I've heard from a fairly reliable source about a rumor that a trade is in the works to send defender Jeremy Hall to Dallas for midfielder Eric Alexander.  This move would make sense from the Dallas perspective if they were going to try to fill the void left by George John leaving to join Blackburn Rovers.  I'll let all of you debate the merits of how this might help or hurt the Timbers.

Add this to the growing list of reasons I am starting to hate Alaska Airlines...

From the AP

When the Portland Timbers join Major league Soccer next season, their jerseys will be sponsored by Alaska Airlines.

The Timbers announced the new title sponsor for their MLS kits on Thursday at Portland International Airport. Terms of the multiyear deal were not revealed.

The Alaska Airlines logo will be displayed prominently on the jerseys, much like the Seattle Sounders have "XBOX 360" on their kits.

The airline will also partner with the Timbers' community fund on youth-based fitness and educational initiatives, as well as donate 25 tickets to each game to area kids. The company will also be the presenting sponsor for all MLS Timbers youth soccer camps.