San Antonio already has interest for luxury suites

If the Florida Marlins are looking to move...The Chamber of Commerce has been busy canvassing.

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Mitchell's record spotty at best in corporate roles

"Besides the apparent conflict from his Red Sox ties, Mitchell is chairman of Walt Disney, owner of ESPN, which has a $2.4 billion contract to air baseball games through the 2013 season. The sports network also is paying Barry Bonds - the player at the center of the steroid scandal - to star in his own reality-TV show. Observers also worry about Mitchell's spotty track record." Interesting rundown of his resume here. Hubris on parade.

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"There are ESPNers everywhere within the company who are mortified at what ESPN has become"--NY POST

ESPN gathered 125 of its best & brightest for a 2 day conference this week which execs thought would be just dandy. But, they were shocked to find out that SOME PEOPLE WHO WORK THERE AREN'T INTO KOOL-AID. Fascinating story here showing how far from reality this company has fallen. There's a small ray of hope.

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Mitchell's Baseball Ties Raise Questions--LA TIMES

They can raise all the questions they want--it won't matter. Selig & his inner circle which has long included Mitchell, do & say anything they want & no one can stop them. These guys are on top of it all--the heads of MLB & ESPN... You think for 1 minute they give a flip about what you or I think, the hapless fans who pay these guys' salaries?

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George Mitchell: ESPN/Disney boss, part owner of Red Sox, "probable next commissioner of baseball," national politician

Another member of the boys' club, George Mitchell was considered the next commissioner of baseball back in 1994, according to the Sporting News, 6/13/94 by Steve Marantz. I happen to agree with Mike Francesa, however, who says this is all just to delay the whole matter & get it off the front pages. Just so you don't think there really is anything going on in the boys' club. The article politely reveals just another rich guy who's used to getting what he wants & doesn't answer questions.

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8 bidders for Washington Nationals looking at MLB books

Major League Baseball invited the eight groups bidding on the Washington Nationals yesterday to examine the team's most recent financial information before the league proceeds with selecting a new owner, according to several bidders who spoke on condition of anonymity because MLB has asked them not to discuss the sale process.Story from Washingtonpost.com

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Canada now wired to hear all MLB games with XM

In addition, Canada will have its own MLB news & info channel on the dial produced in Toronto. Not a moment too soon.

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BP authors join Jeff Erickson on XM; new info about Ryan Church

Clay Davenport, Steven Goldman, & Christina Kahrl discuss new measurements in their new book such as adding rbi's, runs scored, wins & saves--info that fantasy types would like. Other interesting stuff like attrition rates--eg if Eric Gagne's rate is 12%, it has been calculated on how players similar to him have fared (or not). Clay did a lot of work on both major & minor league park factors, as well as those in Japan. One item Christina noted about why Ryan Church was sent down. She said he spent too much time trying to persuade people on the team about the merits of evangelical Christianity. Too bad if he did this to excess, as the Nats could've used him. Their book is Baseball Prospectus 2006.

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SI.com sells something totally original---Hatred

They have a new article out---they put "Hate" in the headline & the first sentence of the article. They must be desperate for business--yes, HATE sells. It's not that people HATE the Yankees or any other team. IT'S THAT MEDIA FRAME THE ISSUE day after day, feeding misleading or incorrect information to people who don't have time to check up on it. Or, they're inadequate & find it easier to HATE someone else than to look at themselves. A cheap publication and behind the times. IN CASE YOU HAVEN'T HEARD...YOU WON. YOU GOT THE YANKEE MONEY IN MILLIONS FOR REVENUE SHARING & MORE FOR LUXURY TAX. ALL INTERNET SERVICES & REVENUES ARE CONTROLLED BY MLB, MLB.COM, AND MLB ADVANCED MEDIA. WHAT'S BEING DONE WITH ALL THE MONEY YOU'RE TAKING OUT OF YANKEE FANS' POCKETS, EXACTLY?

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Moody's cuts debt rating on McClatchy & Knight Ridder

The transactions were financed with too much debt, and grade may be cut again. We just want the Pirates to be able to play baseball. Why can't somebody with the right motives own this team?

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Many vendors at stadiums now may pay for serving drunks

Reactions in Milwaukee indicate non-profit groups may no longer be able to operate as insurance costs would be prohibitive. This follows a hidden-camera report done last year by Dateline on NBC.

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Lawr Michaels joins Jeff Erickson on XM

Jeff & Lawr wish the Giants would consider the available Carlos Pena as an easy upgrade over Lance Niekro at 1B. On the Red Sox, Jeff says Kevin Youkilis may be moved over to 3B if Mike Lowell continues to struggle. Lawr is with creativesports.com. I wish someone would ask about starting Brian Bannister over Aaron Heilman. Tomorrow-- BASEBALL PROSPECTUS authors on Fantasy Focus.

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Trot to Selig--Don't make us see the D-Rays & Yanks so much, we won't get in so many fights

Trot Nixon thinks MLB should consider it. He says Allan "Bud" should consider the balanced schedule that worked from 1977- 2000 Tavaras is said to've tracked down reporters who wrote about him.

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Rockies' Kim strains hamstring

Unlucky enough to have it happen while baserunning. Presently is day to day.

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Eric Karabell, Sr. Fantasy Writer, ESPN, with Jeff Erickson on XM

Eric mentions his "Fantasy Baseball Tonight" show can be seen again today on ESPN at 12 noon (I'm pretty sure that's noon ET). Likes Casey Kotchman, says will score 90-100 runs this year. On the subject of Tiger Chris Shelton, both Jeff & Eric like him, but say it's too bad he's batting 8th, as lowers his RBI chances. Not thrilled with Dmitri Young. Eric notes Hanley Ramirez will lead off for Marlins, but JE thinks he might need more time in minors. To the question of who might still be a "sleeper," (since so many of them have been found out), Eric names Curtis Granderson, Mike Jacobs, & Jonathan Papelbon.

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Little League pushing back fences 20 FEET!!!

This word from the home of the Little League World Series. They say that while HR #'s have been about the same, doubles & triples have decreased leaving outfielders with not enough to do. That's what it says!

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Washington Nationals say lobbying scandals have reduced ticket sales

Some legislators are discussing a ban on accepting any gifts of sports tickets. The Nationals have even had some cancellations of lobbyist-special seats priced just under $50. STORY FROM WASHINGTON POST.

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Orioles make roster moves

The Orioles have announced they have selected Right Handed Pitcher Jim Brower, a non-roster invitee to camp, and added him to their 40-man roster. Brower, 33, was 3-3 with a 5.37 ERA in 69 games between San Francisco and Atlanta last season. In 7 major league seasons, he is 33-31 with a 4.35 ERA. He signed a minor league contract with the Orioles on January 27. At the same time, the Orioles reassigned 7 non-roster players to their minor league camp in Sarasota, Florida. Outfielder Napoleon Calzado, Infielder/Outfielder Howie Clark, Left Handed Pitcher Vic Darensbourg, Infielder Eddy Garabito, Right Handed Pitcher Andy Mitchell, 3rd Baseman Fernando Tatis and Ooutfielder Esix Snead.

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Everyone likes Joe Benigno on his own

They keep talking about getting a co-host for Joe Benigno on middays at WFAN in New York, but they should leave him as is. Joe is the best personality on sportstalk radio I've ever heard. Any recent hires I've heard here or other places have been milk-toast mumblers with no personality. Also, one of Joe's secrets is he lets you know he's a fan & what his favorite teams are. He doesn't pretend to be impartial-- one of the phony mistakes others make. He also has tremendous knowledge about all the teams.

