Here’s what went down Monday on Gambo & Ash…

Big Assist for Suns…The Suns and Steve Nash has agreed to terms on a two-year extension worth $22 million.  The 2-time All-Star will defer $3 million each year which will be paid in years four and five.  Both feel the term “deferred payment” scares them judging from all the money the D-backs are still shelling out to the likes of Russ Ortiz, Randy Johnson and Luis Gonzalez, among others.  The deal does not include a no-trade clause.  Gambo feels the extension makes sense for both parties.  Ash is still convinced the Suns should shop Nash, especially if they can stockpile future first-round draft picks that they foolishly traded away to clear cap space.  Mark is predicting the Suns will follow suit with Amare Stoudemire and sign him to a new deal, especially since the Suns know they can’t get “fair value” in a trade for STAT.  Gambo knows Amare will have a big year, simply because it’s a contract year.

Where it all Went Wrong…59-year-old Tom Watson was an eight-foot par putt away on 18 from winning the British Open Sunday in Scotland.  Instead, the missed putt opened the door for Stewart Cink - who forced a four-hole playoff and eventually claimed his first major championship.  G&A found themselves openly cheering for Watson throughout the weekend and both felt confident entering the final round that the title was his to lose…which, in all actuality, it was.

No Rival Needed?…Although Tiger Woods failed to make the cut at the British Open, he is still hands down the greatest golfer in world.  G&A agree there is no clear-cut rival to Tiger and likely never will be - Phil Mickelson is considered a “one-sided” rival.  Ash feels golf and general sports fans everywhere were captivated by Watson’s improbable run in the British Open.  Mark believes these “blasts from the past” are more of what the game needs.  The guys agree they found themselves pulling for the 59-year-old Watson, even if that meant denying Cink his first major championship.

Summer Struggles…With the Vegas Summer League in full-swing, some of the younger players like Robin Lopez and Goran Dragic have struggled playing against NBA rookies and free-agents in Sin City.  Dragic responded Sunday night scoring 21 points and dishing out 7 assists, while rookie Earl Clark played great defense on number one overall pick Blake Griffin.  G&A are certain the Steve Kerr, Dave Griffin and the Suns’ will be looking to add another point guard and center this summer before training camp in October.

Diamondbacks catcher MIGUEL MONTERO checked in from Denver to discuss his 7-12 weekend at the plate in St. Louis, including 4-5 Saturday.  He said he’s feeling more comfortable behind the plate and complemented A.J. Hinch for showing confidence in him since Chris Snyder’s injury.  Montero said he will miss good friend Felipe Lopez - who was traded to Milwaukee Sunday - but knows it was simply a business decision - especially with Lopez in the final year of his deal.

We were joined by Colorado Rockies manager JIM TRACY whose team is preparing to start a three-game series against the D-backs Monday evening at Coors Field in Denver.  Tracy is 32-14 with the club after taking over for the fired Clint Hurdle earlier this year.  The Rockies are just ½ game behind the Giants for the NL Wildcard spot.

Lopez, Leaving…Talented, but lazy Felipe Lopez was traded over the weekend to the Brewers for two minor league prospects, including former Oregon State star Cole Gillespie.  Lopez has now played for five major league teams in his young career.  Ash knows, offensively, Lopez can hit (.301), but feels his poor work ethic and lazy play - like not sliding - eventually punched his ticket out of town.  John says the Lopez deal will save the Snakes $1.4 million.

Who’s Next?…The D-backs’ dealing may continue before the trade deadline on July 31st.  Gambo reported there is little trade interest in light-hitting Chad Tracy, but the D-backs have fielded calls for Jon Garland, Doug Davis and Chad Qualls.  G&A discussed who might be the next player dealt.  John says a lot will depend on what the farm situation looks like at that current position.  Ash had hoped teams would have offered a bag of balls and a rosin bag for injured Eric Byrnes, but no such luck.

Credibilty Issue?…National columnist Jason Whitlock said a Tom Watson British Open win would be a blow to Tiger Woods and his competition and be a blow to the credibility for the game of golf.  His argument is how can a near 60-year-old man win a national stage event like the British Open?  Ash says this makes no sense, because golf is a game of skill and has little to do with your age.  Gambo says all athletes come in different shapes and sizes and Watson is no different.  John says Watson caught lightening in a bottle and was in contention because Turnberry was perfectly suited for the type of golf he plays.  Both agree the weekend was great for golf, even if there was no happy ending except for Cink, his family and over 500,000 Twitter followers.

Reality Shaq…Cavs’ center Shaquille O’Neal is the latest sports superstar to venture into the reality television world.  “Shaq Vs.” will appear on ABC starting in mid-August.  Pro athletes will challenge Shaq in their own sport.  Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will be on the debut episode August 18th.  The guys don’t seem to have a problem with this, but know Shaq better get in “basketball mode” quickly because LeBron James wants a championship ring…badly.  Ash said he would like to challenge O’Neal in a free-throw shooting contest.  Gambo isn’t sure he could take down Shaq in boxing, but might give it a try.

Tuesday we’ll be joined by Dbacks’ skipper A.J. Hinch at 3:00.

 

 Miguel Montero [7:15m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (8)

 

 Jim Tracy [9:38m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (7)