pelé, Soccer, Sports

By Michael Lopez

There's no denying that it's been a rollercoaster year for the Los Angeles Dodgers. There was the departure of famed manager Joe Torre, the vicious fan beating on opening day, and the ongoing disputes between team owner Frank McCourt and MLB commissioner Bud Selig. This week, things took an even more drastic turn with McCourt's announcement that he will be selling the team.

Interestingly, most of L.A. seems to be overjoyed by Frank's decision to step down. Since he took ownership back in 2004 (for a reported $430 million), the team has been plagued with disastrous seasons. There were tons of empty stadium seats, zero trips to the World Series, and expensive sluggers that turned out to be total flops.

Frank's handling of the recent Bryan Stow beating didn't endear him much with fans either. Back in March, Stow was pummeled by two assailants in the parking lot of Dodger Stadium. The brutal nature of the attack (and the lack of proper security) left many fans shocked and hesitant to step foot inside the Stadium again.

To top that off, McCourt's lawyers have insinuated that Bryan was partly to blame for his own beating (a sentiment which did not sit well with the public at large). Not surprisingly, Stow's attorneys have now filed a civil suit against the team, which could cost McCourt a bundle.

"How you are judged in life is how you react after mistakes," Bryan’s attorney Thomas Girardi said. "Oh so here it is: let's blame the innocent guy for the lack of security at Dodger Stadium."

Rumors are circulating that Stow could get as much as $50 million in damages, which may be a major factor in Frank's decision to sell the team. Amazingly, McCourt is hoping to get as much as $1 billion for the Dodgers in a deal that would include the Stadium and the surrounding parking lots.

Whether he gets close to that amount is anybody's guess, but his team certainly has a fair share of suitors. Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has expressed interest in purchasing the boys in blue, as has Milwaukee Brewers owner Mark Attanasio and Boston Red Sox Chairman Tom Werner. Even Oscar de la Hoya hinted about it a while back.

Whoever does take ownership of the Dodgers is in for an uphill battle, but not one without its rewards. L.A. mayor Antonio Villaraigosa spoke publicly about the sale and offered encouraging words for anyone looking to invest in the team.

"As a Dodger fan and an Angeleno, it has been a very, very tough season," he said. "I'm looking forward to local ownership. I want the owner to be from Los Angeles. I want someone who loves this town and believes in this city."

So local billionaires, go ahead and place your bids!

Who do you think should buy the Dodgers? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Antonio Villaraigosa, Baseball, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Bryan Stow, Chisme, Dodgers, Frank McCourt, Los-Angeles, Mark Cuban, MLB, popnews, Sports

By Michael Lopez

Don't be surprised if you hear sports journalists labeling last night's World Series game as "one of the best in baseball history." Truly epic on every level, Albert Pujols and the St. Louis Cardinals defied the odds and won in the 11th inning with a 10-9 victory.

David Freese deserves a lot of the credit for last night's win. Scoring a two-run triple in the ninth inning, he literally brought the team back from the brink of elimination. Not only that, he was facing two strikes and two outs when he did it!

Cuban-American outfielder Jon Jay also contributed to the team's success, tying the game up with a dramatic hit during the 10th. Then, David stepped up to the plate again and delivered the winning home run. And seeing how it all went down at the Cardinals' Busch Stadium, you can imagine the type of thunderous cheers this victory brought out.

"Growing up or whatever, and you see stuff like that happen, those become memories," an emotional Freese said when it was all over.

Obviously the Texas Rangers weren't too happy at the end of the night, though team manager Ron Washington did acknowledge the amazing comeback of their World Series rivals.

"I understand it's not over till you get that last out," he said. "I was just sitting there praying we got that last out. We didn't get it."

Tonight they may have their chance. The final Game of the Series kicks off at 8pm ET and you can bet millions of baseball fans will be watching.

Will you be watching Game 7 tonight? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Baseball, Blogger: Michael Lopez, David Freese, Jon Jay, MLB, Ron Washington, St. Louis Cardinals, Texas Rangers, World Series

By Michael Lopez

Victor Ortiz seems to be a real renaissance man these days. He's achieved fame as a boxer, rapped on music tracks, and is now looking to launch his own chain of taco eateries. TMZ caught up with the former Welterweight Champ, who explained his desire to become a world class restaurateur.

"We're looking into some locations right now [for the restaurants]," he explained. "We're going to keep it close to home, with tacos and such. It should be interesting and good."

And considering that Victor earned a cool $2 million from his most recent Mayweather fight, we're sure he's got plenty of cash to invest. Judging by his interview though, the Ortiz taquería is still in the very early planning stages.

Victor did share a name with the interviewer. Apparently, his new chain will be called V.O. after his own initials. And perhaps if he really wants to stir up business, he can get the staff to serve up food in their underwear!

Would you eat at Victor Ortiz' taco restaurant? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, boxing, Food, Restaurants, Sports, Victor Ortiz

By Michael Lopez

Are you ready to see Demi Lovato belt out the Star-Spangled Banner? Disney's former teen queen is about to step up for one of her most high-profile gigs yet, singing the national anthem at Game 5 of the World Series.

