Yes, I know, it's JUST spring training and it's Arizona, but a point of emphasis needs to be made about the A's hitting. After all, isn't this the time of the year when the pitchers are supposed to be ahead of the hitters? There is a sign of some true hope here.

Going into Monday's game (3/19) and just three days before they depart for Japan, the A's are leading the majors in at least five batting categories, including the two that in the end have the most to do with winning games, runs (119) and RBI (109). Oakland's also tops in doubles (48), walks (69) and plate appearances (729). The A's are also 2nd in hits (190) and first among AL teams. Their .837 OPS also is third overall and second in the Cactus League. Ditto for their .365 on-base. Their .472 slugging is 4th overall and 3rd in the Cactus as is their .297 hitting.

Sure, they like most major league hitters will cool off in the cool climes of Oakland and the other big league parks in the first month of the regular season. But surely, not all that fun out there in the Arizona sun will be left behind after the opening bell rings, could it?

Cue the strains of the big number in "The Man from La Mancha," and A's fans let's "Dream the Impossible Dream."

The A's ain't faking. They're raking.