Without scanning the current standings, I know that everybody has played between five and seven games to date. Even though it’s a small sample size, that hasn’t stopped the media from blasting fans for overreacting. They know that’s what we do, regardless of the sport.

The media loves an emotional audience the same way the producers of daytime game shows love the hyperactive guys and gals that bounce around lotto balls. Even the hacks hype the players and teams, hoping fans buy in and get honked off when they fail to produce.

For dunderheads like Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar, baseball is a 24/7 addiction. What do I need days off for? Load management or tired arms in March, c’mon we’re just getting started. On a day like today when none of my teams are playing, I’m still checking out random box scores-although there is nothing random about it.

Given the proper motivation, one can find any justification for highs or lows. It’s a variation on the spring training excuse making for falling short. It’s fun to seek anomalies in player performance even if one isn’t betting on future success.

Last season most of the changes in the game were implemented to speed things up and increase the action. For the most part it was a great success. This year it’s all about getting it right via the ABS. Teams and individuals are still learning how to utilize the new technology. One thing that hasn’t changed is Jim Bowden. As a professional analyst on multiple platforms, it’s his job to cry about stuff. I think I see a headline every few days that reads something like “Former MLB GM complains about…”.

For the record, I don’t disagree with all of his arguments, I just tire of his schtick. One of these days, he’ll be the one hating on mint chocolate chip ice cream. We have one thing in common though, neither one of us has generally managed a World Series champion. He’s given a lot of leeway for falling way short and skirting the rules.

So long as one isn’t contending with faux spring weather, why not just go along for the first month ride. I’ve found a half dozen pleasant stories already and figure that most are one-off’s. I’m a guy that loves player and pitcher of the week awards. There is nothing wrong with celebrating the big moments or weeks. It’s not like the winners get a handful of bumper stickers celebrating the moment like “my child is a C student at School X.