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Ex-KNBR sports radio host settles suit

I didn't realize KNBR owns 1.5% of the Giants as it says here, or if that value changed after all the games became available on satellite. But, man, a lot of people at the station sure got involved in this thing. Krueger, the guy who started the whole mess already has 2 other jobs.

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Convenience store owner fights off robber with baseball bat

Plainfield -- Police say a thief tried to take the money and run from a food mart in Plainfield. Instead he left the scene in an ambulance. Just after 11 last night, a man police now identify as 44-year-old David Rainville of Canterbury, walked into the Plainfield Food Mart Norwich Road and tried to grab the cash register. However, the owners uncle wasn't going to let him have that and he grabbed a bat and beat the would be robber. "The guy had a knife he said 'don't move' and his face was covered," says store owner Zulfigar Ali. Security cameras caught all the action, but the tape is now police evidence as well as the bat which the uncle used on the would be robber. "He hit the arm, back of head, and shoulder," says Ali, "then a friend, he held the door and kept him inside the store till cops get there." That friend was Najir, who had his store robbed just three weeks ago. "My mother tried to give him money," says Najir, "he said 'no I want the whole register' and my mother took a plate threw it at him." Plainfield police charged suspect David Rainville with attempted robbery and he was held on $100,000 bond. No one else in the store was injured. From WFSB TV, Hartford, CT.

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Jason Grey, Fantasyball.com with Jeff Erickson on XM

Re announced Halsey for Cruz trade from Arizona to Oakland, Jason mentions Esteban Loaiza has only topped out at 82 mph in recent sessions, Halsey may be end of rotation insurance. (Halsey will also plunk a guy if necessary--my note). From Arizona's p.o.v., some of their pitchers have periodic stints on dl, Halsey would never be a reliever, & Cruz has shown he can be. Discussing recent drafts, says 10% of hitting & 30% of pitching go on opening day, & people usually undervalue sb's. If you can't get what you need, wait a couple months & trade. Jason's company was formerly called mastersball.com & offers in-person scouting in its service.

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Some of Pirates' best this spring won't be at season opener

With veterans such as third baseman Joe Randa, utility outfielder/infielder Jose Hernandez and right-handed reliever Salomon Torres, the trio of Bautista, McLouth and Capps is expected to begin the season at either Class AAA Indianapolis or Class AA Altoona.

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Do you know how Rotisserie Baseball got its name?

"Fantasy's roots can be traced to Rotisserie baseball, which was named, Mr. Okrent said, by the original players, who met for a monthly, nonvirtual baseball chat session over lunch in the early 1980's at La Rotisserie Francaise in New York. Unlike many newer fantasy leagues, Rotisserie baseball closely mirrors a real league, with complicated trades and no player allowed on more than one roster at a time." From the New York Times, June 7, 2001, Technology section. So it was named after a restaurant!

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Are we buds now? CBA coming up in December

'It helps, of course, that thanks to new enterprises such as MLB.com, baseball is raking in cash hand over fist. Not even Commissioner Bud Selig is crying poor anymore, not with the industry rocketing past $4.5 billion in total revenue.' This according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel (which doesn't vote for HOF or any other baseball awards). Why not have a minimum payroll requirement? Answer: Because that issue doesn't generate as much hate or envy, so doesn't sell as well. Why not take some of the billions mlb.com generates to help out smaller payrolls?

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ALFONSO SORIANO POWERS NATIONALS TO 4-2 WIN OVER BRAVES --those Americans never learn, just keep hitting homers

Soriano hit a 3-run homer in the 5th inning against Tim Hudson. Both bullpens delivered well for the teams with 5 delivering shutout innings & 1 a 1-hitter. (Another pesky American not 'learning lessons' from distant cultures, hitting a pesky 3-run homerun).

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Kenny Rogers must take anger management

Detroit Tigers pitcher Kenny Rogers won't face possible jail time for knocking down a cameraman during a videotaped tirade last year if he completes an anger management class, prosecutors said. Rogers made the agreement Friday while appearing before Tarrant County Criminal Court Judge Brent Carr, Assistant District Attorney Mark Thielman said. Rogers, then with the Texas Rangers, was charged with a Class A misdemeanor after videotape of the June 29 incident showed him walking onto Ameriquest Field in Arlington for pregame stretching and pushing a television camera to the ground.

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Hee-Seop Choi claimed by Red Sox

A native of Chun Nam, South Korea, Choi has played all or part of four major league seasons with the Cubs (2002-03), Marlins (2004) and Dodgers (2004-05). He debuted with the Cubs September 8, 2002, is a career .240 hitter with 40 home runs, 120 RBI and a .349 on-base percentage in 363 major league games.

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New Slugger postage stamps to be issued-Roy Campanella, Hank Greenberg, Mel Ott, Mickey Mantle

New Slugger postage stamps unveiled today at Mickey Mantle's Restaurant will be issued July 15 at Yankee Stadium before the White Sox-Yankee game.

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Rebuttal: Prensa Latina says Cuban Baseball Hurricane Aid Intact

Someone has to decide first if their were any WBC profits--if they're weren't, then apparently the issue is moot. But Cuba says MLB's agreement was to pay them their share as long as it was then given away.

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Baseball Contract Debt Reduced by 4.3%

"I don't think the players were quite as good as they were last year," said Frank Coonelly, MLB senior vice president. "That helps explain why the amount of money committed in the future has gone down." The headline in the originating newspaper presents the story differently, i.e. with a more negative & sensationalistic twist. It also puts Mr. Coonelly's comment at the very end of the article. Now I know Hal Bodley's orientation.

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Scott Kazmir named opening day pitcher for D-Rays

Congratulations, Scott.

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Castro speech implies he's getting money from MLB--MIAMI HERALD

Castro gave a speech Tuesday saying he'd donate money he receives from the WBC to hurricane victims. An MLB spokesman said this wasn't part of their plan. Maybe the solution is an IRS audit of MLB's books (such as they may exist). Also, Boss Orza has a new take on overall profits of the WBC. Yesterday, the Wall St. Journal quoted an MLB official estimating profits at $15-20 million, but Orza says there may be no profits at all.

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Gracie's Diner, 86th & 1st, where David Wells had a dust-up a few years ago

My neice, Claire, takes walking tour of famous New York 24-hour diners, starting with Gracie's.

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If you're at the Yogi Berra Museum this Sunday, you'll see Jonah Keri & 7 other BP authors

Keri was on Jeff Erickson's Fantasy Focus today on XM, & mentioned 8 Baseball Prospectus authors will be appearing this Sunday for signing & discussions. It's the Yogi Berra Museum in Montclair, New Jersey at 1PM.

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In case you're keeping score

Jeter has been hit eight times by the Red Sox since 2003. When Jeter was asked if he thought Riske's pitch had intent, he said, "You've got to ask him. I didn't throw it." This quote from The Norwalk Advocate via Newsday. Steve Lombardi at waswatching.com says, "OK, I confess. I cheered, out loud, when Tanyon Sturtze drilled Mike Lowell in the 8th inning of tonight's Spring Training game. And, yes, unlike the guys in the YES booth, I believe that Riske hit Jeter on purpose."

