Okay, so it's not Oct 22nd yet. That's okay. As long as you don't read this until Oct 22nd, we'll all be okay. So you're on your honor to hit the close window box if it's too early for you.  NO PEEKING!

Q&A with Susan Slusser, A's Beat Writer (Scout.com)
Arguably the biggest unsung heroes of a major league baseball team aren't even employed by the team. They are the journalists who travel with the team everyday to bring fans the inside coverage of every game. Susan Slusser, who covers the Oakland A's for the SF Chronicle, is one of the best beat writers in the business. Susan answers a few of our questions about her background in journalism, the 2006 outlook for the A's and A's baseball without the great Bill King behind the mic.

(Poppy posted this late yesterday.)

Orioles Make Successful Pitch to Mazzone
Forced to choose between friendship and pinstripes, Leo Mazzone went with his heart. After being wooed by the New York Yankees, the esteemed pitching coach agreed to terms on a three-year deal with the Baltimore Orioles.

Poll: Fans Unsure of Changing DH Rule (AP)
AP - Most fans are uneasy with Major League Baseball's decision to take the bat out of the hands of American League pitchers and let a "designated hitter" take their spot in the batting order, an AP-AOL Sports poll found.

Another take on same poll, emphasis on umpires.

Hardball Times on starters in World Series.

Biggio, Bagwell Finally in World Series (AP)
AP - Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio stood side-by-side, elbow-to-elbow. After 15 seasons with the Houston Astros - the longest run by teammates now in the majors - they finally made it onto a World Series field. They entered the dugout only a few steps apart before Friday's workout, then walked out into the crisp October air together.

The Adventures of Diego Chavez (Season Two)

(Season One: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12)

(Season Two so far: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,For Bill)

Next: Someone who owes Hopey a favor... 2 episodes to go.