The Bay Area Sports Fan: Keepin it Positive

Ahh the life of a Bay Area Sports Fan..The Positive Spin All I can say is I am happy it is basketball season. The Warriors are the most exciting team in the NBA right now and the hottest ticket in town. While tickets are harder to come by, it's refreshing to see Oracle jumping every night with adrenaline filled fans cheering on fast break dunks and alley oops. The best part is the Warriors are a perfect blend of savvy veterans, all-star caliber players and improving young guns. As for the A's, the trade of Dan Haren appears to be the first step in the rebuilding process. Joe Blanton and Huston Street have been mentioned in trade rumors, and Blanton is sure to make a big splash on the free agent market next season. However, there are some positives heading into 08. Nick Swisher had a bit of an off year in 07, but is still one of the most promising young stars in baseball. Kurt Suzuki, Travis Buck and Daric Barton probably all would have been star prospects coming into this season, however, injuries to the A's brought them up early. The growth of these players and the health of the core, Chavy, Crosby and Ellis could lead to competition before many A's fans would have expected. (This has Mark Mulder-Tim Hudson trades written all over it to me.) While the Niners seaon has been disappointing, some positives have emerged. Patrick Willis was an absolute steal at the 11th pick of the draft, and his rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. I hope to see him patrolling the middle of the field for a long time in the burgundy and gold. Nate Clements lived up to his contract and nickname of Lockdown, all season long. And finally, the Sharks. How can you not be happy when you look at the team's roster. Despite some struggles at home, the Sharks still lead the Pacific and feature three All-Star caliber forwards to go along with a solid goalie and gritty D. On a side note get Eric Byrnes his own show on KNBR, QUIT THE DBACKS AND STAY IN THE BOOTH BYRNSIE! or just come back to the A's that would work too. So life is good as a Bay Area Sports Fan Oh yeah and GO CATS- FINAL 4 I'm calling it