The adversity begins already

It's been a busy offseason for the Cole Miners.

They've had their parade, gone on the banquet circuit, done the interviews, and all of the good stuff that comes with a championship.

The 2010 season is already starting with a bump.

Joe Blanton and Brad Lidge will begin the season on the disabled list, leaving the Miners with THREE inactive pitchers. Throw in Jair Jurrjens' spring-training soreness, and things aren't looking very promising.


"I'll be fine. There's nothing serious," Bob said. "It's only going to be like 4 or 5 starts with Blanton, and I knew what I was getting with Lidge when I took him. I got an easy first-week matchup against Joe, so I should be good. I just need my pitching to scrape by."

But it's not just Bob who is experiencing a world of pain. Several managers will already begin the season with a DL spot occupied.

Mike's keeper of Ian Kinsler is hurt, Joe has Lance Berkman, Andy has Carlos Beltran, Hal has Jose Reyes, Dave has Huston Street, Jack has Erik Bedard, Ken has Cliff Lee, Shea has Brandon Webb, and Chris has Ted Lilly.

"Ian's injury does put a small damper on things as we break from camp," Mike said. "But it's nothing that is getting us down. Going into the season we were well aware of Kinsler's past history, yet we still considered him one of our best options. We expect nothing serious from this injury and look forward to getting him back in mid-April."

So that leaves Rick and Adam as the only two managers without a DL guy to begin the year. Does this present an advantage?

"Well I think it's a significant advantage," Rick said. "Our guys have been active and practicing together all spring. They've got a chemistry that you just don't get if you've been sipping lemonade by the hotel pool. You always want to see your guys healthy - it allows us to get a great start right out of the gates. I'm looking forward to a great season."

How does Adam feel?

"No comment," Adam said after several minutes of thought.

Is he trying to avoid jinxing himself? Could be. An interesting tactical approach by the Phightin Sillies, if so.