Oakland A's: Expect the Non-Worst

We won't act like we expected the A's to be in first place on May 12.  And we won't pretend that we knew it would be because the former D Rays would sweep the Angels.  Or because Bobby Crosby of all unlikely people would steal home like he was Jason Kendall.  Or because the A's lineup of random nobodies would get hot and score 12 runs against the Rangers who had basically been murdering them (which we just considered a favor for dear old Wash, who seemed like he really needed some help).  Nor will we deny that we are surprised that Rich Harden actually pitched again this season (although not especially well).  We figured he was back on the DL to stay like so many times before.  And as for the sweeping the Orioles last week, we can admit that we didn't really expect that either.  We were dumbfounded by the Mark Ellis walkoff off the foul pole.  Truly shocked.  We are used to expecting the worst, and so we do, but all this good stuff keeps happening.  And while this makes us doubt our long held belief that the A's success depends upon our own individual positive thinking, we definitely like it.  First place feels great.  So officially from this day forward, we are going to stop expecting the worst.  We will leave that to the Mariners fans.  Instead, we are going to expect the non-worst.  While it still seems somewhat far fetched for us to expect the best, and we want to be reasonable and keep our expectations in check, these strange, surprising A's seem to find a way.   

Go A's!

Comments

[Steve-O]

It's been a fun ride and I hope to see it continue! Unsung heroes: pitching coach Curt Young (he's also one of the most underrated pitchers in A's history as well), Rajai Davis (nice to have a speed guy in the late innings), Donnie Murphy and Jack Hannahan (both are still playing pretty well but could be gone with Chavy's eminent return around the corner). Go A's!

[Anna]

If/when Chavy comes back he better rock my socks, because he'll be sending away some really great guys.

[Dave-O]

Rickey stold home more times than Jason Kendall. But then again he isn't nearly as famous an Athletic as Jason Kendall.

Anna, what color are those socks? I head Chavy had his colors done, so he's going to be very particular about the types of hosiery he will acquiesce to rock.

[Anna]

Well, currently my socks are argyle, but I'm guessing that doesn't help you much, does it?

[The HEY BOBBY! Guy]

I've been waiting for Ellis to do something big for the past two weeks. My next prediction: Thomas lifts us through three games in a row with towering comeback home runs.

After that, Harden takes over as closer. (Yeah, I know. Keep dreaming. Logic means nothing these days.)

[Steve-O]

I'll take that too! Maybe Rob Bowen ("rumored" to be the A's back-up catcher) can get in a game and provide some pop. Boy, do we need some pop!