It happened this past off season.  I was at my desk mixing in a little work while perusing the internet for current A's articles.  I typically review the NoCal rags online while at work to catch up with my team (I am in SoCal).  One day, I search Google for more information and I am taken to AN.  Initially, I go to the site for information and comments on the A's for the off season - the trades, the sale, etc.  Next, I create an account and begin commenting in diaries.  Then I am hooked.  I typically just read and I interact as much as work allows.  Now, I find myself logging into AN as soon as I get into work.  AN is taking precedence over work...but enough about work.

Blez, why did you do this to me?  Why do you get these interviews with Billy Beane, David Forst, Michael Urban, etc when the newspapers can't?  And Sickels?  And now, player interviews?

It is not just you - it is Athletics Nation.  Now I am drawn to daily spring training play-by-play from OaklandSi and others, insightful, firsthand stories by Saint, spring training stats from Oaktoon, diary policing by Ohad (OK, kidding on that last one but you understand).

Your site is really feeding into my obsession with the A's.  It is like Rosanne Barr stumbling into Hometown Buffet.  I am full but your site keeps feeding me.

I know you are probably going to hit us with some spectacular player interviews in the coming days.  Just please have mercy.  Most of us have work we have to get to.

Seriously, thanks for such a great site.  Sounds like you had a great time in Phoenix.  I will be there next week with my son.  We will be wearing our AN gear.  Hope to see fellow ANers out there if anyone is going.