Before we get politically correct about the LPGA's decision to force players to speak English, remember: It's a business decision.
No, you won't see the NBA. the NFL or Major League Baseball making such a move. While they also are private entities, the LPGA is struggling to stay alive.
The Sacramento market knows as well as any the LPGA is limping along. The event here had to move to the Bay Area after being unable to secure a sponsor. It's a similar situation in other markets, such as Phoenix, where the event is in jeopardy after losing its sponsor.
So what does that have to do with the "English-only" rule? The LPGA needs its players to promote the game to the media and its sponsors, especially at those all-important pro-ams that bring in big bucks.
Also, it will be hard to enforce laws against the LPGA. The golfers are independent contractors, not employees. The LPGA can set work conditions as long as they are reasonable; golfers have the option to participate.
This is not a political issue; it's the LPGA fighting for survival. And it is not unreasonable to create an environment for the tour to succeed.
What to watch
N.C. State at S. Carolina, 5 p.m., ESPN. The season's first ESPN game has Steve Spurrier's circus offense.
What to surf
www.spurrierhbc.com. Of course the Head Ball Coach has a site that honors him.
What to do
High school volleyball: Loretto at Granite Bay, 5 p.m. Girls volleyball has begun, and this is a great nonleague match.
Wednesday's results
American League
• A'S 6, Angels 5
• Red Sox 11, Yankees 3
• Indians 9, Tigers 7
• Orioles 11, White Sox 3
• Rays 1, Blue Jays 0
• Rangers 3, Royals 2
• Twins 6, Mariners 5
National League
• GIANTS 4, Rockies 1
• Cubs 2, Pirates 0
• Mets 6, Phillies 3
• Marlins 4, Braves 1
• Nationals 5, Dodgers 4
• Astros 4, Reds 1
• Padres 5, Diamondbacks 4
• Cardinals 5, Brewers 3
The last word
What you're saying on the sacbee.com comments:
• "Handicap tournaments should be played for fun, and the prizes should be of minimal value." - kennerd on "Potential exists when golf handicaps used"
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