To Jimmy Rollins: WE Are The Team To Beat

Sipkin/News

"Let me tell you this: Without Santana, we felt as a team we have a chance to win in our division. With him now, I have no doubt that we're going to win in our division. I have no doubt in that. We've got what it takes. We have good chemistry as a team. He fits great because he's a great guy. He's one of the best pitchers in the game. Who doesn't want to have him on any ballclub? So this year, to Jimmy Rollins, we are the team to beat."

Carlos Beltran, you're my hero. Man am I ever glad you decided to show up early to spring training this year. And yes, I remember how angry we all got last year when a certain shortstop in Philadelphia was expressing similiar sentiments. But Carlos Beltran is a Met. The uniform makes a world of difference. When it's coming from Jimmy Rollins it's obnoxious. When it's coming from Carlos Beltran it's exactly what I'm looking to hear. It's my right as a fan to be hypocritical. It's ok, I can own it. And how much do you love that of all people, it's quiet, reserved Carlos Beltran to bust out the big quote like this before the season even begins? When asked about the reaction he'd get in Philly: "I don't care. They booed me in Houston. One more park won't make a difference." Awesome. In my book, the more fuel he can add to the Mets/Phillies rivalry, the better. He's already made it clear he's not going to back down on this one, and I have faith he's going to make good on it out on the field.

Sipkin/News

It's great to see the level of excitement Johan's brought to camp already. The team's swagger is back in full force and you can feel it. From Pedro: "I'm extremely happy to have Johan over here. I can breathe. It's like a big glass of cold water when you're really thirsty. That's how bad we wanted Johan, and I'm glad he's on our side. He's somebody that now everybody can rely on." Every single story to come out of spring training is making me that much more excited for real baseball to begin.

Associated Press

Paul Lo Duca has issued an apology to his family, fans and the baseball community for his involvement in the Mitchell Report, and Church of the Fonz is seriously considering taking him off notice. Personally, I would like to believe it's coming from a real place. And people make mistakes, right? On the other hand, he did make Brooklyn cry, and she's just not ready to forgive and forget.

Pic from LOLJocks

As much as I've enjoyed watching that bum Clemens suffer through the congressional hearings this week, some details I just did not need to know. I'd like to add "abscess on Roger Clemens buttocks" to the list of phrases I could live without ever hearing again. It's right up there with "tom glavine," "the Collapse," "kirk radomski," "boys will be boys," and "26 championships."

Also be sure to check out The Onion for some points on Johan Santana that we may have overlooked.