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Some "Collective Sacrifice"-a talking point on WBC

They all whine, owners MUST sacrifice, they MUST...where did this talking point come from? Get this, you water carriers--it's the players, their families, their team mates, the vendors, parking lot attendants, and lastly the FANS who lose the most. But, why bother you with reality--you're only about peddling hate. The fact that anyone thought of this ridiculous talking point shows the depths to which greedy & publicity-hungry operators like Selig, Orza, communist regimes, & many baseball writers & announcers will go. As Deadspin noted today, the Wall Street Journal reports MLB executives estimate a PROFIT of $10-$15 million. And they all ran with the headline that we need to "learn lessons from Cuba." DID YOU MORONS MENTION THE CUBAN PLAYERS WEREN'T ALLOWED TO LEAVE THEIR HOTEL ROOMS TO MEET OTHER PLAYERS IN THE SO-CALLED WORLD CLASSIC? THEY WERE SURROUNDED BY ARMED GUARDS SO THEY COULDN'T ESCAPE? THE CUBANS WEREN'T ALLOWED TO TAKE BP OR FIELDING PRACTICE BEFORE MANY OF THEIR GAMES TO PREVENT ANYONE ELSE FROM SEEING HOW THEY PLAYED. YOU THINK MAYBE FAILURE TO TAKE PRACTICE MIGHT BE DETRIMENTAL TO PLAYERS WHO'VE PUT THEIR LIVES INTO THIS EVENT? GEE, THAT'S A GREAT LESSON. And, these low-lifes at MLB say some share of a team's profits will go to the players. How do the hapless fans who paid for this get to see substantiation for that?

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Jim Kaat is an accomplished pitcher

He says the WBC was a "lose-lose" situation for US players, but a feel-good event for certain sectors in certain countries. Notes neither Dontrelle Willis nor any other US pitcher would be ready for this event at this time of year. He agrees with Boss Orza that having it in November is a cockamamie idea, but says the whole idea is cockamamie. Before you put down Jim Kaat's comments, he's nobody's lackey--you can look it up. He also just received an Emmy for Best Analysis/Commentary in a sportscast. Sorry, he doesn't work for ESPN, all of whose employees are paid to promote the event. His comments were made tonight on the YES Network.

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Baltimore Orioles cut 10 Players

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Pitcher Hayden Penn, outfielder Jeff Fiorentino and first baseman Alejandro Freire were among 10 players cut by the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday. Penn, who was 3-2 with a 6.34 ERA in eight starts last year, was optioned to Triple-A Ottawa, along with outfielder Val Majewski and infielder Brandon Fahey.

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THE BELTWAY BOYS: SORIANO SAYS ..... "PLAY BALL!"

THE BELTWAY BOYS: SORIANO SAYS ..... "PLAY BALL!"

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MLB to Fantasy Leagues: Turn over all your clients

This is what's at stake in a lawsuit between CBC Fantasy Leagues and MLB to take place in July in Missouri. That would mean no more free fantasy leagues & fewer, more expensive pay leagues. MLB, MLB.com, MLB Advanced Media will control everything, people. Why aren't media types making a big deal about this? My theory: they've already given up. Not me. I see how these people operate, & I'm not giving up.

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Big Papi's glad to be home---at least Castro's son won't be bothering him

David Ortiz had some grand moments, but overall he feels the WBC was a "waste of his time," thinks all games should've been in the USA as facilities were sub-par in other locales (sorry to all those who like to knock everything about the US). He didn't get the work-outs he needed, & Castro's son did show up at his hotel door in San Diego. I wonder how much coverage players' remarks will receive from media types.

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New Oakland A's hitting coach Gerald Perry is off on right foot

PHOENIX -- Many of the Oakland A's don't know it, but their new hitting coach was known for more than his bat during his playing days. Gerald Perry was a real speedster.

In 1987, Perry stole 42 bases with the Braves. That's 11 more than the entire A's team managed last year, and it would have been fourth most in the American League.

"I could always run," Perry said. "I was an undersized first baseman, but I could run. I was talking to Milton Bradley about stolen bases the other day, and asked him the most he'd had (17). I told him, 'When you get to 42, come talk to me,' and just started laughing."

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John Manuel of Baseball America with Jeff Erickson on Fantasy Focus

Jeff asks John his picks from WBC as John has followed international players for several years. He likes the shortstop from Team Taiwan who he says is in the Dodger system. I'll check the spelling later, but phonetically it's Chi Wung. Also infielder Brad Harman who played for Australia & is in the Phillies system. Of course likes Y. Gurriel the 2B with the Cuban team, sees him like Ricky Weeks. Pacific rim players display more emphasis on speed, hit & runs. John says best Korean player Lee Sun Yop (again just phonetically), although he's 29 years old. Jeff mentions the closer who finished against Japan in the 2nd round, Sun Wang Ho (phonetically). Back in the US, Jeff notes several Dodger prospects are changing positions which will be problematic for the player. Sees Cliff Politte as White Sox closer should Jenks not work out.

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Joe Castellano is part of the problem

I'm listening to his show on XM after the game, but it's sickening. He hypes the usual talking points---first, that the owner of the Yankees was a big problem. Really, Joe? He's only one vote out of 30+, he made 1 or 2 statements that people like you repeated 100 times a day every day for weeks. YOU are the problem. Then you say he "definitely talked to some of his players" to persuade them not to play. Where's your proof for this? And you say players SHOULD go AND they should go earlier to practice or be together as a group.

• JOE, ARE YOU GOING TO REIMBURSE THE FANS FOR THE LOSS OF THEIR PLAYERS?
• JOE, ARE YOU GOING TO CORRECTLY TELL THE PLAYERS TO TAKE A PAY CUT FOR SPENDING PREVIOUSLY PROMISED TIME ELSEWHERE?
• JOE, ARE YOU GOING TO SHORTEN THE MLB SEASON TO COMPENSATE FOR THE ADDED TIME, INCLUDING TRAVEL, PRACTICE, ETC. THAT'S INVOLVED?
• JOE, ARE YOU GOING TO PAY THE CONTRACTS OF ALL PLAYERS WHO ARE INJURED?
• JOE, WHO THE HECK ARE YOU TO HAVE THIS ATTITUDE? FINALLY, NOBODY EXCEPT SHILLS LIKE YOU THOUGHT IT WAS A BIG DEAL THAT THE US DIDN'T ADVANCE IN A SHORT SERIES. AND YOU HAVE THE NERVE TO IMPLY THERE WAS NOT ENOUGH PASSION ON THE US TEAM?

Players injured or diminished by World Baseball Classic.

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The tail wags the dog

Allan (Bud) Selig said at a press conference prior to tonight's WBC game that HE feels this tourney should continue to be played in MARCH, according to the radio announcer on the ESPN coverage on XM. FINE. Then, as Mike Francesa correctly pointed out today, 1 or more of the following needs to happen...

1. As this will either add or subtract about a month from the regular MLB season with practice, travel, etc., all players involved must take a pay cut from their employers (whose monies are received from the FANS).
2. The regular MLB season must be shortened to about 154 games.

TO ALL THE WILLING ACCOMPLICES AT ESPN.COM, STOP THIS GARBAGE ABOUT HOW THE OWNERS MUST SACRIFICE . IT's US, THE FANS, YOU'RE DEALING WITH.

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Soriano may be without a paycheck on Wednesday

VIERA, Fla. -- Second baseman Alfonso Soriano informed the Nationals on Monday afternoon that he will not play outfield for them, while the team told him that he could be placed on the disqualified list if he failed to do so. Soriano, who played most of March representing the Dominican Republic World Baseball Classic, was set to hit leadoff and play the outfield for the Nationals against the Dodgers on Monday night. But when the players went out on the field, only eight players were present. Manager Frank Robinson then went to home plate umpire Mike Estabrook and told him that a lineup change was going to be made. Brandon Watson, who was supposed to sit out the game, went to center field, while Ryan Church switched from center to left field.

