The chess match begins

Thoughts on the later innings:

1. This game started too late. Young kids are headed to bed without some of their favorite players getting in yet.


2. I continue to reflect on Ryan Franklin's roster spot. It does bother me that a player busted for 'roids was chosen, let alone allowed to play.


3. Justin Upton looked like he'd just rolled out of bed on Curtis Granderson's big fly.


4. A bit of managing: Uncle Cholly puts Victor Martinez on first in hopes of the double play. Of course that meant speedster Adam Jones was coming up next. His fly ball put the AL on top, 4-3.


5. What's with Uptons and running slower home to first than first to second? Evidence: BJ in World Series against Phillies. Justin in 2009 All-Star game.


6. One reason for the American League's dominance in recent years has got to be the bullpen. It's not fair having to hit against Mariano Rivera, let alone Jonathan Pappelbon and Nathan. Plus they used to have Eckersley, Wetteland and Gordon at the high points of their careers.