Friday's First Pitch 2-5-10

Leading Off
We fully expected Orlando Hudson to sign with the Washington Nationals.
Which is why we were surprised when he signed with the Minnesota Twins.
The normally spendthrift Twins have had a quietly superb offseason.
First, the picked up JJ Hardy. Then they added Jim Thome in a part-time role.
Now the speedy Hudson will help their defense and solidfy an offense that already includes Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau.

Regional Roundup

• The Phillies signed Oscar Villarreal. This deal has some upside.


• An O's prospect was caught with steroids.


• Nats add Mench to the bench.

Best of Rest

• The Mariners have resigned Eric Bedard. At least they're not counting on him to be a co-ace.


• What's up in St. Louis?


• The Marlins haven't baited Russell Branyan.


• Comparing Todd Helton and Sandy Koufax. Yeah, we're confused too. But this guy spent a lot of time on it.

Batter's Eye

• Sky Andrecheck looks at the riskiest and safest gambles of the off-season. Apparently he loves Cliff Lee and loathes Roy Halladay.

Wisdom from Springfield

A thought-provoking quote from the Southpaw's favorite animated show, "The Simpsons."

• From Lisa and Bart, for all those kids hoping for snowdays Saturday:

  Radio Announcer: The following schools are closed today; Shelbyville, Ogdenville, Ogdenville Tech, and Springfield Elementary... (Bart and Lisa gasp in surprise.) Radio Announcer: ...My Dear Watson Detective school. (Bart groans.) Radio Announcer: And lastly, Springfield Elementary School... Bart and Lisa: YAAAAAAAAY! Radio Announcer: ...is OPEN! Bart and Lisa: Awwwwwww!!! Radio Announcer: And it's open season on savings at Springfield Menswear... which is closed.

Today in history

1921-- The New York Yankees purchase 10 acres of land in The Bronx. It will be used as the home of Yankee Stadium.

1934-- Hank Aaron is born. He will one day learn how to hit. Very well.

What to watch on YouTube

The Southpaw wastes time finding gem's on Youtube so you don't have to.

The Closer

This story is intriguing. Apparently the Dodgers required Manny Ramirez to donate to Dodgers' charities. Owner Frank McCourt said he was going to do similar things with other players. No word on whether the charity was for his alimony payments. Anyway, that idea has been shot down.