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Ichiro speaks--an experienced player's opinion of American players

As for the reverse, Suzuki said, “If there's anything that I can bring back from America to Japan, I would say that I think the players have more passion in America than the Japanese players do. I don't see anybody who is cool about it, and I had to work hard to catch up with those guys who are really passionate about the game of baseball. ... That's something that I would like to relate to my Japanese colleagues.” Sorry to burst the bubble of those who complain about Team USA, but this is what Ichiro told reporters in recent days. His statement is profound considering his loyalty to Japan. On a related topic, he also said American dugouts were filthy & needed to be cleaned up. From the San Diego Union.

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Kevin Baxter, Miami Herald offers tips to Cuban defectors

Kevin mentions 2 easy escape routes from Petco, although he doesn't advocate this behavior for anyone. An outfield wall at Petco is very near a public street & low enough that someone could jump over it. 2nd, he says the bullpen at Petco has no private restroom, players must use the public restroom. The team was heavily guarded in Puerto Rico, but conditions seem more relaxed in San Diego.

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ESPN.com writer Jayson Stark re WBC

Unfortunately, Jayson sounds like a scolding father, or as if he's in charge of other peoples' lives. He emphatically states 'owners MUST SACRIFICE' to get more players into it and earlier. Who the heck is he? It's pressure like this that lost the Nationals a pitcher for the season. Is Stark going to pay them AND THEIR FANS for their loss? The powers that be have gotten most of the baseball writers to haul the WBC train for them--nice. So, Stark says HE 'was told' the US team was going to start practice on Feb. 1. By whom? And who cares? No one had the authority to do that anyway. This is more of an endless stream of hype beating certain themes into the ground to get headlines. There are good things about the WBC and bad things. But I can't listen to the same garbage from paid shills with companies who have a specific interest. If they want to balance their coverage with opposing or objective views, fine.

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Rob Liebowitz with Jeff Erickson on Fantasy Focus on XM

Rob & Jeff discuss recent competitive auctions--sounds like you should take your vitamins & sharpen your reflexes for these things. Rob says next time when he's closed out of players he needs, he'll load up on good hitters. His site mastersball.com has now become fantasyball.com. Jeff discusses the Wily Mo Pena for Bronson Arroyo trade-- most would've hoped Wily Mo could be an everyday player somewhere, but Boston may not be it. He says Arroyo isn't bad, but will need to keep the ball on the ground in Great American ballpark. Also mentions LHP Matt Thornton goes from the Mariners to the White Sox for Joe Borchard, a one-time big prospect.

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Baseball traffic tonight in San Diego--here's how to get there & be happier doing it

Baseball Traffic Published: 3/19/2006 10:39:23 PM Amtrak officials encouraged fans attending Monday's World Baseball Classic championship game at Petco Park to take the Pacific Surfliner. Trains are scheduled to arrive at the San Diego station at 4:50 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. Fans can then transfer to the San Diego Trolley, to one of two stations within walking distance of Petco Park. Pacific Surfliner service is available from Oceanside, Solana Beach and Old Town. Cuba will face Japan in the 6 p.m. championship game. Cuba defeated the Dominican Republic, 3-1, in the opening semifinal yesterday, while Japan was a 6-0 winner over South Korea in the other.

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Ambiorix Burgos gets the call

That's to the closer's job for the Royals, as Mike "the Knife" MacDougal has an injury in his upper right arm. Burgos saw some time last year when MacDougal was injured, & he seems to have the closer mentality. Anyhow, I looked it up & Ambiorix is from the Dominican Republic. The Royals have terrible luck, already losing several players.

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Moises Alou gives glove to Tony Castro

Moises Alou flatters glove baseball son Fidel I THE HABANA/AFP. - Antonio Castro, son of Fidel I and doctor of the team of Cuba that attends Classic the World-wide one, received from flattery a glove of baseball of Moises Alou, one of stars of the Dominican team which will face the Cubans in semifinals, informed Friday the local press. Article from Listin Diario, with computer translation to English. Anyhow, it was interesting that Moises Alou gave Castro's son, who's also the Cuban team doctor, a glove.

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Timlin/ Red Sox asked not to be used in last US game of WBC

Kevin Kennedy mentions this on a special edition show with Dibs on XM, discussing various facets of the series. Notes Buck Martinez could'nt have let it be known that Timlin wasn't available at the time (due to tired arm) as it would've favored the competition. US players wanted to win, but there were many issues Buck Martinez had to deal with that weren't publicized. Tom Pacioreck mentions Timlin won't have to go into the military or sugar cane fields as a result. Tom is one of new analysts for the Nationals.

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AL LEITER IS LOOGY FOR LAST TIME

Al Leiter announced his retirement today before the Cleveland-Yankee game at Legends Field. Joe Torre sent him out to face one last batter in the middle of the game, & after retiring him, Leiter came out of the game to great applause & congratulations in the dugout. Many expect he'll continue in baseball on the broadcasting side.

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6-0 Japan---You could also check out Game 7, 2002 World Series

Giants @ Anaheim, John Lackey v Livan Hernandez. Classic game now on XM Ch 175, WBC on 176. Deja vu for B Kim who's otherwise I'm sure a good guy.

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ERIC CHAVEZ SPEAKS ABOUT WBC

Chavez says no US players can be ready at this time of year. What he says is common sense & has been said by others. However, unlike Chavez, the others have been demonized for their remarks by those with certain agendas.

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Admits playing in WBC robbed him of needed spring practice

While Perez enjoyed representing his country, he has a lot of catching up to do during the final two weeks of spring training. The Pirates want to get him back into his routine as soon as possible, so he will start and pitch two innings Sunday against Toronto on two days' rest. The 24-year-old Perez also understands the WBC might have delayed his development for this season -- he's pitched fewer innings (four) this spring than left-hander Paul Maholm did Saturday in a five-inning start against the Reds. Also, Perez's fastball was in the 86-88 mph range against the U.S., down considerably from the mid-90s he reached regularly while going 12-10 with a 2.98 ERA and 239 strikeouts in 2004. Perez also had trouble getting his fastball into that range last season, when he finished 7-5 with a 5.85 ERA during a season interrupted for nearly two months by a broken toe. "I kind of expected he was going to be a little bit behind," catcher Humberto Cota said. (AP report published in Baltimore Sun).

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Australian gets Braves pitching job after WBC performance

Peter Moylan was in pharmaceutical sales having been released by the Twins in 1997. That was until he pitched in the WBC, Australia vs Venezuela. The Braves signed him to their minor leagues, but he pitched in a Braves game on Saturday against the Cincinnati Reds, the Braves winning 10-6.

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The greatest pitcher of his era

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How ESPN treated the WBC as a fringe event

After all, it started with minor league umpires to let you know it was a fringe event. They could easily have put the games on ESPN Classic. And when they said they'd play them back at 1 or 2 in the morning, they didn't, with no announcement, crawl, etc., just played tennis instead. Next time around, they'll have MLB Advanced Media to compete with. Article from Sports Media Watch. Not to worry--most of the writers, especially America haters, were played like a violin by Selig & Orza, not to mention Fidel. They gave it tons of publicity.

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South Korean pitcher out of WBC for banned substance

Per MLB today, Myung Hwan Park pitched 2 scoreless innings.

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JAPAN's starting pitcher Uehara warms up at Petco today

Mike Francesa on WFAN made the most sense to me today. He said the games would be meaningful without US presence. We don't need a contrived contest when a real contest is good enough. Picture from Mainichi

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Ken Davidoff on XM with Charley Steiner re WBC

Ken admits he was wrong about the enthusiasm level generated by the games, but still has questions about the overall scheme. The organizers wanted a US team that could be sold, marketed, etc., which is a separate thing from a team that can win. If it takes place again 3 years from now, are players going to give up another week or 2 to go to practice earlier with the team? How will they & their families be compensated? On the question of Clemens playing again, Davidoff thinks he will, also mentioning Clemens is opening a restaurant in Houston.

