AFTERNOON UPDATE

By Matt Lynch

updated 3:43 p.m. ET July 3, 2009

MLB

Strasburg to Japan?
Agent Scott Boras is notorious for trying to find ways to circumvent the draft to earn top dollar for high draft picks he represents, and rumor has it he is considering a new tactic for pitching phenom Stephen Strasburg: having him play in Japan. Of course, it could just be posturing as Boras tries to shake the Nationals for every penny he possibly can, but history has shown Boras can dig in his heels and play hardball when it comes to these type of things. (Washington Post)

Twins, Pirates talking trade
The Twins and Pirates are rumored to be talking about a trade, with the Twins reportedly targeting infielder Freddy Sanchez and closer Matt Capps. It appears the Pirates are determined to purge their roster of any player with a recognizable name. (Fox Sports)

NBA

Heat interested in Iverson
The Heat have reportedly made contact with Allen Iverson's people to begin preliminary talks about bringing Iverson to play alongside Dwyane Wade in Miami. They aren't expected to offer even the full mid-level exception for Iverson, who figures to take a steep pay cut from last season's $23 million no matter where he winds up. (Miami Herald)

Cavs looking at Marion, Parker
Having lost out on a couple of players (Ron Artest and Trevor Ariza) in whom they were reportedly interested, the Cavs are said to be taking looks at a pair of Raptors' free agents in Anthony Parker and Shaun Marion. While Marion is the bigger name, sources indicate that Parker, who the Cavs made a play for three years ago when he came over from Europe, is the player the Cavs are pursuing with the most intensity. (Cleveland Plain Dealer)

NFL

Brandon Marshall broke?
Chatter is flying around NFL circles that a major reason behind the push for a new contract that is driving Brandon Marshall's trade demands is that the receiver is having money trouble. His status as a fourth-round pick means he isn't playing with a huge contract by league standards, and he maintains three residences in Denver, Orlando and Atlanta, respectively. Time to work on picking up some endorsement deals. (Pro Football Talk)

Urlacher not surprised Bears passing on Burress
Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher was not shocked that the Bears seem to be passing on wide receiver Plaxico Burress. "I was surprised when I heard they were going after him at all because as a player, I [know there will be] some type of suspension," Urlacher said. Urlacher later added that if the Bears were to sign Burress he would welcome him, although it would be hard not knowing if and when he'd be available. (Chicago Tribune)

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