E.K. NATION

They haven't been too numerous, but these late-season losses are taking their toll on me. I'm a big proponent of home-field advantage--why wouldn't anyone be?--and it doesn't please me to see 1) the Giants blow a late-inning lead, and 2) the starters resting. Look, I know Barry Bonds is the greatest player in the game, but he's not going to be able to come off the bench in the ninth to face Billy Wagner's 100-mile-an-hour salsa and hit a home run every time. I mean, come on, Felipe! Keep them in! Keep them focused! Sheesh!

So now we take on the Dodgers four times this weekend, including a make-up game caused by a rainout in April, to wrap things up. If we can't get home-field advantage, I'll be satisfied to a certain extent if we can get Gagne to blow a save. Just once.

Marlins Don't Scare Me, But Conine Does: Is it just me, or has Jeff Conine been the best late-season acquisition by any team this year? Seems like all the guy has done is make great plays in the outfield and get clutch hits and home runs for Florida. Well, maybe his stats don't show it, but he's definitely had his moments. I came across this article which says what I just said in much more detail. If the Giants lose to the Marlins in the playoffs, it will be because of Conine the Canine. Write it down.

Pre-season Hockey: Last night I was at the Rose Garden for the pre-season game between the San Jose Sharks and the Phoenix Coyotes. Interesting that the Sharks were touted over the PA system as "your San Jose Sharks!" Was this a home game for San Jose? Anyway, I was disappointed to not see my favorite player, Mike Ricci, on the ice. Didn't even look like he made the trip. Bummer.