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John Sickels on XM with Jeff Erickson

Discussing Astros pitching if no Clemens, top move-ups would be Fernando Nieves & Jason Hirsch followed by Taylor Buchholtz & Jimmy Barthmeyer. On the Brewers, Sickels says the strong farm system has perhaps held Corey Hart back; he has good sbs, power, running. Predicts the Twins will keep Francisco Liriano in AAA for awhile & give Scott Baker a chance. The best news is XM will replay Fantasy Focus starting this Saturday night at 11PM.

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Damon only a pinch runner in last WBC game

Johnny Damon, The picture was taken by Reuters & published in the NY Times. Damon never had an at bat in the game nor played in the field. He was added at the end as a pinch runner, but the following batter hit the first pitch into a double play.

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Marco Scutaro applies mustard to Australian in WBC

This photo from El Nacional/Venezuela was a very cool thing.

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WADA threatens to flunk WBC drug testing policy

They say WBC won't give them a copy of its anti-doping policy. No comment from Orza. Reported today in SI.com. This is what happens when you claim to have a global or international event. Next stop: the Hague.

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Omar Vizquel returns from WBC

"I believe I am almost at full speed," he said. "I played nine innings almost every day. With the responsibility we had in those games I feel like now I have to lay down a little and play spring training games after playing such a high level of games." These were Vizquel's words reported by an AP Sports writer. It's nice someone's finally admitting this was a lot different from spring training.

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SCOTT BORAS WEIGHS IN ON XM on WBC

Scott is asked his opinion of the best non-US players in the WBC; he says, " the 1B from Korea could help several teams, & the Korean catcher has a good arm & a durable body." Other than that, his overall view of the WBC is the only realistic one-- the excitement of last night's game between South Korea & Japan notwithstanding. The question is who's taking the risk among the Americans? If you look at the equation, it's not balanced & not as simple as some like to make it. (This is the first time the other side has been allowed on the airwaves).

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ROY HALLADAY signed through 2010 with Blue Jays -- on XM with Kevin & Dibs

Roy says he's very much enjoying spring training, especially having had his season shortened last year. He's of course pleased with the moves the team has made. I didn't hear Kevin or Dibs question him on whether he would've played in the WBC, which was interesting. These days, most media guys are saying players should all want to play for the thing & no high profile player has been given a chance in a quality setting to present a differing point of view.

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Jeff Passan Yahoo Baseball writer on XM

Jeff tried to find the story on Gyroball, an alleged Japanese pitching method. He's talked to many people including Japanese pitchers who've either said they don't throw it or they've never heard of it. Jeff thinks it's not true that players need spring training, thinks it's silly. No one asked him about the physical & mental demands of players who've played lengths of time in the post season as opposed to those who don't, particularly with regard to pitchers. I'd appreciate his opinion if he had some substantiation, but he didn't. Jeff also mentioned his view that the American League is far superior to the National League. I wonder if Jeff's a voting member of the BBWAA; he's not with a newspaper now, but was he tenured enough to retain a vote?

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Jerry Crasnick on XM re WBC

Jerry wishes ESPN had followed through showing the games they said they'd show. He also provides further proof the WBC was a bait & switch deal from the beginning---he cites one American infielder who's playing well but seems to be holding back on his snap throws, perhaps to avoid injury. So, is anyone going to admit this is something vastly different for players than spring training?

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Jason Thornbury on Fantasy Focus with Jeff Erickson on XM

They discuss the American League west; for the Mariners, Felix Hernandez is the only sure starter, Gil Meche may still have oblique problems. Both are high on Rafael Soriano in their bullpen. Later, Jeff mentions Twins' p Francisco Liriano, who's also done well for the DR team in the WBC. Jeff predicts to a caller that although Chris Reitsma may start out closing for the Braves, Joey Devine will eventually get the job.

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Japan sends renewed protest about umpire call in 4-3 game against US--Mainichi

I don't blame them at all. They're making their protest official as of March 16. Enough video has been seen of the call now to know it was a joke. Solution? The game should be voided. Forget any further resolution this time out---there are too many injured players now to drag this out further. Please let them go home.

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Chipper wants changes in WBC

Ken Davidoff mentions the injuries to Johnny Damon & Derrek Lee but not those of Adrian Beltre & Damaso Marte.. He does explain veteran Chipper Jones says the WBC should be held in November, & the tie-breaker system is 'bogus.' What's funny is people who say players would be too tired in November...in other words, let the regular teams & fans have them when they're worn out, but give their greater productivity to lining the pockets of mlb advanced media (whom you must pay to see the games), Allan Selig, Gene Orza, etc. I do recall Davidoff saying awhile ago that the WBC was ill conceived & ill-timed, & he hasn't gone back on that.

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BRING BACK THE MICKEY MOUSE CLUB---WHY WASTE TIME WITH ESPN

On the cable guide espn says it will play the South Korea-Japan game at 1AM. So, it's now 30 minutes later & still NO BASEBALL. They have TENNIS. They say all day they'll play the games back like they're really great guys, but NO GAME. They did the same thing the other night. ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS. Do not believe these sheisters. INCIDENTALLY, MANY THANKS TO CHARLEY STEINER ON XM FOR BRINGING TO LIFE ON RADIO THE THRILLING ENDING TO THE SOUTH KOREA-JAPAN GAME TONIGHT. THANKS ALSO TO KEVIN KENNEDY FOR DOING HIS JOB AS THE ANALYST, WHICH MEANS NOT TRYING TO BE THE CO-PLAY BY PLAY MAN. This way, we can enjoy the game & not worry about the 2 voices stepping on each other. It was an elimination game that came down to the wire; thanks to XM for allowing me to experience it.

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CAPED PERSON RUNS ON FIELD IN PUERTO RICO WBC

Cuban manager & his translator ejected from game in bottom of 7th. Caped individual dashes across warning track without interference. I search all espn stations, & NOT EVEN A MENTION OF THIS EVENT. INCREDIBLE.

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NO MORE FREE BASEBALL-NO PAY, NO WBC

YOU HAVE SEEN THE FUTURE, & IT'S.....MLB ADVANCED MEDIA.....I've looked all over MLB.COM for the Cuba- Puerto Rico game, but no audio & no video unless I pay a fee to MLB ADVANCED MEDIA. Fortunately, I can get the audio on XM. But, this is what people should realize. While you're not paying attention, MLB is stealing your life. (espn has several channels doing nothing tonight, but they're in business with mlb, so they don't show the games either).

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Geoff Stein of mockdraftcentral.com joins Jeff Erickson on Fantasy Focus

Geoff mentions favorites Willy Mo Pena, Brandon McCarthy, Ervin Santana, Prince Fielder, & Jeremy Hermida (most would second these). Slightly worried about Carl Crawford's wrist. Jeff mentions that his service, rotowire.com, has an mlb commissioner service you can sign up for. Now that's a great idea.

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DERREK LEE HURT SHOULDER-GOING TO LA FOR EXAM

Where are all the media guys saying the Cubs owners shouldn't be upset? And are they complaining that Astro's Phil Garner is concerned about whether Brad Lidge is getting in the work he needs?

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DAMON NOW SHUT DOWN FROM THROWING FOR ABOUT A WEEK---HEY LASORDA, YOU SAID ON TV IT WAS STUPID TO CARE ABOUT INJURIES.

