I have just returned from an outstanding weekend in Vancouver, British Columbia. I was the guest of TSN radio’s Bob “the Moj” Marjanovich. Besides being a fantastic radio host, he is an instrumental figure in some of the most competitive and exciting fantasy leagues I’ve seen in a long, long time. I was invited to help Bob in one auction and fill-in for missing participants in two other auctions; one American League only and one National League only. The owners of the teams gave me written instructions on players they wanted for their respective teams. I was fortunate to be able to deliver in most cases. Even though I had to pay $49 to secure Chris Sale. The inflation was amazing. Even catchers went for premium prices. But I landed the guys requested.

Bob and the men who participated were fantastic hosts. We did two of the auctions at the classic Nat Bailey Stadium, originally used in 1951. Our auctions were conducted in the clubhouse area. It was like walking back in time. Bob took me for a stroll out to the field where I could see lights and other components of Nat Bailey Stadium that were imported from Seattle’s Minor League park. On the way to the park, Bob got us in the mood by playing 50-s and 60-s music in the car. That’s right in my wheel house.

Nat Bailey, still in use, is the Short Season Affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays. Their first home game will be June 20 and I expect the park to be all dressed up and ready to go.

Thank you to “the Moj” and all the great guys who made me feel more than welcome in their world of fantasy baseball. It was so great to be in the company of men who shared my true passion and love for baseball as well as the competitive nature of fantasy sports. Moj and his friends took great care of me and for that I am most appreciative.

The first games of any new season always bring cheers and jeers. How about the opening game of his career for the Rockies Trevor Story? Two home runs. Both off Zack Greinke. Are you kidding me? I did a scouting report of Story today for TodaysKnuckleball.com which I expect you can view today or tomorrow. Story had a night to remember, that’s for sure. So did Greinke.

I know it’s only one game, but I cautioned any who would listen or read what I have said about Greinke and Chase Field. Chase is really “Coors light.” It is a very, very tough place to pitch. Last night, as I watched from home, I noticed Greinke kept going away and away, much like Ian Kennedy did when he pitched in Chase. It is imperative to get the ball in on hitters and make them turn on the ball. Greinke will do that. I’m sure he’ll be fine. But it was a rough, rough outing.

And how about Nolan Arenado? I have no more platitudes. I’ve said it all. He is simply a great player. Both on offense and defense.

I’m not worried about Madison Bumgarner’s start. Yet. Wait until the weather warms a bit. But his control and command were missing in action. He still won the game.

King Felix has no luck at all. None. And that loss wasn’t anything new. In many games he has yielded few hits and walks and has taken an “L”. Baseball isn’t always fair. Yesterday, the King yielded one hit…and lost.

It looks to me like Robby Cano is healthy, right? Watch out.

Is there any doubt about the greatness of Mr Kershaw? No runs as in 0. One hit and one walk over seven innings. In the first game of the year. And nine strikeouts. Yikes!

My concern for the season is how the great teams in the NL will pound the rebuilding teams into submission in the NL. The divisions play each other over and over and over and the “haves” are going to kill the “have nots.” I think it’s an issue.

Good point made in the broadcast of one of the games I watched on TV yesterday. Some of these pitching coaches are “chronologically advanced.” It may take them 30 seconds just to get to the mound, let alone have a conversation. I think that new 30 second conversation rule with the pitcher will be tweaked a bit.

I watched the Angels-Cubs game on a national feed and I couldn’t hear the announcers. Even when I turned up the sound. What’s up with that?

The Dbacks play the Cubs for four games here in Phoenix starting Thursday. That’s a shame. The Dbacks need the attendance boost in the hot days of summer, not the nice spring days like now. The Cubs do not return. This is their only visit.

Thank you for reading my work at todaysknuckleball.com and for following me on twitter @BerniePleskoff.

That’s it. I’m done. For now.