Proof That All Is Right With The World
or, "It's baseball, Ray. It's bigger than all of us."

Today, in Surprise, Arizona, at 9:15 AM Central Time, there will be a meeting.

The attendees have to be in uniform. They will be fined if they're late or not dressed for the occasion.

After that meeting, they will hit the field. Balls covered in horsehide, with stitching performed by citizens of the Dominican Republic, will be thrown. Leather will make a popping sound less than two seconds after the ball is thrown.

The pitchers and catchers have reported for the Texas Rangers 2006 baseball season. Position players show up Tuesday.

But make no mistake: Spring Training has begun.

Baseball season is here.

That sigh of relief you heard is the universe humming back into peaceful balance.