Farewell, Old Friend
( Michael Bradley)

   It's tempting to greet the news of the Spectrum's imminent demise with anger and shouts for justice, but the Old Barn has outlived its usefulness and should go. That doesn't mean I won't miss it.

It's All About Brett
( Michael Bradley)

   The Packers gave Brett Favre ample opportunity to come back from his latest retirement, but when he declined the chances, they moved on. Now, he wants back in the game -- on his terms. Sorry, Brett, but the NFL doesn't work that way.

Last Chance
( Michael Bradley)

   Whether it's confidence, a brief slump or the fact that Adam Eaton just can't be trusted, he gets one more chance after the All-Star Game, and if he has another meltdown, he's banished to the bullpen -- awful contract or not. He can't be allowed to blow games any longer.

In Season Post-Season
( Michael Bradley)

   The Diamondbacks come to town for a pre-All Star meeting of division winners, and the Phillies can't afford to sag like they did against the Mets, even if they are facing Randy Johnson and Brandon Webb.

We Got A Rivalry
( Michael Bradley)

   Elton Brand's arrival and GM Ed Stefanski's aggressive moves during his tenure have made the Sixers relevant again in the Eastern Conference and put them in a position to challenge Boston -- finally.

All Hail Ed Stefanski
( Michael Bradley)

   Displaying the kind of front-office daring and success that has been lacking in the franchise for years, Ed Stefanski landed the NBA's biggest free-agent fish and proved he was absolutely the right man for the job.

Your Move, Pat
( Michael Bradley)

   The Brewers made a strong statement of their intentions of competing not only for the NL Central title but October success. The Phillies must do something to counter the move, if they're interested in doing more winning another division title.

No Complaining
( Michael Bradley)

   Few would consider the decision to sign Brad Lidge to a three-year extension a bad move today, but remember the good feelings in two or three years, in case the closer struggles.

Getting Scary
( Michael Bradley)

   The Sixers did their best to convince Josh Smith he should accept their free-agent offer and stay in Philadelphia, but getting the 6-9 forward to sign on the dotted line might not be so easy. And if he doesn't come here, what then?

A Big Mess
( Michael Bradley)

   On the surface, Brett Myers' move to the minors looks like a great deal for a great team player, but the righthander's problems mask a bigger problem for the Phillies.