Joe Schulman is the author of a new column in the Kansas City Star about becoming a fan of a new baseball team. He has written for ChopTalk, the Atlanta Braves' magazine. Joe is a freelance writer in Atlanta, and he and his wife, Cady, are avid Braves fans.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Questions, questionsOK. So I definitely need to step up. I won't make excuses except that I try not to blog while I'm at my regular job and that's make finding time difficult. Instead, let's just jump on in.
One of the things about being a fan is that you never give up on your team. Ever. For instance, the Atlanta Thrashers are in a tailspin the likes of which the NHL hasn't seen in years. Yet, I still watch them. The Falcons spent the last two seasons taking winning records at the halfway point and wasted them away by missing the playoffs. After the season ended, I couldn't help but think I was glad it was several months before they would step on the field again because I didn't think I would be able to take more disappointment.
The Braves have been pretty consistent at winning and of course blowing it in the playoffs. Last year I was understanding of the failure to make the playoffs. I imagine this year I'll be more upset, but not with the players. Management, specifically the old and new owners, are causing my apathy. I've heard talk that a lot of fans won't be spending money to go to as many games this year since the product on the field will not be as good as previous years.
All of this brings me to my questions for today: First, have you ever thought about giving up on your team? Also, what is the worst moment in Royals history for you and why? It doesn't have to be a big game. For me, I'll never forget the Braves blowing a nine run lead to the St. Louis Cardinals.
On to the Royals...Spring Training is here at last. Back in November it seemed like this would never come. I've got to say, I think it's going to be quite a season, no matter who you root for in baseball. The Royals are going to be interesting, and I think there will be more to cheer about this season.
That being said: What's the biggest concern going into ST? What do you hope to see by the time the regular season arrives. I would love to see the starting rotation gel and I'm hoping the arms are ready for what is going to be a very competitive central division. I think the hitting will be fine, but I'm curious to see who comes out of camp with the best bats.