Set to go down at the Rangers Ballpark on Monday, Game 5 could prove to be a pivotal clincher in the Series. Now tied at 1-1, either team can sweep the next two games, which means rings may be handed out that very night.

In other words, Demi's anthem could actually be a part of MLB history. Of course, odds makers are thinking the Series could go as far as Game 7. The Rangers narrowly defeated the Cardinals on Thursday and expect a tight nine innings when the teams move to Texas Saturday night.

Lovato seemed thrilled with her role in Series, tweeting this week,

"Only my lovatics could land me a spot singing the national anthem at the WORLD SERIES!!!! I couldn't do it without you guys!!!!"

Let's just hope she can avoid those technical difficulties that plagued Scotty McCreery.

Have you been following the World Series? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Baseball, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Demi Lovato, MLB, national anthem, Sports, St. Louis Cardinals, Texas Rangers, World Series

By Michael Lopez

It's got to be pretty nerve-racking singing the national anthem at Game 1 of the World Series. With millions of people watching, the last thing you want to experience are technical difficulties with the mic. But that's exactly what Scotty McCreery had to deal with at Busch Stadium last night.

Right before McCreery belted out those famous "Oh say can you see…" lines, his microphone went dead. Ever the professional, Scotty started the song again and even added his own signature country touch.

After finishing the anthem (and receiving a huge round of applause), McCreery was whisked off again on his promotional tour, leaving St. Louis almost as quickly as he arrived. Posting about the experience on Twitter, he said,

"Well, as mr George Strait would say, I wasn't here for a long time, but I was here for a good time! Great time in St. Louis yesterday!"

The part Puerto-Rican crooner seems to be riding a very positive wave at the moment. His Clear As Day album hit #1 on the Billboard charts, he announced that big tour with Brad Paisley, and he's now got his very own World Series jacket.

Which celeb would you like to see sing the national anthem? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Baseball, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Clear As Day, Música, national anthem, popnews, Scotty McCreery, Sports, World Series

By Michael Lopez

Yesterday marked the beginning of some major baseball history. The buzz around the World Series has been building all week about how the battle between the Rangers and the Cardinals will go down (Cardinals won last night 3-2). Expect to see a packed house, in-depth analysis, and tons of talented Latinos on the field.

Undoubtedly, two of the biggest stars of the series will be Albert Pujols and Nelson Cruz. Pujols is no stranger to the Tr3s pages. With his All-Star awards, MVP titles, and .328 batting average, the Dominican first baseman is already a St. Louis legend.

But the Rangers' Nelson Cruz is no one to take lightly either. Also from the D.R., the heavy-hitting outfielder has already scored the American League MVP trophy this season.

He actually broke some team records this year too, having hit 12 home runs in the past two post seasons. And in this year's ALCS playoffs, he became the first slugger ever to hit a grand slam in Game 2.

But don't think these two will be the only memorable Latinos on the baseball field. Cardinals' shortstop Rafael Furcal (who was traded to the team in July) proved to be a pivotal player in the National League Championships, scoring a home run clincher in Game 6.

And representing Cuban-Americans in the World Series will be the Cardinals' Jon Jay. Drafted to the team in 2010, he's got a .298 batting average and has proven to be a solid outfielder throughout the season. Speaking with Latinobaseball.com, he seemed very eager to help his fellow sluggers go all the way.

"Me siento bien, tengo salud y muchos deseos de jugar a la pelota," he enthusiastically said.

On the Rangers' side, Dominican first baseman Adrián Beltré has proven that he's worth every penny of his $93 million contract. This season, he's batted .296 and scored 32 home runs. He also helped keep the team in the playoffs, with three homers in a game against the Tampa Bay Rays.

But of course, all eyes are now on the World Series. The Cardinals will have the home field advantage for the first two games. The Rangers, on other hand, definitely have the hunger. If you recall, they were actually in the Series last year and took a serious beating by the San Francisco Giants.

Texas has yet to score MLB's most desired ring, but this week can change all of that. Though the Cardinals will be tough to beat. They currently have 10 World Series titles under their belt and many of the Vegas odds makers on their side.

Albert has the St. Louis ring from 2006 and rumors are flying that this may be the last time he bats in the trademark white and red colors. Sports blogs are speculating about Pujols becoming a free agent next year, which is something the slugger wisely chose not to talk about.

When ask about his future with the team, Albert said,

"I don't think about (being a) free agent right now. Let's talk about the World Series and how I can help the Cardinals to win it. That's my main goal."

We'll see if he can start accomplishing that goal tonight.

Are you looking forward to the 2011 World Series? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags 2011 World Series, Adrián Beltré, Albert Pujols, Baseball, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Jon Jay, MLB, Nelson Cruz, Rafael Furcal, Sports, St. Louis Cardinals, Texas Rangers, World Series

By Michael Lopez

Want to get your Olympics fix a full nine months early? Then turn on your favorite Spanish sports station and indulge in the glory of the 2011 Pan American Games. The massive two-week event is officially underway in Guadalajara, Mexico, with over 6,000 stellar athletes competing.