Damon's left shoulder was aggravated in pushing himself to be ready for the WBC. He won't blame the event, but that's what the reporters are saying. The reporter from NY Newsday impugns the principle owner of the Yankees in his opening sentence. All Steinbrenner said was he was worried about injuries; but the media aim to get publicity, so they fall back on spin about him rather than doing any real reporting. DON'T YOU THINK ANYONE ELSE IS WORRIED ABOUT INJURIES? How about the player himself, his family, his teammates, the fans, the groundskeepers, the vendors, etc.? But, no. The media know hate sells. The Mariners were also informed Adrian Beltre has sustained an injury at the WBC. How many articles have been written about the Mariners' owners who've made clear that profits come before winning the World Series? P.S. HOPE THE CHECK CLEARS, LASORDA.

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ESPN continues mass campaign against Yankees

ESPN continues its campaign against the Yankees. It can't be a lack of supervision---their announcers have been doing this for years. Today John Kruk made statements on the Yankee-Cardinals broadcast that were agreed to by his side kick. He said today bench players on the Yankees will never get to play, because regulars play all the time. His partner says yeah, all that money sitting on the bench. This is totally false of course, but an easy lie to get people to be scornful about the Yankees. ESPN, for your information, the following have recurring injuries requiring bench substitutes--1) JOHNNY DAMON--see news accounts today--chronic bad shoulder; 2) Gary Sheffield; 3) Jason Giambi; 4) Bernie Williams; 5) Kelly Stinnett. Others who require occasional substitutes--Hideki Matsui, Jorge Posada, & anyone else who is hit by a pitch or otherwise injured. Benchplayers who made a difference on the field for the Yankees in recent years---Wade Boggs, Jim Leyritz, Chad Curtis, Shane Spencer, Enrique Wilson, Ruben Sierra, John Flaherty, Bubba Crosby, and........Aaron Boone. There are others, but anyone should know these. Unless of course you're ESPN.

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Larry Bowa compares rookie OF Kevin Thompson to Marquis Grissom

With Johnny Damon being injured, Kevin Thompson may get time in the big leagues. Injured or not, Damon's absence from spring training gave at least 1 rookie a chance to be noticed. Story in NY Post.

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DAMON INJURED---CAN'T PLAY

This report from NY Newsday as usual slants the issue incorrectly. For the same old reason---hate sells, & it's a lot easier. We've got all the paid shills constantly hammering us for 1 reason--that we should NOT worry about players getting hurt. GET THIS YOU HACKS***THEY'RE NOT YOUR PLAYERS. This phony says George might not be happy that Damon is hurt. Really? SO NOW IT'S BAD TO NOT WANT YOUR PLAYER TO BE HURT. THIS IS INSANE. *** Enough with the sales pitch on this cocktail party.

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Using mass media & emotion, the bullies will steal our players again

Listening to the Venezuela-Puerto Rico game, it's a mass media campaign to ruin the sport as we know it. These people have no shame---saying mlb now wants the whole season to officially start earlier, so they can formally take all our players away. No mention that the season is already too long. And a dramatic pitch by Lasorda that George should stop his pesky worrying that players will get hurt. Right. Adrian Beltre is already injured. Is there an insurance policy in place in the WBC that reimburses grounds keepers, vendors, security, players, fans, etc. for the millions of dollars of Beltre's salary? George hasn't said enough. SOMEBODY BESIDES ME PLEASE SPEAK UP. YOU CAN'T POSSIBLY WATCH THIS THING & think it's the same as spring training. AND, the US SHOULD FORFEIT THE GAME IN WHICH THE FIRED UMPIRE BLEW THE CALL.

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Adrian Beltre now limited in WBC by hip flexor injury

The Mariners have been informed of the injury, but that it's not serious enough to keep Beltre off the roster entirely. Oh, that must really make Mariners fans happy. Dibs was saying today how Mariners fans must be happy that Beltre's hitting so well. It's nice to be optimistic.

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The Oakland A's could become the San Jose A's of Fremont

Even though San Jose is technically in SF Giants territory, baseball has no rules banning another team from using the name 'San Jose.' And, Fremont, Calif. has the most available land for a stadium, hence the San Jose A's of Fremont. Baseball can get confusing.

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Adam Loewen, WBC Canada hero is sent down by Orioles

LHP Adam Loewen who did such a great job in the first game against the USA, has been optioned to Bowie of the Eastern League.

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Un-classic umpires; Kevin Kernan to discuss on XM

Chuck Wilson calls it a glitch along the way...they sell goods, sell the work of so many players, call names & demonize anyone who dares to question them. But, they fail to get good, experienced umpires. Just shows a bunch of bullies with no conscience. Kernan agrees Japan was cheated, & some umpires should've been Japanese. Chuck also interviews James Carville, debuting with Tim Russert's son on a new sports show on XM channel 200, "60-20."

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There goes the Pirates' payroll---McClatchy buys Knight-Ridder--Forbes

Also fascinating for baseball are the markets involved, and the VOTING MEMBERS OF THE BBWAA! Will there be additional corruption in the dying awards process, either through a bottom line loss or addition of low level, uninformed, biased voters?

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Matt Berry on Fantasy Focus with Jeff Erickson, says speed is king

Matt's first 2 choices in recent NL draft were Jose Reyes & Juan Pierre, saying you can manufacture categories like saves, but can't make up speed. Matt does ESPN radio & tv plus some Angels work, so mentioned lots of speed on the Angels' team, & multi-platform contributions by Chone Figgins, whom he predicts will eventually be CF for that team. Matt's sites include talentedmrroto.com, & rotopass.com, as well as rotowire.com. Jeff's high on Prince Fielder in several leagues; likes Delman Young but worries he won't get enough playing time til mid-season. On Liriano, may be taking the Johan Santana development path.

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Here's a shocker--MLB sells Europeon broadcast rights today

Report from Reuters.

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Feeling nostalgic about what was my spring training

Shawn Chacon checks out shoe while Chien-Ming Wang throws in Tampa, Feb. 21

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Chacon is my Deity

Much more interesting to follow guys who almost didn't make it, or who fly under the radar. As usual, news writers have to fill up space first & make sense later. So this guy says Torre likes Chacon, then reminds us he probably took him out too early from the 2005 ALDS. Anyhow, the guy showed up in the post season, which is what the team needed him to do.

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Have this thing at the All Star break, once every few years---San Diego Union

You don't have to have this at all but if you must, there's only 1 time when it's remotely logical. AND, you'll have no other big sports happenings to compete with as you do in March. Advertising rates are cheaper in July, too.

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For all of you who drink the "haves" & "have nots" Kool-Aid

Charley Steiner mentions during the Japan game today that 'Yomiuri' in Giants refers to its owner, a media conglomerate---not a town or city. Likewise, a 'Nippon' team refers to another business owner, not a place. Since your boss has now sold you that baseball is global, this should concern you. By the way, will the recipient of the corporate largess of WBC be compensating vendors at local ballparks who've lost income to him? Why not? At what point does Al give back some of the millions he's taken? By the way, the main point of this whole thing is to increase revenues from Communist China---can't hurt seeing Al on tv with Castro.

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Hanley Ramirez hits another homerun in Marlins win today

I looked on the Marlins website, but there was no mention of today's game yet. Just going by the mlb scoreboard. Now, I'm looking for live tv coverage of the USA-Japan game but don't find any. What happened to the global game of baseball? (Not that I don't actually prefer baseball on radio & I'm appropriately grateful I'm allowed to have it, but still...).

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Some Venezuelan fans not happy with Luis Sojo

It seems Sojo has put his godson Robert Perez on the roster over a player like Alex Gonzalez, & Perez heard some boos going 0-4 the other night. Gonzalez was a big hit in Caribbean winter ball, but Perez is in line to earn his 1000th hit as a Venezuelan sometime next year.

