Here are a few random thoughts about various Jays- and baseball-related things.

Lansing had the day off, three teams wish they weren't shut out, and I wish my Internet connection was faster. I should have driven to Syracuse to get the scores; it would have saved time.

Today, I am 40. Last year at this time, I "celebrated" my Jeck Benny birthday Hall of Names style with a look at both an All-July 20 team and an All-Mick(ey) team.

This year, let's focus on the number. No, I'm not (quite) having a midlife freakout, and thanks to guys like Darrell Evans, Ty Cobb, Rickey Henderson, Warren Spahn and Roger Clemens, this day instead is all about celebrating the greatest Age-40 Seasons (for both hitters and pitchers) in the history of the Great Game. Yes, it's time to meet ...

Lyle Overbay does that Michael Jordan tongue thing when he's deep in concentration, as he is in today's photograph:

According to the Toronto Star the Jays have designated Shea Hillenbrand for assignment after an incident earlier in the day.

A key misdecision helps the Jays snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

Dave LaRoche is the pitching coach for the New Hamsphire Fisher Cats.  LaRoche pitched in 647 major league games over 14 seasons, mostly in relief.  Younger fans will know LaRoche through his sons, Braves first baseman Andy LaRoche, and Dodgers prospect Adam LaRoche.  Dave shared his thoughts on some of the New Hampshire pitchers with Batters Box ten days ago in New Hampshire.

The lone minor league win last night was a dramatic one as David Smith hit a walk off home run as the affiliates went 1-4-1 on the night.

Great plays in the field; a hot bat; a good attitude despite being relegated to the role of a bench player.  What else can Eric Hinske possibly do to silence the boos at Rogers Centre?

Maybe this photo of the day will help him:

We've had a lot of debate here over who the Blue Jays should install as their shortstop the rest of the way... it's time to vote.

Jays cruise past Rangers.

Here's some Photo of the Day lovin' for the Jays' new everyday shortstop, John McDonald.  Who can tell me what his entrance music is?

It is often said that baseball is a nomad's life.  The organization that signs you will dispatch you to various parts of North America where you could find yourself thousands of miles away from home, friends and family.  It is very rare for a player to be able to live at home while he plays ball.  Toronto's Jesse Litsch was one of those rare players.

Syracuse gave up 21 hits yesterday, the most they have allowed all season, and won in a cakewalk.  Richmond and Syracuse combined for 26 hits in the game.  There were a lot of ugly innings but most were allowed by the affiliates and the Chiefs were the only winners.  Dunedin, Lansing, Auburn and the Chiefs all allowed the opponents to score in double digits.