The Milwaukee Bucks enter training camp this week and will no longer be able to fly under the radar. Scott Skiles and the front office have turned this team into a contender and it will be a major disappointment to fans if they do not go deep into ther playoffs this year. Of course alot of that rides on the health of Andrew Bogut. He has not been able to stay away from injury but when he's healthy he is the lynchpin that holds it all together. They have picked up some nice pieces in Drew Gooden and Corey Maggette without sacrificing players that were part of the regular rotation. they re-signed John Salmons which many people thought wouldnt happen...and rookie Brandon Jennings should be more consistent with a year of pro experience. I know many fans gave up on the NBA awhile ago but a hungry, hustling team coached by as fiery and competitive guy as there is in the league promises much fun at the Bradley Center this season.

The Reds and Rays punched their playoff tickets yesterday...the Red Sox were eliminated. Even Terry Francona could not get the Sox into the playoffs after Youklis and Pedroia went down. I like Tampa in the AL...Philly in the NL for the World Series.

The list of Nominees for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame was announced yesterday. Neil Diamond and Alice Cooper should get in for sure. I would vote Tom Waits in as well although he might not have enough mainstream support. Other possibilites include BonJovi, Donna Summer, LL Cool J, Dr. John and J.Geils Band. the Beastie Boys were also nominated! I don't have a problem with rap-hip hop artists going into the Hall but I'm pretty sure the Beasties did not do enough to merit inclusion.

A Brewer doubleheader today in New York. The first game is at 3:10...the 2nd in the evening.

Happy Birthday to Former coach Bum Phillips...he's 87....also one of my favorite actors, Ian McShane turns 68...loved him in "Deadwood"

Songs of the Day...(from my I-pod)

Gold-John Stewart (1979) 79 was not a really good year for R&R. This lyrically challenged tune went top ten although it did have Stevie Nicks helping out on the chorus. Here is a performance from "Solid Gold".

Gold Dust Woman-Fleetwood Mac (1976) a great Nicks song from "Rumors". She was never as strong as this period before the cocaine use slowed her down.