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Star Nats 3B Ryan Zimmerman with Grant Paulsen on XM

Ryan is actually a Washington DC native, grew up rooting for the Braves & Orioles, but mentioned seeing the Braves more on tv. This kid sounds like the real deal, works hard, loves the team (amazing after all the stuff that's gone on to ruin that team), mentions Mike Stanton is a positive influence in the clubhouse.

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A repellent individual

In his customary whining tone of voice, Allan (Bud) Selig related on the air today how wonderful he was. He thanked Clemens for playing, but Clemens said, "Ohhhhhh, noooooo, thaaaaank youuuuuuu, Bud...." First of all, Clemens is unemployed as a baseball player. He can go around & do anything he wants. Naturally, we all like having baseball games--clue--we've just been through the winter--this is the time we're all most eager anyway---that's why Selig took our players away when he did. This is when we want them most. But, it's always all about Selig, always him getting his way, selling a bill of goods. What's he giving up? NOTHING. What's he paying for all the wealth & publicity he's grabbing for himself? NOTHING. And, anyone who thinks about it knows it. But, most people are lazy, would rather take the easy way. So, a giant, selfish & cruel theft is carried out by this phony good-guy salesman, & you're all being fooled. I don't like bullies even if they come disguised as buddies.

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S.F. Giants minor league pitcher star of night in WBC

And, they're not even planning on moving him up to the show this year.

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Cubans told to demonstrate against US today by the Revolutionary Sports Movement

Via ABC news. This was the government's order responding to persons with anti-Fidel signs the day before. I learned here Fidel Castro's son, Tony, is the Cuban team doctor. Nice.

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BONDS NOW WANTS TO PLAY IN WBC----AP & ESPN REPORT

Although team USA manager, Buck Martinez, says this is news to him, & he has no room on his 30 man roster. Trying to get some good will going, maybe saw Allan (Bud) Selig in the environs of the game today maybe crossed paths entering or leaving the XM broadcast booth.

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AP--MARIANO RIVERA RANKED #1 CLOSER FOR FANTASY LEAGUES

This AP report by Bill Konigsberg must be killing the stats guys--who may or may not be fantasy guys. On second thought, it's probably not killing them. They all have a solid practice of pretending Mariano Rivera doesn't exist.They rank the top 30 closers here. However, just to continue minimizing Mariano if they possibly can & to ease their own pain, they put a picture of a different, much less accomplished late inning relief pitcher at the top of the article. (Don't forget to look at post season stats even if it's more work).

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Barry Bonds live broadcasting USA-So. Africa WBC game now on XM

This may be the best venue for Barry. What you want from him or any baseball pro is information about the game, which the in-game audio format lends itself to. He's presenting a persona I've never seen from him before---he's forthcoming & generous. An announcer mentions South Africa has no professional baseball, just amateur.

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Physician is also baseball expert @ Baseball Prospectus----Rany Jazayerli joins Jeff Erickson on XM

Rany Jazayerli discusses the "Scoresheet" method of fantasy baseball. You've got a lot of geniuses in this business---there must be something to it. Notes differences between Stratomatic & Scoresheet, the latter being what players do in real life. Also,

• Best pitchers in the AL will be best pitchers in Scoresheet, which is not so in Roto
• Final results (wins, saves) in Rotisserie don't always correlate with players' abilities
• Still are differences about ways to measure defensive abilities
• Rany's focus is up the middle--his draft so far includes 2 ss's. He & Jeff agree the 2001 Diamondbacks are an excellent example of a Scoresheet draft.
• I believe both agreed that Luis Castillo is the best defensive 2B.
• Jeff's patron saint is Rafael Betancourt.

I read that Rany is a long-time Royals fan, in addition to being a physician & Baseball Prospectus author.

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Devil Rays bright lights---Elijah Dukes, Joey Gathright & more

Ty Wigginton had 2 hits in Wednesday's game against the Phillies & pitcher Chris Sneddon now has 4 innings without a run. Outfielder Dukes is from Tampa's Hillsborough High & seeing his first big league spring training. Gathright had 3 hits, 1 run & 1 stolen base in the win over the Phillies. Jonny Gomes entered the game with 13 total bases this spring, 2nd in the AL. The Rays can cause you fits with all their base running

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Fidel Castro chats with pals Angelos & Selig at game in 1999

3 individuals who don't like people asking questions.

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Will Carroll on XM re various substances while Cuba's Gourriel lives up to his clippings

Will mentions a guru in Texas who mixes up higher concentrations of testosterone in some steroid creams. Do steroids make eyesight better? Will says baseball players think they do. But, all known baseball steroid takers have had injuries & shortened careers. Says there's no reliable test for HGH, except possibly via blood tests, which aren't currently allowed. I just heard the announcer say Alan (Bud) Selig is sitting next to Fidel Castro at the game. So, this is what it's all been about--legitimizing a torturer/murderer/dictator. I guess no one cares.

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"Fantasyland" author Sam Walker joins Jeff Erickson on XM

This Wall Street Journal sports writer took time off from his regular gig to dive into the baseball fantasy world, & there's been quite some buzz about it. Our host Jeff Erickson is mentioned numerous times in the book. Sam spent a lot of money on research, but also gained access to dugouts, clubhouses, & managers' offices. His advice is to focus on the particulars of your league, then focus on player research. There are some funny but scary aspects to this whole thing---he mentions covering Mo Vaughn, then a Met & not doing too well. Mo tells him many of his pals have him on their fantasy team, are peeved about him screwing up, & are calling him about it all the time on his cell phone. In the 2nd half of the show, Jeff mentions that he'd take Blalock or Ensberg over Beltre. Jeff intro'd his show with a great rock & roll tune, "It's Just a Fantasy," which sounded like Billy Joel. Anyhow, it was appreciated.

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Bernie Williams delivers winning hit for Puerto Rico

BERN BABY BERN, as John Sterling has said for many years, Bernie's 5th inning RBI single gave Puerto Rico a 2-1 winning edge over Panama.

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Mariano Rivera makes first appearance of spring

Thanks to baseballsavior.com for mentioning this. It was a great sight to see today-- I was afraid to blink because he might be gone. And he was, after only 6 pitches. Welcome back, Mariano.

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Jack Evans, D-Ward 2--supporter of baseball in DC

I'm taking names--it's called accountability. We need to know who our friends are, whom to go to with problems, etc. The DC council has signed a construction deal for the new stadium, & the article names Evans as a supporter of baseball. Good. Everyone who cares about baseball needs to pay attention to this situation. We can't leave something as important as baseball in the hands of multi-millionaires who just see it as a way to make money.

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Lawr Michaels joins Jeff Erickson on Fantasy Focus on XM

Jeff & Lawr discuss recent league draft picks, both are high on Jeremy Hermida. Michaels is known for his list of top 250 prospects, & is often found at creativesports.com. He mentions payroll differences separating the D-Rays from other teams in their division, saying he just doesn't know what can be done. I'll give him a suggestion--first, all teams getting revenue sharing must show how it was spent. Second, don't allow teams to make bad lease deals as the Marlins & Twins did. Third, don't allow the MLB commissioner to be a team owner or a former team owner. Fourth, check out the net worth of many owners who won't spend a penny of it on their team & complain to them. It just isn't helpful to see it as a 1-issue situation, ie one team has money, one doesn't. The bad owners love it---it gets them more money in their pocket & takes the focus off them doing a crummy job. And, of course, it's easier. Anyhow, the D-Rays have been great to watch, have some terrific players, & were nightmares for several other teams. SPECIAL GUEST TOMORROW--Sam Walker, Wall St. Journal writer & author of the book, "Fantasyland."

