The Delta House

Four little words. That’s all that they are to most people. But these are four little words that I have been waiting to hear since October 7th, when the Red Sox season came to an end. Four little words which remind you that hope springs eternal.

Pitchers and catchers report.

Tomorrow is the beginning of Red Sox Spring Training 2006, the beginning of a grueling seven-month marathon that will hopefully end in a world championship. There are many new faces in Beantown this year, and there were a few defections as well, but as always, Red Sox Nation is keeping the faith.

I just love spring training. Mainly because of the “spring” part, and I know that the winter is almost over. But there is also the re-awakening part that gets to me.

It also serves as a reminder that my softball season is about to begin. I am a player coach for one of my church’s two softball teams, and we have our first game April 22nd, so I need to get my big ass in shape for playing. I considered not playing or coaching this year because I knew that I would have limited time and money with the baby coming along, but Mrs. Flounder has really encouraged me to play. (I think that she just wants to show off the baby to the other wives, but that’s cool.)

I think that I will buy my son a glove today. Hey, it’s never too early to cultivate a child’s love for the great game of baseball.

***This is not a sports blog. Really, it's not!