MLB: Fan Death in Texas Overshadows Jeter’s March on 3,000

Al Dannity says the tragic death of a fan during Thursday’s game between Texas and Oakland will cast a dark shadow over what should have been a weekend of celebration for Baseball.

Dark day in Arlington
Firefighter Shannon Stone fell 20 feet to his death while trying to catch a foul ball thrown by Josh Hamilton during yesterday’s A’s at Rangers game. The tragedy will no doubt bring calls for improved safety measures at ballparks, indeed this is not the first incident of a fan falling at Rangers Ballpark. This was a truly devastating event where a father who had brought his son to see a game, died taking part in one of the traditions of baseball. One can’t help but feel for Stone’s family and for Hamilton, who once again must turn to his teammates and the Rangers organization to help him through emotionally challenging times. My sincerest condolences and best wishes go out to all concerned.

Dignified Jeter aims for 3,000
The harsh reality of the events in Texas will make it harder for fans to celebrate Derek Jeter closing in on an historic milestone this weekend. I’m a die-hard Red Sox fan and even that doesn’t stop me appreciating the talent and class of the Yankees’ captain. Having reached 2,998 hits last night, there’s a good chance he’ll cross the 3,000 barrier during this weekend’s home stand against the Rays.

That series is about more than just Jeter’s charge on 3,000. The Yankees are locked in a three way battle with the Rays and Red Sox for control of the AL East. I know you’re thinking “what else is new?” but that doesn’t make this series any less important for the Bronx Bombers.

Oh hi Pittsburgh!
The Pirates were the Centenary Gentlemen 15 years before most of you knew who the Centenary Gentlemen were. Well just like one group of perennial losers finally broke the mould, so too are the Pirates…at least for now. Pittsburgh owns a 45-42 record entering the weekend, the latest they have been .500 or better in years. The road to a winning season is still long but as they are only a game behind the lead in the NL Central, it’s a safe bet that Pittsburgh won’t trade away their stars at the deadline. This weekend they host the Cubs. Even if Pittsburgh ends up getting swept by Chicago, the Pirates are still certain of being no worse than .500 once the All Star break ends.