As the president of the Whiner's Club, complaining about himself being overlooked as an all-star, Mr Strutman saw a lesson from Fulmer on what a real all-star pitcher can do. One single to the outfield in the whole game; and a walk, followed by a wild pitch and two groundouts to yield the only run. The infield single by Tulo can be easily discounted as a fluke, in a stellar pitching effort.

On the other hand, Liriano's stiff neck alibi may be a sign that his performance is making more than himself choke. Guess he's more comfortable with an ERA over 6. Bolsinger happily gave up three runs, not his own, but inheriting the bases-loaded is a tough gig for a lifetime minor-leaguer (or anyone). And Gibbons ought to know that one or two batters is the most you can get away with when Loup is inserted, as his ERA approaches 6 as well.

Bob McCown had Liriano predicted for the Cy Young, and the BJs getting 94 wins. Now they need just 52 of the remaining 72 games to make the latter come true.