Road Trip Wrap Up

It's the end of the first road trip, and usually road trips make me sad. I am, however, pleasantly surprised. Even though we lost today (I hate you Bobby Jenks!) it was a good trip. Here's what I think:

• Jon Rauch makes me happy. He's done a fantastic job of filling in for Joe Nathan. I heard someone say in the postgame show today that it'll only be a matter of time until he fails. Wow, thanks for being a buzz kill.  I, on the other hand, am happy with the way he's gotten 4 saves in 4 chances. And he's 6 foot 11. And I wouldn't find him attractive at all if he didn't have neck tattoos. But he does. So I do.

• I don't understand why Jose Mijares has a job. I really don't. When Jesse Crain is better than you, you need to stop. Just stop.

• I like the new guys. J.J Hardy and Jim Thome especially. Today was the first day that Jim Thome was up to bat with the game on the line and I encouraged him. I felt a little dirty.

• Denard Span needs to get it together. It's ok buddy, we'll wait.

First game at Target Field is tomorrow. I'm excited, but not excited enough to understand why coverage needs to start at 5 a.m. Show us what you've got Pavano!