P.A.C.R.

One of the most underrated days of the year has arrived and no it's not Valentine's Day.  While it happens to be the same day, today is the day pitchers and catchers report for spring training.  It is a day of optimism for everyone that is a fan of baseball.  For me, my Indians aren't 20 games out yet and still have a chance to make the playoffs.  It is also a sign that warmer weather is around the corner for most of the country.  Warmer weather means summer is almost here and no school for those young punks out there.  It really is true, hope springs eternal, and spring training is a shining example of that philosophy.  For those of you that have never attended a spring training game, I highly suggest trying to make it happen.  The atmosphere is relaxed and cozy.  The prices are reasonable and, for the most part, the players are accessible.  It truly is a good time that gives a glimpse into what baseball must have been like in the 50's and 60's.  A time when the game itself was what brought people to the stadium, not the jumbotron or a rally monkey.  So find your way to Florida or Arizona, grab a beer, a dog and a scorecard and enjoy some baseball.  Just don't forget your sunblock.  You northerners and midwesterners aren't that ready for the sunshine yet.

Looks like we are on a roll, going 2-0 again over the weekend to get back over .500 at 13-12-1.  No reason to stop the streak now so I will stick with what works, the Lightning.  Tampa has two days off before taking on the Flyers at home on Tuesday night.  The game should be about even money on both sides, so no big juice to lay with the Lightning.  My second choice comes from the Big XII tonight as Kansas travels to the little apple to take on Kansas State.  It says this is a rivalry, but Kansas has owned KSU over the years.  KSU has some issues this season so I will lay the 5 points with the Jayhawks.  I am looking for them to play with a bit more motivation now that they are #1 in the nation.  Good luck, and remember, never bet what you can't afford to lose.