Here’s some local news & notes that I found via the internet, twitter and sources.

*It’s looking more and more like the Pens will be without Sidney Crosby for at least the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. I’d say there’s a better chance the Pirates have a winning month of April than Crosby playing for the Pens again this season.

*Speaking of concussions, Pens winger Nick Johnson skated in the gameday skate, his first workout with the team since he was hurt.

*If the Flyers lose to the New York Islanders tonight (either in regulation or overtime), the Pens will win the division if they can beat Atlanta tomorrow afternoon. If Pens and Flyers finished tied, Philadelphia gets the tie-breaker.

*Pretty decent game last night for Pirates catcher Chris Snyder, who’s rehabbing with Bradenton. Snyder went 3 for 3 with a home run, double and six RBIs. He’s likely to get recalled to Pittsburgh very soon, possibly as early as tomorrow. What will the Pirates do then? Keep three catchers, send down Jason Jarimillo, trade Ryan Doumit?

*The Texas Rangers acquired RHP Ramon Aquero on waivers from the Pirates.

*If the Pirates are going to start turning the corner and making progress towards becoming a winner, tonight’s a game they have to win. Colorado recalled Greg Reynolds from Class AAA to make an emergency start for injured Ubaldo Jimenez. With the Pirates strong left-handed lineup, they should have success tonight vs. the right-handed Reynolds.

*No injury update yet on Pens winger James Neal, who left last night’s game after injuring his left wrist. The Pens can’t afford to be without him when the playoffs start this Wednesday or Thursday.

*Interesting quote from Pitt head coach Todd Graham following this morning’s scrimmage, “The offense came on late. If I had to pick an MVP it would be Anthony Gonzalez.”