It's important tonight to get to bed early and not overdo it tonight; you've got a 6 AM date with the Red Sox. We've finally more-or-less internalized the 13-hour difference between the East Coast and Japan, and we're ready to accept that the defense of the World Series title begins before sunrise tomorrow. Though we do feel sorry for Oakland fans; for them the game starts at 3.

Tony Massarotti looks at the Sox' chances of defending the crown, while Boston, You're My Home has compiled a list of bars known to be opening for the game. They can't serve alcohol until 8 AM, so plan on a 6th-inning mimosa or something.

All right, who had Davidson, Western Kentucky, and Villanova in the Sweet Sixteen? At least we, as disinterested outsiders, know who to root for. Plus, Rick Pitino and Louisville play Tennessee next, so if you catch us humming "Rocky Top" all week, you'll know why.

Flickr photo from gordasm.