Pan Am's opening ceremony proved to be quite spectacular this past Friday. Despite heavy rain from Hurricane Jova, the sun shone brightly as colorful mariachis made their way through Omnilife Stadium. Dressed in bright clothing and playing a variety of instruments, talented Mexican vaqueros entered the venue to huge applause.

Latin icon Vicente Fernández brought the house down with his interpretation of Mexico's national anthem. At 71-years-old, his voice was in fine form, though his memorization skills may have been a bit rusty. Apparently Vicente fumbled a few words of the song, which proved to be quite embarrassing.

"That's how my teacher taught me the anthem when I was a kid," Fernández later said about the gaffe. "It's the third time I sing the anthem [at an event], but not in front of 80,000 people. I felt such a great honor to be singing the national anthem."

Amazingly, 200 million people watched the opening ceremonies broadcast. And for the past two days, many of them have been hooked on events like badminton, volleyball, rowing, and handball.

So far, the U.S. team has proven itself to be quite dominant. They have taken golds in events like swimming, gymnastics, and cycling. But the Dominican Republic's Gabriel Mercedes scored big kudos for his first place win in the taekwondo category.

And that's just the first two days. Throughout the next few weeks, expect to see harsh competitors in events like table tennis, shooting, wrestling, and weightlifting.

Unfortunately, some of Latin America's brightest athletes earned chisme medals before the Games even started. Brazil's Simone Alves da Silva, Puerto Rico's Kelvin Gonzalez, and Chile's Cristian Escalante tested positive for performance enhancing drugs before the opening ceremonies. All three were withdrawn from Pan Am, leaving a huge void in their respective categories.

Team U.S.A. now has an even bigger edge in the competition, though many of its most famous jocks will be skipping the trip to Guadalajara. With the London Summer Games less than a year away, star athletes like Michael Phelps have chosen not to compete and rather focus their energies on obtaining Olympic gold.

"At the end of the day, I think the scheduling of these games was a little bit more challenging than normal just because it was October instead of the summer," U.S. Olympic Committee head Scott Blackmun said. "It is not safe for [our athletes] to go straight from one competition to another."

If you ask us, the U.S. competitors who skip the event are making a big mistake. Not just because they'll miss the chance to score another gold medal, but because they won't get to see that highly-anticipated Ricky Martin closing show!

Did you watch the Pan Am opening ceremony? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags 2011 Pan Am Games, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Guadalajara, Olympics, Pan Am Games, Pan American Games, Scott Blackmun, Sports, Vicente Fernandez

By Michael Lopez

Don't lie, you know you've clicked the "Like" button on Cristiano Ronaldo's Fan page. Or at least someone you know has. The Real Madrid soccer stud has nearly 35 million fans on the social network, making him the most popular fútbol player on Facebook.

Interestingly, Ronaldo's page is pretty bare bones for having that many followers. About roughly once a day, he'll post a picture or a YouTube link of himself on the field. But he's definitely doing something right. Cristiano has 10 million more "Likes" than his closest competitor.

And that would be Barcelona's Lionel Messi. Often regarded as a better player than Ronaldo, he definitely attracts the more die-hard fútbol fans. Right now, Messi's got 25 million "Likes" and some pretty cool graphics strewn across his front page.

Other well "Liked" players include David Beckham (with 14 million followers) and Cristiano's Real Madrid teammate Kaká (who's at 11.5 million). And in case you're wondering, little Leo Coira has his own page too, which is at 10,000 "Likes" and growing!

Which fútbol players do you “Like” on Facebook? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, Facebook, futbol, Hot Stuff, Kaká, Lionel Messi, Sports

By Michael Lopez

Dominican slugger Albert Pujols brought his team one step closer to the World Series last night in a monstrous game at Milwaukee's Miller Park. Though it was the home turf of the Brewers, the Cardinals dominated the night, thanks in part to Pujols' home run.

The two teams are currently in the midst of battling it out for the National League Championship Series (NLCS) title. Monday's Game 1 saw a major victory for the Brewers as Ryan Braun, Yuniesky Betancourt, and "All Star" Prince Fielder scored big hits throughout the night.

But Game 2 belonged to Albert, who (as many sports writers are saying) "redeemed himself" with a two-run homer in the first inning. A three-time MVP, Pujols missed the opportunity to crack it in the grandstands on Monday, something he very much took to heart.

"Yesterday was so tough; going to bed, I was just thinking about some of the opportunities I missed to help our ballclub to win," Albert said. "But I turned that page."

He most certainly did, tying the series 1-1. Game 3 happens tonight on St. Louis’ home turf and we imagine it will be a very close race to see who goes to the show.

Which baseball team are you rooting for this year? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Albert Pujols, Baseball, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Milwaukee Brewers, MLB, NLCS, Prince Fielder, Sports, St. Louis Cardinals