2004: THE 'NEXT' ONES

Circa 2004, who was poised to break out?

Joe Dirt

J.J. Putz took his time growing into one of the game's best closers. But now, thanks to him, no one's looking down on the Mariners anymore

FANTASY WORLD: BREAKING DOWN THE SWAP MEET

Another trading deadline has come and gone, meaning it's time for two things: Buster Olney to lower the minutes on his cell phone plan, and for me to ...

BREAKING: MIGHTY CASEY (AT THE BAT) GOT TOTALLY JOBBED

...Civil War was a scant 5' 8" and 143 pounds. Casey was big. Have you seen Richie Sexson's average lately? Don't be fooled by the idea "Mighty" should have done the trick...

LUNCH LINKS

...NHL. ·Miguel Cabrera says the Marlins don't need him. ·Rangers call of the Richie Sexson brawl. ·Let's roll out a Charlie Weis 1 on 1 interview because we miss...

Our man CS on Richie Sexson: "Seemingly, the only time he doesn't strike out is when there's a double play...

AL WEST

...he gives the M's an ace to line up in front of young Felix Hernandez.Richie Sexson promises to be better. After hitting .205, he's improved his conditioning. M's manager John...

PLAY WITH FIRE

...With any luck, they'll come at a discount. And when Andruw Jones, Travis Hafner and Richie Sexson all hit 40-plus homers again; Eric Gagné saves 30 games; and Ervin Santana wins 15...

GEN XXL

Is it weight training, supplements, or evolution? All we know is - these guys are getting HUGE.

What's in Store?

Steroid use has rocked the game. But a new era has already begun.

Story | December 07, 2004

Blast from the past

It's all or nothing for Jim Thome, the last of the old-time sluggers.

Story | May 23, 2004

And if you need work done around the house ... here, take Richie Sexson home with you

Gen XXL

Is it weight training, supplements or just plain evolution? All we know is, these guys are huge.

Richie Sexson and his whoopee-cushion pals continue the noble tradition of gotcha. With plenty of gusto. Read...