I’m not a fan of the World Baseball Classic. I consider myself extremely patriotic-my daughter was in Afghanistan-and I never felt a twinge of American pride during the WBC. I didn’t watch one game, I’m not sure who won the tournament, and I don’t believe Cinderalla is frolicking in the Netherlands.
The WBC messes up spring training and makes it longer than necessary; or should I say even longer than necessary. It’s spring everywhere but in Minnesota, and it’s time for real ball games.
Spring training games-as one of baseball’s hundreds of cliches attest-are meaningless, except the ones played in the next few days. Managers finally begin tipping their hands to fantasy buffs. Ball club scrubs have been sent to the minors; lineups and batting orders in games are reflecting manager philosophies and intent. How many of you are surprised to learn Matt Kemp will be batting seventh next week?
We fantasy nuts can make final roster decisions along with our professional counterparts. More importantly, we can count down to Opening Day without using our toes. This season looks to be a great one in Minnesota, although the Twins lineup has more than a tad less appeal without little Joey Mauer in the three hole.
The MLB channel will come in handy this week; not only for knowledge seeking, but for the pure joy of catching a few innings of tempered, but serious baseball. The boys are ready for the real thing and that itchy feeling is taking hold, for them and their fans.
