The Tigers' announcer just gave credit to Casey for being a patient hitter and taking his walks. But that's not really the case. For his career, Casey has drawn 366 unintentional walks in 4,930 plate appearances. That's not an optimal rate for someone who doesn't really hit for power or, these days, for high averages. Casey's a likeable guy, but he's a liability with the bat. 

The season's an hour old, and he's already been booed by the home crowd at least three times. 

One of Joe Torre's only weaknesses as a manager is that he hasn't historically made good decisions when it comes to assembling a bench. This year, however, the Yanks actually have a useful reserve corps. Melky Cabrera is probably the best fourth outfielder in the game today, Josh Phelps can mash lefties, and Miguel Cairo gives them speed and defensive flexibility. 

- John Patterson's been cuffed around through two-and-a-third. The Nats are a bad team, but if Patterson struggles this seasonm, then they'll be a BAD team. 

- The Fish are going with rookie Alejandro De Aza in center. Considering the other options they had at their disposal--Joe Borchard, Alex Sanchez, Reggie Abercrombie--it's the right call. He's burner with good defensive instincts, but he's never played above Double-A. De Aza has some on-base skills, but there's little in the way of projectable power. It could be a long season for him.  

He's a really enjoyable pitcher to watch. He works quickly, pounds the zone and keeps the ball on the ground. Brisk pace, lots of action. Of course, he's also one of the best pitchers in baseball. If there's a concern, it's that his K rate cratered last season. With his command and groundall tendencies, he can get by with it, but you'd like to see a few more whiffs out of him.