Sports Redux: Snow, Spring, Swings

As you look out your window today and see the snow falling down, don't fret. Don't despair. Instead, think about the fact that A) Vancouver would kill for this winter weather right now and B) Red Sox players are training in Ft. Myers right this very moment.

While pitchers and catchers aren't expected to officially report until later this week, about 70 players were on the scene and practicing on Monday. A bulked-up Clay Buchholz, who gained 13 pounds and, as Peter Abraham noted, perhaps a bit of maturity, was on the scene and has already thrown a lot from the mound. Josh Beckett's on hand, as is Youk and some of the bright prospects we've been hearing so much about. Theo Epstein was back in his routine of chatting with reporters, but he was also back to not discussing contract negotiations.

Ah, spring training!

The Celtics are gearing up for the second half of the season, which begins tonight in Sacramento. Given the rollercoaster of drama, injury and the like that the Celtics have experienced thus far, the obvious question is what happens next. Trades? Balanced play? Wins? Losses? The possibilities are endless.