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Cute----Leiter says he used the invite to Yankee camp just to get to WBC then retire

Reported today on mlb.com--I guess it's nice to know you're being used. I mean, if you find out in time, you can invite someone else to camp who might actually want to play on your team. All the hype that Leiter might be a LOOGY for the Yankees, & all he wanted was to get in shape for the WBC. Another politician assuaging his guilt.

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Fehr--We're giving you vitamins, OK? Now, for the teams who shamelessly take money to be spent on players, but put it in their pockets instead....

Don Fehr, on his tour of each of 30 teams, announces baseball has rounded up & will sell approved supplements. Apparently, the company involved also works with the NFL. Fehr thinks 34% of net local revenue is enough to share. Isn't it really stealing when the recipients of revenue gifts don't & won't document how the gifts are spent? Someday people are going to laugh their heads off about this. I mean, somebody really must have the goods on somebody else to get a deal like this.

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USA TODAY---ESPN's REAL MESSAGE LOST IN REALITY HYPE

If you want to be an entertainer that's fine, but don't try & pass yourself off as a reporter or respected news source, USA Today writes. The symbiotic game is so tempting--the reporters envy what they see as glamour, & the guys with the supposed glamour have a variety of their own motives for playing along. If you're a 12-24 male who's maybe working on your car & has the station on in the background, that's one thing. But otherwise, forget it. It's nothing but a bunch of totally self absorbed nitwits, completely lacking in respect for the viewers' time or intellect.

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Marlins terminate Pokey Reese's contract

The Marlins attempted to contact Reese after his sudden disappearance but heard nothing back from him. They had no choice but to move on. He's believed to be safe & at home, but not ready to discuss a return to baseball.

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Kudos to Chicago Cubs scout @ WBC for recognizing "Team Taiwan"

Just listening to the XM broadcast of the China v Taipei WBC game---the XM guys were chatting with a scout from the Cubs there to scope out the talent. The scout, named Gary, was experienced in viewing international play & it turns out he's got some guts, smarts, & class as well. Instead of referring to the visiting team with the phony euphemism "Chinese Taipei," he repeatedly referred to them as "Team Taiwan." Great to hear a guy who knows what's right is right & has the guts to say so.

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Dan Uggla front runner @ 2B should Pokey Reese not return

Marlins management has been informed Pokey Reese returned home & is uncertain if he'll return to the team. It's hoped he'll be back safe & sound to the Marlins, but should he be unable to do so, reports say Dan Uggla is the front runner to replace him at 2B. Dan's rising stars were noted by Jeff Erickson recently (Feb. 14) on XM's Fantasy Focus . He came to the Marlins via the Rule 5 draft from Arizona.

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Tom Gordon has dinner at Mo's house----Michael Kay

As Tom Gordon comes in to save the Phillies spring training game against the Yankees, Michael Kay remembers Gordon's days setting up for the Yanks noting he became close friends with Mariano Rivera. Kay says Tom has been to Mo's house a few times this spring for a home cooked dinner prepared by Mrs. Rivera.

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John Sickels joins Jeff Erickson on Fantasy Focus on XM

John & Jeff discuss pitching prospects today. Sickels' top 10 prospects include Jon Lester, Jonathan Papelbon, & Francisco Liriano, & notes Marlins are among deepest in great prospects. I enjoy listening to the very informed callers to this show. It also takes my mind off how disgusted I am about the shoddy treatment of the Washington Nationals, & about how I wish the WBC didn't exist.

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5 of 16 team uniforms in WBC to carry ads---per SLAM

Japan, Taiwan (known as Taipei), China, Venezuela, & Panama's uniforms will carry ads. This should be noted as part of the history of this event.

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Milwaukee Brewers show respect for baseball & fans---USA Today

Thank heaven---the Milwaukee Brewers realize it's baseball, not a cartoon or a reality tv show or a way to cheat fans. The Brewers will not have a DH at their spring training games, so when the Giants play at their park, little BB won't be able to be a pretend player and DH. I'm sick of having certain media force this sneering individual in front of me. You creeps aren't in charge, OK? Three cheers for the Brewers---they won't be a patsy for this media creation.

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The Evolution of the Truth About Mariano Rivera

Baseball writers are people....who have opinions but desperately want us to believe they're objective. This would be fine if everyone had time to check out the facts themselves, but they don't. So, as a public service, I'm going to help them out on the subject they're least clear about---- Mariano Rivera. I'll be doing this on a continuing basis, & was most recently prompted by Gabriel Schechter's article in January of this year entitled, "The Evolution of the Closer." He makes his main comparisons using a large graph that only looks at regular season saves. As often happens, he generally refers to Mariano's post season distinctions within the body of the article, then adds a disclaimer at the end saying there may be relevant information not included. Why does he make this point in fine print at the end? Gabriel highlights a statement under a photograph of Rollie Fingers saying , "MARIANO RIVERA HAS NEVER RECORDED 1 SAVE OF 3 INNINGS OR MORE." WOW!!! What an agenda Gabriel has!

• GABRIEL, MARIANO RIVERA RECORDED 2 WINS OF 3 INNINGS or more IN LATE INNING RELIEF----ONCE IN THE 1995 ALDS AGAINST SEATTLE (3.1 scoreless innings 12th through 15th inning). AND, IN 2003 IN GAME 7 OF THE ALCS, HE PITCHED SCORELESS 9th, 10th, & 11th INNINGS, EARNING THE WIN, WITH THE SEASON ON THE LINE, TAKING HIS TEAM TO THE WORLD SERIES.

So, how valid is Gabriel's big point that he put out on Hall of Fame stationery?

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Jeff Erickson talks closers with Rotowire's Fred Meyer on XM

Jeff raises D-Rays, with Shinji Mori much talked about & fighting for the job; Fred believes Chad Orvella has a chance for the role, Danys Baez & Lance Carter having been traded. Mori will be seen in spring training. Jeff is higher on D-Rays offense, which was already pretty good last year. Re Orioles, expects Chris Ray to get the job, LaTroy Hawkins not really in the picture. Other potential O's candidates are having health issues. Braves will probably use Chris Reitsma for as along as possible, though he gives up too many hits; Davies & La Rue are mainly starters. On the Marlins, have a very light bullpen, sees Travis Boyer as closer or possibly Joe Borowski, but Boyer is better. On the Reds, Fred says they have the lightest bullpen in the majors. Brian Shackleford would be a good closer, but seems Reds want to use David (Stormy) Weathers (Joe Beningo's nickname for Weathers when he was a Met). Shackleford has good ratios but needs more strike-outs. Fred is high on Pirates' Mike Gonzalez to close--walks too many but tough to hit. Hopes the Pirates don't stick in Salomon Torres or Roberto Hernandez. SLEEPERS include Jose Valverde (who I believe got a lot of ink in winter ball this year), Brian Fuentes from the Rockies---good so's even in Colorado, Fernando Rodney in Detroit, good so's, wary of Todd Jones. WORRIED ABOUT-- Keith Foulke--a great, very smart pitcher, fools hitters, but still has serious knee problems; & Bobby Jenks, given the job over Hermanson who had health problems last year. Just has doubts about Jenks. Francisco Cordero walks too many, may be having health problems. Closers in waiting--Rafael Soriano in Seattle, Craig Hansen in Boston.

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MANNY is Here!!! Gordon Edes reports

Manny arrived in Ft. Myers at 9 AM looking fit & ready. He said he's there because people want him to be. Which is quite true. Good to see you Manny---baseball is really back!

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