Dugout Diary by Joe Boesch

This is a special time  of year a time to be with family and the people that are very close to your heart. This is also the time to think that baseball is just around the corner. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. Before we know it, Spring Training will be upon us. Until then, see ya at the park! — Joe Boesch 

This time of the year is not only for celebrating the Holidays, but also looking over the Hot Stove. Moves, upon moves, are being made. Contracts are coming out faster than the printer can handle them. The ink doesn't dry fast enough on one contract, when another one pops up for a larger amount of cash. The "cash cow" is in the house — baseball's house.  But, we see one great player get an astronomical contract, with others just securing their financial future.   So, in baseball land all is well. Out with the old, in the with new. And, as we approach the holidays, it's fitting to think about baseball. Just keep saying soon, real soon. Now back to my Mocha Latte, MLB Network and my TV remote. Until then, see ya at the park! — Joe Boesch 

Now that the  Winter Meetings  have ended, the countdown to  Spring Training  has begun. Before you know it, we will be in a New Year and a new time.  Baseball,  as many know, is the greatest game played and is such a part of the  American Culture , that baseball shapes the lives of many. So, the many signings that have taken place, only makes teams better — or worse? While we painstakingly go through this  Hot Stove Season , let's remember the  Holidays  and what it is all about. Let's remember that each day, is a great day. That each step is a great step. That each baseball free agent signing, is a great signing. In this time baseball is always present. Baseball, of course, is baseball. Last week I walked by the MLB store on Sixth Avenue in New York City and glanced in the window like a kid in the candy store. Also, this time of the year I love the city and what it is all about. I saw the Christmas tree also at Rock Center and it is be...