First, a link to the last DLDD just in case someone wants to see what we were reading yesterday:

DLDD 8/8/05

One of my favorite things to see in the A's dugout is a smiling Jason Kendall. He doesn't do it often...he's just so intense...it's a real treat to see him crack one every once in a while.

Kendall's having the time of his life in Oakland

"This is the most fun I've ever had -- ever,'' Kendall said. "This is pretty incredible. I've never played on a team that was over .500 after the All-Star break before (except for the '97 Pirates, who were 67-65 on Aug. 25). All I wanted was to be in a pennant race, and I've been able to do it here. That's what it's all about.

"It's a big change of pace. I had no idea. Every at-bat, every play, everyone is locked in, and everyone is having fun. We're laughing the whole game. There's a long way to go, but we're enjoying ourselves.''

And I loved this. Kotsay is awesome.

"It's great for Jason,'' Kotsay said. "I had the same feelings last year. I vividly remember being in Toronto last year when we won our 81st game and I knew that for the first time in my professional career I'd be on a team that wouldn't finish under .500. I was so happy, I stood up in the clubhouse and announced it.''