Much To Do About Nothing
So Barry finally passed the Babe. And after two weeks, my lawn needs mowing. Yawn. I know Mr. Bonds thinks the world revolves around his planet-sized head, but is there anyone out there that is actually excited by this? The commissioner's office didn't care, the Ruth family had no interest in being there and the spectacle made most fans' stomachs turn. I hope you're happy Barry, because nobody else is.

It's Over
As much as people in the Upper Midwest hate to admit it, the Minnesota Twins' five-year run as contenders -- is over. The 2006 version of baseball's Little Team That Could has spent this entire season on the wrong side of .500, and that's not likely to change. Once the team's calling card, the starting rotation is in disarray. Carlos Silva did a stint in the bullpen, Brad Radke looks semi-retired and Kyle Lohse is in Triple A. The off-season additions of Rondell White and Tony Batista aren't having an impact and they're using a utility man, Juan Castro, as their everyday shortstop. Yes, it is rebuilding time in Minnesota.

Good News For Hamilton
The strange saga of 1999's No. 1 overall draft pick, Josh Hamilton, has taken a rare positive turn. The former top prospect has been cleared to participate in the Devil Rays extended spring training workouts. Hamilton, who has been on the restricted list the past two seasons for violating MLB's drug policy, cannot, however, suit up for minor league games. The 25-year-old, who has battled a series of injuries and personal problems, hasn't played since July 2002.

"After discussions with major league baseball, it was determined that a return to the field was an appropriate next step," Devil Rays executive VP Andrew Friedman said to the Associated Press. "We are fully supportive of Josh's efforts and are proud of his recent accomplishments."