The unique perspective and provocative opinions of Joe O’Neill
Sports Shorts
National Labor Relations Board: College athletes who earn millions for their schools are “employees” not “student-athletes.” NCAA: “College athletes are students who compete against other students. Not employees who compete against other employees.” Reality: There are “student-athletes” and there are athletic mercenaries.
Rays and their fans: Ready for TROPtober.
Rays hitting coach Chad Mottola was the fifth overall draft pick in 1992—by Cincinnati. That was one spot ahead of Derek Jeter.
“You know, nothing gets you going like some ‘F you, Fleming’ chants when you’re in the bullpen.”—Rays pitcher Josh Fleming’s reaction to home-team chants aimed at the opposition at YankeeStadium.