Rite of Spring

Dan was complaining about the recent proliferation of baseball-related writings in this space, but I can't help it: I love baseball. So, I'm going to continue. To satiate his technolust, however, I have created an image in the "fabulous Microsoft Paint." Be careful what you wish for, Dan.

I blew off class today to watch the Mets game, which was on ESPN. Notes:

• The best thing about the offseason is not having to sit through a half-inning with Steve Trachsel pitching. Watching him pitch is nearly coma-inducing.
• Cedeño looked brutal in center field, for the third consecutive game. I never thought I'd say this, but please, Art Howe: play Timo more.
• On the other hand, Cliff Floyd looked quite good in left (save for a blooper that he let drop that I think he probably could have caught had he dived).
• Mark Prior throws major heat, and didn't throw a single changeup until his last inning. Watching him pitch was a real treat.
• Sammy Sosa came up short again, which all but eliminates the possiblity of my seeing his historic 500th HR live. The Cubs' trip to the Great American Ballpark all but assures his getting it in the next three games.
• Jay Bell looks like a pretty decent first baseman, and even put up some offense as well. Who knew?
• Of course, the Mets get my hopes up in the 9th and threaten a comeback, but fall dramatically short. I'm glad some things never change.

April 03, 2003 - 06:13 PM

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