Shortstop Rafael Furcal has unexpectedly returned to the L.A. lineup, which makes the team much more formidable in the postseason.  While his presence might not equal the arrival of Manny Ramirez it probably comes just about as close as it can get. 

Furcal batted leadoff and played

Chicago has responded to Milwuakee's acquisition of C.C. Sabathia by trading for Oakland ace Rich Harden in a six player deal.  The Cubs get Harden and reliever Chad Gaudin for pitcher Sean Gallagher, outfielders Matt Murton and Eric Patterson, and minor leaguer John Donaldson.

Sitting four games ahead of the Brewers and 3.5 ahead of the Cardinals entering Wednesday, the Cubs made this bold move that will greatly improve the team provided the oft-injured righty stays healthy.  Harden is one of the best talents in baseball, but has yet to prove it consistenly on the field

Everybody remembers what happened back in Chicago in 2003. Two young fireballers named Kerry Wood and Mark Prior had Cy-Young caliber seasons and were poised to lead the Cubs for years to come. Instead overwork, overuse, and some bad breaks left the pair of phenoms on the proverbial scrap heap. Neither player has been able to duplicate their success of that season since. Mark Prior is currently rehabbing as a member of the San Diego Padres and hopes to join the rotation sometime this season. Kerry Wood is finally tasting some modicum of success this season, but

We're gonna have a good time tonight
Let's celebrate, it's all right
We're gonna have a good time tonight

Let's celebrate, it's all right

Cellllebraation! (Woohoo!)

This weekend Brett Favre broke another record and I have heard nary a word about it. Where's the pomp? Where's the circumstance? Why wasn't the game stopped for the ensuing celebration? Why wasn't Dan Marino doing the happy dance on CBS? It's un-American that we not celebrate every one of Favre's great achievements damn it! Momma, apple pie, turducken,