I've Heard of Imperialism Being Wedded to Commerce, But Imperialism Wedded to Sports?

Apparently, next week's Fox NFL pre-game show will be held in Afghanistan, so that the brutality of combat can be melded with the action of sports.

Eagles Fans vs. Steelers Fans

An article in today's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette contemplates the potential effect new NFL regulations will have on Pittsburgh Steelers fans, including concerns that the regulations could affect fans' ability to celebrate. Frankly, I doubt the city's sports fans have anything to worry about.

Coming from Philadelphia, I know that Pittsburgh's fans are relative gentlemen. Unlike the fans of the Philadelphia Eagles, they have never pelted Santa Claus with snowballs on national television. They have not cheered as a critically injured opposing player was taken off the field in a stretcher. Although I am certain Steelers fans include their share of rowdies, they do not compare to their east coast rivals in Philly.

How 'Bout Them BoSox!

Well, the World Series has turned out to be a complete sweep! Red Sox vs. Rockies 4-0.

I have to admit, I was glad to see the Rockies receive a collective kick in the rear. After all, they dealt the Phillies a sweep at the beginning of the playoffs several weeks ago.

Still, I have to give the Rockies credit, as they had some great fielding and pitching through much of the Series. Terry Francona admitted that he was biting his nails throughout the last half inning of the game. (While we're on the subject of Francona, why on earth did the Phillies fire him anyway? See what's he's done for Boston?)

World Series, Game 2

The Sox won again last night. Still, the Rockies demonstrated they were a team to be reckoned with, keeping the Sox offense down to only a few hits and even fewer runs.

A recent article on the Slate website sings the praises of the Rockies' fielding, which was truly on display yesterday evening, with many hitters getting thrown out at first. The article argues that fielding is just as important as offensive prowess to a team's success.

I have to admit, I have always found fielding to be one of the most impressive aspects of baseball. Just the thought of catching a ball flying at you from over a hundred feet in the air gives me the tingles.

World Series Game 1

Last night's World Series game was one of the most amazing I have ever seen. The Red Sox's performance at the bottom of the fifth inning was incredible-seven home runs in a half-hour long inning! That was some of the best offensive performance ever.

Their pitching was also great. They kept the Rockies down to one run, an amazing accomplishment given Colorado's recent success streak.

Outside of the Phillies, I really like the Red Sox. Until relatively recently, they've shared our underdog status. During the pre-game show last night, one commentator predicted that the Sox were no match for the Rockies. He may just eat his words.