Ahh, yes. Spring is once again upon us. About time, dangit!! Cause this means that America's National Pastime finally returns to us after its long winter hiatus. And boy, have the last couple of months been interesting...
First off, the steroids controversy is dominating headlines, the talk of the media, and a black cloud over the game. Over the offseason, we've had a former AL MVP admit to steroids (Jason Giambi), and perhaps the best player of our era (Bonds) suffocated by the controversy. Giambi's hoping to return to form after a putrid season last year, but definitely will meet some opposition all around the country, as the opposing fans WON'T hesitate to let him know how they feel. Bonds, on the other hand, won't even be on the field at the start of the season, and has hinted that he might not return. It will definitely be interesting following both of those players this year. And with the new steroids policy in place, we should be seeing fewer long balls this season.
Oh, and those Red Sox? They actually did win the World Series last October. And that 86-year curse? They actually did break it? And that Yankees/Sox rivalry? HOTTER THAN EVER, especially after the tremendous comeback the Sox made in the ALCS. And for the seemingly first time in the history in the rivalry, the Yankees do not hold the bragging rights over Boston, adding yet another twist to this storied rivalry. And the game to kick off the season? Yanks vs. Sox, Sunday night. It doesn't get much better than that.
And (I have to mention them) those lovable Twins... looking for their 4th straight division title, yet looking even further. They won't be content to settle for another playoff exit to the Yankees again, they will be thinking about that ring. And with Johan Santana returning off his Cy Young season, and most of our core players returning, it is a possibility we will play deeper into October. However, we'll have a tougher time with our division than we might ever have. The Indians, a young and hungry team, look to continue to improve and swing their way into contention, and the Tigers have made considerable additions, and could also pose to be a viable threat. The key for our division (and World Series) hopes rests on the shoulders of our 21 year old phenom: Joe Mauer. People are saying that he has the chance to become one of the best players in the game, and he's definitely shown us that he can. The one problem? His knee. It forced him to miss the majority of the 2004 season, and we'll have to be very protective of his knee this whole year. If his knee is hurt again, it's not looking good. If it holds up, then look out.
Anyway, I'm ready. How about you?
