No matter who you root for, the four-day AS break is too long, but it’s over. Everyone gets a break from the game whether we want it or not. If your team has been out of the race for some time, you want the season to end soon. Or if you anticipate that they’ll make a trade or two that will change the fortunes, you’re ready for that too.

I’m probably the only one eager for things to rev back up and stop with the b.s excuses. With everyone getting the rest they need to heal all wounds, bumps and bruises (in this non-contact sport) and nobody should be sitting out to open the second half.

Furthermore, the better managers can set their rotations immediately impact the pennant races. For example, the Cubs sent their best starter, Justin Steele to the mound against the Diamondbacks this afternoon. With their decision to start Ryne Nelson it seems they’ve ceded game one to the Cubs. Decades ago, teams would have matched up like pitchers in this situation (ace v. ace).

I haven’t given anything to Arizona because both teams are pretty mediocre and haven’t proven themselves. Getting an extra start from your best pitcher should be more important that getting your fake best hitter an extra at-bat.