We're all already on a first-name basis with him... so will Joba Chamberlain be the starter to take us back to .500 tonight and get the season on the right track?
The Yankees are off to a horrifying 28-29 start, with key players injured (Posada) and others suspended (Hawkins). Luckily, Toronto isn't particularly good at hitting first-time starters, and the Yankees seem to be faring well with a recent record of 14 for 20. And even though Joba can't throw 99 mph for seven innings, he's a pitcher with the presence of mind to get himself through his first 60-70 pitches as a starter (which is how many Girardi said he'd allow the near-rookie to throw).
On an even more positive note, we have the news that David Ortiz is down and out, at least for a while. And though I wouldn't wish pain on anyone, the idea of Big Papi's wrist being immobilized for the next month isn't exactly bringing me down either. The Red Sox may get far, but they cannot win without the big Shrek-looking slugger.
No doubt, every Boston fan is on their knees right now, praying he won't need surgery (presumably they don't want another Nomar Garciaparra; without his power, Ortiz wouldn't be much use). Either way, I'll admit that I'm pleased we won't be seeing the Ortiz-Ramirez combo any time soon.
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Big Papi will be back and hitting in no time