For Nico ... wanted to be sure to respond ...

I know, I know, this shouldn't be a separate thread, please forgive me . . . but I wanted to respond to your question regarding Chavez . . .
Yes, by all means, credit/kudos/applause for Eric's hot start! He is hitting like I always thought he was capable of -- you must remember, I never claimed that Chavez "sucked," or any other such nonsense.  
I got on his case because these are the type of numbers he should put up on a regular basis. Beginning of season, mid-season, late season, whatever. With Giambi, with Tejada, with Matt Stairs, whomever.
It was interesting that Suchon today mentioned he thought Chavez is feeling less "mental pressure" this season with some other hitters in the lineup.  I agree. I know this makes some AN'ers angry, but I have always thought Chavez' biggest problem was mental.  He slumped because he pressed too often -- he has always had -- I repeat, he has always had the ability.  What he lacks from time to time is the mental fortitude to suck it up and do the job regardless of the circumstances.  To be honest with you Nico, I don't think he's one of those "win at all costs" competitors.
Now, please hear what I'm saying. I'm NOT saying he doesn't want to win, or that he doesn't care.  I'm saying it may not be that important to him ... and you know what? He's probably got his priorities right.  I don't know ...
But again, my frustrations with Chavez were because this current kind of production is what I expect of him -- right or wrong -- it was never because I thought he was lazy.
On a more personal note, I stayed away for awhile as well, because I hated squabbling with other passionate A's fans like you ... so, I'm done with that. I now reserve my "hatred" for Red Sox Nation, the Giants, and our division rivals. :-)  You guys do a great job on this site, I appreciate your hard work, and I know the A's will bust out of this slump with Chavez leading the way!  Go A's!