Nine left

Jack Wilson just tossed his hat to a fan as me made his way toward the clubhouse for the final time in Bradenton this spring. The Pirates have brought in the minor leaguers as they lead the Twins 1-0 in the top of the seventh.

Spring training is done...went by fast, right? The players can't wait to head north, and as much as I have enjoyed the last six weeks, I am looking forward to some meaningful baseball played in front of some emotional crowds.

Here's the good news, folks - at least the Rays are good. For the past decade, it was good-bye spring training, hello awful baseball. No longer.

The boys out over the Skyway have a pennant to defend - and a lot of ahem, "die-hard" fans to please, right??

Suuuuure!

1-0 Buccos, top of the 7th.