On our drive home from Pittsburgh Sunday, after a great Cubs’ win, Bill and I discussed the game. I was trying to remember if Todd scored the winning run in the first inning with his home run to right field. Bill corrected me and let me know that it was Aramis who hit the home run. “Want to bet?” I said I would put $100 on it. He said he didn’t want to take my money but I said I told him it was okay.

What was he thinking? First, how likely is it that I wouldn’t know what Todd did during the game? Can we not say Todd Walker obsession? Second, I keep score. I’m actually paying attention. Lastly, how confident must I have been to put up $100 of birthday money nonetheless. Not, I’ll go to the ATM where both our paychecks get deposited, but actual saving for a rainy day money. And I’m right about things 92.8% of the time.

We shook on it. But rather then refer to my trusty scorecard, I went to a non-biased source and dialed up the internet on my phone. And guess who was right. Out of pity, I told him it didn’t have to be birthday money. So far I have collected $60.

Since I’ve brought it up, how about Todd? I was convinced that he was going to get traded. I didn’t want it to happen, but for some reason Dusty is not a Todd Walker guy. He’s got a strong bat and is a consistent .300 hitter, but there are concerns about his defense and range at sescond. In the offseason, there was much debate about who the starting second baseman would be (with three potential candidates). Todd won the job. Before today’s game, his batting average was .455. I realize it’s a young season, but I think it’s a good sign he’s swinging the bat well. And a home run in the first inning of the last two games! So far his defense looks good. Go Todd! Go Cubs!