Some Tuesday Leftovers

We ran out of space (and time) yesterday and neglected to mention the World Series, an omission that was duly noted by several of our subscribers.

Like millions of players, coaches and fans throughout the country, I was thrilled to see Dusty Baker win his first World Series. He's a great man. A class act.

I only met Baker once, at a party in the Athletic Director's house the night before a Notre Dame football game no less, but it was a meeting I've never forgotten. We chatted for only 15-20 minutes, but when we finished the conversation, I felt like we were old friends. I've been a fan of his ever since.

And, you may recall, I picked the Astros in 6. Every once in awhile...

Free Agent Time: Baseball's GMs are meeting this week, so the free agent signings will begin shortly. We've been calling for the Giants to sign Yankee slugger Aaron Judge. The locals also need a starting pitcher and may attempt to re-sign Carlos Rodon. I'd set my sights higher. Hell, they have the money, why not go after Jacob DeGrom?

I'm confused by the Giants' apparent pursuit of shortstops. They have one of the best defensive shortstops in the game in Brandon Crawford, who's also only a year removed from his best offensive season. Plus, they have top prospect Marco Luciano waiting in the wings.

If they do go after Dodgers shortstop Trae Turner, who'd provide much needed right-hand power, I'd move him to second base. His defense in the playoffs was highly suspect.

Jones Makes Smashing Debut: Stanford basketball newcomer Michael Jones poured in 31 points yesterday to lead the Cardinal to an opening-game win over UOP. Jones, the school's first basketball transfer in 10 years, comes in as a grad transfer from Davidson, Steph Curry's old school. There must be something in the water there, as he's another outstanding 3-point marksman.

More Good News: Andrej Stojakovic, the No. 17 ranked basketball player in the Class of 2023 according to 247Sports, announced his commitment to Stanford on Monday.

Andrej is the son of Sacramento Kings' legend Peja Stojakovic, a three-time NBA All-star, two-time 3-point champion and one-time league champ. He chose Stanford over UCLA, Texas, Oregon and others. At 6-6, 190, he apparently has the size, the length, and all the tools.

So Jerod Haase continues to prove he's a great recruiter. We're hoping this is the year he also proves he can coach.

Vote! Today is election day. If you haven't already done so, please remember to vote. According to the pollsters there are tons of races on the ballot that are "too close to call."

So every vote counts. Let's just hope the dedicated election officials and volunteers will be able to count them without fear of intimidation or violence.